What Is Radiologic Technology

Medical imaging plays a critical role in modern health care and at the center of that process are radiologic technologists. These skilled professionals use specialized equipment to create images of the human body that help medical professionals diagnose injuries and treat diseases. Whether they’re capturing X-ray images of broken bones, conducting CT scans, or operating MRI systems, radiologic technologists play a vital role in diagnostic imaging.

The Foundation of Radiologic Technology

Radiologic technology refers to¹ the use of controlled radiation and advanced imaging equipment to perform diagnostic imaging examinations. These exams include² X-ray, CT (computed tomography), and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), among others. Technologists work with healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and specialists, to help identify conditions affecting bones, soft tissue, organs, and blood vessels.

Using this technology, radiologic technologists create images that are essential for diagnosis and planning treatments. Some procedures may also involve the ability to administer therapeutic doses of ionizing radiation, especially in areas such as radiation therapy.

Education and Accreditation

To become a radiologic technologist, students typically pursue an associate degree or higher through³ a radiologic technology program. These programs are often⁴ evaluated by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, also known as the Joint Review Committee or JRCERT.

When researching schools, it’s important to look for general program accreditation information and confirm that the program holds a current accreditation award letter. Accreditation ensures that the curriculum meets national standards and prepares students for certification and real-world clinical settings.

Hands-On Training With Advanced Equipment

Accredited programs combine academic coursework with supervised clinical practice.⁴ Students gain hands-on experience with imaging equipment at clinical sites, on-campus labs, and diverse clinical practicum settings used in hospitals, emergency rooms, physicians’ offices, and doctors’ offices. They learn to produce quality images, apply radiation dose safety principles, and support patient care before, during, and after procedures.

Technologists must understand not only how to perform radiographic examinations, but also how to safely use sonography equipment, manage exposure to ionizing radiation, and interpret the needs of diverse patients in fast-paced environments.

Areas of Specialization

Radiologic technologists’ expertise is essential in performing imaging tests safely and accurately. They work closely with physicians who interpret the images to prescribe treatments or make diagnoses.

Many radiologic technologists specialize² in advanced imaging areas such as:

• MRI scans: Produces detailed diagnostic images of internal organs and tissues.
• CT scans: Uses computed tomography to generate cross-sectional views that aid in diagnosis.
• Mammography: Focuses on breast imaging to screen for or monitor breast cancer.

Where Radiologic Technologists Work

Radiologic technologists are employed⁵ across a variety of settings:

• Hospitals and emergency rooms
• Outpatient imaging centers
• Physicians’ offices and doctors’ offices
• Specialized clinics for radiation therapy
• Government agencies and public health departments

Licensure and Certification

In most states, radiologic technologists are required to obtain³ a state license or certification. Certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is often a preferred credential and may be required by employers even when not mandated by the state.

To maintain certification, technologists must complete continuing education courses and stay up to date with evolving technologies and safety protocols related to radiation dose and patient care standards.

A Profession That Combines Technology and Compassion

Radiologic technology is more than just operating machines, it’s about supporting patients, collaborating with health care professionals, and delivering images that can change lives. From X-ray and MRI to radiation therapy, the field is diverse, hands-on, and integral to today’s health care landscape.

If you're curious about imaging, technology, and making a difference in patient outcomes, learning more about what radiologic technology involves is the first step toward understanding how this field shapes the future of health care.

¹Cleveland Clinic, “Radiologic Technologist,” https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24667-radiologic-technologist (accessed July 30, 2025).
²U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Radiologic Technologists,” Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm#tab-2 (accessed July 30, 2025). Employment conditions in your area may vary.
³U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Radiologic Technologists: Job Outlook,” Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm#tab-4 (accessed July 30, 2025). Employment conditions in your area may vary.
⁴Rasmussen University, Radiologic Technology, https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/health-sciences/radiologic-technology/ (accessed July 30, 2025).
⁵U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Radiologic Technologists: Work Environment,” Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm#tab-3 (accessed July 30, 2025). Employment conditions in your area may vary.