Radiologic Imaging Technology

Students who are interested in human anatomy and have a strong background in science and math, the ability to communicate and work well with others, and think critically will be the most successful in this program. Students entering the radiologic imaging technology profession must have the following abilities in order to successfully complete the program.

Physical Abilities

1. Lift and assist patients using proper body mechanics.

2. Use hands and arms to handle and position devices and move patients.

3. Safely maneuver all radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment as necessary for each exam.

4. Push and maneuver patients in wheelchairs and on stretchers.

5. Respond quickly and professionally to patients in emergency situations.

6. Communicate clearly with patients and other health care professionals in oral and written forms, including the use of medical terminology.

7. Move and align the patient and equipment utilizing lights, lasers and signals to properly position for radiographs.

8. Stand for extended periods of time and walk for long distances.

Sensory Abilities

1. Visualize details at a close range (such as small print labels) and make observations and assessments necessary for patient care.

2. Operate diagnostic equipment, such as automatic injectors and cardiovascular monitors.

3. Visualize and identify signs of impending danger/injury.

4. Hear soft sounds, alarms, and warning signs or cries for help so as to monitor and assess patient health needs.

5. Tactile ability sufficient for physical assessment and to perform patient care. Perform palpation during radiologic procedures. Administer oral, rectal, and intravenous contrast media.

Mental Abilities

1. Amenable to learning the safe handling, restraining and working with a diverse population of patients in various physiologic conditions whereby one may encounter blood, vomit, feces, urine, or other bodily fluids. Patients may be sick, injured, infectious, cognitively/emotionally/psychologically/physically impaired or aggressive.

2. A willingness to assist with or perform a wide variety of routine medical, surgical and diagnostic procedures common to the healthcare setting.

3. Capacities to read, hear, understand and quickly execute complex verbal and written instructions given in English.

4. Possess emotional stability when performing duties in emergency, life-and-death situations, or other stressful environments.

5. Ability to respond promptly and appropriately in emergency situations. 

Students will be given reasonable assistance/accommodation in overcoming difficulties with these standards. However, there is no guarantee that all potential students will be able to successfully complete the program if unable to perform these actions. Students concerned about the requirements should contact the Program Director.

Radiologic Technologists possess the knowledge, communication skills, and critical thinking skills to properly operate complex medical equipment and deliver quality patient care. Radiologic Technologists work daily with other members of the health care team as well as patients and family members. They explain procedures to patients, position patients for exams, ensure proper equipment function, acquire medical images using appropriate technical factors, evaluate image quality, and assist physicians during radiologic imaging procedures.

Current and admitted students can locate advisor contact information for pre-health professions and radiologic technology via the UCBA advising website.

The use of multiple clinical sites allows students to work with various types of equipment and participate in a wide variety of radiologic procedures. This program affiliates with the radiology departments of Bethesda Arrow Springs Medical Center, Bethesda Butler Hospital, Bethesda North Hospital, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, The Christ Hospital, The Christ Hospital (Red Bank) Imaging Center, The Christ Hospital Medical Center-Liberty Township, Mercy West Hospital, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, UC Health Drake Center, The VA Medical Center, and West Chester Hospital.

The following requirements must be met:

1. Grades of "C" or better in all radiologic imaging technology program courses
2. All clinical and didactic courses must be taken concurrently as listed
3. Adherence to program policies and procedures
4. Completion of all university and college requirements for graduation
5. Cumulative GPA of no less than 2.8

Transfer credits must be fully evaluated for applicability to the radiologic imaging technology program as part of the college admissions process.

It is highly recommended that international students contact UC International Services prior to applying for this program.  

The University of Cincinnati is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The Radiologic Imaging Technology program is approved by the Ohio Department of Health.

The Radiologic Imaging Technology Program at the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). JRCERT accreditation assures quality and requires a detailed peer-review process for ongoing improvement and assessment of the program. Accreditation Standards and program effectiveness data published by the JRCERT are available at www.jrcert.org or via mail@jrcert.org. The address and telephone number for the JRCERT are Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182; (312) 704-5300.