Online Degree Programs in the Radiological Sciences

In many cases of illness or injury, before a physician can make a diagnosis, he or she needs to take a look at what's happening inside the patient. Not so long ago that meant ordering an x-ray. While an x-ray is often still a doctor's first imaging option, it is no longer the only one. When x-rays are inconclusive, doctors now have a variety of options that offer more medical detail, such as fluoroscopies, ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

All of these options require a radiological professional to take images of the affected areas. From x-ray technology to internal organ imaging, radiological science is a key component of medical practice, one that continues to grow in importance, and not only as a diagnostic tool. New and improved imaging technology can also allow surgeons to map out a course of action prior to an operation, making surgery less invasive.

Radiological professionals work in a variety of medical and health settings, but if you think radiologists just take pictures, think again. The work can be physically exhausting. You can expect to be on your feet for long periods, and you might need to physically lift and turn disabled patients.

What to Expect from Degrees and Programs in the Radiological Sciences

Whether you're a working professional or full-time student, online degrees in radiological science offer practical professional training. Such programs include coursework in anatomy, physiology, and computers. While most radiology programs offer two-year degrees, some offer one-year certification programs for nurses and other experienced health care professionals, who want to switch fields. Still other medical technology programs offer bachelor's and master's degrees in radiological technologies. Graduate degrees can lead to additional professional opportunities, including teaching positions and supervisory or administrative roles.

Career Outlook for Medical, Radiological, and Ultrasound Technicians

Recent advances in medical imaging and a shortage of qualified radiologic and ultrasound technicians have made the radiological sciences a solid career choice. As the average age of the U.S. population increases and radiologic imaging technology improves, the demand for medical technology professionals is expected to grow. The results are similar across the healthcare industry: This career path should remain strong well into the future.

Radiological Technology Salaries

Medical technicians and technologists are also referred to as clinical laboratory technicians and technologists in the medical industry. These healthcare professionals extract and analyze cells, tissue and bodily fluids using a variety of medical equipment and processes. While becoming a medical technician requires less education, medical technologists earn more. May 2009, average salary for medical technicians: $37,860. May 2009, average salary for medical technologists: $55,620.

Radiological technicians and technologists support physicians by examining patients through procedures, such as x-rays, CT scans and MRIs. Also called radiographers, radiological technicians generally perform less complicated procedures than radiological technologists, who often perform fluoroscopies, CT scans and MRIs. May 2009, average salary for radiological technicians and technologists: $54,180.

Ultrasound technician is the more common term for the job title diagnostic medical sonographer. Ultrasound technicians may specialize in admoninal, breast, cardiac, neural, vascular, or obstetrics and gynecology sonography. An ultrasound technician's salary ranks high among comparable professions, due to the specialized and intricate equipment and observations required of these medical support professionals. May 2009, average salary for ultrasound technicians: $63,640.

As one of the fastest growing professions in the healthcare sector, students who pursue careers in the radiological sciences can expect to find that ample opportunities await them.