Radiologic Technology

Associate of Applied Science Degree

(575) 527-7581    See the Department's Page for more information

Radiologic Technologists are an important part of the medical team. They produce medical images (x-rays), carry out diagnostic procedures, determine safe radiation exposure limits, and collect technical data necessary to assess client (patient) status. Job prospects in the Las Cruces/El Paso area are occasionally limited, but nationwide there is faster-than-average job growth with many opportunities for persons seeking entry-level positions.

Students in the Radiologic Technology program receive training both in the classroom and in clinical settings, where they work alongside nurses, physicians, and other health-care professionals. In the classroom, students learn about the anatomy and function of the human body, radiographic physics and equipment, and radiographic procedures. Students acquire skills in radiation protection for the patient and for the health professional. Laboratory activities teach the proper positioning of an injured or ill patient. Clinical work offers students training in diagnostic radiology and introduces the student to various other imaging modalities. The clinical work is offered in Las Cruces, Alamogordo, Artesia, Carlsbad, Deming, Ruidoso, Silver City, and El Paso.

Graduates of the program are eligible to take (and must pass) the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) national certification exam in order to obtain employment in this field. It should be noted that felony or misdemeanor convictions may make a student ineligible to take the ARRT exam. Many states also require a license to practice as a radiographer in that state. Continuing education is required with both the ARRT and state licenses to retain current certification status.

The DACC Radiologic Technology program is fully accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

Special Admissions Criteria

Radiologic Technology is a limited-entry program. The following items are among the criteria considered in the selection of program applicants:

• Overall college GPA
• Prerequisite GPA
• Completion of prerequisites
• County of residence
• Completion of advanced science or math courses
• Second or third application with a 3.45 GPA

A complete list is included in the application packet, available at the Health and Public Service Office in room 190 (phone: 527-7630).

Required College Prerequisites

General education and related classes are required prior to applying for the Radiologic Technology program:

Required Skills and Abilities

Students should be able to demonstrate good oral expression (speech clarity), written comprehension, near vision, critical thinking skills, and physical stamina (e.g., the ability to stand for long periods of time, manipulate radiographic equipment, and move/lift patients).

DACC Radiologic Technology Mission

The mission of the DACC Radiologic Technology Program is to provide the student with the academic knowledge and clinical skills necessary to attain eligibility for certification and meaningful employment in the diagnostic imaging profession.

NOTE: Students in the Radiologic Technology program are required to complete and pass a security background check in order to participate in clinical education classes. Past criminal violations may prevent a student from completing the degree and gaining employment in the field.

Associate Degree (76 credits)

NOTE: Radiologic Technology majors must have a C or better in all required courses to graduate. Courses appearing in italics are identical to those offered at New Mexico State University Las Cruces (main) Campus.