Medical imaging professionals are often employed in hospitals, clinics, and urgent care facilities. If you’re fascinated with the human body and want to learn how to capture 2D and 3D images of patients, then a radiology technology degree is perfect for you.
Individuals who pursue careers in radiology technology must not only have excellent technical, math and science skills, but they need to possess great people skills as well. You must be highly organized, a great communicator, and an avid learner to succeed in this field. While you will not diagnose people based off the images you take, you will often be the first person a patient interacts with. It will be your job to not only capture digital images, but to make sure the patient is comfortable and kept safe during the process.
What kind of Radiology Technology degree should you get?
With the rise of degree offerings in radiology technology, it can be difficult to decide which program is best for you. Should you attend online or on-campus? Should you choose a concentration? Now that you’ve made the decision to earn a degree in radiology technology, plenty of other decisions will follow. Luckily, we’re here to help!
If you’re considering an online education, we’ve got you covered. In fact, College Choice has ranked the overall Best Online Colleges and Universities for your convenience. The below programs are intended for rad tech professionals looking to advance their careers.
How much money do people make with a degree in Radiology Technology?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for Radiologic and MRI Technologists is upwards of $60,000 per year. And your salary will only increase with the more education and experience you have. Plus, you can pursue a number of different careers with a degree in radiology, so your salary will ultimately depend on your chosen path.
The BLS projects a growth of 13 percent in radiology technology from now till 2026. In fact, the BLS states that as the population grows older, there will be an increase in medical conditions that require imaging as a tool for making diagnoses.
What can you do with a degree in Radiology Technology?
Earning a degree in radiology technology will open up many doors for graduates. With the rise in technology and a growing population, radiologic and MRI technologists are needed now more than ever. From working alongside doctors in a hospital or clinic to working as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist, there is no shortage of career options in this field.
Whether you crave the fast-paced life of working in an ER to the more relaxed atmosphere of an OB/GYN office, this career offers stability as well as room for advancement. You may also wish to choose an area of specialization within radiology. From cardiovascular to neuroradiology, a specialized degree will often increase your salary potential.
What are the best degrees in Radiology Technology?
We’ve compiled a list of the top 20 Best Radiology Technology Degrees with you and your needs in mind. Here’s how we did it:
First, we located the best programs in the country by taking an objective look at the best schools in the country as measured by reputation, student satisfaction, program quality, and return on investment. Then we examined their radiology programs. Finally, we looked at the bottom line – how much does it cost?
We combined these factors to reach our College Choice Score, which determined where each school fits into the big scheme of things. The end result is a list of schools that not only represent the best radiology technology education you can get and a good return on investment but also one that will fit your budget. Check out our picks below!
See our rankings methodology page.
Oregon Institute of Technology
College Choice Score: 100
Average Net Price: $16,425
This public university located in Klamath Falls, OR, is home to over 5,000 students. Ranked third in the nation among Top Public Schools by U.S. News and World Report, the Oregon Institute of Technology is known for its unique and rigorous programs. Now, interested students can pursue an online Bachelor of Science degree in Radiologic Science.
This program is intended for registered radiologic technologists who wish to advance their careers. Students in this online radiology program will never be required to go to the campus. You can expect to take the following online courses:
- Patient Care
- Radiation Protection
- Physics of Medical Imaging
- Equipment Operation and Maintenance
- Surgical, Trauma, and Mobile Radiography
All students will be required to complete a 15-credit clinical externship as well. Since this program is entirely online, it’s important to research the availability and cooperation of a clinical site near you before applying. Students in this program can also enroll in the MRI specialization program to further their understanding of magnetic resonance imaging.
Earning an online degree through the Oregon Institute of Technology is both flexible and affordable. In fact, the tuition for online undergraduates is just $245 per credit. Additionally, the school offers plenty of scholarships, including the Leadership and Diversity Scholarship and the OWLS Scholarship.
University of Missouri
College Choice Score: 95.38
Average Net Price: $16,317
Founded in 1839 and located in Columbia, MO, this public land-grant research university is now home to over 30,000 students. Known to locals and students as Mizzou, this university was recently awarded $1 million to enhance science education. Interested in radiology? Check out Mizzou’s online bachelor of health science in clinical and diagnostic sciences with an emphasis in radiologic science.
This 120-credit-hour degree program is offered 100 percent online. The degree is intended for those who wish to learn all areas of medical imaging, including patient care, research, sales, and marketing. Administered by the Department of Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, students may take the following courses:
- Clinical Ethics
- Radiologic Pharmacology
- Healthcare Organization and Leadership
- Emergency and Disaster Management in Healthcare
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Physics and Procedures
You may choose to take courses in this program either part-time or full-time. Mizzou offers start dates in August, January, and June.
The undergraduate tuition rate for residents of Missouri is $288 per credit-hour. Mizzou Online offers tuition awards for community college graduates, veterans, military service members and their dependents. In fact, three out of four MU undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
College Choice Score: 95.19
Average Net Price: $11,567
Located in the small city of Natchitoches, LA, this public university is home to mascot Vic the Demon along with 9,000 students. U.S. News and World Report has ranked Northwestern State University of Louisiana among having the Best Online Programs. In fact, the university now offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences.
Offered through the university’s School of Allied Health, this program is designed for radiologic technologists interested in advancing their career. Required courses may include:
- Advanced Patient Care
- Quality Management
- Sectional Anatomy
- Special Imaging
The length of this program will be based on the amount of prior academic coursework you’ve completed. Students in this online program will learn through a combination of online lectures, reading course content, and referring to textbooks.
For students who attend NSU exclusively online, undergraduate tuition fees are $375 per credit-hour. This university is consistently ranked among the country’s Most Affordable Online Colleges. Financial aid and scholarships are also available for those taking online courses. Northwestern offers courses in eight-week sessions during the fall and spring. During the summer, courses are offered in four- and eight-week sessions, providing ultimate flexibility and convenience for adult learners.
Fort Hays State University
College Choice Score: 90.84
Average Net Price: $11,993
Founded in 1902 and home to mascot Fort Hays State Tiger, Fort Hays State is a public university that is located in Hays, KS. With an enrollment of over 15,000 students, the university boasts the lowest tuition rates in the Kansas Board of Regents system. FHSU now offers a flexible online Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Diagnostic Imaging.
This 124-credit program is offered through the university’s Department of Allied Health. Applicants must already have an Associate’s Degree or certificate in Radiography. Required courses may include:
- Bone Densitometry Techniques
- Anatomy of Humans Laboratory
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Mammography for Radiologic Technologists
- Principles of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Prospective students must apply to both the university and the MDI program. There is no set deadline as applications are reviewed throughout the year.
FHSU was ranked among the top online colleges and top military-friendly colleges by U.S. News and World Report. Online undergraduate students can expect to spend around $220 per credit-hour at FHSU. Scholarships and financial aid packages are also available for qualifying students. Those in the military and their family members may also receive additional tuition breaks.
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
College Choice Score: 90.51
Average Net Price: $17,972
Located in Clarion, PA, this public university is home to the Golden Eagles and nearly 5,000 students. Ranked among the Top 50 Public Schools by U.S. News and World Report, Clarion offers small class sizes and nearly 150 student clubs and organizations to get involved in. Interested in radiology? Clarion now offers an online Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging Sciences.
Offered through Clarion’s Department of Human Services, Rehabilitation, Health and Sport Sciences, this 120-credit program offers concentrations in radiologic technology and ultrasound (sonography). Required courses may include:
- Human Biology
- Medical Terminology
- Radiographic Imaging
- Radiographic Procedures
- Research Methods for Health Science
To be considered for the 100 percent online program, you must already be a credentialed radiologic technologist, sonographer, nuclear medicine technologist, radiation therapist or medical dosimetrist.
For those without a background in radiology, you will be required to complete a two-year program of clinical study at one of six JRCERT-accredited, hospital-based schools of radiologic technology. The online per-credit rate for tuition and fees is just under $400 for residents of Pennsylvania. For non-resident online students, the cost is $449 per credit. Financial aid and scholarship packages are available for eligible students.
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
College Choice Score: 89.40
Average Net Price: $24,875
This private Catholic liberal arts college is located in Standish, ME and is home to just under 3,000 students. Ranked among the Best Regional Universities in the North by U.S. News and World Report, Saint Joseph’s offers a variety of degree options. Check out the university’s online Bachelor of Science degree in Radiologic Science Administration.
This flexible 128-credit program requires no on-campus residency, making it ideal for working rad techs and clinicians hoping to further their careers. Required courses may include:
- Emergency Preparedness
- Information Technology Fundamentals
- Leadership in Healthcare Administration
- Aging, Spirituality, and Senior Health Care
- Strategic Planning in Healthcare Organizations
Students enrolled full-time typically complete this program in four years. Up to 50 approved semester-hour credits may be transferred from an accredited radiography program as well.
Online students will not have to sacrifice the quality of their degree for the flexibility and affordability of the program. In fact, professors have practical experience in health administration, giving students real-world perspectives on their studies. The courses you take will blend your professional experiences, making it easier to implement your new skills as you move forward.
Siena Heights University
College Choice Score: 88.80
Average Net Price: $17,519
Located in Adrian, MI, Siena Heights is a Roman Catholic university that’s home to mascot Halo the Husky and over 2,000 undergraduate students. Founded in 1919, Siena Heights is now home to three colleges: The College of Arts and Sciences, The College for Professional Studies, and The Graduate College. Interested students may now pursue an online Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Radiologic Technology.
Students in this unique program must complete a minimum of 120 semester hours. Unlike other programs, Siena Heights offers an “inverted major” which builds an academic degree program around the Radiologic Technology major you’ve already completed. Students will take courses in the following areas:
- Liberal Arts
- Social Science
- Healthcare Management
Again, prospective students should note that you will receive no additional Radiologic Technology training from Siena Heights in this program. Rather, you will receive a skill set to build upon your current knowledge and advance your overall career.
U.S. News and World Report has ranked Siena Heights University among the country’s Best Regional Universities in the Midwest. The online tuition per credit hour is $530. The university also offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid packages to eligible students.
Midwestern State University
College Choice Score: 88.51
Average Net Price: $9,777
Located in Wichita Falls, TX, this public liberal arts college is home to mascot Maverick T. Mustang and over 5,000 undergraduates. With a variety of program offerings, the university’s Department of Radiologic Sciences celebrated 45 years in 2017. Midwestern is leading medical imaging education through quality instruction and detailed clinical practice. In fact, Midwestern State University now offers an online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences.
This 120-credit online program is meant for registered imaging technologists and registry-eligible students. This is not an entry-level BS program. Required courses may include:
- Radiation Therapy
- Bone Densitometry
- Medical Terminology
- Radiobiology and Protection
- Health Law in Medical Imaging
The mission of this program is to prepare ARRT-registered technologists for advanced certification so that they may further advance their careers.
At MSU, all undergraduate distance education students receive in-state tuition. Additionally, Midwestern State University offers students over $2 million in general academic merit scholarships each year. MSU was ranked thirty-fifth among Top Public Schools by U.S. News and World Report. It was also ranked one of the Best Regional Universities in the West.
University of Southern Indiana
College Choice Score: 88.16
Average Net Price: $11,649
Home to mascot Archibald Eagle, the University of Southern Indiana is a public university located in the city of Evansville. Founded in 1965, USI now offers more than 100 areas of study through its College of Liberal Arts, Romain College of Business, College of Nursing and Health Professions, and the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education. Interested in radiology? Check out USI’s online Bachelor of Science degree in Radiologic and Imaging Sciences.
This online program is only offered to registered radiographers looking to complete their bachelor’s degree. Students may choose from one of three specialty tracks, including CT/MRI, Clinical Education, and Radiology Management. Required courses may include:
- Public Health
- Issues in Healthcare Leadership
- Ethics and Healthcare in a Pluralistic Society
- Digital Radiography and Imaging Informatics
- Professional Development and Literacy in Imaging Sciences
Students in this program will complete a total of 120 credit-hours to earn their degree. Registered radiographers with current certification will be given credit for their completed professional courses.
The cost of this online program is the same for both residents and non-residents of Indiana. It is $297 per credit-hour. U.S. News and World Report has ranked the University of Southern Indiana among the country’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs as well as the Best Regional Universities in the Midwest.
University of Louisiana at Monroe
College Choice Score: 87.23
Average Net Price: $9,145
The University of Louisiana at Monroe is a small public university whose mascot is Ace the Warhawk. Students looking to further their radiology skills should look into the university’s eULM distance learning program. In fact, U of L Monroe now offers an online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology. In order to be considered for this program, you must submit proof of your current ARRT Registry status.
This BS program consists of two segments, including General Education Coursework and Professional Coursework. Required courses may include:
- Biology Electives
- Science Electives
- Computer Literacy
- Medical Terminology
- Radiologic Technology Capstone Course
This flexible online program allows students to complete courses on their own schedules. The degree program is also affordable and many undergraduates receive scholarships and financial aid packages to offset the cost.
The University of Louisiana at Monroe’s online division, eULM, is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, specialist, and doctorate degrees. The school has been ranked by U.S. News and World Report as having one of the Best Online Graduate Programs. The university was also ranked the Number One Best Online College in Louisiana by Affordable Colleges Online.
College Choice Score: 84.73
Average Net Price: $21,628
Founded in 1936 as Marian College, this Roman Catholic university is based in Fond du Lac, WI. Home to mascot Sammy the Sabre and over 2,000 students, Marian University ranked twelfth among “High Lifetime Return on Investment Colleges” in Wisconsin. Now, interested students can pursue a flexible and affordable online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology.
This degree completion program is meant for working radiologic technologists who wish to advance their careers. Students will take a variety of general education courses in subjects like math, science, and sociology. You may also choose from one of the following minors:
- Business Administration
- Information Technology
The above minors are perfect if you’re looking to move into a management or supervisory position in the healthcare field. Students in this program typically earn their degree in 24 months. As a faith-based university, professors at Marian place a special emphasis on quality patient care and technical competency.
With an endowment of over $7 million, this private university offers its students the best resources. In fact, Marian University was ranked among the nation’s Best Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report. The cost of this program is just $430 per credit and start dates are offered throughout the year.
University of Mississippi
College Choice Score: 84.01
Average Net Price: $14,678
Located in Oxford, MS, Ole Miss is more than the university to be recognized from the 2009 film, The Blind Side. Founded in 1848, the school is now home to over 23,000 students and a new mascot, Landshark. The largest university in Mississippi, Ole Miss houses a major medical school and more than 120 areas of study for students to explore. Interested in radiology? Check out the university’s Bachelor of Radiologic Sciences.
Offered through the School of Health Related Professions’ Department of Radiologic Sciences, the Radiologic Sciences program at UMMC is both flexible and affordable. Required courses may include:
- Radiographic Image Analysis
- Digital Image Acquisition and Display
- Pharmacology and Drug Administration
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Imaging Sciences
- Management Issues in Diagnostic Health Care
- Computed Tomography Applications and Sectional Imaging
This online program is intended for registered radiologic technologists. Ole Miss also offers an on-campus entry-level program.
Ole Miss is also home to 20 research centers, including the National Center for Justice and the Rule of Law, the National Center for Physical Acoustics, and the National Center for Natural Products Research. With a student-to-faculty ratio of just 18:1 and several classes with 20 students or less, folks here are sure to get hands-on experience and the knowledge they need to succeed. Online students receive access to the same resources that those on-campus do.
East Tennessee State University
College Choice Score: 82.73
Average Net Price: $14,915
Based in Johnson City, TN, this public university was founded in 1911 and is now home to over ten colleges and schools. From the College of Nursing to the College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University is abuzz with academics. Now, the university offers more and more degrees online. Interested in radiology? Check out East Tennessee State’s online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences.
This 120-credit online program is intended for working radiologic professionals who hold an associate of applied science degree in Radiography Science. Required courses may include:
- Radiographic Pathology
- Patient Care and Assessment
- Radiation Biology and Protection
- Image Production and Evaluation
- Information Management for Allied Health Professionals
Graduates of this online program will be equipped with entry-level management, group dynamics, and supervisory skills related to the allied health disciplines. Online courses are offered in both synchronous and asynchronous formats.
Famous graduates of East Tennessee State University include country music star Kenny Chesney and the former SVP of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Michelle Livengood. The university has been ranked twenty-eighth by U.S. News and World Report for Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs.
Concordia University Wisconsin
College Choice Score: 82.72
Average Net Price: $25,764
Concordia University is a private, Christian-centered liberal arts college located in the small city of Mequon, WI. With mascot Freddy the Falcon leading the pack, Concordia offers a variety of comprehensive degree programs. Are you a working Rad Tech interested in advancing your career? Check out Concordia’s online Bachelor of Science Completion Degree in Radiologic Technology.
In this 126-credit program, students will complete the Concordia core curriculum and electives. You can transfer up to 90 credits and a minimum of 63 credits at Concordia. Each course lasts just six to eight weeks, giving you the flexibility you need to continue working. Alumni of this program have gone on to work in:
- Medical and Diagnostic Labs
- Physician’s’ Offices
- Research Facilities
Students typically complete this degree in a year and a half or less. Common career paths for graduates include Radiology Supervisor, Radiology Sales, and Radiology Educator.
Concordia University – Wisconsin has been ranked among the country’s Best Value Schools and Best Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report. The university’s online programs have also been highly ranked.
Nebraska Methodist College
College Choice Score: 82.10
Average Net Price: $18,374
Located in the city of Omaha, NE, this private college specializes in Nursing and Allied Health studies. In fact, Nebraska Methodist College is among the top healthcare colleges in the nation. Now, students can take advantage of all the college has to offer from the comfort of their own homes. Now, through NMCOnline, you can pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Imaging Sciences.
This BS program offers a variety of options depending on your level of knowledge. For practicing Rad Techs, the BS degree completion program can be completed in just 18-24 months. For those without an ARRT, the BS in Imaging Sciences can be taken as a dual degree option. Depending on your course of study, required courses may include:
- Health Education
- Professional Communication
- Survey of US Healthcare Systems
- Interdisciplinary Healthcare Ethics
- Bereavement and Loss for the Women’s Health Professional
The cost of tuition per credit hour for this program is $580. NMC offers a variety of scholarship and financial aid packages for eligible students to offset the cost.
Students in this program can develop skills in specialized areas like computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, mammography, and others. Options for minors also include Spanish for Healthcare Professionals and Healthcare Sign Language.
Adventist University of Health Sciences
College Choice Score: 81.74
Average Net Price: $18,603
Formerly known as the Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences, this Orlando-based school is now the Adventist University of Health Sciences. This university works closely with Florida Hospital, giving students access to top clinical experiences and world-class facilities. Now, five of the school’s top programs can be completed entirely online. In fact, ADU Online now offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Radiologic Sciences.
With three speciality tracks, including CT, MRI, and Multi-Modality, this program consists of 33 credit-hours of general ed courses and 33 credit-hours of Radiologic Sciences courses. Required courses may include:
- Sectional Anatomy
- Principles of Quality Management
- Physics and Instrumentation of MRI
- Medical Imaging in the Digital Environment
- Management Principles for Imaging Professionals
This online degree program is meant to prepare today’s imaging technologists for careers in leadership and advanced imaging.
Adventist University of Health Sciences is consistently ranked among the nation’s top health schools. Online programs have a low faculty-to-student ratio (1:20) to ensure that everyone gets the individualized instruction they need to succeed. ADU Online also boasts a 24/7 help desk, a student Retention Specialist, and access to a chaplain.
University of New Mexico
College Choice Score: 81.63
Average Net Price: $11,230
This public university is located in Albuquerque, NM and is, in fact, New Mexico’s flagship research institution. Founded in 1889 and home to nearly 28,000 students, the University of New Mexico now offers more and more degree programs online. Now, interested folks can earn an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science. This online degree is a completion program meant for working professionals.
Prospective students must already have, or be eligible for, certification in ARRT, ARDMS, or NMTCB. Students may either take classes full-time or part-time. Required courses may include:
- Biology for Health Related Sciences
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Reasoning and Critical Thinking
- General Psychology
Students may also choose from one of two concentrations: Nuclear Medicine or Medical Imaging. Additionally, you may choose an emphasis of medical Imaging, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
Online students can enjoy the flexibility and affordability of earning an advanced degree without compromising on the quality of their education at UNM. In fact, nearly 75 percent of students receive financial aid and over $50 million in scholarships are awarded each year. Yearly savings for students is, on average, over $13,000 compared to other schools that offer similar degree programs.
Georgia Southern University
College Choice Score: 79.69
Average Net Price: $18,854
Georgia Southern University, formerly known as Armstrong State University, is located in Savannah, GA. With more than 100 degrees and programs, students from almost every state in the US and 70 countries flock to Georgia Southern each year. Now, students no longer have to leave their homes to earn a quality degree from this university. Check out Georgia Southern’s online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences.
This 129-credit online degree completion program is meant for working professionals. Offered through the university’s Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Sciences, this program offers both a clinical and a non-clinical track:
- Clinical Track: Coursework is centered around CT, MRI, or mammography studies. All courses are offered online, save for a clinical education component which may be completed in your local area.
- Non-Clinical Track: This completely-online track gives students educational experiences that include leadership, management, and technical communication.
Prospective students must be certified by the ARRT, or NMTCB, or ARDMS in radiography, nuclear medicine, sonography or radiation therapy or equivalent to be considered for admission.
U.S. News and World Report has ranked Georgia Southern University among the Best Regional Universities in the South. The university has also been recognized for its affordable and flexible online programs.
Weber State University
College Choice Score: 77.64
Average Net Price: $9,321
Located in the city of Ogden, UT, Weber State University was founded in 1889 and is now home to the wildcats. With a vision that integrates learning, scholarship, and community, Weber State offers a variety of unique degree programs. Are you a registered radiologic technologist looking to broaden your skill set and advance your career? Check out Weber’s online Bachelor Completion program in Radiologic Science.
Offered through the university’s Dr. Ezekiel R. Dumke College of Health Professions, this degree completion program is ideal for working professionals. You may choose from one of the following areas of emphasis:
- Advanced Radiologic Sciences
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
If you decide to pursue Advanced Radiologic Sciences, you will also choose from one of the following areas of concentration: Women’s Imaging, MRI/CT Combined, MRI, CT, and more. If you are applying for the on-campus program, you may also consider areas of emphasis in either Nuclear Medicine or Radiation Therapy. For those who already have certification in a specialized modality, the university may award you credit-hours towards the bachelor’s degree.
U.S. News and World Report has ranked Weber State University among the country’s Top Public Schools and Best Regional Universities in the West.