A:  Yes.  The program admits 26 students per year and there has been considerable interest in the program, leading to a small backlog of qualified students awaiting admission.  This list currently extends to Fall 2014. 

Q:  Can I attend the program part-time?

A:  No.  The Radiologic Technology program is a full-time day program.  Students should plan to be at the college or in the clinical setting from around 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. most days Monday-Friday.  Students can take pre-requisite courses and general education courses on a part-time basis prior to beginning the program.

Q:  I have a degree from another college, will this allow me to complete the program in less time?

A:  No.  The clinical and didactic courses in the program run sequentially, i.e. first semester courses must be completed prior to taking second semester courses. 

Q:  What courses are required for program admission?

A:  The courses and standards for admission are: a minimum grade of B in ENG 100 or test into or have completed ENG 101; minimum grade of B in MAT 099 (or 098) or test into or have completed MAT 100 or higher; minimum grade of B in high school or college Biology (lab course).  The Math & Biology courses must have been completed within the last 5 years.  Additional testing is required; see the Admissions page of this site.

Q:  Are there additional courses I can complete before I start the formal program?

A:  Yes, any course that is included in the program curriculum but is not designated as an RDT course can be completed while you are awaiting your official program start; these would include BIO 111, BIO 112, SPH 101,  PSY 101 and a Liberal Arts elective.

Q:  What is the current job market like for Radiologic Technologists?

A:  The current job market is tight in all sectors of the economy, however healthcare is adding jobs faster than other industries.  The program does not guarantee job placement. 

Q:  Will the QCC program prepare me to work in CT, MRI or ultrasound?  

A:  Not directly.  The QCC program educates students to work in radiography.  Most imaging professionals begin their careers in this modality.  Some employers offer on the job training in CT and MRI to technologists who are registered in radiography.  Ultrasound generally requires additional formal education specific to sonography.   Many of our graduates are currently employed as sonographers, mammographers, CT and MRI technologists, among other specialties.

Q:  Can I become a radiographer through on the job training?

A:   No.  In order to practice Radiologic Technology in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts one must be a graduate of an accredited educational program in Radiologic Technology and be eligible to sit for the ARRT registry examination and state licensure. 

Q:  Is the QCC program accredited?

A:  Yes.  Since its inception the QCC Radiologic Technology Program has voluntarily sought and received accreditation by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRC/ERT).  Graduates of our program are eligible for ARRT certification by examination and state licensing as radiographers.

Q:  Can I choose my clinical site?

A:  The QCC Radiologic Technology Program has clinical affiliation agreements with most of the hospitals in central Massachusetts.  The number of students that can be accommodated at any given clinical site is limited.  The program faculty decide which clinical education setting is most appropriate for each student.

Q:  Can I work part-time while attending the program?

A:  Many students do.  You should be advised, however, that the program curriculum is rigorous and will demand lots of your time.  Also, some evening assignments and labs are required as part of the program structure.

Q:  Is financial aid available to program students?

A:  There are many sources of financial aid available, prospective students should make an appointment to speak to the college's Financial Aid Office to discuss their particular eligibility. 

Q:  How do I apply to the college?

A:  Stop by the QCC Admissions Office and fill out an application, or apply on-line at www.qcc.edu

 Q:  I'm undecided, how do I make up my mind?

A:  Schedule an appointment to talk to an advisor in the college's Health Careers Center.  The center can be reached at (508) 854-4438.

Q:  Is radiation exposure dangerous?

A:  Exposure to ionizing radiation does pose some hazards.  Radiologic Technology students have their doses monitored and they are taught to use appropriate radiation protection methods to safeguard themselves, their patients and others from unnecessary exposure.  Practiced properly, Radiologic Technology is a very safe profession.