UofL Health Radiologic Technology Program

• 2024 Academic Calendar
• 2025 Academic Calendar

The Radiology Program is pending accreditation by the Joint Review Committee of Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). The Standards for an Accredited Educational Program in Radiologic Science are followed by the program. These standards can be found on the JRCERT website:
2021-Radiography-Standards.pdf (jrcert.org)

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606
312-704-5300
Email: Mail@JRCERT.org

Admission Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age at program start.
• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Complete an application no later than July 1.
• Must submit two letters of reference
• Applicant must submit one of the following:
  • Official college transcripts sent from the college to the program director.
  • Submit an ACT/SAT exam. Points toward admission from either exam will be based upon the strength of the exam score.
  • Complete the program’s entrance exam, if ACT/SAT was not obtained.

Physical Demands

• Lifting, pushing and/or pulling objects up to 50lbs, 60%
• Standing or walking with objects up to 10 lbs., 60%
• Sitting, for example at computer workstation, for extended periods of time
• Standing, 60%
• Bending, 30%
• Walking, 60%
• Vision, ≥60%
• Hearing, ≥60%

Two Pathways to Enter into the Program:

Pathway 1

Applicants that have completed an associate degree or higher with a minimal 2.0 GPA need to send their official transcript from the college/university that the degree was issued to the radiology program director for review. The degree must be obtained from a school that is listed by approved accrediting agencies from the ARRT. A list of the accrediting agencies can be found on the ARRT website https://www.arrt.org/pages/earn-arrt-credentials/initial-requirements/primary-requirements/education-requirements-primary/arrt-recognized-accreditation-agencies

Pathway 2

Applicants that do not have an associate degree or higher may apply to IVY Tech and complete their eight (8) core classes and then apply to the UofL Health Radiologic Technology Program. When the radiology program is completed, a HESI exam must be taken through IVY Tech and successfully completed with a score of 675 or higher. There are two attempts allowed.

IVY Tech Required Core Courses: Must be completed before the start of the Program.

• Anatomy and Physiology I, 3 credits
• Anatomy and Physiology II, 3 credits
• Student Success in Healthcare, 1 credit
• English Composition, 3 credits
• College Algebra, 3 credits
• Medical Terminology, 3 credits
• Public Speaking or Interpersonal Communication, 3 credits
• Sociology or Introduction to Psychology, 3 credits

Students may have transfer credits from other institutions. Transcripts need to be sent to IVY Tech for credit acceptance. A total of 15 credits must be earned at Ivy Tech for students to be degree eligible.

• Radiology program courses do not count toward the 15 credit requirements because they are not earned through Ivy Tech.
• If the applicant has completed the required eight (8) core classes, but must fulfill the minimum 15 IVY Tech credit hours, the applicant can still apply to the program.

Interviews

Entrance standard grade scale will be used to determine applicant’s scoring for selection for the interview. If the above requirements are fulfilled and the applicant is selected, an interview will be conducted with the Radiology Committee. This will follow the July 1 application deadline. During the interview, the Radiology Committee will determine the applicant’s ability to communicate, work with others and have a realistic approach to the field of radiology.

Final Decision

• The Radiology Committee will send a letter of acceptance to the program, or
• The Radiology Committee will send a letter of denial or
• The Radiology Committee will send an alternate letter in the event an accepted student chooses not to accept.

Admission Requirements

• Background check - All applicants applying for the program must complete a criminal background check. Students with felony, certain misdemeanors or drug related arrests may not be eligible to sit for the national registry per the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist policy. Students with these circumstances will need to write a letter to the ARRT for approval before entering the program.
• Urine Drug Screen
• Vaccinations - UofL Health Employee Health will verify:
  • Flu vaccine *updated yearly*
  • MMR and Varicella Titer (within 1 year of start) *If results reflect no immunity, a new vaccine is required prior to start.
  • Hep B or declination
  • TB test or chest x-ray results within 12 months prior to start
  • TDAP or declination
• Physical Examination
• CPR - Prior to beginning clinical education, the student will need to complete basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation for health care providers by the American Heart Association.

Transfer of Credits

Students that do not have an associate degree will apply to Ivy Tech for their general education classes. IVY Tech does accept transfer credits from accredited colleges. Transfer of credits that are allowed by Ivy Tech can be found in their college catalog or could be discussed during the application process. A minimum of 15 credit hours must be taken at Ivy Tech to grant an associate degree. The prerequisite courses required from Ivy Tech are as follows:

Ivy Tech (22 credits)

• Anatomy and Physiology I, 3 credits
• Anatomy and Physiology II, 3 credits
• Student Success in Healthcare, 1 credit
• English Composition, 3 credits
• College Algebra, 3 credits
• Medical Terminology, 3 credits
• Public Speaking or Interpersonal Communication, 3 credits
• Sociology or Introduction to Psychology, 3 credits

UofL Health Radiologic Technology Program offers a certificate upon completion of the program. To be eligible to sit for the ARRT national registry, one must have at least a minimum of an associate degree. If one does not already have an associate degree, the program has an articulation agreement with Ivy Tech Community College.

The UofL Health Radiologic Technology Program graduates will have a temporary license from the state of Kentucky issued immediately for employment after graduation. This is good for one year from graduation.

Students will be eligible for certification by the American Radiology of Registry Technologist (ARRT) and the Kentucky Board of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy after the student has successfully passed the ARRT examination. ARRT Certification and Registration – ARRT

1. Students are responsible for reporting to the clinical instructor of their assigned hospital during clinical assignments. The student must report his absence to the clinical instructor and to the program director.
2. All students must follow and adhere to the HIPAA guidelines. All hospital/facility and patient records and/or information are strictly confidential in nature. Radiology students are expected to maintain the confidentiality of all patients.
3. After two clinical absences during a quarter, the student's clinical grade will be reduced a letter grade on the final grade. An occurrence is defined as any time a student is absent from clinicals.
4. Three tardies at clinicals need to be documented, such as a traffic or weather occurrence or unexcused (3) tardies is equivalent to one absence.
5. Congregating and excessive noise are not permitted in the radiology departments. Students are expected to remain in their assigned clinical area.
6. Students must use their own initialed right and left lead markers to properly identify the radiographic procedures they perform. These markers need to be applied to IR and not annotated.
7. Telephones in the assigned radiology department are intended for hospital/facility business only and must not be used for personal calls (unless it is an emergency). When answering the department phone, always identify yourself and the department.
8. Cell phones are not allowed on the student during clinic rotation (even in silent mode) unless on break outside of patient areas. No electronics are allowed during clinic hours.  This includes, but is not limited to: cell phones, smart watches, tablets, personal computers or facility computer. Students using electronics during this time will be subject to disciplinary action.
9. Students will always practice exceptional radiation protection techniques. An exposure will NEVER be made on a human subject for an experimental purpose of any kind.
10. To maintain a safe working environment, students are required to report any known unethical or unprofessional conduct.
11. Radiology students shall follow the programs academic calendar and shall take their vacation times only when the student is not registered to attend scheduled program courses.
12. While in the clinical setting, the student shall follow the policies listed in the Radiology Student Handbook and shall be responsible for following specific hospital/facility policies designated by the affiliate’s protocol. 
13. Students are to report to their clinical station each day with the following:
    • A notebook
    • A pen
    • Radiation dosimeter
    • UofL Health Student identification badge
    • Appropriate lead markers
14. Daily, the student is responsible for periodically checking the workload and supplies for their clinical station. This will ensure that all radiologic examinations will be completed as soon as possible.
15. Students should participate in keeping the assigned clinical area neat and clean; this includes gathering and dispensing departmental laundry and supplies.
16. When the student’s clinical station has concluded its patient load for the day or has an inadequate patient load, the student must utilize their clinical time by:
    • Assisting in another radiographic station.
    •   Simulating standard procedures with the supervising staff technologist or another                      available student.
    • Practicing and utilization of all equipment within the radiographic room.
    • Work on educational assignment/studying. This must be approved by the CI.
17. Students will make every effort to aid staff technologists, supervisors, physicians and all hospital staff in the care of patients and for the smooth operation of the radiology department and hospital.
18. Students are NOT allowed to perform any injections, blood draws, starting IVs and no injecting contrast.
19. Students are required to wear dosimeter on their collar during all hours of clinical education experiences. During fluoroscopic examinations, your dosimeter should be worn outside of the lead apron. Fetal badges are worn at the waist under lead. For specific care and handling, refer to dosimeter regulations in the Radiology Student Handbook.
20. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure all paperwork has been documented by the clinical instructor. Paperwork turned in past the due date will not count for that quarter. Examples: competencies, time, evaluations, log sheets.
21. Students are to bring complaints and/or behavioral concerns to the Clinical Instructor for appropriate action. Should the complaint or behavior be deemed serious enough to warrant further investigation, the Clinical Instructor will bring the problem before the Program Director.
22. Should a patient become injured while in a student’s care, the student must report the incident immediately to the proper staff employee and follow the injury/exposure reporting process.
23. Students who do not adhere to the program’s policies will receive points off their final clinical grade, which may result in failure of the class. Offenses include but are not limited to those listed below:

Minor: (5 points off final clinical grade)

• The use of cell phones or other electronical devices
• Smoking on the property
• Failure to report from breaks or mealtime.

      Major: (10 points off final clinical grade)

• No show-no call
• Improper conduct such as language, yelling, use of profanity, etc.

Critical: (15 points off final clinical grade)

• HIPAA violation
• Negligence, assault, battery, etc.

Program Course Description

Radiographic Introduction: This course will introduce the student to the discovery of x-rays and how they are produced by understanding the x-ray tube and the circuitry. It will also look at physics, safety, radiation protection and radiobiology in an introductory method. Upon completion, the student will have basic knowledge of radiology to expand upon in future courses.

Radiogrpahic Anatomy: This course will introduce the student to the healthcare team and the Code of Ethics/Rules for Radiologic Technologists. Legal and ethical issues will be discussed. Basic positioning terminology, body landmarks and radiographic positioning standards will be introduced. Students will demonstrate knowledge of anatomy in regard to radiographic images.

Patient Care Methods: This course will focus on basic knowledge of communication, patient assessment and education in the imaging department setting. Patient care techniques including patient safety techniques, venipuncture, cardiac monitoring, patient transfer, taking of vital signs and first aid procedures. Focus will be made on the Radiologic Technologist’s role in patient care to include ethical, legal and professional standards.

Positioning 1: This course will provide basic knowledge and skills to the student that are required to accurately prepare and position the patient for introductory level procedures. Students will evaluate the anatomy demonstrated, positioning accuracy and exposure quality for each procedure. In addition to the lecture portion of this course, lab practicum will be included.

Positioning 2: This course will provide basic knowledge and skills to the student that are required to accurately prepare and position the patient for intermediate level procedures. Students will evaluate the anatomy demonstrated, positioning accuracy and exposure quality for each procedure. Critical thinking skills will be implemented to determine correct positioning and technical factors. In addition to the lecture portion of this course, lab practicum will be included.

Positioning 3: This course will have students learn the fluoroscopic equipment use and the various fluoroscopic exams that are performed. Students will obtain knowledge of the anatomy visualized with various body types and how that anatomy will be seen. Information on different contrast types and the administration of contrast will be addressed. In conjunction with lecture, lab practicum will be used.

Radiation Protection and Biology: This course provides a comprehensive review of radiation protection guidelines and radiobiology. Recommendations and regulations will be addressed including occupational dose and monitoring. Emphasis will be made on the safe use of ionizing radiation.

Radiographic Physics: This course explores physics on a fundamental level and in relation to radiation physics. The student will be provided with explanations on electricity, magnetism, matter and energy. Information on radiation physics will include x-ray production, interactions, emissions and measurement.

Imaging Principles 1: This course expands upon imaging concepts and reviews imaging equipment and related technical factors. Digital radiography and fluoroscopic imaging will be addressed and understood. The use of grids and other image quality enhancing factors will be discussed. The student will learn image acquisition as it relates to the patient.

Imaging Principles 2: This course expands upon imaging concepts and reviews imaging equipment and related technical factors. The student will learn about image viewing and perception, PACS, digital display devices. Artifacts will be reviewed. Quality control and quality assurance will be addressed regarding the imaging and display systems. The student will learn image acquisition and quality in relation to obtaining an optimal image.

Radiographic Pathology: This course will introduce pathological processes to the student. It will review the various pathologies within the different systems in the body. Images will be evaluated and discussed. Additive and destructive disease processes will be identified and other special patient considerations. Critical thinking exercises and case studies will be assigned to evaluate the student’s knowledge of radiographic procedures regarding patient consideration and technical factors.

Image Evaluation: This course expands upon patient care, technical factors and all positioning courses to provide critical thinking skills when reviewing radiographic images. Students will determine how to improve an image with changes in technical factors and/or positioning.

Registry Review 1: This course will begin to prepare the student for the ARRT exam. Topics listed on the ARRT specifications will be reviewed and discussed. Test taking tips, resume writing, a mock interview and mock boards will be included in this class. A test will be given over each ARRT topic after review.

Registry Review 2: This course is a continuation of Review 1 to prepare the student for the ARRT boards. Topics listed on the ARRT specifications will be reviewed and discussed. Test taking tips and mock boards will be included in this class. A test will be given over each ARRT topic after review.

Clinical-01: This course provides the student with clinical experience within an imaging department. The student will put into practice skills and knowledge obtained from the didactic courses. The student will develop time management, communication, positioning, technique setting, image review and patient care skills. The student will rotate through various locations during this initial observation clinical rotation.

Clinical-02: This course provides the student with clinical experience within an imaging department. The student will put into practice skills and knowledge obtained from the didactic courses. The student will develop time management, communication, positioning, technique setting, image review and patient care skills. Rotations through various locations will be provided during this second clinical rotation.

Clinical-03: This course provides the student with clinical experience within an imaging department. The student will put into practice skills and knowledge obtained from the didactic courses. The student will develop time management, communication, positioning, technique setting, image review and patient care skills. Rotations through various locations will be provided during this third clinical rotation.

Clinical-04: This course provides the student with clinical experience within an imaging department. The student will put into practice skills and knowledge obtained from the didactic courses. The student will develop time management, communication, positioning, technique setting, image review and patient care skills. Rotations through various locations will be provided during this fourth clinical rotation.

Clinical-05: This course provides the student with clinical experience within an imaging department. The student will put into practice skills and knowledge obtained from the didactic courses. The student will develop time management, communication, positioning, technique setting, image review and patient care skills. Rotations through various locations will be provided during this fifth clinical rotation.

Clinical-06: This course provides the student with clinical experience within an imaging department. The student will put into practice skills and knowledge obtained from the didactic courses. The student will develop time management, communication, positioning, technique setting, image review and patient care skills. Rotations through various locations will be provided during this sixth clinical rotation.

Clinical-07: This course provides the student with clinical experience within an imaging department. The student will put into practice skills and knowledge obtained from the didactic courses. The student will develop time management, communication, positioning, technique setting, image review and patient care skills. Rotations through various locations will be provided during this seventh clinical rotation.

When is the deadline to apply?

The deadline for applications, references, recommendation letters and official transcripts is July 1.

What is the process to apply?

Fill out the application form on the program’s website.

• Must be 18 years of age at program start.
• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Complete an application no later than July 1
• Submit two (2) letters of reference. Letters cannot be written from family or friends.
• Applicant must submit one of the following:
  • Official college transcripts sent from the college to the program director.
  • Submit an ACT/SAT exam. Points toward admission from either exam will be based upon the strength of the exam score.
  • Complete the program’s entrance exam, if ACT/SAT was not obtained

Is there a background check?

All applicants applying for the program must complete a criminal background check. Students with felony, certain misdemeanors or drug related arrests may not be eligible to sit for the national registry per the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist policy. Students with these circumstances will need to write a letter to the ARRT for approval before entering the program.

What is the tuition cost?

The UofL Health Radiologic Technology Program is designed to cover 100% of tuition, books and exam fees and offers two years of full-time employment in the Radiologic Technologist role at a UofL Health facility.

As a condition of receiving benefits under this Program, the applicant will be required to work for UofL Health for a period of two (2) years. Applicants who fail out of the program, refuse any open position available at the time of graduation of the program or who voluntarily terminates employment with UofL Health prior to satisfying a work commitment agrees to reimburse UofL Health for the full amount of all benefits paid under the Program. If UofL Health must pursue collection of the reimbursement, the applicant will be responsible for attorney fees and other costs of collection.

Where is the school located?

UofL Health Radiologic Technology Program is located at:

UofL Health – Medical Center Northeast
2401 Terra Crossing Blvd.
Suite 203, Administration
Louisville, KY 40245

Do I have to take pre-requisite courses?

Applicants that do not have an associate degree or higher may apply to IVY Tech and complete their eight (8) core classes and then apply to the UofL Health Radiology Program.

• Anatomy and Physiology I, 3 credits
• Anatomy and Physiology II, 3 credits
• Student Success in Healthcare, 1 credit
• English Composition, 3 credits
• College Algebra, 3 credits
• Medical Terminology, 3 credits
• Public Speaking or Interpersonal Communication, 3 credits
• Sociology or Introduction to Psychology, 3 credits

How many students are accepted?

Ten students are accepted annually.

If I’m not accepted this year, do I have to reapply next year?

Yes.

What is the HESI exam?

Applicants that do not have an associate degree or higher may apply to IVY Tech and complete their eight (8) core classes and then apply to the UofL Health Radiology Program.

When the radiology program is completed, a HESI exam must be taken through IVY Tech and successfully completed with a score of 675 or higher to be awarded the associate degree. There are two attempts allowed.

What if I already have an associates degree?

Applicants that have completed an associate degree or higher with a minimal 2.0 GPA need to send their official transcript from the college/university that the degree was issued to the radiology program director for review. The degree must be obtained from a school that is listed by approved accrediting agencies from the ARRT.

What is the ARRT exam?

The final step to becoming certified and registered with ARRT is to take an examination. The exam measures the knowledge acquired through the program and the necessary knowledge that a radiologic technologist needs. The exam is computer-based and 75% is needed for a passing grade.

Grading

The following are used to evaluate exams, homework and clinical grades.

Quizzes/Exams

No quizzes or exams can be rescheduled. They must be taken at the scheduled time. Midterm and Final exams can be rescheduled with proper documentation.

Failure Policy

Students must pass all courses in sequence with a 78% grade or higher. Failure of a course with a D or F will result in dismissal from the program.

1. Students must maintain a minimum of 2.0 to qualify for their degree. Complete a minimum of a “C” in all radiology courses and clinical courses. This is a minimum course grade of 78%.
2. Successfully complete the required clinical rotations objectives and competencies.
3. Adhere to all policies and procedures described in the radiology handbook.
4. Students must complete 84 credit hours of coursework within the radiology program and 1,200 hours of clinical work.
5. Students must apply for graduation and apply to the ARRT in the registry review course in the eighth quarter.

Any UofL Health Radiologic Technology Program student may file a grievance as set forth in this policy, as a means to present a complaint.

1. The student must first try to resolve the issue with the person/persons/issue.
2. The student that wishes to lodge a complaint must do so within three (3) business days of the action/incident by submitting a written statement to the Program Director.
3. A meeting will take place with the student and Program Director. A written decision will be given within five (5) business days.
4. If the student believes the decision to be unjust or if the complaint is against the Program Director, the student must submit a written statement of the complaint to the UofL Health – Medical Center Northeast Imaging Department Director. A meeting will be scheduled. A written decision will be given within 5 business days following the meeting.
5. Complaint Forms can be found in the library on the bottom shelf of the bookshelf.

The JRCERT Program Number is 07019.

Program Effectiveness Data on JRCERT Template

Handbook

Radiology Program Mission Statement

To provide training and education in a hospital-based learning environment that provides outstanding qualified technologist to administer ionizing radiation.

Program Goals

The goals and student outcomes are the “standards” that are a collaborative effort between the Joint Review Committee of Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) in cooperation with the American Society of Radiologic Technology (ASRT) and the American College of Radiology (ACR).

1. Students will utilize effective communication skills.
2. Students will demonstrate clinical competence.
3. Students will adhere to professional and ethical guidelines.
4. Students will employ critical thinking skills.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Students will demonstrate essential verbal communication skills.
• Students will demonstrate effective nonverbal communication skills.
• Students will employ appropriate radiation protection practices.
• Students will apply positioning skills.
• Students will model professional behaviors.
• Students will understand the importance of the ARRT ethical guidelines.
• Students will modify exams based on patient abilities.
• Students will evaluate image quality.

Curriculum Expenses

The UofL Health Radiologic Technology Program is designed to cover 100% of tuition, books and exam fees and offers two years of full-time employment in the Radiologic Technologist role at a UofL Health facility.

This two-year program provides a unique opportunity for those who aspire to become a certified radiologic technologist. This specially designed program covers tuition, book expenses and the cost of the ARRT certification exam. The clinical education practicum hours are completed within UofL Health facilities.

As a condition of receiving benefits under the Program, an eligible applicant commits to continue working for UofL Health for two (2) years for which benefits are paid under the Program.

As a condition of receiving benefits under this Program, the applicant will be required to work for UofL Health for a period of two (2) years. Applicants who fail out of the program, refuse any open position available at the time of graduation of the program or who voluntarily terminates employment with UofL Health prior to satisfying a work commitment agrees to reimburse UofL Health for the full amount of all benefits paid under the Program. If UofL Health must pursue collection of the reimbursement, the applicant will be responsible for attorney fees and other costs of collection.

Student Insurance

Students enrolled in the radiography program are covered under UofL Health’s Professional Malpractice/Liability/Worker’s Comp Insurance. If desired, students may purchase additional coverage from other carriers.