BS in Radiologic Technology

The clinical role of the radiologic technologist encompasses the imaging modalities of general radiography, fluoroscopy, mammography, angiography, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

The radiologic technologist must enjoy working with a variety of people and be dedicated to providing excellent customer service. The medical imaging profession is physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding.

Successful radiologic technologists possess excellent communication and problem-solving skills. In this complex field, professionals must rely on technical expertise in the physical principles of imaging; the operation of intricate equipment; radiation protection; and human anatomy, physiology, and pathology. The ability to navigate an active, fast-paced, and occasionally stressful workplace is vital.

Prospective students are encouraged to review our guide to the technical requirements for a career as a radiologic technologist. For the highly motivated individual who is committed to compassionate care and technical excellence, the profession of radiologic technology offers a rewarding career with substantial potential for personal growth and satisfaction.

The professional portion of the program is 21 months long. It begins in the fall of sophomore year and is typically completed at the end of junior year. However, students must complete a number of required courses during freshman year to be eligible for the professional portion of the program. Completion of the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree requirements typically occurs by the end of the fourth (senior) year.

Upon completion of the third (junior) year, most students are eligible for an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Health Science. Although it is not mandatory for students to apply for this degree, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) requires a college degree for credentialing exam eligibility. Students who complete the RAD program didactic and clinical program requirements, and who satisfy the degree requirements for the A.S degree, will be eligible to sit for the ARRT credentialing exam in Radiography at the completion of junior year.

Most students return for the fourth year of study, during which they specialize in Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Ultrasound or a non-clinical plan of study and satisfy the remaining requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Health Science.

Our radiologic technology program may only be completed on a full-time basis. In addition to a busy schedule of didactic coursework, our students spend up to three days per week (7:30 am – 4:00 pm) in a clinical setting.

Most of our radiography courses are held in room 215 of Dana Hall on the University of Hartford campus. This classroom is also the site of our energized x-ray lab, used for simulation and experimentation. General education, science, and elective courses are held in various classrooms throughout the University of Hartford campus.

We employ a diverse list of clinical affiliations, ranging from small outpatient imaging centers to large metropolitan hospitals and level I trauma centers. All of our affiliates are within 60-minutes driving distance from campus and students are reminded that they must provide their own transportation. Each semester our Director of Clinical Education assigns students to a different site, assuring that all engage in a wide breadth of clinical experience.

As a competency-based program, students are required to demonstrate their technical proficiency in a broad range of radiographic procedures prior to program completion. During each clinical semester, students are required to complete a minimum number of clinical hours, while demonstrating competence in a number of radiographic procedures appropriate to their level of experience. Students typically complete our program with well over 1,300 total clinical hours.

There is growing interest in careers in the health professions. This has resulted in an increase in the number of applicants applying for a limited number of places in our program. Although the total number fluctuates from year to year, we maintain a cap of approximately 30 students on each incoming freshmen class. The number of applicants to the program considerably outnumbers the available placements. The successful applicant will have demonstrated a history of academic success in their high school (and post-secondary) education and will have achieved above-average scores on standardized admissions tests.

Program Mission: The Radiologic Technology program of the University of Hartford fosters an environment of didactic and clinical excellence in the preparation of competent, entry-level radiographers.

Program Goals:

1. Students will demonstrate the clinical competence of entry-level radiologic technologists.
2. Students will employ effective communication skills.
3. Students will develop and employ critical thinking skills.
4. Students will demonstrate a commitment to professional growth and development.

Learning Outcomes

Assessment of Program Effectiveness

1. Students will pass the ARRT examination in Radiography on the first attempt.
2. Students will be gainfully employed as radiologic technologists with the first six months following graduation.
3. Students will successfully complete the program.
4. Students will be satisfied with their education.
5. Employers will be satisfied with the performance of our graduates.

Results

See Radiologic Technology Program Effectiveness Data 2017-2021.

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology provides effectiveness data for all accredited radiography programs.

To offer students a comprehensive breadth of clinical experience, our radiologic technology (RAD) program maintain affiliations with the following:

Note: All students of the RAD program are required to undergo a criminal background check and drug screening prior to the start of clinical experience in the fall of sophomore year. An additional screening prior to the start of senior year is required of all students seeking advanced study in our CT, MRI and ultrasound certificate programs.

Students are responsible for clearing any eligibility issues identified during the screening process. Students who are unable to resolve said items may be denied clinical placement and will not be able to complete the requirements of the RAD program.  Students who have additional infractions during their follow-up screening prior to the start of senior year may be subject to program dismissal. All costs associated with the background check and drug screening are paid by the student, via course fees collected for applicable coursework.

Tuition and Financial Aid

If you are a full-time undergraduate student applying to the Radiologic Technology  program, you will be considered for financial aid programs that the University of Hartford administers. In addition to our own funds, the University participates in all Federal Title IV programs and Federal Family Education Loan programs. Residents of Connecticut and those states with reciprocal agreements with the State of Connecticut may also be eligible to receive state scholarships or grants. 

Current tuition and fees

Financial aid

Office of Student Financial Assistance
860.768.4296
finaid@hartford.edu

Additional Costs Specific to the Program

In addition to the cost of tuition, room, board, and all associated fees, students of the Radiologic Technology program can expect to incur the following expenses:

• Uniforms: At least two sets of slate-gray hospital scrubs: $100 or more (appropriate footwear also required)

• Immunizations/physicals are required for clinical assignment. Costs vary based on individual student health insurance.

• Parking fees are possible depending on clinical assignment: $50 or more.