Becoming an X-ray technologist in California requires completing an accredited training program and often pursuing certification. At National Polytechnic College, we offer a comprehensive Radiologic Technologist program that teaches students the technical and clinical skills required to become an X-ray technologist. Here, we discuss how to become an X-ray tech in California.
What Is X-Ray Technology?
Medical imaging, which involves creating visual images of the inside of the human body, is critical for patients in healthcare. It is essential for letting medical professionals diagnose, monitor, and treat various conditions more effectively.
By sending waves of radiation through your body, X-rays create images on the machine. As beams travel, dense objects, such as bones, show up as pure white on the image. This lets providers see the body’s internal structures in a non-invasive way.
As the cornerstone of medical imaging, X-ray technology helps medical professionals provide accurate diagnoses, plan treatments, and monitor the progress of diseases. It can also help with early detection, which improves patient outcomes. X-rays also allow healthcare professionals to:
- Detect fractures and bone conditions: X-rays are the go-to method for finding bone fractures, infections, and arthritis.
- Find lung conditions: X-rays are used to diagnose conditions like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and lung cancer.
- Guide surgical procedures: X-rays guide orthopedic surgeries and other interventions along the spine, limbs, and neck. They examine X-rays to determine if the spine has any abnormal structures.
- Take dental imaging: X-rays help dentists find dental issues such as cavities, impacted teeth, and bone loss.
What Is an X-Ray Tech?
X-ray technologists, also known as radiologic technologists, are healthcare professionals who specialize in using X-ray equipment to take images of the inside of the human body. These workers are crucial for patient care, as they help patients feel comfortable and informed during these medical imaging procedures.
Their daily responsibilities include:
- Preparing patients for X-rays: Technologists explain the procedures, position patients correctly, and ensure their comfort.
- Operating machinery: Technologists set up and operate X-ray equipment to capture high-quality images to help with diagnosis.
- Following safety protocols and standards: Technologists follow strict radiation safety protocols to protect patients and themselves from unnecessary exposure to radiation rays.
- Troubleshooting and maintenance of equipment: Techs identify and correct equipment errors and perform routine safety checks and maintenance to keep machinery operating smoothly.
X-ray technologists also work closely with other physicians to produce images, which are then interpreted by radiologists.
How to Become an X-Ray Tech at NPCollege
To become an X-ray technologist, start by enrolling in training at NPCollege. Our Radiologic Technologist program meets the accreditation requirements of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART) for graduates to pursue AART certification. The diploma option takes 22 months to complete, while the associate degree option takes 25 months.
NPCollege offers a comprehensive curriculum covering topics such as:
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Medical terminology
- Diagnostic imaging techniques and procedures
- Patient care
- Technical skills to operate imaging equipment
- Radiation physics
We also emphasize the importance of hands-on training with X-ray machines and other diagnostic equipment, as well as clinical rotations to work in real healthcare settings to gain valuable experience. By completing the program, students are taught the skills needed to prepare for the AART certification exam.
Benefits of a Career as an X-Ray Tech
Many X-ray technologists find their career highly satisfying in helping diagnose patients with medical conditions. Along with a rewarding job path, a career as an X-ray tech offers several advantages, including:
Positive Job Outlook
There is a growing demand for X-ray technologists in California and nationwide, making it a promising career choice in the healthcare field. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth for radiologic technologists is predicted to rise by 6% between 2023 and 2033. In California, the projected number of openings for X-ray technologists is 1,480 annually between 2022 and 2032.
Many healthcare workers are at retirement age or transferring to other fields, creating an increasing need for more technologists. The growth is also because of an aging population that needs more diagnostic imaging. Many people are living longer and need more care.
Strong Salary
Many certified X-ray technologists earn a strong salary. In California, the average salary for X-ray technologists is between $94,643 annually, while the nationwide average was $77,660 in May 2024. Those who work in outpatient care centers and hospitals tend to make more than those who work in physician’s offices or medical laboratories.
Future Opportunities
X-ray technologists have great potential for advancement, especially if they’ve earned certification. Many choose to specialize in MRI or CT scans by pursuing additional certifications or continued education. X-ray techs can also work in different healthcare environments, including urgent care centers, hospitals, doctors’ offices, and more.
Launch Your Path to Becoming an X-Ray Technologist
Are you interested in becoming a certified X-ray technologist in the state of California? Learn more about the Radiologic Technologist program at National Polytechnic College. We offer financial aid options for qualified students and a Career Services team to help connect graduates with future employment opportunities as radiologic professionals. To learn more about how to become an X-ray technologist in CA, contact us today.