Radiology Tech School in Hawaii - HI
In order to begin practicing as a radiology technologist in the state of Hawaii, you must first complete an approved educational program. The program must be approved by either the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). These two agencies are responsible for establishing guidelines that each program in the United States must follow in order to educate those entering the field of radiologic technology. Listings of the programs (over 1000 nationally, one specifically in Hawaii) can be located on the websites for these agencies: www.jcert.org or www.arrt.org.
Approved programs are offered in one of three categories: certificate program, associate’s degree program or bachelor’s degree program. All three routes will adequately prepare you for a career as a radiology technologist; the degree programs will take the classroom education further and provide more in depth study of the field. A certificate program is one that is offered through a hospital. This type of program utilizes instructors and facilities of the sponsoring hospital to educate its students both academically and clinically. The duration of a certificate program is generally two years. An associate’s degree program is one that is offered through a community college or a technical program. Classroom learning is done onsite at the school, and clinical experiences are offered through affiliated clinics and hospitals. This type of program will also take two years to complete. There are limited classroom-based radiology tech schools in Hawaii, however there are a number of online options. Online universities are particularly convenient for Hawaii residents due to being able to complete these programs from whatever location you choose.
The clinical rotation component of an associate’s or bachelor’s degree is one of the most important parts of the educational process, as this is where the student begins to apply what he/she has learned in the classroom. It is also an opportunity to have exposure to the other specialties in the field of radiology (mammography, sonography, nuclear medicine) to see if any of them are options for the student to pursue as advanced certifications in the future.