For training programs in radiation therapy and diagnostic medical sonography, applicants with a background in science, or experience in one of the health professions, generally are preferred. Some programs consider applicants with liberal arts backgrounds, however, as well as high school graduates with courses in math and science. Radiographers and radiation therapists are covered by provisions of the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, which aims to protect the public from the hazards of unnecessary exposure to medical and dental radiation by ensuring operators of radiologic equipment are properly trained. The act requires the Federal Government to set standards that the States, in turn, may use for accrediting training programs and certifying individuals who engage in medical or dental radiography. To become registered, technologists must be graduates of an accredited program or meet other prerequisites and have passed an examination.
Many employers prefer to hire registered technologists.
With experience and additional training, staff technologists may become specialists, performing CT scanning, ultrasound, angiography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Depending on the institution, courses or a master's degree in business or health administration may be necessary for the director's position. With additional education, available at major cancer centers, radiation therapy technologists can specialize as medical radiation dosimetrists. Radiographers and radiation therapists are required to fulfill 24 hours of continuing education every other year and provide documentation to prove that they are complying with these requirements. While a significant increase in radiologic technologist employment is anticipated, jobseekers are likely to face competition from many other qualified applicants for most openings.