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. One State, Utah, licenses diagnostic medical sonographers.
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. Experienced technologists may also be promoted to supervisor, chief radiologic technologist, and ultimately department administrator or director. 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. Job Outlook Employment radiologic technologists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2005, as the health care industries grow, and because of the vast clinical potential of diagnostic imaging and therapeutic technology.