Key Takeaways:

• Radiation Sciences is a fast-growing healthcare profession with critical roles in imaging and treatment.
• Accelerated bachelor’s programs like those at the University of Iowa and University of Louisiana are available online, offering flexibility and credit for prior experience.
• Admission requirements to radiology tech programs vary. However, they generally include certification and prerequisites in anatomy, physiology, and related subjects.
• Career opportunities for radiology techs exist in hospitals, clinics, and physician offices, with higher degrees leading to supervisory roles and higher salaries.

One of the fastest-growing allied healthcare profession is in Radiation Sciences. Certified and licensed “Rad Techs” are critical team members. Operating a variety of equipment, Rad Techs provide X-rays, scans and images, used in treatment modalities.

Certified, and licensed, technologists can find employment in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and physician offices. An accelerated radiation sciences degree can get you there faster.

Best Health Degrees has identified schools that are accredited to provide Radiation Sciences education and for which financial aid is available with submission of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for qualified students. Be certain that your state will accept your chosen degree for licensure by contacting your state board.

Related:

• Best Health Care Management Bachelor’s Programs
• Top Online Health Care Management Bachelor’s Programs
• Fastest Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Public Health
• Best Radiation Sciences Bachelor’s Programs
• Top Online Radiation Sciences Bachelor’s Programs
• Accelerated Medical Billing and Coding Programs

Our Method: Ranking The 10 Fastest Online Radiation Sciences Bachelor’s Programs

To rank the 10 Fastest Online Radiation Sciences Bachelor’s Programs, Best Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications.

1. The University of Iowa

Here’s an online RT to B.S. in Radiation Sciences with multiple modalities from which you can choose for your accelerated radiation sciences degree.

Prerequisites for this program are studies in:

• Anatomy, Psychology
• Natural Sciences
• Medical Terminology
• Culture, Society, and the Arts

You’ll be able to choose a modality from:

• Computed Tomography
• Breast Imaging
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Cardiovascular Interventional
• Multi-Modality Option

Among the topics covered are procedures, analysis, pathology, and sectional anatomy. There are advanced studies in Management and Leadership and Statistics if you want to move into management. Modalities don’t require an internship.

Admission requires you to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) radiography, ARRT nuclear medicine technology, or Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) exam. You can transfer up to 60 credit hours in RT, NMT, MRI, or CT studies towards this 120 credit hour program.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $387/per credit hour

Fast Fact: UI is ranked #46 of U.S. News and World Report’s Top Public Schools

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

2. University of Louisiana Monroe

You can complete this accelerated radiation sciences RT to B.S.R.T. undergraduate degree online, at your own speed.

Based on your ARRT certification, you’ll be awarded up to 38 credit hours toward this degree with 82 credit hours remaining toward your degree. The core curriculum includes general education studies in electives of:

• Fine Arts
• Social Science
• Humanities
• Math

You’ll also study Medical Terminology and Computer Literacy. Professional coursework will cover Radiologic Technology studies and electives as well as a University Capstone Course.

Your first step is to be admitted to the University of Louisiana Monroe by completing an application and proof of your ARRT registry status. You’ll then be contacted by an admission representative regarding your application and any further information required. If you have coursework from another college or university to transfer, you’ll need to provide official academic transcripts of that coursework.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,199

Fast Fact: Niche rates ULM #4 Best Value College in Louisiana

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

3. Oregon Institute of Technology

This Radiology Degree Completion program from OIT is offered 100% online and blends general education coursework with radiology classes.

If you’re a registered technologist, you’ll receive 89 credit hours and be required to complete (or transfer) 64 credits in general education coursework and 46 hours in professional courses. Among the professional courses you’ll take are:

• Health Care Systems & Policy
• Essentials of Pathophysiology
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Mammography
• Computed Tomography
• Special Radiologic Science Externship

General education classes are comprised of Human Anatomy & Physiology, Trigonometry, Psychology, English, and Public Speaking, as well as electives.

You’ll need to be an ARRT registered technologist, be employed (or have access to an approved radiology lab), and be admitted to the Oregon Institute of Technology. Oregon Institute of Technology is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $205-$652/per credit hour

Fast Fact: Ranked #3 Best Value Colleges in Oregon by Niche

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

4. The Ohio State University

Ohio State’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences supports an online degree completion B.S. in Radiologic Sciences which is tailor-made for working radiology technologists with an Associate of Science (AS) degree.

You can complete this accelerated radiation sciences degree in just two years and is specifically designed for RT professionals who are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB), or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Prerequisites include studies in Human Physiology, Math, Anatomy, Statistics, Chemistry and Biology. This program’s curriculum covers Pharmacology, Evidence-Based Practice in the Radiologic Sciences, Quality Management in Radiologic Sciences, as well as two Advanced Radiography Practicum.

To apply for this B.S. degree, you’ll need to complete prerequisite courses, have a 2.5 GPA, complete the school’s online application, proof of RT certification, and letters of recommendation.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $17,796-$18,396/program total

Fast Fact: Niche ranks Ohio State as the #1 Top Public University in Ohio

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

5. East Tennessee State University

If you hold an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree, you may want to explore ETSU’s 100% online Radiologic Science completion program.

Prerequisites are required in Anatomy and Physiology, Intro to Microbiology, Patient Care and Assessment, and others listed on the website. You’ll also take General Education studies in:

• Communication
• History
• Natural Sciences
• Mathematics
• Humanities and Fine Arts
• Social and Behavioral Sciences

There are courses in:

• Radiographic Equipment
• Advanced Radiologic Imaging
• Radiographic Procedures
• Digital Imaging
• Clinical Education
• Radiographic Imaging
• Quality Assessment

ETSU offers several admission scenarios and you’ll want to see which criteria applies to you. You’re also encouraged to contact an Admissions Counselor for additional information. You can even schedule a video call with an admissions representative.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $10,472 (tuition per year)

Fast Fact: Niche ranks ETSU #4 in its Top Public Universities in Tennessee

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

6. Georgia Southern University Armstrong

You’ll have the choice between two options with this B.S. in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS) degree completion from Georgia Southern University.

Both the B.S. and the Bridge Program are offered online. You need to be registered or registry-eligible to enter the B.S. Special Options track and concentrate on Nuclear Medicine, Sonography, or Radiation Therapy. Requirements for this option include general education coursework and classes in your concentration. You’ll be expected to do clinical work as well. The Bridge Program offers clinical and non-clinical studies and is intended for students who are ARRT, NMTCB, or RDMS ARDMS certified.

Once admitted to Georgia Southern University, you’ll need to make an application for the Radiology Sciences programs, provide proof of certification, and have a 2.5 GPA. Additional information will be required, especially with the Bridge Program.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $5,256.00

Fast Fact: GSU is ranked #183 in U.S. News and World Report’s Top Public Schools

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

7. University of New Mexico

You can complete your undergraduate education and earn a B.S. in Radiologic Science from UNM through this degree completion program.

Offered both as a full-time or part-time curriculum, you’ll take English, math, communications, and psychology courses before taking radiology coursework. Among those courses are:

• Health Ethics and Diversity
• Healthcare Delivery and Compliance
• Cross-Sectional Anatomy
• Cross-Sectional Pathology

The degree requires 123 total credits which includes UNM coursework and 54 transfer hours from your RT experience.

Although not specifically discussed, as a degree completion degree, it’s assumed you need to have an Associate degree for admission. Additionally, you’ll need to complete a UNM admission application, submit a $25 application fee, and provide official academic transcripts. You may be asked for other documents as well. ACT/SAT test scores are not required.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $11,210 (in-state)

Fast Fact: Ranked #32 of 1,503 on Niche’s list of Colleges with the Best Professors in America

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

8. Kent State University

If you have an Associate degree, Kent State provides an online Bachelor of Radiologic and Imaging Sciences degree in Computer Tomography and/or Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Taking as few as 9 months, the degree requires 120 credit hours. You’ll study general education courses in Social Sciences, Humanities and Fine Arts, as well as classes in your chosen track. CT students will study patient management, image production, CT procedures, research, and more. MRI track students will do coursework in MRI Procedures, Pathophysiology for Medical Imaging, Leadership in Medical Imaging, etc. The two tracks somewhat overlap in requirements, such as clinical experiences.

To be admitted, you’ll need to hold an Associate degree, or certificate from a hospital-based radiology program, and be registered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT or NMTCB). Other admission information may be requested by the university.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $16,100 (based on transfer credits)

Fast Fact: US News & World Report ranked Kent State #126 in its Top Colleges

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

9. Cambridge College of Allied Health and Technology

If you’re currently licensed as an RT and want to advance your education, you may want to look into the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences at Cambridge College of Allied Health & Technology. An Associate degree is required.

This particular program offers online classes in:

• Pathophysiology
• Statistics
• Advanced Sectional Anatomy
• Health Education Training Development
• Abnormal Psychology
• Quality Management
• Microcomputer Applications

The program requires 120 credit hours and you’ll be awarded 75 credit hours for your Rad Tech associate program, and completion of 21 hours general and prerequisites. Cambridge holds accreditation from The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and is approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

General admission requirements for Cambridge College of Allied Health and Technology include an online registration form. Once your registration form is received, you’ll be contacted by an admission advisor regarding your next steps.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $15,330/per academic year

Fast Fact: Cambridge has four campuses located in Georgia and Florida

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

10. St. Catherine University

Identifying itself as a “College for Adults”, the Henrietta Schmoll School of Health at this St. Paul, MN university offers an accelerated radiation sciences degree completion in Radiation Therapy.

This hybrid program takes approximately 12 months to complete and offers two tracks: an accelerated program for those students who are certified in radiology and those who have a baccalaureate degree in any field. There are three core courses required in calculus, statistics, and ethics. Major studies include:

• Pathology
• Patient Care in Radiation Oncology
• Introduction to Radiation Therapy
• Dosimetry and Treatment Planning

Admission into the Radiation Therapy major at St. Catherine’s requires you to have an accredited bachelor’s or associate degree with a 2.7 GPA, hold American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification, and have completed core liberal arts studies.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $50,560

Fast Fact: Ranked #7 in Niche’s Best Women’s Colleges in America

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation sciences program!

What Are The Advantages Of An Accelerated Radiation Sciences Or Therapy Degree?

We’ve all heard the expression, the early bird catches the worm. Accelerated educational programs can give you a head start on employment or advancing your existing career.

Accelerated programs offer students immersion in their field and can typically be completed in 2-3 years. General education coursework is usually required as well as topics in your major. Radiation Science and Radiation Therapy call for studies in anatomy, physiology, and physics, as well as clinical experiences.

Accelerated undergraduate programs frequently will award you credit for skills/studies in which you’re proficient. If you’re working in radiologic services, you may have experience that might allow you to receive academic credit for what you know. Additionally, military veterans may be awarded academic credit for training programs completed during their service.

You’ll also find that accelerated bachelor completion degrees will require less general education coursework and may not require clinical experiences if you’re currently working as a radiologic professional.

Last, but not least, is the school cost. Online, accelerated degree programs frequently don’t charge out-of-state tuition for out-of-state students, but offer a basic, online tuition cost.

What Can I Do With An Accelerated Radiation Sciences Degree?

Careers in Radiation Science or Therapy are ranked #15 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Healthcare Support Jobs and #15 in 100 Best Jobs. You can find employment in hospitals, outpatient clinics, women’s breast centers, and physician offices, depending on your certification and licensure. There are two titles in Radiation Science: technician and technologist. Both work with patients and physicians in obtaining X-rays and imaging scans. The major difference between the two designations is education.

Technologists usually have, at minimum, an Associate degree and more frequently, a Bachelor’s degree. Technicians receive their training at vocational schools or an Associate degree. Salaries are tied to the title with technicians earning an average of $44,380 annually and representing approximately 10% of the Radiation Science field. Technologists may earn a median salary of $60,510 and make up the remaining 90% of the field’s professionals.

Depending on your specialty, you’ll work with patients in obtaining diagnostic images and scans through the use of:

• X-ray
• Computer Tomography (CT)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• mammography
• ultrasound/sonography

As a Radiation Therapist, you’ll work with physicists, oncology and radiation oncologist physicians, nurses, and patients to isolate and treat cancer sites using dosimetry, and linear accelerators to provide measured radiation doses to tumor sites.

The higher your degree, the greater your chances of advancing your career to a supervisory or managerial role. Many employers will prefer a bachelor’s prepared applicant who presents with certification and licensure.

What Is Medical Radiation Science And Therapy?

Radiation Sciences encompasses the use of medical images from X-rays, ultrasound, sonography, Computer Tomography (CT), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, (MRI), in the diagnosis of disease or illness. Images taken by the technician are used not only in diagnosing illness and disease but also in developing treatment plans.

The therapeutic aspect of Radiation Sciences involves the treatment of cancer and certain diseases with brachytherapy, radiopharmaceuticals, and systemic radiation therapy. Palliative radiation therapy is used to control symptoms such as pain. These professionals work with oncologists, radiation oncologists, physicists, nurses, and patients.

The post 10 Best Accelerated Radiology Tech Programs appeared first on The Best Health Degrees.

Radiation Sciences is a discipline offering opportunities for several healthcare careers, depending on skills and education. Radiation Sciences involves diagnostic scans and images, X-rays, as well as treatment therapies. Dependent on your certification, education, and licensure, employment is available in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and physician offices working with patients, physicians, and nurses.

Best Health Degrees researched accredited schools and eligible to offer federal financial aid. Schools will require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for funds. Programs offered in this ranking are all accredited by agencies such as The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs (CAMPEP), or regional agencies such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Our Method: Ranking the 10 Fastest Online Radiation Sciences Master’s Programs for 2021

To rank the 10 Fastest Online Radiation Sciences Master’s Programs for 2021, Best Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications.

1. University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

You can earn an M.S. in Radiologic Sciences from one of the nation’s premier medical centers with this hybrid program.

There are two tracks for this 30 credit hours degree in Administrative Leadership or Educational Leadership.

The two tracks share core courses in Strategic Management and Business Policy, Research Methodology, Legal and Ethical Fundamentals of Healthcare. With the administrative track, you’ll study Human Resource Management in Health Professions, Health Resources and Policy Analysis, Health Informatics and Technology Management, an internship, and a thesis. In the educational program, courses Critical Thinking Strategies in Higher Education, Curriculum Development and Evaluation, and thesis as well as an internship. Classes meet ONLY two Saturdays each semester along with weekly online requirements.

To be considered for admission, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, be credentialed by one of four radiologic registries, and complete an online application (with a $48 fee). A statement of purpose, academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a resume. You’ll meet with the Admissions Review Committee once all documents have been submitted.

Estimated Tuition Cost:  $1,600-$6,500/per six semester hours

Fast Fact: M.D. Anderson is recognized by U.S. News and World Report as the #1 cancer center in the country

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation science master’s!

2. University of Southern California

Here’s an online M.S. in Medical Device and Diagnostic Engineering degree with a focus on the creation of medical devices and medical techniques.

The 26 credit hour curriculum includes core studies in biomedical systems, studies of the nervous system, engineering quality management, product safety, and technology development. You’ll be able to choose from three tracks in regulation, product development, and medical technology. It’s this last track that includes studies in ultrasound imaging, neural implants, applied electrophysiology, and biomedical and nanotechnology. You can complete this degree in three semesters of full-time study.

As with most Radiation Sciences graduate programs, you’ll need a baccalaureate degree from an accredited school in engineering or similar degrees. For admission, you’ll complete an application and submit academic transcripts, GRE test scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $55,848/program cost

Fast Fact: USC is ranked #19 of 1,000 private and public universities by The Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education 

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation science master’s!

3. Illinois Institute of Technology

You can earn a professional Health Physics master’s (M.A.S.) from the Physics Department of IIT. There are three tracks to this program in Health Physics, Radiochemistry, and Radiological Security, Emergency Preparedness, and Response.

The Health Physics track involves studies in Radiation Biophysics, Introduction to Health Physics, Radiation Dosimetry, Radiation Instrumentation Lab, etc. Additionally, you can choose from electives in Medical Health Physics, Operational Health Physics, or Environmental Health Physics. The program includes a week-long instrumentation course and optional lab work in radiochemistry. This curriculum, depending on your specialization requires 32 credit hours.

You need to have completed classes in calculus or calculus-based physics and basic quantum mechanics study is recommended for admission. GRE test scores are waived for 2021 due to the pandemic, and a baccalaureate degree in biology, engineering, chemistry, or biology are necessary. A 3.0 academic GPA is required.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $29,487/per academic year

Fast Fact: IIT is rated #39 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Value Schools

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation science master’s!

4. The University of Oklahoma

The College of Medicine at Oklahoma University has a Master of Radiological Sciences degree which requires 32 credit hours.

Some of the courses offered are Radiation Protection and Shielding in Medical Installations, Clinical and Radiological Anatomy, Radiological Physics of Magnetic Resonance, Ultrasound, Seminar in Radiological Sciences, Diagnostic Radiology, Pattern Recognition and Image Processing, Decision Theory In Radiological Sciences, and a Research Thesis. You’ll be required to present an annual seminar as well as participate in the seminars.

You’ll submit an admission application, academic transcripts with at least a 3.0 GPA, GRE/MCAT test scores, and other documents as requested.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $5,119-$19,778/per academic year

Fast Fact: OU’s Niche ranking is #46/676 in Top Public Universities in America

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation science master’s!

5. Oregon State University

If you’re looking for an online graduate degree in radiation health sciences, you’ll want to look at the M.S. or M.H.P. in Radiation Health Physics from Oregon State University.

The 45 credit hour curriculum offers classes in Radiophysics, Applied Radiation Safety, Radioecology, Radiation Biology, Radiochemistry, Internal Dosimetry, Advanced Radiation Detection and Measurement, as well as a seminar and electives. The M.S. requires a written thesis and the M.H.P. degree, in lieu of a thesis and culminates with a comprehensive oral exam. Both the M.S. and M.H.P. are considered terminal degrees. The department strongly encourages online students to pursue the M.H.P. degree option.

Graduate admission requirements requires you have a baccalaureate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. If your GPA is less than 3.0, Oregon State University recommends you take the GRE exam. You’ll pay a $75 non-refundable fee along with the OSU Graduate School application and submit academic transcripts and three letters of recommendation.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $12,933-$24,975/per academic year

Fast Fact: Niche ranks OSU #78 among its Top Public Universities in America

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation science master’s!

6. Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester Institute of Technology has an online M.S. in Imaging Science and boasts of skills most sought after by employers.

The curriculum allows you to choose between either a project or thesis option. Other than the end requirement, the curriculum for the two options are the same. You’ll study Fourier Methods for Imaging, Optics for Imaging, Image Processing and Computer Vision, and Radiometry as well as the Human Visual System. The thesis option allows you to do your research where you work. This curriculum wasn’t developed in a vacuum, but is the result of a collaboration with industry experts in management, science, and engineering.

You can make an application to this program if you hold an undergraduate degree. You’ll begin with submitting an application with a $75 application fee, resume, letter of recommendation, academic transcripts, and you may be asked to submit GRE test scores. Additionally, you may asked to provide other documentation as requested, such as a writing sample or portfolio.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $1,191/per credit hour

Fast Fact: This school was ranked as one of The Best Value Colleges: 200 Schools with Exceptional ROI for Your Tuition Investment by The Princeton Review

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation science master’s!

7. Loyola University Chicago

As a hybrid program, you can earn an M.S. in Medical Physics through Loyola’s Parkinson’s School of Health Sciences and Public Health.

Core coursework includes studies in biostatistics, radiation therapy physics, physics in medical imaging, radiation/cancer biology, radiation protection and safety. You can choose between two practicum experiences in either Physics and Mathematics of Medical Imaging or Physics in Radiation Therapy. You’ll work with a faculty advisor to develop a capstone project, develop a topic, conduct research, and finish with a paper that would qualify for publication in one of the field’s professional journals.

You need either an undergraduate or graduate degree in Physics for admission to this program. Additionally, you’ll need to submit GRE test scores, a GPA of 3.0 or better, and three letters of recommendation. You’ll submit an application (there is no application fee) and provide academic transcripts and other requested documents as needed.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $18,594/per academic year

Fast Fact: Forbes ranked Loyola University Chicago #248 of its Top Colleges list

8. Quinnipiac University

This M.H.S. in Advanced Medical Imaging and Leadership, will let you explore organizational leadership opportunities in the imaging field. The program blends technical expertise with business education.

You can concentrate in imaging specialties such as Computed Tomography, Women’s Imaging, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The curriculum will vary, depending on your specialty choice. Courses offered by QU’s School of Health Sciences include Advanced Sectional Anatomy, Foundations for Decision Making (MBA Quick Start), Organizational Behavior and Leadership for Decision Makers, Clinical Experiences, Pathology for CT and MRI Technologists, Bone Densitometry, Women’s Health and Imaging, and Capstone Projects. Depending on specialty, the program lasts anywhere from 39-44 credit hours.

Quinnipiac University has a rolling admission policy. Admission criteria ask for a bachelor’s degree, current registration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in good standing, and licensure. Some prerequisites are necessary in physics or chemistry, biology (and anatomy and physiology), and college-level mathematics.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $1,075/per credit hour

Fast Fact: Forbes ranked Quinnipiac University #215 in its Top Colleges

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation science master’s!

9. University of Findlay

This Master of Science in Radiologic Sciences from the University of Findlay was created for nuclear medicine technologists to provide advanced training in Magnetic Resonance (MR), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and  Computed Tomography (CT) techniques.  

The program is completely online but does include clinical experiences. You’ll take core courses in Image Processing and Quality Analysis, PET Procedures, Pharmaceuticals and Radiopharmacy, Cross-Sectional Anatomy, as well as electives. You can choose two electives from topics in managed care, healthcare finances, or healthcare regulations. You should be able to complete the graduate degree in two years. The curriculum will qualify you to be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic  Technologists (ARRT) and/or Nuclear Medical Technology Certification Board (NMTCB).

Documents you’ll need for admission will include official academic transcripts or you can apply through the Centralized Application Service application. You should contact the school for additional application requirements.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $530/per credit hour

Fast Fact: University of Findlay ranks #367/1,572 in Niche’s Best Value Colleges in America

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation science master’s!

10. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

If you’re looking to work as a Radiologic Assistant, this M.S. in Radiologic Science will take 24 months to complete.

The program has online classes and “web-based instruction with a radiologist- directed clinical preceptorship” and is hybrid in design. You will need to be on campus for 1-2 seminars each semester. The curriculum will include Advanced Pathophysiology, Thoracic Imaging Principles, Abdominal Imaging and Procedures, Musculoskeletal Imaging and Procedures, Advanced Pathophysiology, as well as four Practicum experiences. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) accredits this program and will prepare you with the tools to assume more responsibility working with medical staff, patients, and administration.

You must have a current ARRT certification to qualify for admission, an undergraduate degree with a 3.0 GPA, and at least one year of medical imaging work experience. Other documents you’ll submit include an application and a non-refundable $95 application fee, resume, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. The GRE/GMAT tests are not required.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $10,552-$28,278/per academic year

Fast Fact: Niche considers UNC-Chapel Hill #7/676 in its Top Public Universities in America ranking

Click to learn more about this accelerated radiation science master’s!

What are the Advantages of an Accelerated Radiation Science or Therapy Masters?

In healthcare, advanced education is always a plus. Most clinical leadership positions in the field are held by people with masters or doctorate degrees in their field.

Accelerated clinical programs in Radiation Sciences or Therapy, offer concentrated studies in the latest technology, techniques, and applications in the field. Working in Radiation Sciences and/or Radiation Therapy requires advanced studies in physics, anatomy, physiology, and clinical experiences.

You can earn a graduate degree in one to two years, frequently online, while you continue to work. The rewards can be seen in increased salary, career advancement, and most importantly, improved patient care. Advanced training will provide you familiarity with the ever changing, current radiation sciences technology in CT scanners, linear accelerators, MRI, PET, etc.

School cost is always an issue and the less time you spend in school, the easier it is on your budge. If you’re presently working in the field, your employer may offer tuition assistance help to advance your education. Frequently schools offer accelerated and online degrees at in-state student tuition.

What Can I Do with a Master’s in Radiation Science or Therapy?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates job growth in this field to be a faster than average 7% from 2019-2029. U.S. News and World Report suggests careers in some of the Radiation Sciences field, rank high in job satisfaction and opportunities. Radiation Therapy ranks #28 in Best Health Care Jobs, radiology technology jobs rank #13 in Best Health Care Support Jobs, and #71 in 100 Best Jobs in U.S. News and World Report’s categories.

Employment in this specialty can be found, depending on your licensure and certifications, in hospitals, women’s breast centers, outpatient clinics, cancer centers, and physician offices. Salaries vary, often directly influenced by your educational level and experience. PayScale cites median, annual compensation for Radiation Therapists at $73k, Chief Radiation Therapists $78-99k, Medical Physicists $161k, and Dosimetry $100k.

If you’re considering a graduate degree in a radiation sciences field, chances are you’re wanting to expand your career opportunities. A masters in radiation science will give you a leg up in advancing your job prospects.

What Jobs Can I Get with a Masters in Radiation Sciences?

Master degrees in Radiation Sciences can lead to advanced career options in radiology and radiation therapy in management, supervision, or department head. Additionally, careers can be found as a Radiologic Educator or Radiologic Administration.

The advanced degree will qualify you to assist hospital or clinic-based radiologists, manage radiology departments and/or clinics, or teach radiology on the community college or university level.

Radiologic Administrator – A combination of licensure, certification, and master’s degree can qualify you to fill administrative positions in radiation sciences in radiology and radiation therapy. An administrative radiation sciences degree will acquaint you with personnel management, finance and budgets, leadership and communication, and more. Perhaps, one of the major benefits of this degree track is the development of skills to establish policies and procedures affecting imaging and therapy departments.

Radiologic Educator – The education track of radiation sciences will prepare you for a career teaching or to take the lead in developing radiologic sciences programs, develop radiology studies in diagnostic imaging, administration, develop curriculum, etc. Job opportunities can be found in community colleges, universities, technical schools, hospitals, and healthcare systems.

The American Association of Physicists in Medicine offers career services for licensed and certified Medical Physicists.

Related Rankings:

25 Best Radiation Sciences Master’s Programs

15 Best Online Radiation Sciences Master’s Programs

Affordable Online MHA Programs

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