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About the Major
Radiologic sciences prepares students for enhanced career opportunities in radiology as administrators, educators and advanced imaging specialists. The curriculum provides a broad education in liberal arts and basic sciences, and in-depth study in radiologic sciences.
Jobs in Radiologic Sciences
- Radiation therapist
- Advanced imaging technologist
- Hospital administrator
- Radiology technologist
- Radiology application specialist
Related Programs
Radiologic Sciences Major Follows Family’s Example
Kody Newell knew at a young age he wanted to help others in need, so a career in healthcare seemed like the right fit. But he didn’t know which sector until he started college.
“I did some research on different parts of the healthcare field and found my home in radiology,” he said.
As it turns out, his “home” in radiologic sciences was a familiar one. A cousin, Dr. Charles Newell, helped found the department of radiologic sciences in 1976 and chaired it for nearly four decades. An aunt graduated from the program and is a CT tech at a Mobile hospital. Newell’s mother also graduated from South.
Radiologic sciences graduates learn X-ray techniques plus an advanced modality: CT, MRI, ultrasound, radiation therapy, interventional radiography or mammography. They can also study radiology administration.
Newell chose computed tomography, or CT, a mainstay in diagnostic medical imaging. CT scans generate cross-sectional images of the body and allow for 3D imaging. Newell was able to get plenty of experience at his CT clinicals and as a student radiographer through South’s relationship with local hospitals.
"I did some research on different parts of the healthcare field and found my home in radiology.”
As with MRIs, CT patients have to lie flat and enter a cylindrical bore. South’s emphasis on patient care served Newell well in those settings.
“A lot of patients that are claustrophobic get worried,” Newell said. “You have to talk them down, set them at ease.”
USA offers Alabama’s only radiologic sciences bachelor’s degree. The program starts with two years of general and pre-professional study. The last two years focus on radiology and a student’s chosen speciality.
Newell opted to attend South for a bachelor’s program rather than an associate-degree program at a community college because of greater opportunities for career advancement, and, in the job market, “it does pay quite a bit more.”
After graduation, Newell planned to get experience working as a CT tech, then return to school for a master’s related to healthcare administration. “My long-term plan is that I want to move into hospital management.”
Did You Know?
- Radiologic sciences students have access to four energized radiographic laboratories equipped with phantoms, imaging accessories and traditional X-ray equipment, and a fifth laboratory where they can practice radiographic equipment manipulation.
- Students can experience a variety of clinical settings, including trauma, orthopaedics and acute care settings, and free-standing emergency departments.
- South’s program is the only bachelor’s degree program in Alabama. It’s also the only program in Alabama that, on completion, allows the student to earn not only a radiography certification but also a post-primary certification in an advanced modality.
Contact:
Dale Smith
Chair, Senior Instructor
Department of Radiologic Sciences
(251) 445-9346
Curriculum and Degree Requirements