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Program Goals and Initiatives

The radiography program at the UPMC School of Medical Imaging is designed to give the student the theoretical and technical knowledge needed for his or her future role as a member of the health care team. Students receive instruction from school faculty and other health care professionals throughout the training program.

Students are trained to perform radiographic (x-ray) examinations and assist physicians during special diagnostic procedures. The 24-month program begins in January and July of each year and combines classroom instruction with clinical training. Students acquire practical experience by using modern diagnostic equipment and by participating in vascular, neurologic, emergency department, operating room, and other specialized radiographic procedures.

The program runs 36 to 40 hours per week, primarily on a daylight schedule, with periodic weekend and off-shift rotations. Once you enter the program, you'll complete all academic instruction at UPMC Presbyterian in the Oakland section of Pittsburgh, where you'll attend classes two days a week. During the remainder of each week, you'll complete your clinical assignments in a radiology department at one of
10 participating UPMC hospitals.

You'll complete the final two months of your clinical training at a participating UPMC facility of your choice. During this portion of the program, you may focus on one of the following specialties:

• management – directing a radiology department or program
• education – teaching radiologic technology to others
• computed tomography – creating computer-generated images of
  the human body from x-ray transmissions
• magnetic resonance imaging – using radiofrequency pulses to produce images of various parts of the human body
• interventional radiology – imaging blood vessel blockages and aneurysms
• mammography – examining the breast by means of x-rays, ultrasound, and MRI

Certifications are awarded upon successful completion of the program. This certification is required for the national examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. The graduating technologist must pass this examination to be classified as a certified professional and use the title Registered Technologist, Radiographer, abbreviated RT(R).

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The Student Observation Program is designed to give prospective students the opportunity to observe in the Radiology Department for a few hours. A tour of the department will be conducted by one of our second year students. The duties and job responsibilities of a radiologic technologist will be discussed, and the prospective student will have the opportunity to ask any questions he or she may have. The program faculty will also be available to answer specific program-related questions. To participate in the Student Observation Program, please schedule an appointment by calling 412-648-6346.

The observation program is a required part of the admission process.

The field of radiology is one that is very exciting and growing rapidly. Participating in this program may help you become more familiar with the opportunities in radiology.

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