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Avera Sacred Heart School of Radiologic Technology Program

Inquiries about the application process to Mount Marty College should be made through the Mount Marty College Admissions Office at (605) 668-1545

Radiologic Technology Profession

Radiology is one of the fastest growing, most exciting and increasingly important fields in medicine today. Since the discovery of X-ray in 1895, the field of radiology has expanded to diagnostic radiology, computerized imaging, radiation therapy, ultrasound, nuclear medicine and magnetic resonance imaging.

The Radiologic Technologist plays an important role on the medical team as a technical assistant to the physician and radiologist, a physician who has specialized in the field of radiology. They use ionizing radiation and other forms of imaging equipment to perform radiology procedures that assist in the diagnosis and treatment of injury, disease and detection of physiologic conditions.

Radiologic Technologists are typically employed by hospitals, private physician offices and public health departments. They may also work as technical advisors or as representatives for firms that manufacture radiology equipment. Others become faculty members in hospital or college programs of radiologic technology.

School of Radiologic Technology

The School of Radiologic Technology was established in 1948 and is accredited by:

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)

20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850

Chicago, Illinois 60606-3182

312-704-5300

www.jrcert.org. 

The program is supervised by a program director and a radiologist certified by the American Board of Radiology. The program accepts 6 students a year and strives to develop technologists with a sense of personal dedication, motivation and technical skills through a combined program of academic and practical experiences.

The program begins in the fall and lasts 24 consecutive months. Students spend 10-15 hours weekly in formal classes and 25-30 hours in clinical assignments in the radiology departments of Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, Yankton Medical Clinic, Wagner Community Memorial Hospital/Avera, St. Michael’s Hospital/Avera and the American Pain Relief Institute under the supervision of registered radiologic technologists. The student's week may include evenings and weekend hours and one holiday each year.

Students are expected to attend all didactic and clinical assignments. Each student is allowed 14 PTO per year for illness or vacation time. 

Written examinations are given in each subject area and students are required to complete all Radiologic Technology classes and meet all clinical objectives. The student must maintain a minimum grade average of 75% in didactic courses and 85% in clinical courses.

Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will receive a Certificate of Completion and an Avera Sacred Heart Hospital School of Radiologic Technology gold pin. Graduates are eligible to take the registry examination of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Successful completion of the examination entitles the technologists to display the title of RT(R), registered technologist in radiography.

If the student withdraws or is dismissed from the program, the Disciplinary Action Policy and the Withdrawal Refund Policy will be followed.

Mission Statement

The mission and purpose of the Radiography program is to provide for the professional and personal development of each student in the field of radiography.

It is the goal of the program to:

  • Educate students in the science and art of radiologic technology.
  • Provide students with the knowledge to observe and practice the Code of Ethics of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.
  • Provide students with the skills to protect patients, themselves and others from unnecessary radiation exposure.
  • Provide students with the necessary clinical and didactic experience to become competent, effective practitioners of radiography.
  • Promote the development of professional, ethical and empathetic attitude to each student, stressing quality patient care.
  • Prepare students to complete the certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in order to become a registered Radiologic Technologist.
  • Instill in students the desire to continue their education and learning through participation in continuing education, meetings, seminars and professional societies.
  • Abide with the Standards, Essentials, and Policies set forth by the JRCERT.

Admission Requirements

Applicant must be a high school graduate or equivalent and be at least 18 years of age at the start of the program.

Applicants should submit the following materials:

  • Completed Avera School of Radiologic Technology application form
  • High school transcripts
  • Official college transcripts
  • American College Test (ACT) scores
  • Three reference forms (with letters if applicable)
  • Documented shadow experience
  • Documented health-related work/volunteer experience

Required Courses

Educational programs in radiography are required through the programmatic accrediting organization, the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JCERT, www.jrcert.org), to incorporate mathematical/logical reasoning and written/oral communication as general elements in their curricula. The applicant must have completed a minimum of 15 credit hours of postsecondary general education coursework. Categories and examples to fulfill the 15 credit hours of postsecondary general education coursework include:

  • Mathematical/logical reasoning (college algebra, statistics)
  • Written/oral communication (composition, speech)
  • Arts and humanities (art, music, theater)
  • Information systems (computers, computer science/solutions)
  • Social/behavioral sciences (sociology, psychology)
  • Natural sciences (physics, anatomy & physiology, medical terminology, biology)

Recommended Courses

Avera Sacred Heart School of Radiologic Technology recommends college courses in college algebra, physics, anatomy & physiology, medical terminology, and composition and/or speech.

The admissions committee will review all applications and personal interview will be granted and arranged with eligible applicants.
Application materials must be submitted no later than February 1 of each year. If all materials are not submitted by February 1, the application will be considered incomplete and not considered for interview.

Health Requirements

All students admitted to the Radiologic Technology Program must be able to meet the following physical requirements:

  • Must be able to reach and adjust the X-ray tube which is at a height of 76-80" from the floor. (Can use a 6" step stool).
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 5 radiographic cassettes weighing 2-6 pounds each.
  • Must be able to give clear verbal commands to the patient who is positioned for a radiograph at a distance of 6-10 feet from the technologist's control area.
  • Must not be physically dependent on nonprescription drugs.
  • Must not be highly allergic to developer or fixer chemicals.
  • Must have sight corrected so as to be able to reach and adjust the X-ray control panel and to be able to correctly position the patient.  This includes seeing positioning lights on the radiographic units.
  • Hearing must be corrected so as to be able to hear the patient at a distance of 6-10 feet.
  • Must be able to show proof of immunizations.

Upon acceptance into the program, the student will receive, at no cost, a health assessment by a nurse from Avera Sacred Heart to verify that the applicant's health meets program and hospital requirements.

Immunizations

The Avera Sacred Heart Hospital Infection Control Committee requires student health screens and/or immunizations.

  • Tuberculosis (TB) skin test within the past year.  Students with positive TB skin test must have proof their disease is not active.
  • Proof of immunity to measles, mumps and rubella or 2 MMRs given after first birthday.
  • History of having chicken pox.  If they have not had chicken pox, a varicella titer is required.  If not immune, immunization must occur.
  • Immunization against hepatitis B or a signed waiver.
  • Infection control education on prevention of transmission of blood borne pathogens and tuberculosis.
  • General infection control education.  If exposure occurs, the infection control nurse will provide post exposure counseling.
  • The screen for TB and hepatitis immunization will be included in the health assessment at no charge to a student who is accepted into the program. General infection control  education is covered during general hospital orientation.

A health reassessment will be performed during the student's eighth month, at no cost.  All students receive radiation-monitoring services at no charge. It is recommended that each student be enrolled in a health insurance program.

Student Expenses

Registration:   $10.00

Tuition and Fees: $950.00 annually

Textbooks: Approximately $750.00 the first year and $250 the second year

Memberships: $45.00 annually                                                                         

Accident Policy: $30.00 annually

Uniforms: Students are required to wear surgical scrub type uniforms (in hunter green). The costs vary considerably, depending on individual preference.

Housing: Avera Sacred Heart Hospital has no dormitory facilities. Housing and transportation are the responsibility of the student.

Meals: Meals are available on the hospital campus at the Bean Counter in the hospital lobby or at the Garden Spot Café in the Rehab and Wellness Center building.

Financial Aid

The School of Radiologic Technology is approved to participate in Veteran’s Assistance, Pell Grant (BEOG) and Stafford Student Loan programs.  For further information, contact the program director at 605-668-8158.

Course of Study

First Year

  • Orientation to Radiologic Technology
  • Routine Radiographic Procedures
  • Professional Ethics
  • Radiographic Film Critique
  • Basic Radiation Protection
  • Medical Terminology
  • Nursing Procedures
  • Radiographic Exposure
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Radiation Protection and Biology
  • Darkroom Chemistry and Processing
  • Emergency Radiography
  • Physics
  • Clinical Radiology I & II

Second Year

  • Radiographic Anatomy and Pathology
  • Non-Routine Radiographic Procedures
  • Pediatric Radiography
  • Introduction to Ultrasound
  • Introduction to Mammography
  • Special Radiographic Procedures and Equipment
  • Quality Assurance
  • Radiographic Film Critique
  • Introduction to Computers, PACS, CR, DR
  • Seminar and Review
  • Computerized Tomography
  • Clinical Radiology III & IV

Course Descriptions

Orientation to Radiologic Technology

 A brief history and overview of radiography and its role in the field of health care is discussed. Academic, clinical, hospital, departmental and program administrative policies are presented.

Professional Ethics

The study of medical and legal ethics and their applications to the technologist are presented. Emphasis is placed on professional practices and communication.

Basic Radiation Protection

Units of radiation measurement are defined. The types of radiation injuries and methods of protection are discussed. The various types of radiation monitoring equipment are presented.

Nursing Procedures

Provides the student with concepts of patient care. Routine and emergency care procedures are described. Topics include vital signs, body mechanics, isolation, IV and oxygen administration, sterile techniques, venipuncture and NG therapies.

Anatomy and Physiology 

Anatomical parts and physiological functions of the various systems of the body are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the framework support, metabolism, nourishment, reproduction and control of the body.

Darkroom Chemistry and Processing

Radiographic processing equipment and the construction of various film types, intensifying screens and processing accessories are presented. Quality control methods for automatic processing are performed.

Physics

The basic fundamentals of physics are discussed including mathematics, units of measurement, physical concepts of energy and atomic structure. The production and physical characteristics of x-rays and the electrical principles of x-ray equipment are presented.

Routine Radiographic Procedures

Detailed information on the various positions and procedures routinely performed in the radiology department are discussed. The fundamental principles of position will be followed by a demonstration and simulation in laboratory exercises.

Radiographic Film Critique

Instruction will include the presentation of radiographs with an analysis of the technical factors, anatomy demonstrated, positioning factors and central ray alignment. The student will learn to distinguish between diagnostic and poor quality radiographs.

Medical Terminology

The terminology used in the radiology profession is presented. The building of medical terms using word roots, suffixes and prefixes will be presented. Abbreviations and symbols commonly used in patient charting and exam requisitions are discussed.

Radiographic Exposure

With the use of instruction, laboratory materials, observation and practice, the student will learn and apply the effects of radiation. Primary and secondary exposure factors are presented and analyzed as to their effect on image quality. Film screen, computer radiography and digital imaging are discussed in this class.

Radiation Protection and Biology

The production of x-rays and their interactions with matter are presented and methods of radiation measurement are discussed. The signs, symptoms, effects and results of exposure to acute and chronic radiation are identified. The biological effects of radiation on cells and radiosensitivity of various tissues are discussed. Methods of patient and personal radiation protection are presented.

Emergency Radiography 

The student is presented with the procedures for providing emergency care and performing trauma radiography. Emergency patient care and portable radiography is stressed.

Radiographic Anatomy and Pathology

Radiographic anatomy and common pathologies of the different body systems are discussed. Associated radiographic findings for disease processes are presented.

Non-Routine Radiographic Procedures

The student studies the positions and procedures for radiographic examinations not performed on a regular basis. Emphasis is placed on part position and anatomical demonstration with simulation and laboratory practice.

Introduction to Ultrasound

The basic principles and imaging modalities of ultrasound are presented. Patient prep, examining techniques and simple pathologies for various ultrasound examinations are discussed.

Special Radiographic Procedures and Equipment

Students are exposed to various types of specialized radiographic procedures with emphasis on anatomy, technique and specialized equipment. Procedures related to angiography, myelography and urography are discussed.

Introduction to Computers, PACS, CR and DR

The basic concepts, historical development and types of computers are discussed. Computer terminology and radiology applications are presented. Picture archiving and communications systems, computed radiography and digital radiography are also introduced.

Computerized Tomography

Students are provided with the basics of computerized tomography, how it is utilized and how it compares with conventional radiography.  Various examinations and scanning techniques are demonstrated.

Pediatric Radiography

The treatment and handling of pediatric patients during radiographic procedures are presented. The psychological and physical handling and safety of the patient is discussed. Diseases specifically related to pediatric patients are presented.

Introduction to Mammography 

The student is introduced to the basic principles of mammography equipment and procedures. Various patient conditions and pathologies are discussed.

Quality Assurance 

Basic quality assurance and quality control practices are discussed. The actual tests for radiographic equipment are performed.  The analysis and effectiveness of a quality assurance program are discussed.

Seminar and Review

The student is required to prepare a scientific paper or exhibit on a pertinent topic in radiology. A review of the five main areas of the ARRT Examination in radiography is presented. The student also performs regular review exercises.

Clinical Radiology

Each semester the clinical application of patient care, radiographic procedures, radiographic principles and radiation protection is attained through specific clinical assignments and completion of specific clinical objectives. Clinical assignments include routine radiography, fluoroscopy, mobile radiography, surgical procedures, CT, mammography, ultrasound, MRI, orthopedics, pain center, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy and special procedures.

Contact Information

Program Director, Avera Sacred Heart School of Radiologic Technology, 501 Summit, Yankton, SD 57078.  Phone (605) 668-8158

Avera Sacred Heart Hospital School of Radiologic Technology does not discriminate of the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national or ethic origin in the administration of its educational and financial assistance policies.

Mount Marty College Partnership

Mount Marty College offers the students a unique delivery method for a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology. Students complete the general education core and related requirements at Mount Marty College. Upon receipt of an official transcript from a certification program at an accredited school of radiology, Mount Marty College will award the student 60 credits at no extra cost toward their bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology.

Radiologic technologists may also be called x-ray technologists or radiographers. The job title used often depends on the size of the facility, amount of specialization and the policies of the employer. Regardless of the exact title, these workers use radiation for medical diagnosis and treatment.

Completion of a formal education program in radiologic technology is required for entry into the field. The length of these programs vary from a certificate program to a master's degree. A student's chances of obtaining employment and acquiring an administrative position are enhanced with increasing levels of education.

Students who successfully complete the degree requirements will develop an in-depth knowledge of the field; become competent in the use of current technologies; participate in a research experience; and have an opportunity to examine contemporary issues in light of their own value system and the college's guiding ethical principles.

Prerequisites for acceptance into MMC’s bachelor’s degree program

  • The student must have attained a cumulative GPA of 2.5 after completion of 68 hours with no grade lower than a C in all major and required related course work
  • Acceptance into an accredited radiologic technology clinical program

Requirements for MMC’s bachelor of science degree

  • Completion of major requirements with no grade lower than a C
  • A total of 68 hours from Mount Marty College to include general education requirements
  • Sixty (60) credits transferred from an accredited school of radiologic technology

Required related courses for MMC’s bachelor of science degree

  • RAD 101; BIO 103, 202, 203, 204; MTH 150; CHM 101 or 111; CHM 102 or 112
  • Students are responsible for making applications and gaining acceptance into an accredited school of radiologic technology. Mount Marty College makes no guarantee of degree completion if students are not accepted in a radiologic technology program.

Recommended courses for MMC’s bachelor of science degree

  • PHY 221, 222

Shadow Program

To introduce prospective students to the field of Radiologic Technology, Avera Sacred Heart has developed a shadow program. This program allows individuals to visit the radiology department and obtain first hand experience about the field of Radiologic Technology.

During the visit, you will be assigned a technologist to take you around the department. The technologist, a member of our radiology department, will explain the various procedures being performed and answer any questions you may have about the profession.

To participate in the job shadow program, contact the School of Radiologic Technology at (605) 668-8158 and arrange for a visit. A current PPD test is required along with a confidentiality agreement and immunization history forms. These forms may be obtained from the Program Director. 

Shadow students should be neatly dressed; a dress or slacks with a dress shirt is required. No shorts, T-shirts, or other clothing not representative of a professional appearance are allowed.