Radiologic Technology
The radiologic technologist, or radiographer, performs sophisticated diagnostic x-ray tests to uncover a wide range of medical conditions. Radiologic technology is offered through an affiliation with the Heritage Valley Health System, School of Radiography (Kennedy Township, PA). Students successfully completing this program are awarded an Associate of Science degree and are then eligible to sit for the national certification examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
The radiologic technology program consists of a total of 67 required credits. Basic science and Core Curriculum courses (totaling 39 credits) are taught at La Roche University, while professional courses in radiologic technology and clinical training (totaling 28 credits) are conducted at Heritage Valley Health System. Heritage Valley Health System, School of Radiography is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT ~ 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850 | Chicago, Illinois 60606-3182 | Phone:312-704-5300 | Website: www.jrcert.org)
Heritage Valley Health System/La Roche University Radiography Program Mission Statement:
The Heritage Valley Health System/La Roche University Radiography Program will meet the needs of the communities we serve by offering a radiologic technology program that provides an environment for the development of competent and professional future radiologic technologists by offering a solid clinical and theoretical background in the Radiologic Sciences.
Fundamental Program Goals:
Upon completion of the program, the student will demonstrate:
- Clinical Competency
- The student will apply technical skills regarding positioning patients
- The student will identify proper selection of exposure factors
- The student will utilize radiation protection measures on themselves and their patients
- Critical Thinking Skills
- The student will adjust to non-routine patients and situations when performing examinations
- The students will demonstrate proficiency when critiquing image quality
- Professionalism
- The student will summarize the importance of continuing professional development
- The student will explain the value of life-long learning
- Communication Skills
- The student will demonstrate oral communication skills
- The student will demonstrate written communication skills
Admissions Criteria and Guidelines:
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Must be 18 years of age by October 1st of the first fall semester
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High school graduate or general equivalency diploma
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Minimum GPA of 2.5 in high school of 12 credits from post-secondary institution
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Algebra II and Biology (high school or post-secondary) with a minimum grade of C
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Completion of 4 hours documented career shadowing with a registered radiologic technologist in a hospital setting
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Ability to physically perform the duties of a radiologic technologist regarding the Radiography Technical Standards Form
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Satisfactory results of screening for illegal drug use, Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance, Act 34 Criminal Background Check and Act 73 FBI Fingerprint Clearance**
This is a specialized program. As such, merit scholarships previously awarded to students are not transferable to this program. Previously awarded La Roche Merit Scholarships are void upon acceptance to the Rad Tech Program.
Admission Guidelines:
- Nine students are accepted to the radiography program each year. Interviews for acceptance begin in October and continue until all nine positions are filled. Interested candidates are therefore encouraged to apply early.
- Interested candidates can apply to the radiography program by completing a La Roche University admission application. You can click here to download an application in PDF format.
- Career Shadowing appointments are conducted at Heritage Valley Health System Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until approximately 12:00 p.m. Appointments may be scheduled by calling Heritage Valley Health System, School of Radiography at 412-777-6200.
* Technical Standards testing ensures that applicants have the ability to perform the basic physical tasks required for the profession of Radiologic Technology
** Drug screenings and background checks are conducted by Heritage Valley Health System at summer orientation before the first fall semester. Students who test positive for illegal drugs or refuse to grant permission for the criminal background check will forfeit their position in the radiography program and will lose their deposit.
Courses
The required course work consists of:
Summary of Requirements
Academic Core Curriculum: 18 credits including two Breadth of Knowledge courses
ENGL1011ACADEMIC READING AND WRITING
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course engages students in reading, writing and research practices essential to academic life, including developing a project for a research paper, searching for authoritative materials to use in that project, and presenting it in an edited paper that follows academic conventions of documentation and citation.
ENGL1012ACADEMIC WRITING AND RESEARCH
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course engages students in reading, writing and research practices essential to academic life, including developing a project for a research paper, searching for authoritative materials to use in that project, and presenting it in an edited paper that follows academic conventions of documentation and citation.
ISTC1010DIGITAL LITERACY
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course addresses information and technological literacy in the digital age. Students will develop cognitive and technological competencies in both the discovery and evaluation of information, as well as the creation and dissemination of content, all within a digital context. Students will be introduced to a set of basic digital tools, but the focus will be placed on developing the ability to adapt to new and changing technologies in the future.
PSYC1021INTRO TO PSYCHOLOGY
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This survey course introduces students to several critical areas of psychology. Throughout the course, there is an emphasis on the scientific method, its application to psychology, and the insights gained from scientific research. The interactions among biological processes, cognitive and emotional responses, sociocultural forces, and behavior are examined. Included are such diverse topics as: health, stress, and coping; consciousness, sleep and dreams; effects of psychoactive drugs on behavior and health; psychological disorders; social psychology; types of learning and behavior management, information processing approaches including memory, encoding and retrieval; and the relationship of the nervous system to thought, feelings, and behaviors.
Health Sciences - (radiologic technology courses taught at Heritage Valley Health System, School of Radiography): 28 credits
HSCU2001RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY I
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
COURSE DESCRIPTION: The first two weeks of HSCU 2001 consists of orientation that will familiarize new students with policies and procedures of the school, the radiology department, and the hospital. Orientation will also serve as an introductory phase to health care by addressing topics of immediate concern for students. HSCU 2001 consists of Radiographic Anatomy of the upper and lower extremity, History of Imaging and Introduction to Radiation, Introduction to Radiation Protection, and Professionalism. The anatomy portion of this course presents general anatomy terminology, as well as the anatomical structures and associated basic terminology of the upper and lower extremities. History of Imaging and Introduction to Radiation teaches the discovery of x-rays and the progress of medical imaging. Introduction to Radiation Protection teaches students about radiation dose limits, effects, and basic rules of radiation protection of self, patient, co-workers, and the public. Professionalism addresses the standard of behavior and action expected of a medical professional including cultural diversity & sensitivity, ethical aspects of care, and patient rights. All courses, with the exception of Positioning Anatomy, will be studied in depth in future radiography theory courses.
REQUIREMENTS: Class attendance and participation are essential. Students are not permitted to miss classes during the orientation period of this course. Students who miss class are responsible for all covered material. Students must earn a passing grade (75%) in each segment of the radiographic didactic courses. Failure to do so will result in a failing grade for the entire course as stated in the Student Handbook and immediate dismissal from the program. Plagiarizing or cheating on any assignment, quiz, or test will not be tolerated. In the event this behavior is identified the resulting grade will be “zero”.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2002CLINICAL EDUCATION I
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
COURSE DESCRIPTION: HSCU 2002 provides several orientations; the July orientation will cover topics to be addressed prior to the start of fall semester, CPR class will also be provided prior to the beginning of fall, as well as the Hospital orientation and the Department of Imaging orientation. While in the Department of Imaging, there will be direct supervision of students in clinical room rotations through diagnostic, fluoroscopic, specialized, emergent, and portable/operative Imaging. Students also rotate through other facets of the imaging department including the front office, and file room. Lab Demonstrations consist of examinations of the upper and lower extremities. Preliminary Imaging Examination Competencies and Imaging Examination Competencies are required. Written examinations and assignments are required. Professional adjustment is evaluated. One evaluation of the student by an attending qualified radiographer is required.
REQUIREMENTS: Class attendance and participation are essential. Students are not permitted to miss classes during the orientation period of this course. Students who miss class are responsible for all covered material. Students must earn a passing grade (85%) in each segment of the radiographic clinical courses and a passing grade (75%) in the segment of the radiographic didactic course. Failure to do so will result in a failing grade for the entire course as stated in the Student Handbook and immediate dismissal from the program. Plagiarizing or cheating on any assignment, quiz, or test will not be tolerated. In the event this behavior is identified the resulting grade will be “zero”.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2003RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY II
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
HSCU 2003 provides information on the formation and recording of the radiographic imaging regarding computed radiography and digital radiography design and function. Imaging regarding grids, scatter control, exposure selection and technical exposure. Patient care components such as history taking, patient handling and transport, vital signs, oxygen administration, cardiac monitoring, infection control, and patient assessment are presented. Radiographic anatomy of the thoracic viscera, abdomen, shoulder girdle and bony thorax is included.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2004CLINICAL EDUCATION II
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
This course provides competency based clinical instruction in examination of the chest, abdomen, shoulder girdle, and bony thorax.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2005RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY III
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
This course provides instruction and investigation into Medical Ethics & Law as well as Radiographic Technique. Information is provided on the controlling and influencing factors of radiographic technique formation, comparison, and conversion. An introduction to radiographic physics is included in this course.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2006CLINICAL EDUCATION III
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
This course provides competency based clinical instruction in examination of the pelvis, hips and spine.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2007RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY IV
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
COURSE DESCRIPTION: HSCU 2007 consists of two segments – Radiation Biology and Protection, and Patient Care. The Radiation Biology section of this course emphasizes the biological hazards of radiation. The Radiation Protection segment provides in-depth information on the concepts of radiation detection and measurement, patient and radiographer protection, and state and federal agencies and regulations. Patient Care focuses on pharmacology as it relates to contrast administration, complications, and reactions. Venipuncture is also included in the Patient Care portion of this course and covers venous anatomy and standard injection technique. Students will initially perform venipuncture on a mannequin and systematically progress to certification in venipuncture by successful injections of actual patients under the direct supervision of the radiology nurse.
REQUIREMENTS: Class attendance and participation is essential. Students who miss class are responsible for all covered material. Students must earn a passing grade (75%) in each segment of the radiographic didactic courses. Failure to do so will result in a failing grade for the entire course as stated in the Student Handbook and immediate dismissal from the program. Plagiarizing or cheating on any assignment, quiz, or test will not be tolerated. In the event this behavior is identified the resulting grade will be “zero”.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2008CLINICAL EDUCATION IV
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
COURSE DESCRIPTION: Students are assigned weekly clinical room rotations under indirect or direct supervision through diagnostic and fluoroscopic imaging, according to the level of individual student competency. Students are directly supervised in specialized, emergent, and portable/operative imaging, as well as in CT, and Ultrasound. Application of imaging technique, positioning, and protection is emphasized. Lab Demonstrations focus on examinations of skull and paranasal sinuses. Preliminary Imaging Examination Competencies and Imaging Examination Competencies are required. Written examinations and assignments are required. Professional adjustment is evaluated. Three evaluations of the student by an attending qualified imaging technologist is required, as well as one evaluation from the CT rotation.
REQUIREMENTS: Class attendance and participation are essential. Students are not permitted to miss classes during the orientation period of this course. Students who miss class are responsible for all covered material. Students must earn a passing grade (85%) in each segment of the radiographic clinical courses and a passing grade (75%) in the segment of the radiographic didactic course. Failure to do so will result in a failing grade for the entire course as stated in the Student Handbook and immediate dismissal from the program. Plagiarizing or cheating on any assignment, quiz, or test will not be tolerated. In the event this behavior is identified the resulting grade will be “zero”.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2009RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY V
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
HSCU 2009 provides information on radiographic equipment and the production and characteristics of radiation (radiation physics), as well as the requirements of radiographic quality control. Special radiographic modality imaging methods and alternate imaging equipment are also presented. Digital radiography, digital fluoroscopy, digital imaging and digital technique and artifacts will also be included.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2010CLINICAL EDUCATION V
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course provides competency based clinical instruction in radiographic examinations of the digestive, urinary, hepatobiliary, and respiratory systems as well as the soft tissues of the neck. Formal film critique is also presented.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2011RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY VI
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
Information on various pathologic conditions and their impact on the radiographic process is presented in this summer session.
PREREQUISITES:
Radiologic Tech Students Only
HSCU2012CLINICAL EDUCATION VI
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
This course provides competency based clinical instruction in radiographic examinations of the endocrine, circulatory, nervous, and reproductive system, as well as on arthrography.
HSCU2013RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY VII
Credits (Min/Max): 2/2
This final course in the radiography program provides a comprehensive review of all of the radiographic material that has been presented to prepare the student for the registry exam. Clinic sessions will focus on demonstration of competency in all ARRT required radiographic procedures.
Natural Science & Mathematics: 21 credits
BIOL1001LIFE SCIENCE (SLSC)
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
An introductory course directed toward the development of an answer to the question: What is life? The course explores various life processes and the human person's position in the total scheme. Emphasis is placed on current scientific discoveries. This course is not open to science majors. (SLSC)
BIOL1020MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course will introduce the language of medicine through the analysis of medical terminology structure and the understanding of the definition, spelling and pronunciation of medical terms.
BIOL1023HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
A basic course concerned with the structural and physiological processes of the human body. Interdependence of structure and function is stressed to promote better understanding of the entire body environment.
PREREQUISITES:
Concurrent: BIOL1023L
BIOL1023LHUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I - LAB
Credits (Min/Max): 1/1
Laboratory for BIOL1023: Anatomy & Physiology I
BIOL1024HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
The second of two basic courses concerned with the structural and physiological processes of the human body. Interdependence of structure and function is stressed to promote better understanding of the entire body environment. Lecture and laboratory courses.
PREREQUISITES:
BIOL1023 & Concurrent: BIOL1024L
BIOL1024LHUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II - LAB
Credits (Min/Max): 1/1
Laboratory for BIOL1024: Anatomy and Physiology II.
MATH1010COLLEGE ALGEBRA
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
A traditional study of pre-calculus mathematics with emphasis on functions and relations. Includes a review of linear and quadratic equations, rational expressions, exponents, radicals and logarithms. Polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic functions are presented together with the conic sections, systems of equations, determinants, the binomial theorem and mathematical induction.
PREREQUISITES:
MATH0015 or Exam M015
PHYS1010PHYSICS FOR HEALTH SCIENCE
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course is designed to provide a broad background in physics for those who will enter the allied health professions. Applications will be made to the biological and physiological sciences, as well as to the various types of equipment. Lecture and laboratory course.
PREREQUISITES:
MATH1010 Coreq: PHYS1010L
PHYS1010LPHYSICS FOR HEALTH SCIENCE - LAB
Credits (Min/Max): 1/1
Laboratory for PHYS1010 Physics for Health Science