The orientation video is available for you to view as often as you like. You're free to pause it at any point; however, you must watch the video in its entirety to be added to the Radiologic Technology applicant portal in Teams in order to initiate the program application process.
Dallas College Radiologic Technology faculty bring with them years of experience as both educators and practicing technologists. We are passionate about the profession and about providing exceptional didactic and clinical experiences for our students. Feel free to contact any of us should you have questions regarding our profession or our program.
Before you go any further, please download the program information packet from the Dallas College Outlaw Health Information Packet website.
The Radiologic Technology program is a 64-credit hour curriculum, with each semester being eight weeks in length. Students accepted into the program will begin classes in either spring or summer. Students accepted during the fall application begin taking classes at the start of the spring semester, while students accepted during the spring application begin classes at the start of the summer semester. Classes typically begin at 8 or 9 a.m., with labs following. Some labs may extend into the evening until 7:30 or 8 p.m. Instruction consists of lecture, lab, and clinical practicums. All clinical practicums are held at local hospitals and various clinics.
Participating in the Radiologic Technology program requires a significant time commitment, which can put a strain on interpersonal relationships and finances. In the first and second semesters, class and lab hours are generally scheduled from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., three to four days a week. However, some lab sessions can extend into the evening. Each long semester is divided into two eight-week sessions. The summer semester is also eight weeks in length. Students are encouraged to spend a minimum of four hours per week practicing in open labs and to take advantage of any scheduled tutoring sessions.
During semesters three through five, the focus shifts from campus to hospitals. Students will be on campus for class on Mondays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will complete eight-hour shifts at the hospital four days per week, totaling 32 hours. Students will participate in shifts that may include evening hours, varying from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. It is difficult to work more than a few hours a week while in the program, so it is imperative to prepare a budget and save money prior to entry. Dallas College offers several resources to assist with financial planning.
Radiologic technologists are integral members of the healthcare team. Good communication and listening skills are essential. We are trained to provide exceptional care to all patients throughout each step of the imaging process. One of the great aspects of our profession is the flexibility of shifts and the variety of work locations. Hospitals operate 24/7, 365 days a year, and we cover all those shifts. Imaging centers offer a more traditional 8 to 5, Monday through Friday routine. Many radiographers return to school to seek additional certifications in computed tomography, mammography, or vascular interventional radiography to increase their marketability.
Duties of a radiologic technologist include adjusting and maintaining imaging equipment, positioning patients, evaluating images for quality, preparing patients for exams, maintaining detailed records, protecting patients from excess exposure, operating equipment and computer systems, following orders precisely, and collaborating with radiologists and other healthcare team members.
The work can be physically demanding. Radiographers must have manual dexterity for sterile techniques and equipment handling, visual acuity to view radiographs and identify anatomy, and the ability to read and evaluate physician orders. They must also observe respiratory movements and respond quickly to emergencies. Radiographers stand for long periods and often stoop or bend while positioning equipment or lifting patients. Communication skills are critical for explaining exams, obtaining medical histories, and sharing information with radiologists. Writing skills are also important for documenting patient information. Radiographers must adapt to the ever-changing clinical environment and use various software programs and online resources.
The job outlook for radiologic technologists is positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment is expected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033. The median pay in 2023 was $76,020 per year. The ARRT requires all certification candidates to hold at least an associate degree. Those trained in multiple modalities may have broader employment opportunities.
The application process begins once you’ve applied to Dallas College, reviewed the program application packet, and watched the online orientation video. After completing the video, send an email indicating the semester you intend to apply. This email will result in your enrollment in the applicant portal in Teams.
Applicants must complete the HESI A2 exam before applying. Additional information about the exam is included in the video. Once prerequisites are completed, you may apply to the program through the Teams portal, where you can upload required documents. Instructions will be available in Teams at the start of each semester.
Acceptance into the program is competitive. Points are evaluated, and the top 36 to 40 students are selected based on clinical site availability. Applicants must complete prerequisite courses with a minimum GPA of 3.0. A grade of B or higher is required for Biology 2401. RADR courses and Biology 2401 must be completed within five years of the application semester. Points from RADR 1201 and 2209 are assessed based on the most recent of the first two attempts.
All five prerequisite courses must be completed by April 1st for the summer cohort or November 1st for the spring cohort. The HESI A2 exam is a new requirement and must be taken with Radiologic Technology faculty on the assigned testing day at the Brookhaven campus. No other scores will be accepted. Testing dates will be listed in the applicant portal. A cumulative score of 75 or above is required. The required sections are reading comprehension, vocabulary and general knowledge, anatomy and physiology, grammar, and math. A review book is available at the library for reference and can also be purchased for personal use.
The online application opens on the first day of the fall semester for the spring cohort and the first day of the spring semester for the summer cohort. Refer to the Dallas College academic calendar for specific dates. You will need all required information ready before submitting the application. Supporting documents must be submitted by April 1st for the summer cohort and November 1st for the spring cohort. Official transcripts must be sent to the Dallas College Admissions Office. For course substitutions, contact a School of Health Sciences Pathways Specialist.
Students accepted into the program must complete a physical examination and required immunizations. There are no waivers for immunizations. Incomplete immunizations will prevent participation in clinical practicums. Students must also undergo a random drug screen and criminal background check. If there are concerns about criminal history, applicants should consult the Texas Medical Board for a criminal history evaluation letter.
Before beginning clinical rotations, students must complete healthcare provider CPR training and provide proof of personal health insurance. For general program or application questions, contact Kimberly Hyatt, Sharon Watson, or Stephanie Wells. For help with core substitutions, contact a pathway specialist.
You’ve reached the end of the Dallas College Radiologic Technology online information session. If you plan to apply this semester, send an email to bhcradtech@dcccd.edu indicating your interest. Include your full name as listed with Dallas College, your student ID number, and the semester and year you intend to apply. You will receive a confirmation email within three business days and be enrolled in the Teams applicant portal, where you’ll access the application, HESI enrollment information, and document upload area.