Radiologic Technology--FAQs

Can I work full time while going to school?
This is a time intensive program. Most students are committed to 30 hours per 
week without studying. It is not recommended that students work more than 20 hours per week if in the Day Option Program.  The Evening/Weekend Option allows for more flexibility in your work schedule.

Will I need to complete a criminal background check for this program?
Yes, in order to comply with certain state statutes and/or clinical affiliation agreements, students may be asked to complete a criminal background check. Application forms for criminal background checks may be obtained through the Career Programs Subdivision Office, B150, and fees paid to the Bursar’s Office. For information on criminal background application procedures, please contact the Career Programs Subdivision Office at (708) 974-5708.  Deadline dates for completion of criminal background checks will be announced by Program Coordinators.

Will I have a choice of hospitals to which I'll be assigned?
No. The program faculty will place you in one of the hospitals affiliated with the program. You will stay in that institution for the first year and then rotate on a semester basis to other facilities for the remainder of the program.

What is the pass rate on the certification exam?
For the past 10 years, the pass rate has been 92%. Moraine Valley Community College graduates average 2 points higher than the national average on the ARRT exam.

Are there enough jobs is this field?
There is a shortage of radiologic technologists nationwide. For the past several years, all graduates have found jobs, and salaries have increased dramatically.

What facilities are used for clinical assignments?
Christ Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital, Little Company of Mary Hospital, Palos Hospital, Childrens Memorial Hospital, Southwest Hospitals MRI, Palos Care Center, High Tech Medical Park, and High Tech South are all used as clinical education sites. More sites will be added in the near future.

What are the average salaries of Radiologic Technologist?
According to a recent survey, the 2004 average salary for RT's was $50,561 a year. This is a national average and varies by region. The annual starting salaries for RT's in the Moraine Valley Community College area are $40,500 to $46,800.

How much does it cost to go through this program?
Full time tuition and fees:  
$69 per credit hour in-district.
$209 per credit hour out-of-district 
$252 per credit hour out-of-state and international.
There is a $2 per credit hour college activities fee and $3 per credit hour technology fee. The student ID is $1 per semester. Some classes have special lab and materials fees. 
There are 67 credit hours in the program.

Books:
During the first semester of the program, book costs are approximately $500. After the first semester, books usually cost about $125 to $150 per semester.
Physical Exam and Immunizations:
Physical Exam: approx. $100
Immunizations: approx. $200
Uniforms & Shoes:
Uniforms: approx. $150
White shoes: approx. $90
Transportation:
Students are responsible for the cost of transportation to the clinical sites and to the campus.