Radiography Program FAQ
Question 1: What are the duties of a Radiographer?
Radiologic technologists are the medical personnel who perform diagnostic imaging examinations and administer radiation therapy treatments. They are educated in anatomy, patient positioning, examination techniques, equipment protocols, radiation safety, radiation protection and basic patient care. They may specialize in a specific imaging technique, such as bone densitometry, cardiovascular-interventional radiography, computed tomography, mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear medicine, quality management, sonography or general radiography. The radiologic technologists who specialize in radiation therapy, which is the delivery of high doses of radiation to treat cancer and other diseases, are radiation therapists and medical dosimetrists.
Radiologic technologists who perform imaging examinations are responsible for accurately positioning patients and ensuring that a quality diagnostic image is produced. They work closely with radiologists, the physicians who interpret medical images to either diagnose or rule out disease or injury. For the images to be interpreted correctly by the radiologist, the imaging examination must be performed properly by a radiologic technologist
Radiographers use radiation (X-rays) to produce black-and-white images of anatomy. The images are captured on film, computer or videotape. X-rays may be used to detect bone fractures, find foreign objects in the body, and demonstrate the relationship between bone and soft tissue. The most common type of X-ray exam is chest radiography.
Question 2: Is there a waiting list to be admitted and how many students are admitted each year?
No. There is a selective admission process, however. Selections are made based on points accumulated as described in the program's packet. Approximately 20-25 students are admitted each summer (June). This is necessary because of the limited clinical space in Brevard County. Several applicants are designated as "standby" status to fill vacancies in the event any of the admitted applicants decline to enter the program.
Question 3: How long is the program?
The EFSC Radiography program is six semesters in length, running consecutively over 23 months. Students are encouraged to take support courses and general education courses prior to acceptance into the A.S. in Radiography program.
Question 4: Where are the classes in the Radiography program available?
Theory courses and labs are conducted on the Melbourne campus. Clinical sites throughout the county are utilized, and students may be required to travel significant distances for experiences. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from clinicals.
Question 5: What are the physical requirements for the program?
Radiographers require a broad range of mental, physical, sensory, and social skills. Please see the attached handout on Performance/Technical Standards for the Radiography Program.
Question 6: What classes should I have completed before beginning the program?
Many students prefer to have all the non-Radiography courses completed prior to coming into the program. This is especially helpful if you have any responsibilities outside school, such as family or work. However, points for admission are awarded for the sciences and Algebra. These courses are difficult enough that they can hamper one's ability to succeed in the program, and thus deserve special attention to completion prior to entry. The knowledge gained in these classes also make the theory content in the first Radiography course easier to comprehend.
Question 7: Must the courses in the program follow a particular sequence?
Yes, the Radiography courses follow in sequence, and there is a continuation & completion policy stating that both theory and clinical courses in one term must be successfully completed before moving on to the next term. Certain non-radiography courses must be completed as pre-requisites for various radiography courses, so students should be sure to follow the planned sequence for courses they have not taken. However, non-radiography courses may always be taken prior to their scheduled sequence
Question 8: When will I know if I've been admitted?
The admission committee will make selections approximately six to eight weeks after the February 15 application deadline. Letters will be mailed immediately after the committee meets. No results will be given over the phone.
The program will begin once each academic year in Summer Term (June).