The Benefits of an X-Ray Tech Degree
Now that you’ve decided to become an x-ray technician, you’ll need to determine the type of program you want to attend. Your two main choices are certificate programs and degree programs. While certificate programs are just as legitimate and can get you working faster, there are a number of reasons to consider investing the extra time and money into a 2 or 4 year degree program.
Higher Earning Potential
The average starting salary for an x-ray technician is around $35,000 per year. That’s for a technician with a certificate and state license. Add a college degree to the mix and you’re instantly more valuable because of your extra training. Your starting salary and potential for advancement automatically increases. The field of x-ray technology is expected to grow approximately 17% between 2008 and 2018. This huge rate of growth means talented technicians will be in high demand. The more skills and education you have, the greater your potential to land a higher paying job.
Advancement Opportunities
Unless you add extra skills to your resume, you’ll have little room for advancement as an x-ray technician. Your associate or bachelor’s degree, on the other hand, gives you the education necessary to eventually move into management or administration. Your college degree can tell your employer quite a bit about your dedication to your field of expertise. Your readiness to work extra hard on your degree will prove you are capable of handling increased responsibilities in the workplace.
Additional Training
Most individuals who obtain a degree for x-ray technology are automatically exposed to other types of diagnostic imaging as well. You will likely learn about CT scans, MRIs, and bone density scans. If you have enough experience to obtain those certifications after graduation as well, you will have the ability to offer more to your potential employers. Employers are often looking for individuals who are cross-trained instead of those who specialize in one skill alone. As the medical field grows, being cross-trained in diagnostic techniques will become very important.
There’s no doubting the fact that those with college degrees make more than those without them. Your job is to determine if you have the time and resources to obtain that degree. If not, you can always start with a certification and then go back for your degree on a part-time basis later on. You won’t regret the decision to aim for higher education, even as an x-ray technician.
