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Radiography AAS

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Rad tech working with a child to get an ankle x-ray

At Minnesota State College Southeast, you can expect one-on-one attention from our instructors in a state-of-the-art energized x-ray laboratory.

Career Area: Health Sciences
Program: Radiography
Campus(es): Winona


Major Details

Courses

Cost

Careers

Outcomes

Highlights

Instructors

 Major Details

As a radiographer, you will play a key role in the medical team, providing diagnostic radiology services in hospitals, clinics, and advanced medical imaging centers. Your responsibilities will include selecting appropriate exposure factors, providing radiation protection, processing images, and evaluating image quality.

At Minnesota State College Southeast in Winona, radiography students can expect one-on-one attention from our instructors. Our newly renovated facilities include a state-of-the-art energized x-ray laboratory with computed radiography and direct digital technology. Through classroom study, labs, and clinicals, you will be well trained in all aspects of the technology and patient care.

Admissions Deadlines

  • The Radiography admission is one time per year in the Fall.

    • The application window is April 1 – June 1.

Steps for Admission

  1. Apply for admission to Minnesota State College Southeast (if you are not a current, actively enrolled Southeast student).

  2. Download and review the Radiography Essential Abilities Form.

  3. Apply for admission to the Radiography program.

Upon graduating from Radiography at Southeast, you will be eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) national certification exam. You will be ready to find employment as an entry-level radiographer or continue your education in an advanced field of study. The employment outlook in medical imaging is excellent! According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment growth of about 6% is expected between 2023 and 2033 and the national median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $76,020 in 2023.

Our Mission
The Minnesota State College Southeast Radiography Program strives to be the educator of choice in providing patient-centered, professional, high-quality education to equip graduates to achieve excellence and integrity in the medical imaging community and to be life-long learners.

Important Documents
Radiography Program Effectiveness Data (PDF)

Cluster/Pathway

Career Field: Health Science Technology
Cluster: Health Science
Pathway: Diagnostic Services
Recommended high school classes and basic job/program skills

Download the Program Plan

 Courses

1) Must complete a minimum of 3 different MnTC goals in Liberal Arts and Sciences.

2) 1100 or higher Liberal Arts and Sciences courses required unless specified.

 

View application materials for this major

 

Note: BIOL 2515 Anatomy & Physiology I, ENGL 1215 College Writing I, and MATH 1220 College Algebra or equivalent must be taken prior to taking any RADT courses. All credits count towards the Radiography major. Optional technical electives are available: CT, Mammography, and Sectional Anatomy.

PREREQUISITE
0 cr
 
0 crs
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Choose one Goal 4 course
3 cr
Choose one Goal 5 course
3 cr
Choose one Goal 6 course
3 cr
BIOL2515
Human Anatomy and Physiology I introduces the structure and function of the human body with an emphasis on normal health. This course includes a review of cellular biology, cellular transport, cell reproduction and basic biochemistry. Topics covered include tissues, the integumentary system, skeletal system, articulations, muscular system, and nervous system. (MnTC Goals 2 & 3) (Prerequisite: BIOL1200 or equivalent) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
4 cr
BIOL2516
Human Anatomy and Physiology II continues the study of the human body from Human Anatomy and Physiology I. This course includes principles of chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology as they relate to the study of normal body function. Topics covered include the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, and reproductive systems. (MnTC Goals 2 & 3) (Prerequisite: Successful completion of BIOL2515 Anatomy & Physiology I) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
4 cr
ENGL1215
This course involves expository writing based on experience, direct observation, research and reading with emphasis on critical thinking skills, rhetorical strategies, and style. (Meets MnTC Goal 1) (Prerequisites: Writing College Level Placement or successful completion of ENGL0528) (3 Credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
3 cr
 
20 crs
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
RADT2601
This course introduces students to the role of radiography in healthcare. The first section provides the student with an overview of radiography and the health-care systems. Topics include professional organizations, the ARRT Code of Ethics and Standard Practices, Ethics and medico-legal issues that enable the student to understand parameters of professional practice and major areas of responsibility. The second section provides the student with the basic concepts of patient care, including consideration for the physical and psychological needs of the patient and their family. Communication skills, routine emergency patient procedures and infection control procedures using standard precautions are explored. Special and basic fluoroscopy procedures will be introduced along with pharmacology and contrast media, drug administration and venipuncture. Fluoroscopy, mobile and surgical equipment will be introduced. In addition, an on-line medical terminology component will be included in this course. (Prerequisite: Admission to the radiography program) (Prerequisite or concurrent: RADT2605, RADT2611) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
4 cr
RADT2605
This introductory course provides the student with the basic elements of radiation physics. Topics include units of measurement, atomic structure, nature and characteristics of radiation, x-ray properties, x-ray machine components, x-ray tube and the production of x-rays. Introductory principles of radiographic exposure will also be presented to include the prime factors, image appearance standards of image exposure, contrast, recorded detail, and distortion, grids, AEC, beam limitation and scatter radiation. (Prerequisites: MATH1220, ENGL1215, BIOL2515) (Prerequisite or concurrent: RADT2601, RADT2611) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
3 cr
RADT2611
For this first procedures course students will be introduced to the terminology of positioning, equipment used and basic radiographic and technical factors that affect the exposure. Introductory and general anatomy will be presented and specific procedures of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis, upper extremity from hand through shoulder girdle and lower extremity from foot through hip will be covered. Pediatric radiographic positioning will be explored. Labs will enable the student to become familiar with positioning using the x-ray machine. Mobile, trauma and surgical radiographic positioning will be presented. Principles of radiation safety and emphasis on protection of the technologist and patient will be stressed. Radiographic images will be evaluated for anatomy and positioning. The student will also be oriented to the clinical practice setting. (Prerequisite: Admission to the radiography program) (Prerequisite or Concurrent: RADT2601, RADT2605) (5 credits: 2 lecture/3 laboratory)
5 cr
RADT2617
For this course, the student will be assigned to a hospital or clinic 36 hours per week for 12 weeks. The assignment will be day shifts only, and at the same clinical site for the entire semester. During this assignment the student will learn clinical radiography on patients of all ages and complete competencies in radiography of the chest, abdomen, upper limb, shoulder girdle, lower limb proximal femur, pelvic girdle, the alimentary canal, urinary system, and general fluoroscopy procedures. The student will practice manipulating technical factors and producing digital images and will provide direct patient care to include radiation protection for the patient and self. The student may be assigned to rotations in trauma, surgery, and fluoroscopy. The student will be supervised directly by the program assigned clinical instructor and indirectly by the programs clinical coordinator. (Prerequisites: RADT2601, RADT2605, RADT2611) (9 Credits: 0 lecture/0 lab/9 OJT)
9 cr
RADT2620
This course introduces radiography students to the principles and application of x-ray technology. Students analyze x-ray machine circuitry, automatic exposure control and factors related to image formation. Specific topics to be covered include: electricity, electromagnetism, operation and maintenance of radiographic equipment that includes fluoroscopy, mobile, conventional and digital imaging systems. (Prerequisites: RADT2605, RADT2617, RADT2630, RADT2642) (Prerequisite or concurrent: RADT 2650, RADT 2653) (2 credits: 2 lecture/0 lab)
2 cr
RADT2625
This is the second procedures course. In this course the student will be introduced to positioning of the vertebral column to include the sacrum and coccyx, and the bony thorax. Students will also learn fundamental positioning of the skull, facial bones and paranasal sinuses. Labs will enable the student to become familiar with positioning using the x-ray machine. The student will explore in greater detail; pediatric radiographic positioning. Principles of radiation safety with emphasis on protection of the technologist and patient will be stressed. Radiographic images will be evaluated for anatomy and positioning. (Prerequisites: RADT2601, RADT2611, RADT2617) (3 credits: 1 lecture/2 lab)
3 cr
RADT2631
This course will present fluoroscopy technology, and digital radiography to the student. This will include digital systems, digital image processing, image quality, and image storage and management. This course will introduce the student to the higher level principles of radiographic exposure and setting appropriate technical factors. Students acquire knowledge of quality management in radiology and apply quality control tests to determine the causes of image problems including equipment malfunctions and procedural errors. Included also are aspects of quality control to external x-ray beam evaluation, repeat rates and protective apparel. Laboratory exercises will emphasize the theories learned. (Prerequisites: RADT2601, RADT2605, RADT2611, RADT2617) (Co-requisite: RADT2625) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
3 cr
RADT2635
This online course introduces the radiography student to disease processes and their effect on the human body. Radiographic pathologic correlation is emphasized. All of the major body systems are presented. Researching and writing a paper is a requirement for this class. (Prerequisites: RADT2601, RADT2605, RADT2611, RADT2617, RADT2625) (1 credit: 1 lecture/0 lab)
1 cr
RADT2642
For this practicum, students will be assigned 36 hrs/wk to a hospital/clinic. Assignments will be mainly days but may include 2 weeks of evenings and 2 weekend shifts. Student will learn clinical radiography and complete competencies of complete vertebral column, bony thorax, skull, facial bones, and sinuses and continue to learn digital imaging and provide direct patient care. Students may be assigned rotations in general diagnostic radiology, mobile, trauma, surgery, and fluoroscopy. Students will continue to practice and improve all positioning skills. Learning procedures on geriatric and pediatric patients, understanding and operating radiographic image acquisition and processing equipment in terms of department protocol, using critical-thinking skills associated with patient care and radiation protection will be emphasized. Students will be supervised directly by clinical instructor and indirectly by program faculty.(Prerequisites: RADT2617) (12 credits: 0 lecture/0 lab/12 OJT)
12 cr
RADT2650
This course presents the principles of radiation protection and radiobiology. Topics include an overview of radiation physics, units of measure, radiosensitivity and response, and understanding the radiographers role in utilizing safe radiation practices for patients, personnel, and the public. Radiation health and safety requirements of federal and state regulatory agencies, accreditation agencies, and health care organizations will also be addressed. Specific topics: cell biology in terms of early and late radiation effects; principles of radiation interaction with living systems; radiation effects on biological molecules and organisms; factors affecting biological response; and acute and chronic effects of radiation. (Prerequisites: RADT2541, RADT2635) (2 credits: 2 lecture/0 lab)
2 cr
RADT2663
This online course introduces radiography students to imaging modalities beyond diagnostic radiology. There will be an emphasis of computed tomography (CT) and cross-sectional anatomy. Other modalities include MRI, mammography, ultrasonography, radiation therapy, nuclear medicine, bone densitometry, and cardiac/vascular interventional radiology. During completion of this course, students will be able to observe/participate in these special areas during clinical practicum if it does not interfere with diagnostic radiology experiences or on non-scheduled days. (Prerequisites: RADT2601, RADT2605, RADT2611) (Prerequisite or concurrent: RADT2617) (2 credits: 1 lecture/1 lab)
2 cr
RADT2673
For this practicum, students will be assigned 36 hrs/week to a hospital or clinic the last 4 weeks of the semester. Assignment will include days, evenings or weekends if the mandatory 2 weeks of evenings and 2 weekends have not been completed. Students will continue to perfect their practice in digital imaging and provide direct patient care to include radiation protection. Student may be assigned to rotations in general, mobile, trauma, surgery, and fluoroscopy. Optional experience in CT, MRI, or other modalities may be used if available. Improvement in affective skills, radiographic processing, patient care, radiation protection, will be emphasized. Students will be supervised directly by clinical instructor on site and indirectly by program clinical coordinator. Preparation for the national certification exam offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) will be continued in this course. (Prerequisites: RADT2617, RADT2641) (3 credits: 0 lecture/0 lab/3 OJT)
3 cr
 
49 crs
TECHNICAL ELECTIVES
RADT2660
This elective online course introduces the basic principles of computed tomography (CT) imaging and sectional anatomy. History of CT, current equipment and practices, radiation protection specific to CT, and anatomic appearance of various structures in a cross-sectional reference will be discussed. Specific emphasis will be on methods of dose reduction to support the Image Gently campaign. Images from various modalities will be used to demonstrate radiographic cross-sectional appearance. This course will be a basic CT course with emphasis on CT registry exam content. (Prerequisites or concurrent: BIOL2512, RADT 2601, RADT2605, RADT2611 or graduate of associate degree or certificate program in medical imaging/therapy or radiography - official transcript or current ARRT credential review required.) (2 credits: 2 lecture/0 lab)
2 cr
RADT2680
This special modality course will cover patient education and assessment, anatomy, physiology, pathology, positioning and compression of the breast. Emphasis will be on the screening projections. A second component of the course is presentation of the physical principles of mammography to include unique aspects of the machine, image processing, dose issues, mammography technique, image evaluation, breast imaging procedures (including implant imaging) and quality control/ assurance techniques. Both analog and digital film acquisition will be applied. The Mammography Quality Standards Act will be discussed. (Prerequisite: RADT 2635) (Prerequisite or Concurrent: Graduate of associate degree or certificate program in medical imaging/therapy or radiography [official transcript or current ARRT credential review required]) (2 credits: 2 lecture/0 lab)
2 cr
RADT2686
This is an elective course for students and/or technologists with an interest in CT, MRI, or ultrasonography. This course familiarizes the student with cross sectional anatomy and pathologic conditions of the human body. Images will be evaluated by physiologic systems in various imaging planes. It is imperative for those working in medical imaging to be able to identify anatomy in cross-section. (Prerequisite or concurrent: BIOL2511, BIOL2512, RADT2601, RADT2617, RADT2663 and/or a graduate of associate degree or certificate program in radiography; official transcript review required or credentialed in Radiography, Nuclear Medicine Technology; registration with NMTCB is also accepted; Sonography or Radiation Therapy or Radiography program director approval.) (3 Credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
3 cr
 
7 crs

Total Credits Required for this Major: 76

 Cost

Estimated Costs for this Major
Approximate Tuition/Fees: $16,580
Minimum Tool Cost: $400
Books/Supplies: $1,475
Estimated Total: $18,455

Downloads for Major

 Career Opportunities

  • Hospitals

  • Medical Clinics

  • Medical Imaging Centers

Use the MN DEED Career and Education Explorer Data Tool to learn about wages, job growth, and much more in this career field.

 Outcomes

Goal 1: Students/Graduates will demonstrate clinical competence

Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will provide patient care

  • Students will demonstrate proficiency in radiographic positioning

  • Students will practice radiation safety principles

Goal 2: Students/Graduates will practice critical thinking skills

Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will perform non-routine procedures

  • Students will analyze images

Goal 3: Students/Graduates will apply effective communication skills

Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will practice oral communication

  • Students will illustrate written communication

Goal 4: Students/Graduates will synthesize the importance of professionalism

Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will determine the importance of professional development

  • Students will demonstrate professional behavior

 Highlights

  • You will work directly with patients.

  • The clinical experience allows you to explore different modalities within radiography.

  • Our instructors are committed to student success.

 Instructors

Valarie Bere

Valarie Bere earned her Master’s in Educational Leadership from Winona State University in 2017, her Bachelor’s of Business Administration from Viterbo University in 2010, and her Associate Degree in Applied Science in Radiologic Technology from Western Technical College in 1998. She is a registered technologist in mammography and computed tomography through the ARRT. She has a passion for working with the future generations of Radiography.

John Felmlee

John Felmlee earned his Master's in Leadership and Administration from Concordia University in 2022, his Bachelor's in Healthcare Leadership and Administration from Winona State University in 2020, and his Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology from Minnesota State College Southeast in 2017. John is ARRT certified in General Radiography (2017) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (2018). John enjoys adapting to the continuous changes in medical imaging technology, is passionate about science, and encourages others to reach their goals.

Alex Howell

Alex Howell earned his Master's of Educational Leadership from Winona State University in 2019, his Bachelor's of Healthcare Leadership and Administration in 2016, and his Associate of Applied Science from Western Technical College in 2003. Alex is ARRT certified in Radiography (2003) and Computed Tomography (2009). He has worked at Winona Health since 2000 and began teaching at Southeast in 2012. Alex has a passion for radiography and enjoys working with future students to become radiographers.  

 

Accreditation

The radiography program is accredited by the only national programmatic accreditor recognized by the US Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
20 North Wacker Drive
Suite 2850
Chicago, Illinois 60606-3182
(312) 704-5300
mail@jrcert.org
The program’s current award is 8 years. General program accreditation information and the current accreditation award letter can be found here.

Licensure Requirements by State Disclosure

The U.S. Department of Education has implemented new regulations (Regulation 34 CFR 668.43 (a) (5) (v)) which require Minnesota State College Southeast's Radiography program to provide the following:

  1. A list of all states/jurisdictions where the institution's curriculum meets state educational requirements for professional licensure or certification;

  2. A list of all states/jurisdictions where the institution's curriculum does not meet state educational requirements for professional licensure or certification; and

  3. A list of all states/jurisdictions where the institution has not made a determination of whether the curriculum meets educational requirements.

The Radiography program at MSC Southeast is approved by the Minnesota Department of Health and holds accreditation with The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. The Radiography Program meets the educational requirements for licensure in the state of Minnesota. MSCS has not made a determination of whether the Radiography curriculum meets educational requirements for initial licensure in any other state. Students should contact the licensing entity in the state in which they would like to be licensed. Students may visit the American Society of Radiologic Technologists for additional information on other states' licensure requirements.