Radiologic Sciences A.A.S. Degree (503)

This program of study meets all the General Education Requirements at Chesapeake College.

Award: Associate of Applied Science Degree

Length: A minimum of six semesters, including summer sessions, beginning in June of each year.

Program Mission Statement: The Chesapeake College Radiologic Sciences Degree Program prepares students to deliver quality radiologic services and patient care.  Graduates of the program are qualified to sit for the certifying examination in radiography offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) which is required for Maryland licensure as a radiographer.

Program Vision:  The vision of the Chesapeake College Radiologic Sciences Degree Program is to provide an accredited radiography program that encompasses learning experiences in the classroom, lab, and a variety of clinical settings. Program structure, courses, and policies will assist students in developing the broad based knowledge necessary to develop clinical skills, professionalism, flexibility, and adaptability. Our vision is to challenge students and assist them, through inquiry based learning and practical experiences, to be competent and caring entry level radiographers dedicated to providing quality patient services.

Program Description: The Radiologic Sciences degree provides educational and clinical experiences necessary for graduates to perform as entry-level radiographers and a foundation for future professional development. Graduates granted an Associate of Applied Science degree, upon completion of the program requirements, will be eligible to sit for the certifying examination in radiography given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

The Radiologic Sciences program is an intensive, full-time program, including summer sessions. The program includes a general education core, professional radiography content, and clinical practice at local health care facilities. Program enrollment is limited by the number of clinical placements. In addition to the scholastic standards required of all students, radiologic sciences students must earn a grade of “C” or better in science, math, and radiography courses in order to continue in and graduate from the program. Graduates are eligible to write the certifying examination given by the ARRT which is required to apply for a Maryland license as a radiographer. Students should consult with the College’s Admissions Office or the Nursing and Allied Health Advisor in planning an appropriate program.

Program Goals:  The Radiologic Sciences Degree program will:

• Facilitate proficiency in program content and skills through the college’s general education competencies.
• Prepare graduates for the American Registry of Radiographic Technologists certifying examination.
• Prepare graduates for employment as entry-level radiographers.

Student Learning Outcomes:  The Radiologic Sciences graduates will:

1. Perform competently as an entry-level radiographer.

• Apply knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform radiographic procedures at an entry-level.  

2. Demonstrate proper positioning skills.

• Position the patient properly based on nationally recognized protocols.

3. Apply appropriate technical factors.

• The student will demonstrate how to modify technical factors for different types of imaging equipment, as well as various patient sizes and conditions.

4. Demonstrate appropriate radiation protection practices. 

• Radiation protection practices demonstrated for both the patient, and the radiographer.

5. Evaluate radiographic images appropriately for radiographic quality. 

• The student will critically analyze radiographic images and differentiate between optimal, diagnostic, and repeatable. The student will identify how to correct the radiograph if it is not optimal.

6. Communicate clearly and empathetically to patients and colleagues both orally and in writing. 

• Patient instructions communicated appropriately based on age and condition. The student demonstrates empathy when interacting with patients.

7. Solve problems within the field of radiolgy using effective critical thinking skills.

• Effectively modify positioning and technical protocols in situations that deviate from routine radiography; trauma, geriatric, pediatric, mobile. 

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology Program Effectiveness Goals:

• The program will maintain a five-year average credentialing examination pass rate of not less than 75 percent at first attempt within six months of graduation.
• The program will maintain a five-year average job placement rate of not less than 75 percent within twelve months of graduation.
• The program will make available the annual program completion rate.

Admissions Requirements: Students must be admitted to the program in accordance with the following requirements prior to registering for any radiologic sciences course:

1. High school graduation or equivalent (official transcripts required).
2. High school physics must have been completed within the last three years with a grade of “C” earned or  SCI 141 - Physical Science  must be taken.
3. Students may complete the Biology Assessment Examination with a grade of 70 or better or take BIO 103+  or BIO 111+  .  High school courses contribute course points but do not contribute credit or grade points to the admission score.
4. Completion of the Chesapeake College admissions application.
5. Completion of the College’s Academic Skills Assessment (ASA) administered through the Office of Student Success and Enrollment Services.
6. Completion of any remedial course work in English, reading, or math as needed.
7. Meet with the Nursing and Allied Health Advisor for academic planning.
8. Program required general education coursework include: BIO 211 , BIO 212 ; ENG 101 ; COM 101 ; MAT 113  or MAT 115 ; Social Science elective and *SCI 141   (*if High School Physics 1 & 2 have not been taken within the past 3 years. Also required is MED 106 . Science coursework including; BIO 211, BIO 212, and SCI 141 must be completed within 10 years of program application or be retaken. 
9. Social Science electives (choose one): ANT 142 ; ECN 171 , ECN 172+ ; HIS 101 , HIS 102 , HIS 131 , HIS 132 ; PSC 150 ; SOC 161 , SOC 162 .  
10. Completion of the Essential Academic Skills V for Allied Health (TEAS V for Allied Health).

*All courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better in order to apply to the program. Applicants with grades below a “C” in program required general education coursework will not be considered.*

*The program may be completed in a two-year accelerated track with a commitment of 40 hours per week of combined lecture and clinical course work in addition to study time. Students must be highly motivated and have a minimum of outside commitments to complete the program in this manner. The procedure for admission would include a minimum composite score of 75 percent on the TEAS V for Allied Health.  Please contact the program director for more information before pursuing the accelerated track.

NOTICE:  Enrollment in the Radiologic Sciences Program is limited and selection is competitive. Meeting the program requirements does not guarantee admission into the program.

Application Procedures:

1. Request information and application on the Information Form at www.chesapeake.edu/alliedhealth/rad-sci.
2. By March 31st, submit an application to include: 
   • Completed program application
   • Transcripts (internal, and/or external)
   • TEAS results

*Submitted applications that are incomplete, or missing documents will not be considered*

Application Scoring:

Selection will be competitive, based on an admission score that reflects; 1. credit course grade, 2. credit course completion, and 3. TEAS weighted score.  Program admission is granted to applicants with the highest application score.  If more than one applicant earns the same application score, the TEAS composite score will be used as a tie breaker.  Coursework that is not complete at the time of application may not be counted towards the application score.  Any science or biology coursework completed more than 10 years before program application must be re-taken to be considered.  Residents of Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot counties will be given first priority in selection.  Students who are not accepted and still wish to be considered must apply again.

1. Credit course grades:    A = 4 points; B = 3 points; C = 2 points.
2. Credit course completion:

	BIO 211	Points + 2
	BIO 212	Points + 2
	MAT 113  or MAT 115	Points + 2
	SCI 141	Points + 2
	COM 101	Points + 1
	ENG 101	Points + 1
	MED 106	Points + 1
	Social Science Elective:	Points + 1

3. The TEAS composite score will be weighted as 5% towards the admission score.  Composite scores must be 50% or greater.
4. Applicants who receive Alternate status, but are not admitted, will receive 3 additional points toward their admission score if they apply again the subsequent year. 

Post-Admission Requirements: The following are due after admission and by August 15 of the year entering the program unless otherwise specified:

1. The student must undergo a criminal history background check and perform a drug/alcohol  screening as required by our clinical affiliates.
2. The student must complete a health exam with their primary physician (form will be provided).
3. Laboratory blood test will be needed to confirm immunity to specified diseases (form will be provided).
4. If the student does not demonstrate immunity to Hepatitis B, they may choose to receive a vaccine series or must sign a waiver.
5. TB screening is required for clinical placement.  Screening can be done in a 2-step method, or using a blood test.  TB screening is required annually.
6. An annual flu shot is required for participation in clinical activities and must be documented by November each year.
7. Students are required to obtain and show proof of CPR certification for health care providers by the American Heart Association which includes a hands-on component.
8. Students are required to complete a clinical orientation testing online to meet the requirements of the clinical facilities for rotation.
9. TB screening, flu shot and online clinical orientation courses must be repeated in the second year. CPR certification must be maintained until the end of the program. Documentation of all requirements must be submitted by August 15.
10. It is strongly encouraged, but not required for the student to carry medical insurance.  The student must sign a liability waiver if they are not insured.
11. Our clinical partners require all students to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to participate. Students who cannnot receive the vaccine due to a medical condition, or a sincerely held religious belief must submit a waiver for review. If granted, the student will be required to undergo weekly testing at their own expense. 

Physical Requirements: The practice of radiography involves the ability to lift and move heavy equipment both at the level of the waist and above the head. It requires the physical ability to assist the patient on and off x-ray tables and to and from stretchers or wheelchairs. The radiographer must be able to see and hear the patient well enough to monitor the patient’s condition. The radiographer must be able to discern sharpness, different shades of gray, black, and white on radiographs to assess them for image quality. The radiographer also must be able to:

• stand, walk, and assist patients.
• stand with a five pound leaded rubber apron on during fluoroscopy exams for at least four hours.
• speak clearly enough to communicate effectively with patients.
• hear well enough, with hearing aids, to monitor patient comfort, vital signs, and safety.
• see well enough, with corrective lenses, to monitor the patient’s comfort, modesty, vital signs, and safety.
• see well enough, with corrective lenses, to evaluate images for quality.
• lift or pull at least 50 pounds.

Accreditation Information:
The Radiologic Sciences Program is accredited by theJoint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
312-704-5300
E-mail: mail@jrcert.org
Website: http://www.jrcert.org

For More Information, Contact:
Mr. Justin Malecki, Program Director
Health Professions & Athletics Center, Room 203H
410-827-5927