Radiography
- Associate Degree
Program Number:
Program Credits:
Estimated Total Cost:
Typical Start:
Radiographers play an important role in the care of individuals who are ill or injured. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that diagnostic images are of the highest quality, enabling the medical team to make precise diagnoses and provide appropriate patient treatment.
In Western's program, you will gain a deep understanding of the impact of radiation on the human body, acquire the skills to accurately position patients, determine the optimal exposure settings, and learn how to safeguard both yourself and your patients from the effects of radiation.
Core classes are conducted in classroom and laboratory settings, with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical experience within a healthcare environment. We offer classes in various formats, including traditional face-to-face, online, and blended, to accommodate your preferred learning style and schedule.
Program-specific courses are held in the Health Science Center, a shared facility located a few blocks from the La Crosse main campus. Check our maps page [1] for specific location information.
For information about the Western Radiography program’s effectiveness data, please click here [2].
To view the Radiography program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here [3].
Radiography 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 45 |
| Graduates Responding | 30 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 27 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 2 |
| Seeking Employment | 0 |
| Continuing Education | 1 |
| Not in Labor Market | 1 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 1 | 16 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 32 | 41 |
| Average Hourly Wage | $32.00 | $27.40 |
| Hourly Wage Range | $32.00 | $21.10-$34.00 |
| Average Annual Salary | $62,880 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Radiologic Technologist, Xray technologist, Multimodality Technologist, CT Technologist, Interventional Radiology Technologist, Imaging Tech II
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Carryout the production and evaluation of radiographic images
- Practice radiation safety principles
- Provide quality patient care
- Model professional and ethical behavior consistent with the A.R.R.T. Code of Ethics
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the practice of diagnostic radiography
Admission Requirements:
College Requirements
Application:
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Program Specific Requirements
To enroll in the Radiography program, first apply for admission to the College, then electronically sign the program's Technical Standards and complete a background check. You can find links to these documents below. In addition, you must complete General Anatomy and Physiology, Developmental (or College) Biology, and Developmental (or College) Chemistry with a grade of “C” or better. Please see the details below.
- Radiography Technical Standards [4]
- Background Check [5]
- Complete one year of High School or one term of Developmental or College Biology
- Complete one year of High School or one term of Developmental or College Chemistry
- General Anatomy and Physiology (10806177)
- If COVID vaccines are required by a clinical partner, you will be notified.
Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [8].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [9].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [10] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [11]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [12].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [13] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [14]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Accreditation
Western’s Radiography program is accredited by the
Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
312-704-5300
Email: mail@jrcert.org [15]
The program’s current award is 8 years. General program accreditation information and the current accreditation award letter can be found here [16].
For more information about the JRCERT, please visit www.jrcert.org [17].
Additional Information
Our Health and Public Safety programs are required to report additional information to prospective students, including certification exams, licensure, program completion rates, etc. You can find this information in the documents below:
- Program Details [18]
- Program Effectiveness Data [2]
- Program Handbook [19]
Program Contact
Kathryn Scriver
Program Chair, Radiography
608-785-9256
ScriverK@westerntc.edu [20]
Courses
Western offers most prerequisite courses for the Radiography program in a 7-week format (see www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [21] for more information). However, most program courses are offered in traditional 15-week terms.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [22] self-service portal for academic planning.