Radiologic Sciences

Welcome to the IU Northwest Radiologic Sciences

Within the Department of Radiologic Sciences, interested students can obtain an Associate of Science Degree in Radiography or a Bachelor of Science Degree in Radiologic Sciences. The AS Radiography Program prepares students to be radiographers in the health care environment.

Radiographers are experts in the performance of examinations requiring the use of x-rays and highly complex machinery to produce a quality x-ray image (radiograph) of the internal parts of the body for interpretation by a medical doctor (radiologist).

The BS degree in Radiologic Sciences offers individuals the opportunity to pursue three separate concentrations:

  • Clinical concentration for the associate degree radiographer
  • Diagnostic medical sonography
  • Radiation therapy

 The diagnostic medical sonography and radiation therapy programs are open to individuals with either a health professional AS degree background or a non-health professional background.

Among the options for advanced clinical experience for the radiographer, are careers in:

Cardiovascular Interventional Technology
(CT)

Computed Tomography
(CT)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging
(MRI)

Mammography

Cardiovascular interventional technologists assist physicians in performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures of the cardiovascular system. These procedures involve the injection of iodinated contrast media to demonstrate diseases of the heart and blood vessels.  Computed tomography (CT) technologists produce images of selected planes of the body by combining the use of an X-ray beam and a computer. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologists utilize a magnetic field along with radio waves to create images of patients' anatomy for interpretation by a radiologist.  Mammography technologists operate mammography equipment to produce images of the breast for diagnostic purposes.

Diagnostic medical sonographers are concerned with the proper operation of the ultrasound equipment and preparation of patients for various types of diagnostic procedures. Upon request of a physician, they examine various parts of the body by using sound waves.

Radiation therapists use different forms of ionizing radiation for the treatment of benign and malignant tumors. They administer the prescribed dose of ionizing radiation to specific sites of the patient's body as directed by the physician.