About the Associate of Science in Radiography
Radiology is a science involving the medical use of X-rays, radium, and radioactive isotopes in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Radiographers are essential members of the health care team. They 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).
Radiographers find employment possibilities in various medical settings ranging from doctors' offices to large medical centers. In addition, some seek employment in industry or in the marketing and sales of x-ray products.
Length of the Program
24 months beginning in May. Professional course work begins each June (summer session II).
Structure of the Program
The Radiography Program is a full-time day program involving classroom and laboratory experiences on campus and clinical experiences at local hospitals.
Design of the Professional Curriculum
The curriculum follows a pattern designed to train student to become adept in the performance of diagnostic procedures. Courses in radiologic principles, radiographic procedures, clinical application of theory and general education are included in the curriculum.
Program Mission, Goals and Student Learning Outcomes
The Associate Degree Radiography Program offered by Indiana University Northwest is designed to prepare students for professional careers as radiographers in the medical field. By providing pertinent learning experiences, the program faculty strives to develop students' interests in lifelong learning through the professional societies and continuing education. The curriculum is designed in accordance with the guidelines established by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.
The Radiography Program has set forth the following goals and student learning outcomes:
Goal 1: Students will demonstrate clinical competence.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will demonstrate continued competence in positioning skills.
- Students will select appropriate technical factors
Goal 2: Students will demonstrate effective communication skills.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will demonstrate written communication skills.
- Students will demonstrate oral communication skills.
Goal 3: Students will demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will detail procedural and technical adaptations for a trauma patient.
- Students will evaluate the quality of radiographic images and procedures.
Goal 4: Students will demonstrate professional values.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will demonstrate appropriate professional values in the clinical setting.
- Students will detail the ethical obligations described in the ARRT Code of Ethics.
Goal 5: Students will be involved in professional continuing education activities to instill a desire for lifelong learning.
Student Learning Outcome:
- Students will participate in professional continuing education.
- Students will be members of professional societies.
Goal 6: The program will provide the medical community with individuals qualified to perform radiographic procedures.
Program Effectiveness Measures
- Graduates will pass the ARRT certification examination on the 1st attempt.
- Graduates will successfully complete the program in a three-year period.
- Employers will express confidence in the overall quality of graduates' skills.
- Graduates will express confidence in the overall quality of their skills.
- Of those pursuing employment, students will be gainfully employed within 12 months post-graduation.
Assessment data describe in Goal #6 are available for review under Program Data. Program Effectiveness Data for all JRCERT accredited Radiography Programs can be found at www.jrcert.org/resources/program-effectiveness-data.
Opportunities for Students to Work
Students often seek employment in part-time positions outside the program. These positions cannot interfere with clinical and class schedules and must be balanced with necessary study time. The majority of clinical education is scheduled on weekdays with a few Saturday and PM rotations.
Program Facilities
The Radiography Program offices and classrooms are located in the Dunes
Medical/ Professional Building at IU Northwest.
Location of Clinicals
Clinical experience occur in local hospitals, including the Community Hospitals in Munster, Northwest Health in LaPorte, Methodist Hospital of Gary Inc., in Gary and Merrillville, Northwest Health Porter in Valparaiso, Franciscan Health Crown Point, Franciscan Health Michigan City, Franciscan Health in Hammond, and St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart
Additional Costs
In addition to regular university tuition and fees, students should expect to pay program-related expenses such as books, uniforms, physical examination, immunizations, criminal background check, drug tests, lead markers, and radiation monitoring.
Accreditation
The Radiography Program is fully accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182; phone: (312) 704-5300; mail@jrcert.org; www.jrcert.org.
The program was last evaluated according to the Standards for an Accredited Educational Program in Radiography (2014) and was awarded continuing accreditation for a period of eight years. The next site visit is tentatively scheduled for the Fourth Quarter of 2021.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENT:
Apply and be admitted to Indiana University Northwest.
After being admitted to the University, apply to the Radiography Program by completing an application online by January 15.
Phone: (219) 980-6540
Admissions Policies and Procedures
