The cost of becoming an X-ray Technician will depend on the program or school you choose.
It also depends on if you want to complete a certificate or earn an associate’s degree.
You also have the option of acquiring a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
You’d probably want to do that if you intend on continuing in the medical field for the long term.
For instance, maybe you someday want to become a radiologist.
That could take you up to 13 years though, so starting out as an X-ray tech while in college makes sense.
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- What Should Your X-Ray Technician Training Include for the Cost?
- How Much Does Four-Year X-Ray Technician Training Cost?
- How Much Does Two-Year X-Ray Technician Training Cost?
- How Much Does a Certificate X-Ray Technician Training Cost?
- What Other X-Ray Technician Training Costs Are there?
- How Much Does X-Ray Certification Cost?
- Is Becoming an X-Ray Technician Worth It?
What Should Your X-Ray Technician Training Include for the Cost?
Your X-ray Technician training should include classes in patient care and radiation safety.
It should also teach you essential background information, such as medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.
In addition, your X-Ray Technician classes should teach you the following skills:
- Prepare patients for their exams
- Correct patient repositioning techniques
- Use X-Ray machines for medical exams
- Control machine radiation dosage
- Machine safety guidelines for different body types, ages, etc.
- General X-Ray exam safety protocol
- Perform CPR and first aid in case needed
- Assistance with MRIs, mammograms, and more
- Preparation for your X-Ray Technician certification exam
How Much Does Four-Year X-Ray Technician Training Cost?
The cost of a four-year X-ray Technician Training program can vary, depending on where the school or college you choose is.
It also varies according to school policies on whether they charge online convenience fees for learning or not or if you attend all classes in person.
On average, tuition for a Bachelor’s degree in Radiography runs between $20,000-$30,000 per year.
However, that depends on if you have to pay in-state or out-of-state tuition.
Some schools providing resident tuition discounts may reduce your tuition to about $10-15,000 per year.
It only takes an average of one to two years to become an X-Ray Technician.
For that reason, you’re not obligated to attend a four-year degree program.
You could start out at a community college instead.
On the other hand, attending a four-year college right away may be what you want to do.
In that case, you may want to try the University of North Carolina (UNC), where you can earn a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Medicine.
Other schools with similar programs include the University of Wisconsin System and Siena Heights University.
You’ll need to verify that the training meets your needs, but it doesn’t hurt to check out all your options, including more near you.
How Much Does Two-Year X-Ray Technician Training Cost?
The cost of a two-year X-ray Technician Training program can vary.
If you decide to acquire an associate degree at a four-year university, it will cost you more than if you attend a community college or technical school.
On average, tuition for an associate’s degree in Radiography ranges between $10,000-$15,000 per year.
Of course, you’re going to need more than two years of schooling if you want to become a medical doctor or specialist.
That would take you about eight years or longer.
Before choosing a two-year associate degree X-Ray program, make sure you can transfer those credits.
You may need to if you decide in the future to attend a four-year school.
It’s up to you to decide what school will help you meet your educational goals the most.
Some options include Cleveland University in Kansas or Bellin College in Wisconsin.
How Much Does a Certificate X-Ray Technician Training Cost?
The cost of a certificate X-Ray Technician program tuition ranges between $5,000-$10,000 for about a year.
I found out it takes an average of 14 months to complete an X-Ray Tech program.
Keep that in mind, but you may also find programs that would help you start working in less than a year.
If you’re not sure where to turn for certificate training, try one of your local technical colleges.
Otherwise, check out Penn Foster or Rasmussen University to see what they offer.
What Other X-Ray Technician Training Costs Are there?
Other X-ray Technician Training costs that you should plan for include books, supplies, equipment, and lab fees.
Some schools also require students to pay for clinical experience or internships.
Additionally, you may need to pay a fee when taking the certification exam in order to become an X-ray Technician.
All the other costs beyond your tuition could range from about $2,000-$4,000 per year.
How Much Does X-Ray Certification Cost?
X-Ray license application fees start at $225, based on what training level you’re at now.
You will have to take an exam before you acquire your state radiology license.
The licensing or certificate fees you pay also depend on the credentialing body you choose.
The above figures represent what’s on the ARRT website as of 2023.
You also could check out the DSPS website for more information on Radiology Technician licensing.
Make sure your school curriculum matches what’s on your certificate exam too.
Is Becoming an X-Ray Technician Worth It?
When training, you may only start out at about $14 per hour.
That’s the average wage of an assistant manager at a retail store, even below that in some locations.
However, becoming an X-Ray Tech prepares you for work in a sterile, clean, and professional environment.
It also opens future opportunities for you as you gain experience working in the healthcare field.
