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CT Technologist
Industry: Healthcare
Area: Radiology
Computerized tomography(CT) is a method of examining body organs by scanning them with X-rays and using a computer to construct a series of cross-sectional scans along a single axis. A CT Technologist operates the CT scanner to produce cross-sectional images of patients.
Work Settings
About half of all jobs were in hospitals. Most of the rest were in offices of physicians; medical and diagnostic laboratories, including diagnostic imaging centers; and outpatient care centers.
Education
Preparation for this profession is offered in hospitals, colleges and universities, vocational-technical institutes, and the U.S. Armed Forces. Hospitals, which employ most radiologic technologists and technicians, prefer to hire those with formal training. Formal training programs in radiography range in length from 1 to 4 years and lead to a certificate, associate degree, or bachelors degree. Two-year associate degree programs are most prevalent.Some 1-year certificate programs are available for experienced radiographers or individuals from other health occupations, such as medical technologists and registered nurses, who want to change fields or specialize in CT or MRI. A bachelors or masters degree in one of the radiologic technologies is desirable for supervisory, administrative, or teaching positions.
Job Outlook
14 percent increase over the next 10 years; 350 new jobs per year in New York State.
Salary
Average annual salary $25,000 - $52,000 (NYS Avg. $44,000).
Work Schedule
Most work a 40-hour week; they may have evening and weekend hours, or times when they are on call.