Others focus more on diagnostics rather than on direct medical treatment. In that regard, breast imaging involves diagnosing diseases of the breast through mammography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and tissue biopsies. Cardiovascular radiology is the radiology specialty that uses X-rays, computer axial tomography (CAT scans), MRIs, and ultrasound to diagnose problems with the heart and circulatory system. Chest radiology employs many of the same technologies and tools to diagnose and treat medical conditions of the heart and lungs. Other radiology specialty practice areas include: gastrointestinal radiology, emergency radiology, head and neck radiology, musculoskeletal radiology, and reproductive radiology. Finally, radiology specialties can also intersect directly with other specialty areas of interest such as neurological, pediatric, and geriatric radiology.

The Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology Degree

I am currently enrolled in the academic program that leads to certification as a radiological technologist. It is a two-year course of academic study that will enable me to pass the certification exam of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and then begin practicing as a radiologic technologist. In that capacity, I will...

I will also be working directly with patients, helping position them properly for proper imagining, making sure that they are protected from potentially harmful excessive radiation exposure, as well as working directly with radiologists and radiologist assistants to interpret and record radiological findings and records.
One of the things I like the most about my degree program is that it is not all about academic studies even though it is heavily science-oriented. In that regard, my classes do emphasize atomic physics and chemistry, but they also offer substantial opportunity for practical experience. In the words of Professor Hejny, "It's not just classes; clinicals, homework, and practical experience make this a full-time program."

For me the TMCC radiologic technologist program has been tremendously rewarding. It is a challenging academic curriculum that allows much more hands-on experience working with scientific equipment than most medical support degree programs. At the same time, I know that completing the program will enable me to work in a wide range of different clinical specialties in an area of medicine that will always be in very high demand in the job market after graduation.