Medical Radiologic Technology

The course of study for a radiologic technologist is a two-year program, leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree. The program is offered at LSC-Montgomery and LSC-CyFair. Each college accepts one class each year into the radiologic technology program. The six-semester program includes two summer semesters, for a total of 63 credit hours.

The curriculum is a balance of general education and technical courses in the classroom and laboratory, as well as supervised clinical experiences at local hospitals and outpatient clinics. This combination provides the student an opportunity for educational development and assurance of competency in radiographic skills.

The program is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills to perform radio-graphic examinations, provide patient care and assist the radiologist during diagnostic procedures. Radiologic technologists are employed in medical centers, community hospitals, extended care facilities, physicians’ offices, specialist clinics, and other health care institutions.

Prior to entering the Radiologic Technology AAS degree, students may take any of the general education core courses required in the program. Radiologic technology students must earn a grade of “C” or better in each radiography (RADR) course and maintain an overall grade point average of at least 2.0 to graduate from the radiologic technology program. To help assure success on the ARRT examination, the Lone Star College (LSC) radiography programs utilize an elevated grading scale. The general education core will transfer to a variety of colleges and universities. For more specific information and the sequence of courses at each college, contact the program director or a college counselor.

In addition to the tuition and textbooks for the radiologic technology courses, there are additional fees and expenses. Students are required to purchase uniforms and accessories. Each student accepted into the program is required to purchase student liability insurance (subject to rates applicable at the time of registration), pay for a complete background check, and obtain current immunizations as required by the Texas Department of State Health Services for healthcare providers. Regulations require that students complete the Hepatitis B immunization series that may take between 3-6 months prior to patient contact. Each student is also responsible for his/her own transportation to the clinical areas.

Graduates of the Radiologic Technology AAS degree are eligible to apply for the certification examination in radiologic technology given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT); arrt.org. Graduates may also apply for Texas state MRT license through the Texas Medical Board at http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/page/licensing-full-medical-radiologic-technologist.

Go to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists website at asrt.org for more information about a career in radiologic technology.

Admission Criteria

Clinical space is limited, so students are admitted on a competitive basis. In addition to the general admission requirements of Lone Star College (LSC), the following requirements must be met in order to apply for admission to the medical radiologic technology (MRT) AAS program. All required forms are available at the Medical Radiologic Technology website: LoneStar.edu/medical-radiology-tech-requirements.

Prior to submission of application:

1. If you have not taken classes at a LSC campus within the last year, you must apply to LSC. If you need assistance with the application process, please contact student services at either the LSC-CyFair or LSC-Montgomery campus.
2. Submit an official transcript from each non-LSC college or university you have attended to the admissions office at either LSC-CyFair or LSC-Montgomery.
3. A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least a 2.0 in high school and/or college. If you have completed more than 24 semester hours of college courses, only the college GPA will be considered.
4. Required evidence of passing all sections of (Reading, Writing, and Math) of either:

• Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA)
• or have met the complete TSI requirements

Consult an advisor to confirm your status.

5. Evidence that you are at college-level in math, reading, and writing (eligible to enroll in MATH 1314  and ENGL 1301  due to past college coursework or placement test scores).
6. Completion of pre-requisites BIOL 2404  OR BIOL 2401  AND BIOL 2402  with a “C” or better within the previous five years.
   • The courses must have been completed prior to submission of an application for the Radiologic Technology program (by the end of the summer semester for LSC-Montgomery or spring semester for LSC-CyFair, in the year you are applying).
   • If coursework is older than 5 years when applying to the program, students must take BIOL 2404 .
7. For each of the following courses completed, points will be earned toward the admission score based on the grade received for the course. (A = 4 points, B=3 points, C=2 points, D=1 point)
   • MATH 1314  or higher level math
   • ENGL 1301  or ENGL 1302  
   • PSYC 2301  
   • Approved Humanities/Fine Arts
8. For each of the following courses completed with a “C” or better, 1 point will be awarded to the admission score with a maximum of 5 points.
   • ITSC 1301  OR COSC 1301  OR BCIS 1305  
   • EDUC 1300 - Learning Framework: 1st Year Experience  
   • HITT 1305 - Medical Terminology I  
   • HPRS 2300 - Pharmacology - Health Professions  
   • HPRS 2301 - Pathophysiology  
   • HPRS 2321 - Medical Law and Ethics for Health Professionals  
9. If you have work or volunteer experience in the healthcare industry, you may be given credit in the selection process. In the score chart for admission, you must choose ONE of the options detailed in this section.
   • Your previous or current employer is required to complete and return the volunteer/work experience verification form directly to the program. Please provide them with a stamped envelope for return.
   • If you intend to hand deliver this form to either LSC-Montgomery or LSC-CyFair, your previous or current employer must sign across the seal of the envelope to ensure authenticity.
10. ALL APPLICANTS must take the PSB Health Occupations Aptitude Test. Check exam ticket for testing dates and instructions. Further PSB exam information is available at: psbtests.com/site/products/hoae.

The Application Process

1. The application can be accessed at http://twebapp1.LoneStar.edu/nash/default.aspx during the application period.
2. The score report will have the points earned for each of the different admission criteria required by the Medical Radiologic Technology program.
3. Be sure to print and sign both your application and score report. If there are any errors in the score report, it is your responsibility to address those concerns with the program director prior to submission of your application. Your score report will not be complete until you have taken the PSB and your scores have been entered by the program.
4. In order to complete your application file, the following materials MUST be submitted to the preferred campus Rad Tech office before the end of the application period:

• Printed and signed application (from the online process).
• Printed and signed score report (from the online process).
• Copy of program evaluation declaring a major in medical radiological technology. Credit Advising Transcript (available on myLoneStar).
• Other documentation requested in application, if you are receiving points for any of these things (i.e. verification of volunteer/work experience, verification of completion of HPRS 1001 38/or current copy of licensure/certificate).

Final Acceptance

1. The applicants will be ranked according to the criteria on the score sheet.
2. Students will be selected based on the highest cumulative scores based on the admission criteria.
3. The top candidates will go through a final selection process that includes a written assignment and a panel interview.
4. Final acceptance into the program is contingent upon a satisfactory back-ground check (as required by hospitals) that is completed by a college approved agency at the student’s expense. Clinical facilities may also require medical insurance and completion of satisfactory drug screening.
5. Students accepted into the program are also required to submit proof of required immunizations, TB test, and proof of current CPR certification (2 year healthcare provider type). All expenses related to these items are the responsibility of each student.

LSC MRT Readmission/Transfer Policy

Former students of the LSC Medical Radiologic Technology Programs may be allowed readmission or transfer within the LSC MRT programs on a “space available” basis, as well as decision to accept the student by the Readmissions Committee. “Space available” is dependent upon the authorized number of students established by the JRCERT.  Re-admission/transfer will be based upon the following:

1. Submission of a written request to the Program Director at least two months in advance of the semester that readmission/transfer is being sought.
2. Completion and submission of the program’s Petition for Readmission form.
3. Submission of a one page, typed personal statement that describes why the student has a desire to be readmitted into the LSC program and become a part of the radiology profession. The statement must also include information regarding any past or perceived future barriers to your success, plans on how to successfully complete this program, and goals for the future beyond this program.
4. Submission of official current college transcripts directly to LSC for evaluation purposes.
5. Satisfy current college admission requirements and provide evidence of maintaining an overall “C” (2.0) GPA at any previous college(s) attended.
6. All readmission correspondence, including all official college transcripts, must be mailed directly to the appropriate Radiologic Technology Program Director.  Copies of official transcripts must be mailed to both LSC and the Program Director for evaluation.

The following readmission/transfer policies will also apply:

1. A readmitted or transferred student is required to fulfill the graduation requirements that are in effect at the time of readmission.
2. Any student who was required to exit the program due to academic reasons will only be granted one (1) readmission. Students who were asked to leave their original program for violation(s) of the college or program’s code of conduct, ethical standards, academic dishonesty, civil rights or harassment policies may be ineligible for transfer.
3. Students gaining readmission to the program must retake academically deficient course(s) and may be required to audit course(s) that are offered in the same semester.
4. Students who have been out of the program for one (1) or more years will be required to reapply as a new student.
5. Transfer students may be required to take Course Review Tests in any or all previously completed courses.  The transfer student must pass all Course Review Tests on the first and only attempt with a score of 75 or better.  Any grade below 75 is failing and the student will be ineligible for transfer.
6. Final decision of accepting transfer student lies with the Admissions Committee.

Transfer Students From Outside the LSC MRT Programs

All transfer students are admitted to the program on a “space available” basis, as well as decision to accept the student by the Admissions Committee. “Space available” is dependent upon the authorized number of students established by the JRCERT.  Students who request a transfer into the LSC MRT programs from another accredited Radiologic Technology program will only be considered upon the submission of the following:

1. A completed Petition for Transfer.
2. A signed Personal Statement from the student describing their reasons for leaving their original program.
3. Current official transcripts from any colleges, universities, or proprietary schools the student has attended.
4. Satisfy current college admission requirements.
5. A minimum of three letters of recommendation (one from the previous program director and two from previous faculty members) must be completed and mailed directly to the program director under separate cover.  Emails are not accepted.
6. A comprehensive description of all radiologic technology courses completed.

Any student requesting a transfer into the Lone Star College-Montgomery or LSC-CyFair Radiologic Technology Program must have earned at least a “C” in all transfer courses. Scholastic requirements for all other academic courses are outlined in the Lone Star College (LSC) catalog and will also govern the eligibility of the applicant for admission. Transfer students are required to meet for an advisement meeting with a division counselor, prior to final decision by the Admissions Committee.

Students who were required to exit their original program for academic reasons must repeat all academically deficient courses and may be required to audit other program courses offered in the same semester. Students who were asked to leave their original program for violation(s) of the college or program’s code of conduct, ethical standards, academic dishonesty, civil rights or harassment policies may be ineligible for transfer.

The following transfer student policies will also apply:

1. A prospective transfer student who was not actively enrolled in a radiography program for one year may be required to retake some or all previous radiography courses.  Any prospective transfer student may also be asked to apply as a new student to the program.
2. Prospective transfer students may be required to take Course Review Tests in any or all previously completed courses.  The prospective transfer student must pass all Course Review Tests, on the first and only attempt with a score of 75 or better.  Any grade below 75 is failing and the student will be ineligible for transfer.
3. A prospective transfer student who fails to maintain satisfactory academic grades is not eligible for admission. 
4. Transferability of previously completed coursework is at the discretion of the respective Lone Star College Radiologic Technology Program and division counselors.
5. Any student approved for transfer into the Lone Star College Radiologic Technology Program will be required to fulfill all graduation requirements that are in effect at the time of transfer.
6. Final decision of accepting prospective transfer student lies with the Admissions Committee.

Computed Tomography, Advanced Technical Certificate

Computed Tomography is an advanced radiographic imaging modality that utilizes highly collimated fan- shaped x-ray beam and array of radiation detectors to produce cross-sectional images of human body structures and organs needed by physicians for diagnostic purposes.  Computed tomographic images can be reconstructed in various anatomical orientations to demonstrate image details that allow for better visualization of pathology, diagnostic analysis, and radiologic interpretations.

The LSC-Montgomery Computed Tomography program curriculum consists of 6 courses totaling 18 credit hours, and these are offered in two semesters (9 credit hours per semester).  The didactic education courses (10 credit hours) are offered at the LSC-Montgomery campus in the evenings while the clinical education courses (8 credit hours) are provided at affiliated clinical sites.  The curriculum is designed to enable students to acquire knowledge in computed tomography physics, equipment operation/methodology, cross-sectional anatomy, patient care, and develop CT imaging skills, which give Medical Radiologic Technology (MRT) graduates an employment edge and increased career mobility.

Prospective applicants seeking admission into the program must be graduates of a 2-year JRCERT accredited Radiography, Radiation Therapy, or Nuclear Medicine Programs and must hold current ARRT or equivalent certification.

The Computed Tomography Certificate program is housed in Building B with the current AAS degree program in Medical Radiologic Technology in the Division of Natural Sciences and Health Profession (NASH).  The program plans to admit up to 15 students per cohort on a rolling admission schedule.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Advanced Technical Certificate

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRIT) program is a 12-month post-associate degree program that provides didactic and clinical instruction to currently certified American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) or Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) and state licensed (as applicable) Radiation Therapy Technologists. 

Students currently enrolled in a JRCERT accredited school may apply; however at a minimum the associate degree must be awarded prior to admission and the ARRT primary certification registry examination must be passed within 6 weeks of enrollment or the student may be administratively withdrawn from the program. A student will not be eligible for clinical placement if the registry examination has not been passed. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in a related science field may be considered for admission on a case by case basis subject to approval from the dean. Limited-MRTs, LVNs, LPNs, medical assistant and similar para-professional credentials are not eligible to apply for this program.

Magnetic resonance technologists use the resonant frequency properties of atoms within a magnetic field to image anatomic and/or physiologic conditions of the body to assist physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. MRI is an imaging modality that produces exceptionally detailed images of the tissues and organs of the body in a variety of imaging planes. This course of study focuses on the underlying scientific theory, sectional anatomy, pathology and clinical protocols. Emphasis is placed on patient care and safety, principles of magnetism and the physical and chemical interactions of living matter within magnetic fields.

This certification will prepare students to make an application to sit for the post-primary certification examination in Magnetic Resonance Imaging administered by the American Regis-try of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) pending review and approval by ARRT.

The application opens on September 15 (or the first business day thereafter) and remains open until December 15 at 4 p.m., OR UNTIL ALL CLINICAL SLOTS HAVE BEEN FILLED.  The program begins in the spring semester. There is no summer or fall admittance. Admission to the college does not guarantee admission to this program and enrollment is limited by the number of clinical slots available for placement.

Students must be able to commit to participate in a minimum of 16 hours [two eight hour shifts] of clinical training scheduled on two consecutive weekdays during the spring, summer and fall semesters. Students are advised that clinical training is scheduled in the Greater Houston Service Area which may require driving as much as 1 ½ hours to the assigned clinical site. Clinical sites may be as far north as Conroe or College Station and as far south as Sugar Land or Galveston.  Special arrangements for clinical placement in areas outside of the local Greater Houston Service Area may possibly be arranged and may entail additional fees to cover travel expenses for the supervising clinical instructor.

Application Process

1. Apply for admission to LSC and submit official transcripts from all colleges and allied health programs previously attended.
2. Fill out, print and sign your application.
3. Submit the following materials to the LSC-CyFair campus Rad Tech office (HSC- 204) before the end of the application period.  The application packet will be dated and time stamped when received by the staff assistant:

1. Printed and signed application copy of qualifying certification (ARRT, AART (T) or NMTCB) credentials.
2. Copy of state license to practice as applicable. In states that do not have MRT licensure, ARRT certification is sufficient.
3. Copy of program degree-plan declaring a major in Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology (MRIT).
4. Two professional letters of reference.  One should be from a former Program Director, Clinical Coordinator or college educator, and one from a current or former employment supervisor.

The Joint Commission (JCAHO) requires verification of the competency of all individuals who have direct contact with patients or employees; this includes students doing clinical rotations in the facility. Competency extends beyond technical skills to an individual’s criminal history. Successful completion of a criminal background check is required after admission to the MRI program.

Thus, final acceptance is contingent upon a clear background check by an approved LSC system vendor. 

1. Applicants not admitted to the program must re-apply each year. Successful applicants will be notified by e-mail of acceptance to the program.
2. Students accepted into the program are required to submit proof of required immunizations, current TB test, season-seasonal flu shot and proof of current CPR certification “CPR for the Health Care Provider” (American Heart Association). All expenses related to these items are the responsibility of each student.
3. A mandatory orientation for admitted students will be held in mid-July for all entering Allied Health Science and nursing students. Thirty days prior to placement in a clinical facility a drug screening may be required at the student’s expense depending upon the requirements of the clinical site. Clinical facilities may also require proof of medical insurance. Students accepted to the program may request a pre-enrollment ARRT review:

• If an individual cannot present a clear background check, she/he may pursue a declaratory order process with the ARRT or appropriate credentialing board. If the ARRT approves the individual to take the credentialing exam, the individual may participate in the clinical rotation.

Disclaimers

1. Successful completion of a criminal back-ground check does not ensure eligibility for licensure or future employment.
2. Clinical agencies can establish more stringent standards, if they so desire, to meet regulatory requirements for their facility.
3. Clinical agencies can conduct additional background checks and drug screening at their discretion.
4. If a student is found to be ineligible for clinical placement any time during the program, the student is unable to meet clinical learning objectives and will be administratively withdrawn.
5. Students who are asked to leave the program for violation(s) of the LSC’s or the program’s code of conduct, ethical standards, academic honesty, civil rights, or harassment policies are not eligible for readmission.

Legal Information

Lone Star College System policy is consistent with Texas law as to requirements and admission of any resident or non-resident student.  For admission and tuition purposes, residency is defined within Texas Education Code §54.052.

In addition, LSC will notify students prior to, but not as a condition or requirement of ad-mission, that  health care facilities will require students to have a Social Security number or a Visa as a condition of being assigned to a clinical facility. Students who are unable to complete the LSC health program clinical skills requirement will not be able to complete the program due to a lack of clinical placement. 

Additionally, LSC will notify students that a Social Security number or a Visa may be required for a background check, and may also be required for taking the licensing examination upon completion of program requirements.

Programs

• •  Medical Radiologic Technology, AAS
• •  Magnetic Resonance Imaging Advanced Technical Certificate
• •  Computed Tomography Advanced Technology Certificate