Radiologists are physicians who use cutting-edge imaging technology to examine organs and tissues inside the body in gentle, noninvasive ways. Their expertise in physics, anatomy and the disease process allow them to diagnose injuries and illnesses so treatment can begin. A growing subset of these specialists called interventional radiologists performs surgical procedures under imaging guidance in order to minimize damage to healthy tissue.These technologies usually include digital imaging technology, radio waves, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computer tomography (CT) scanning, ultrasound and nuclear magnetic resonance. There are associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in radiology, each of which builds in complexity through advanced coursework and hands-on training.With the associate’s degree program, students are introduced to radiology, basic patient care and the equipment used. Bachelor’s degree students focus on such topics as management of quality care and specialty imaging like mammography. In the master’s degree program, students can often concentrate in an area of interest, while learning about leadership and radiologic procedures, among other topics.Generally, admissions requirements for associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs include a high school diploma, while a bachelor’s degree is needed for master’s programs.While early radiologists had only film X-rays to work with, modern professionals have a variety of tools at their disposal, including:X-ray radiography,Ultrasound,Computerized tomography (CT),Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),Positron emission tomography (PET),Nuclear imaging.Radiologists generally work behind the scenes analyzing studies, making diagnoses and consulting with physicians. In some cases, they get involved in the procedure in order to help prepare the patient or outline further instructions to the technician.

Coursework

The curriculum within an associate’s in radiology degree program ensures that students are clinically and academically prepared to begin a career in this field. Courses are offered in:
1-Anatomy and physiology
2-Patient care
3-Radiologic science
4-Radiologic procedures
5-Radiologic exposure
6-Radiologic equipment and quality assurance
7-Radiographic imaging
8-Sectional anatomy
9-Principles of quality management
10-Mammography

Career Options

Career opportunities are available as:
1-Nuclear medicine technologist
2-Radiologic technician
3-Radiation therapist

Salary Information

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the median annual pay among specialist doctors (a group that includes radiologists) was $396,475 as of 2012. Meanwhile, Medscape surveyed 24,000 doctors for its 2012 Physician Compensation Report, finding that the median annual pay of radiologists was $315,852. Salary.com’s data as of September 2014 suggests that radiologists nationwide earn a median salary of $379,323.All of these figures are well above the median pay of primary care physicians. Earnings increase with experience and vary by location and subspecialty.

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for physicians in general is strong, with growth of 18% expected between 2012 and 2022. This is faster than average growth. Radiologists in particular may find their job prospects better than other physicians as well, due to the needs of an aging U.S. population.The American College of Radiologists (ACR) conducted a 2013 survey of radiologists nationwide and concluded that job growth would remain stable and provide jobs for the number of new radiologists projected to look for work through the year 2016 (the extent of their survey).