Medical Imaging
Medical imaging plays a major role in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of medical conditions. With advances in technology and a growing need for college-educated health care professionals, PennWest’s bachelor’s in Medical Imaging might be just what you need to jumpstart a rewarding career.
This program is a two-plus-two program that requires completion of approximately 60 credits of allied health, science, math, and general education course work followed by completion of a two-year program of clinical study in either radiologic technology or ultrasound (diagnostic medical sonography) offsite at a JRCERT or CAAHEP accredited clinical school with which PennWest has a formal affiliation agreement. Most of the coursework in the four-year program is completed face-to-face.
Choose from five different concentrations that will prepare you for a career in medical imaging. General education credits will hone your critical thinking and communication skills, while our expert Allied Health faculty help you build a strong foundation in the health sciences. They will then coach you for a successful transition from the online program to a PennWest-approved clinical site – either a JRCERT accredited hospital-based school of radiologic technology or the Great Lakes Institute of Technology’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.
After 24 months of clinical school, you will be ready for certification exams and a rewarding career as an X-ray or ultrasound technologist.
This program is for you if...
- You have a strong interest in medical imaging technologies and patient care.
- You are looking to pursue a career in radiologic technology or ultrasound (diagnostic medical sonography).
- You want to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience in medical imaging.
- You are interested in specializing in advanced imaging modalities like MRI or CT.
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120 Credits for BS
What You'll Study
In the Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging program, you'll study core subjects such as human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. You'll gain in-depth knowledge of radiologic and imaging principles, including X-ray, MRI, CT, and ultrasound technologies. The curriculum includes coursework on patient care, safety, and ethical practices in medical imaging. You'll also engage in hands-on clinical training through internships, providing real-world experience in various healthcare settings. This comprehensive education prepares you for professional certification and a successful career in medical imaging.
| Concentrations | Campuses | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| Medical Dosimetry | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This Location |
| Nuclear Medicine | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This Location |
| Radiation Therapy | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This Location |
| Radiologic Technology | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This Location |
| Ultrasound | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This Location |
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
How You'll Learn
This program has the concentrations of Radiologic Technology and Ultrasound offered in-person at our Clarion campus. An in-person degree emphasizes traditional in-person courses at one or more of our locations. Medical Dosimetry, Nuclear Medicine and Radiation Therapy are offered online coupled with two years of in-person clinical experience at a PennWest-affiliated site.
What You'll Become
Upon completing the Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging program, you will become a proficient medical imaging professional, skilled in using advanced imaging technologies such as MRI, CT, and ultrasound. You’ll be prepared to provide high-quality patient care and adhere to ethical standards in various healthcare settings. Equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, you will be ready to pursue certification and excel in roles such as radiologic technologist, diagnostic medical sonographer, or specialized imaging technician, contributing significantly to patient diagnosis and treatment.
Career Paths
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: Specializes in using ultrasound equipment to capture images of internal organs.
- Radiologic Technologist: Operates X-ray and other imaging equipment to assist in diagnosing medical conditions.
- MRI Technologist: Focuses on magnetic resonance imaging to create detailed images of the body.
- CT Technologist: Uses computed tomography equipment to capture cross-sectional images of the body.
- Nuclear Medicine Technologist: Prepares and administers radioactive drugs for imaging or treatment.
- Radiation Therapist: Provides radiation treatment to cancer patients.
- Medical Dosimetrist: Develops radiation treatment plans for cancer patients.
Fraternal Twins Share Identical Passion for Caretaking
Hannah and Isabella Gorrell have shared a lot of big moments – from taking their first steps to starting kindergarten, celebrating birthdays and finishing high school in the midst of a global pandemic. On May 4, the Gorrell twins reached another milestone as they walked across separate PennWest stages to earn bachelor of science degrees in nursing.
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
99.1%
Of all graduates in the 20-year history of our Medical Imaging program have passed the national credentialing examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART) on the first attempt.
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