The Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) Radiography program is a highly competitive and challenging educational pathway that prepares students for a career in medical imaging. Radiography, also known as x-ray technology, is a vital component of the healthcare system, and FSCJ's program is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge, technical skills, and clinical experience necessary to succeed in this field.
Program Overview and Requirements
The FSCJ Radiography program is a limited-access, Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program that typically takes two years to complete. To be eligible for admission, students must meet specific requirements, including:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Completion of prerequisite courses, such as anatomy and physiology, algebra, and psychology
- Satisfactory scores on the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) exam
- Background check and drug screening
- Immunization records and health insurance
Once admitted, students can expect to take a range of courses, including:
- Radiographic Positioning: teaches students how to position patients for various radiographic procedures
- Radiographic Equipment and Quality Control: covers the principles of radiographic equipment and quality control measures
- Radiation Protection and Safety: emphasizes the importance of radiation protection and safety in the radiography department
- Clinical Radiography: provides hands-on experience in a clinical setting, where students work directly with patients and radiologic equipment
Clinical Experience and Program Outcomes
The FSCJ Radiography program includes a significant amount of clinical experience, which is essential for students to develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in this field. Clinical rotations take place at various healthcare facilities in the Jacksonville area, providing students with exposure to diverse patient populations and radiographic procedures. Upon completion of the program, graduates can expect to:
- Pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam
- Obtain employment as a radiologic technologist in a hospital, outpatient imaging center, or other healthcare setting
- Pursue advanced education and certification in specialized areas, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
| Program Outcome | Percentage |
|---|---|
| ARRT Certification Pass Rate | 95% |
| Job Placement Rate | 90% |
| Program Completion Rate | 85% |
Challenges and Rewards of the FSCJ Radiography Program
While the FSCJ Radiography program is challenging, it is also highly rewarding for students who are passionate about healthcare and imaging technology. Some of the challenges that students may face include:
- Intensive coursework and clinical rotations: requires students to balance academic and clinical responsibilities while maintaining a high level of academic performance
- Physical and emotional demands: radiography involves working with patients who may be injured or ill, which can be emotionally challenging and physically demanding
- Technological advancements: the field of radiography is constantly evolving, and students must stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and techniques
However, the rewards of the FSCJ Radiography program far outweigh the challenges. Graduates can expect to:
- Enjoy a fulfilling career in healthcare, with opportunities for advancement and professional growth
- Earn a competitive salary, with median annual salaries ranging from 60,000 to over 100,000 depending on location and experience
- Make a positive impact on patients’ lives, by providing high-quality imaging services that help diagnose and treat medical conditions
What is the average salary for a radiologic technologist in Florida?
+According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for radiologic technologists in Florida is around 62,000. However, salaries can range from 50,000 to over $90,000 depending on location, experience, and employer.
How long does it take to complete the FSCJ Radiography program?
+The FSCJ Radiography program typically takes two years to complete, assuming that students attend full-time and complete all required coursework and clinical rotations.
Is the FSCJ Radiography program accredited?
+Yes, the FSCJ Radiography program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), which ensures that the program meets high standards for educational quality and prepares students for success in the radiography profession.
