Here is what most radiology tech programs cost on average.

Do you want to become a radiologist? Then, you must obtain formal training in a certified facility.

Such x-ray tech programs can be completed at universities, community colleges, or vocational centers. It all depends on the type of certificate you want to obtain.

Radiologic Tech Program Cost

While true, going to a radiology tech school isn’t free. You must invest some money to acquire the necessary training and education.

This leads us to the question, How much is radiology tech school? Well, the answer to your question is right below. Just keep scrolling down your screen.

Everything you need to know about your schooling expenses is outlined below.

Cost of Radiology Tech School

Before attending an institution offering this program, you must know the cost implications beforehand.

This will help you know whether or not you can afford this mission. Plus, it will help you make the necessary preparations within the deadline.

The cost of attending a radiology tech school depends on your choice of program and institution. In this section, we’ll look at the cost based on available programs in the field.

These include certification courses and associate’s and bachelor’s degrees.

  • Certificate Courses 

A certificate in radiology is among the minimum academic requirements to join the industry. Such courses can be finished in under 12 to 24 months.

Depending on your school choice, the program costs around $5,000–$25,000.

  • Associate’s Degree

An associate degree will be ideal if you want to start your career well.

It takes an average of two or three years to complete such courses. However, you can spend anything from $6,000-$40,000 to acquire such a qualification.

  •  Bachelor’s degree

You can also enter this profession with an undergrad certificate.

A bachelor’s degree in radiology costs about $30,000–$48,000. Moreover, the time commitment ranges from 4 to 6 years, depending on your study route.

Additional Costs

Tuition fees aren’t the only monetary investment you’ll make while attending a radiology tech school. There are additional expenses that can tear down your budget.

They include accommodation, board, books, uniforms, and other clinical materials. All these extra necessities can amount to $10,000–$20,000.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Radiology Program

The amount you’ll spend to finish this study can be more clearly defined.

Many variables could impact your total study expenses. While some are related to the institution, others depend more on your experience or circumstances.

Your residential status can also determine how much you’ll spend. Allow us to review these factors critically to understand them better.

  • Choice of Training Facility

The school you choose counts significantly on how much you’ll spend on your career pursuit.

Public institutions are typically less expensive because the government solely funds them. Moreover, they have a large student body and more study offerings for interested candidates.

Private universities and colleges, on the other hand, are more costly. Their sponsorship comes from private hands, endowments, grants, and alumni contributions.

They also need more study offerings than their counterpart.

  • Residency status

Your state of origin is another overlooked factor significantly influencing your spending at a radiology school.

In most schools, in-state students pay less than those living out of state. Moreover, your residential status can affect your chances of getting financial aid.

While true, residency essentials can vary from one school to another.

Therefore, it’s crucial to research the policies of your preferred school. You may be fortunate to encounter schools with the same tuition rate for both in-state and out-of-state scholars.

  • Program Type 

The type of program you choose can also determine how much you’ll spend.

As stated earlier, the tuition cost for certificate courses differs from that for associate and bachelor’s degrees. Some elements that make the tuition cost vary per program are the number of courses and length.

Programs with many course credits are often more costly than those with fewer. Similarly, longer-term programs require more money than those with little time commitment.

What to Keep in Mind When Selecting a Radiology Tech School 

Certain things need to be considered before enrolling in a radiology tech school.

Firstly, you’ll need to attend institutions fully certified by JRCERT. Such schools have met specific standards outlined by the association and the government.

Secondly, candidates should obtain certification following the completion of their studies.

While it’s not a necessary credential, holding one is crucial. It will portray your industry standards to prospective employers. Plus, it sets you apart from other applicants in a competitive job market.

Radiology tech certification is issued after passing the ARRT exams. This credential will let you work in hospitals, X-ray labs, and other clinical facilities.

Cost of Attending Some Radiology Tech Programs

Contact your program provider directly to learn more about specific tuition costs and financial aid packages.

Most schools allocate admission representatives to give prospective students scholarships, financial aid, and student loan options.

A one-year certificate program in this field at community colleges typically costs $2,500 to $10,000 annually. Then, certified associate and bachelor’s degree courses in radiography cost more.

As highlighted above, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $15,000 to $43,000. Such programs are completed at a certified university. It takes around two to four years to conduct such studies.

For instance, SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, N.Y., offers a two-year bachelor’s degree in medical imaging for $15,800 in-state and $43,000 in non-resident tuition.

The University of Hartford in Connecticut also offers a four-year bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology for $118,000.

Paying for Radiology Tech School

Attending a radiology tech school is costly, and not everyone can afford it.

Interested students from underserved communities often struggle to cover the tuition and extra expenses. Therefore, they hunt for easy ways to protect their academic costs.

If you fall into this class of students, you have less to worry about. You can pay for your radiology studies quickly without breaking the bank.

These options include scholarships, grants, student loans, and payment plans. Allow us to review these funding options so you understand them better.

  • Scholarships and Grants for Radiology Studies

Many organizations, including the government, offer scholarships for students interested in this medical field. While some scholarships are fully funded, others are partially funded.

They are often given to students with substantial financial need and an excellent academic background, among other criteria.

Similar to scholarships, there are study grants you can explore to cover your schooling costs. Such financial aid is awarded to scholars needing help with academic fees.

You’ll not be required to pay back any money awarded concerning your studies.

  • Student Loan 

You can seek a student loan if you need help securing a scholarship or grant to pay for your education. The government and private institutions award it.

However, this option is only sometimes the best. That’s because you’ll be required to pay back any money given to you. Before choosing this funding option, ensure you have missed all available grants.

As pointed out earlier, you must know the cost implications of attending a radiology tech school. This will help you make informed decisions regarding your finances.

You’ll commit thousands of dollars to obtain the necessary training in this field. If you cannot afford the above price, you can explore financing options to pay for your education.