Best Master’s in Radiologic Technology Programs
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For working healthcare professionals with radiologic technology licensure, earning a master's in radiologic technology offers a clear path toward expanded career options and enhanced earning potential. These programs provide a blend of theoretical, technical, and clinical skills and often lead to leadership roles in the field.
Radiologic technologists may balk at the true program cost of graduate school and question whether attending graduate school is worth the debt and financial strain. Fortunately, an online master's in radiologic technology allows students the chance to keep working while completing academic requirements. Additionally, working healthcare professionals can often complete clinical requirements easily.
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Ready to Start Your Journey?
BestColleges spotlights five of the best online, and on-campus master's in radiologic technology programs on the following page. Keep reading to learn more about these flexible and affordable degree options, what you can expect when attending, and how this degree can augment earning potential in a growing professional field.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center - Houston, Texas
Why It's #1: The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a Houston-based institution that tops our ranking of the best master's in radiologic technology programs of 2022. In 2021, this standout program had a 93% graduation rate and a 4-year graduation rate of 85%. This master's in radiologic technology program also boasts small class sizes and has not enrolled more than 25 students yearly since 2018.
Best Accredited Master's in Radiologic Technology Programs
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,600
Out of State | $6,500
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Joining Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is home to a master's in radiologic sciences that individuals use to both expand career options and continue their higher education journey. This program offers three five-semester concentrations, including administrative leadership, educational leadership, and medical imaging informatics.
Standard coursework for this master's program includes topics such as fundamentals of healthcare systems, research methodology, and legal and ethical fundamentals of healthcare.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and certification from professional organizations such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB).
MCPHS University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,325
Out of State | $1,325
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Joining Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
Established in 1823, the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Services (MCPHS) is a public university that offers a master's in radiologic and imaging sciences. This 30-credit program includes two academic tracks — administrative leadership and teaching leadership. Students complete core classes covering topics such as leadership and communication, professional practice trends, and diversity and cultural competencies.
Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree in a related medical imaging or therapeutic program. Additionally, applicants should have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5 and hold a license to practice in their field.
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Academic Year
In State | $30,000
Out of State | $30,000
Units to Graduate
94
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
California's Loma Linda University is a private health services institution that offers a 100% online maser's in radiologic technology. In addition to online course requirements, degree-seekers must attend several one-day, on-campus visits. Students can complete their clinical rotations at a clinical site within their state.
Core classes for this online master's include topics such as radiology reporting, pathophysiology, radiology procedures and image evaluation, and fluoroscopy and radiation protection.
Loma Linda applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and provide official transcripts. Additionally, prospective students must hold an active R.T. licensure and current CPR certification. Applicants should also have two years of full-time professional experience.
Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $50
Out of State | $472
Credits to Graduate
34-37
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
Based in Witchita Falls, Texas, Midwestern State University is a public institution that is home to a master's in radiologic sciences. Designed to prepare students for various leadership, clinical, and education-based roles, degree-seekers complete core classes including research methods, contemporary trends in radiologic sciences, and leadership for change in radiologic sciences.
Prospective students must hold a relevant bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Applicants submit their application with official transcripts, a professional resume, and an admission essay answering supplied questions.
Weber State University
Ogden, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $542
Out of State | $1,601
Credits to Graduate
62
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
Based in Ogden, Utah, Weber State University is a public institution that offers a master's in radiologic sciences. Core classes for this master's track include topics such as clinical laboratory correlation, population health in radiologic sciences, and managing health information. Alongside core classes, students can pursue specializations in areas like MSRS innovation and cardiac specialist.
Prospective students must hold certification to work as radiologic technologists and document at least one year of experience in a clinical setting. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Weber State favors applicants with undergraduate degrees in relevant health sciences areas.
Popular Online Radiologic Technology Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How We Rank Schools
Each year, the BestColleges Ranking Team evaluates hundreds of programs to produce our annual Best Online Master's in Radiologic Technology ranking. In 2022, the team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by the National Center for Education Statistics. We identified 8 schools that qualify for our ranking list based on the following criteria.
- Each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution.
- Must offer a master's degree program in the given subject.
- Must submit an annual report to the National Center for Education Statistics.
To ensure the accuracy and quality of our final ranked list, the ranking team reviewed each qualifying school to ensure it met the criteria for our ranking, and then applied our proprietary ranking methodology to identify the best schools offering this program in the nation. Each school is ranked based on a formula measuring academic factors (60%) and affordability (40%).
The BestColleges Ranking Team is made up of contributors from our data science and product management teams. These contributors operate independently from the editorial team. All BestColleges school rankings are produced by the ranking team and are free of editorial influence. Read our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more.
BestColleges' Ranking Factors
Top Three Benefits of a Radiologic Technology Degree
You're Entering a Growing Field
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), radiologic technologists can anticipate their field to grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030. This translates to over 21,600 jobs added to the field.
Expanded Earning Potential
Earning a master's in radiologic technology can prepare graduates for roles as radiology assistants — a step above radiologic technologists. According to Payscale, radiology assistants earn nearly $35,000 more per year than radiologic techs.
Taking on Leadership Roles
Radiology assistants utilize their specialized, graduate-level education to inform clinical care and effectively lead. These professionals gain extensive clinical training while tackling various theoretical and practical topics.
What Can I Expect From a Master's in Radiologic Technology Program?
Ideal for working radiologic technologists who want to hone clinical and leadership skills, a master's in radiologic technology typically requires about two years of full-time coursework. For students preparing for graduate school who want to balance work and their studies, an online program may be ideal. Remote courses allow degree-seekers to keep up with academic requirements while juggling personal and professional obligations.
Throughout these programs, students tackle a mix of technical, clinical, and theoretical courses that prepare them to take on leadership roles in their field. In addition to standard academic requirements, some programs offer academic specializations in areas like radiologic science innovation, medical imaging informatics, and administrative leadership. Before graduation, students also complete numerous hours of supervised fieldwork in clinical settings.
Check Out The Student's Guide to College Planning
| Average Graduate Degree Tuition Cost |
Public Institution: $12,410 Private Institution: $26,597 |
|---|---|
| Length | 2 years |
| Credits | 30 |
| Program Tracks | Master of Science (MS) |
| Example Concentrations |
|
| Example Courses |
|
Source: NCES
What Programs Are Similar to Radiologic Technology?
What Are the Admission Requirements?
When preparing for graduate school, understand that admission requirements vary between programs. That said, those applying to master's in radiologic technology programs can anticipate some standard requirements.
Designed for credentialed radiologic technologists, these master's programs typically require applicants to submit a professional resume, proof of active licensure, and proof of professional experience in a clinical setting. Applicants can also expect to send in official transcripts, a personal essay outlining career goals, and letters of recommendation. Some programs may also require the submission of GRE scores.
Explore Our Graduate Admissions Guide
How Do I Pay for a Master's Degree in Radiologic Technology?
What Can I Do With This Degree?
An associate or bachelor's degree can allow graduates to pursue careers as radiologic technologists. A master's in radiologic technology leans on both clinical knowledge and leadership skills and can lead to relatively high salaries. This master's degree is often a solid option for career-changers in the health sciences and health professionals like nurses.
This is an especially practical choice because the BLS projects that the field of radiologic and MRI technologists will grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030. The earning potential for this field can vary depending on job specifics and experience, but Payscale indicates that radiology assistants earn an average base salary of $96,650 in 2021.
| Career | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Radiology Assistant | $96,650* |
| Radiologic Technologist | $61,980 |
| Medical Physicist | $152,949 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $79,640 |
| Career and Technical Education Teacher | $61,160 |
* Indicates average annual salary, rather than median annual salary.
Learn More About Radiology Careers
Radiologic Technology Not for You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Radiologic Technology Licensing and Certification
Individuals pursuing a master's in radiologic technology traditionally hold professional licensure through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Those holding this license must earn at least an associate degree and meet all of the academic and clinical requirements before successfully completing the ARRT examination.
In addition to holding an active ARRT radiologic technologist license, many master's programs require applicants to have at least a couple of years of professional experience under their belt. To earn a registered radiologic assistant (RRA) license, students must hold their initial RT license and complete an approved ARRT program.
Should I Get a Master's in Radiologic Technology Online?
When choosing a college, prospective students should consider whether they want to attend online or on campus. Online programs are often excellent options for working students, but distance learning is not for everyone. Check out the pros and cons of online learning below.
Online vs. On-Campus Degrees
On-Campus Pros
-
Access to on-campus resources and support services -
In-person social interaction and networking -
Hands-on learning -
Classroom learning environment with fewer distractions -
Extracurricular clubs and activities
On-Campus Cons
-
May be more expensive than online programs -
Set class times with less flexibility -
Time/money commuting
Online Pros
-
Flexibility to learn on your schedule -
Learn from anywhere -
Network with people around the world -
Save time/money on commuting -
May be more affordable than on-campus programs -
Access to online tutoring and career services
Online Cons
-
Requires more self-discipline -
Not all programs are available online -
More technical requirements -
Potential social isolation and loneliness
How to Choose an Online Degree Program
Frequently Asked Questions About Radiologic Technology Programs
Is a master's in radiologic technology worth it?
For licensed radiologic technologists interested in expanding their career options and earning potential, a master's in radiologic technology is most definitely worth it. Top master's in radiologic technology programs offer specialized training, extensive clinical experiences, and also delve into the ins and outs of administrative healthcare that can lead to leadership roles.
While earning a master's in radiologic technology is often a significant investment of time and money, online options make the process a bit easier. In addition to offering a flexible format, online programs often cost less while allowing students to continue working. Online students also save on various campus-based fees and travel costs.
What can I do with a master's in radiologic technology?
Because a master's in radiologic technology leans on specific technical and clinical skills, most graduates' job options are directly related to the field. Radiologic technologists who earn a master's degree often tackle roles as radiology assistants and utilize the specialized training and leadership skills honed during their graduate programs.
Alongside clinical positions, some students use a master's in radiologic technology as a pathway toward further academic work. Top-performing students can pursue various doctoral programs resulting in research-based careers and teaching roles in academia.
What continuing education is available for radiologic technology graduates?
The continuing education opportunities for radiologic technology graduates include various clinical and research-based Ph.D. programs. Some popular doctoral programs include radiology, imaging science, and biomedical imaging and technology.
Additionally, students can pursue graduate certificates in topics relevant to radiologic technology. Common certificates cover specialized areas such as bone densitometry, breast sonography, and vascular interventional radiography.
How much money can I make with a master's in radiologic technology?
For radiologic technologists with a bachelor's degree, earning a master's degree can significantly impact earning potential. According to Payscale and BLS data, radiology assistants can earn $35,000 per year more than radiologic technologists.
That said, job specifics, experience, and geographic location often dramatically influence earning potential. Earning a master's in radiologic technology is a solid way to enhance career options and expand earning potential.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a master's in radiologic technology?
Payscale data shows that radiologist assistants with professional experience can earn nearly $100,000 annually. And while the BLS does not keep data on radiologist assistants, they show that the top 10% of radiologic technologists earned more than $94,880 per year in May 2021.
Even though experience can play a significant role in earning potential, those pursuing a master's in radiologic technology are creating professional opportunities that can result in higher wages. Additionally, other professional credentials and graduate-level coursework can boost a resume and lead to more significant compensation.
Feature Image: Phil Boorman / Image Source / Getty Images
