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Imaging Sciences, BS

Medical Imaging is the health profession concerned with the direct administration of radiation, primarily x-rays, in disease diagnosis and injury assessment. Technological advances and the emergence of new methods place medical imaging among the most dynamic, expanding and high-demand fields in healthcare.

A medical imaging professional must apply their knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pathology, patient positioning, radiation protection, and image production and evaluation in the performance of their responsibilities.

The program gives students a variety of options to explore their interest in the sciences of medical imaging. You can develop your skills in specialized areas like computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography and others. In addition to student-focused instruction, you will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through supervised clinical training at hospitals and clinics.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the U.S. median salary in May 2022 for a Radiologic Technologist was $65,140 per year ($31.32 per hour), with a faster than average projected job growth of 6 percent between 2022 and 2032.

Program Perks
  • Multiple points of entry:
  • Dual degree option (3 year degree)
    • Only offered full-time on campus; part-time is not available
    • If students work during the program, they are not to exceed 20 hours of work per week
  • Degree completion for associate degree graduates
    • Online program; available exclusively to individuals who already possess ARRT (R) license
  • Ability to specialize your degree with courses in CT, MRI or Mammography
  • Curriculum provides a strong liberal arts foundation as well as courses that will prepare you with the technical skills to excel after graduation
  • One of the few online degree completion options in the region
  • Interested in minoring in Spanish? Find out more

Accreditation & Licensure

Nebraska Methodist College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Admissions Information

Criteria

Applicants are evaluated on the basis of the following criteria:

  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
  • Preferred math/science GPA of 2.5
  • High school record
  • College record
  • Fulfillment of program technical standards
  • Hospital / clinical observation in a Radiology department is strongly recommended
  • For bachelor's degree completion ONLY:  Non-Nebraska Residents meet State Authorization
  • For bachelor's degree completion ONLY: ARRT (R) Certification
  • Student must be 18 prior to clinical practicum in 2nd semester

Requirements

To be considered for admission the following items must be submitted to the Admissions Office:

Deadlines

Prospective students may apply anytime and are accepted from deadlines throughout the year. Imaging Science is a competitive program, and not all applicants can be offered direct admission. 

Starting Term - Fall 2024

Standard Deadline - Currently accepting applications for the waitlist and/or available seats.

Costs & Financial Aid

NMC is committed to helping you find every avenue to finance your education. View the Tuition by Program & Degree page for a comprehensive list of all fees.

Cost Per Credit Hour

$623

NMC Scholarships

NMC Scholarships consist of funds generously provided by the Methodist Hospital Foundation to assist our students.

Student Grants or Loans

Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more about what's available and how to apply.

Employee Education Benefits

Employees of Methodist Health System can find details on the MHS Intranet.

External Scholarships

Visit our Scholarships page to learn more.

Calculate Your Net Price

Nebraska Methodist College Net Price Calculator.

Curriculum

The program requires a minimum of 122 credit hours. All students are required to complete specific coursework. This list should only be used as a curriculum guide. Course listings and required curriculum are subject to change.

First year - First Semester

COM 101
ENGLISH COMPOSITION
DETAILS
This course provides instruction and practice in writing, with emphasis on the recursive processes of generating, drafting, revising and editing. Students develop skills in producing and evaluating written communications in private and public contexts.

HUM 213
PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF ETHICS
DETAILS
This course introduces students to theories and practices of individual, communal and societal obligations. Moral inquiry in the course proceeds from a philosophical basis, with an emphasis on varied professional codes of ethics in healthcare disciplines. Students will explore codes of ethics and how they relate to traditional Western philosophies.

MAT 110
INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA
DETAILS
This course is designed for students who need to review basic algebra skills. It covers topics including positive and negative real numbers, solving and graphing linear equations and systems of linear equations, applications of algebra, exponents and scientific notation, operations with polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, functions and their graphs, inequalities, roots, radicals and complex numbers.

RAD 107
RADIOLOGY FUNDAMENTALS & CLINICAL ASSESSMENT
DETAILS

This course introduces the field of radiology and basic skills required to perform duties in a patient care environment. Topics include patient care in the radiology department, vital signs, specific laboratory test, infection control, sterile procedures, and contrast media. The student will also be required to complete a CPR class in conjunction with this course.

Prerequisites: Program Admission

SCI 116
MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY
DETAILS
This course will introduce students to terminology used in the healthcare professions. The origins of medical terms will be studied with an emphasis placed on understanding the suffixes, prefixes, combining forms and root words used in healthcare terminology. At the end of the course the student will be able to comfortably understand, translate and discuss issues related to their profession using appropriate terminology.

SCI 200
HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY: PRINCIPLES & PRACTICE
DETAILS
Structure and function of the cell, and the nervous, skeletal, muscle systems, special senses; circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, endocrine, reproductive systems, as well as necessary aspects of chemistry, physics, embryology, and histology are stressed in this course. Laboratory experience will include cadaver study.

First year - Second Semester

HUM 150
THE WORLD OF IDEAS: CRITICAL REASONING AND RHETORIC
DETAILS
There is a strong relationship between thinking clearly and expressing thoughts in formal writing and public speaking. Using the skills of logic and critical thinking, students will examine ideas, analyze and evaluate the arguments of others, and advocate for their own ideas. Students will be introduced to the NMC Portfolio process. HUM 150 is to be taken in the first semester, unless designated in the second semester by the program of study.

RAD 115
RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGING I
DETAILS
This course presents a foundation of knowledge regarding the creation and recording of radiographic images, including the factors that dictate the nature and outcomes of the process.  The student will understand photon interaction, visual perception of a radiograph, prime factors affecting radiographic quality, and the influence of body habitus and pathology in radiology.  This course introduces the student to the concepts associated with radiation protection for the patient, public, and personnel.  The student will examine analog film properties, beam restrictors, filters, intensifying screens, and grids.

Prerequisites: RAD 107

RAD 121
RADIOGRAPHIC PROCEDURES/POSITIONING I
DETAILS
This course introduces the student to radiographic positions and procedures related to the thoracic cavity, abdominal, and appendicular skeleton. Radiographic procedures include chest, abdomen, upper extremity, shoulder girdle, and lower extremity. The relationship of anatomy, specific radiographic landmarks, patient care, universal precautions, radiographic critique/quality, and terminology to radiographic practice is discussed.

Prerequisites: RAD 107

RAD 121L
RADIOGRAPHIC PROCEDURES/POSITIONING I LAB
DETAILS
This course compliments RAD121 and demonstrates the practical application of radiographic positioning of the thoracic cavity, abdominal, and appendicular skeleton.  Students will critique radiographs for diagnostic quality, anatomy, positioning, and use of appropriate technical factors.

Prerequisites: RAD 107

RAD 160
CLINICAL PRACTICUM I
DETAILS
This course provides an opportunity for the student to learn radiologic technology and related skills in a variety of clinical settings.  Students focus on the care and assessment of patients, drawing upon cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills, while becoming acclimated to the clinical environment.  Both the observation and performance of medical imaging occurs under the supervision of a registered radiologic technologist. During this semester, students must attain identified competency levels.

Prerequisites: RAD 107

SCI 206
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY/PHARMACOLOGY
DETAILS
This survey course begins with a major focus on cellular function and pathology, including inflammation, infection, immune response, metabolism, and fluid disequilibria. These concepts serve as the foundation for the course as alterations in various bodily functions are examined. Alterations in body fluid and electrolyte homeostasis; fluid acid/base balance; gastrointestinal, urinary, respiratory, cardiac, endocrine and neurological functions are emphasized. The student will be introduced to pharmacological principles of commonly used classes of medications. The various drug classifications and general characteristics of drugs within a class are examined. These characteristics include the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, side effects, adverse effects and drug interactions of common drugs within each class.

Prerequisites: SCI 200

First year - Third Semester

HUM 219
MEDICAL LAW AND ETHICS
DETAILS
This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of medical laws, ethical principles and bioethics for the healthcare practitioner. The application of these fundamental principles will be applied using current medical-legal issues and bioethical dilemmas of today. The course is designed to improve the student’s ability to critically think and make sound decisions that are in alignment with professional ethics and values, integrity and judgment. The course will include such areas as confidentiality, privacy, consents, responsible practice, professionalism, bioethical dilemmas, and key legal aspects that influence the healthcare practitioner.

RAD 122
RADIOGRAPHIC PROCEDURES/POSITIONING II
DETAILS
This course introduces the student to the radiographic positions and procedures related to the pelvis, spinal column including sacrum and coccyx, and bony thorax.  The relationship of anatomy, specific radiographic landmarks, patient care, universal precautions, radiographic critique/quality, and terminology to radiographic practice is discussed.

Prerequisites: RAD 121, RAD 121L

RAD 122L
RADIOGRAPHIC PROCEDURES/POSITIONING II LAB
DETAILS
This course compliments RAD122 and demonstrates the practical application of radiographic positioning of the pelvis, spinal column, and bony thorax.  Students will critique radiographs for diagnostic quality, anatomy, positioning, and use of appropriate technical factors.

Prerequisites: RAD 121/121L

RAD 140
RADIATION BIOLOGY & PROTECTION
DETAILS
This course emphasizes the effects of radiation on living systems and the principles of protection against that impact.  This course explores the effect of radiation on the human body, including cells, tissues, and the body as a whole.  There is a deep exploration of the biological reactions to radiation, including acute and chronic affects.  This course emphasizes the radiographer's responsibilities for ensuring radiation protection for patients, personnel, and the public.

Prerequisites: RAD 115

RAD 162
CLINICAL PRACTICUM II
DETAILS
This course provides clinical experience geared to the attainment of designated competencies. The clinical learning process concentrates on imaging procedures applicable to the axial skeleton.  Student concentration on outcome assessment and their mastery of co-requisite radiographic positioning skills presented in RAD121/RAD121L continues during this clinical experience.

Prerequisites: RAD 160

Second year - First Semester

RAD 165
RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGING II
DETAILS
This course presents information geared towards the analysis of actual radiographic images including the properties associated with density, contrast, film sensitometry, recorded detail, and distortion.  Students learn techniques for overcoming problems in evaluating images and come to appreciate the importance of minimum standards for imaging and the factors that can enhance or diminish image quality. The student will also emerge from the course with a solid understanding of radiographic, fluoroscopic, and tomographic equipment requirements and design. A comparison of analog to computed/digital radiographic systems will be compared along with factors that govern radiographic technique selection.

Prerequisites: RAD 115

RAD 210
RADIOGRAPHIC PATHOLOGY
DETAILS
This course introduces the student to the radiographic appearance of disease and clinical manifestations.  An overview is presented on all major body systems, including common radiographic pathologies identified in the profession.

Prerequisites: SCI 200, SCI 206, RAD 121, RAD 121L, RAD 122, RAD 122L Corequisites: RAD 220, RAD 220L

RAD 220
RADIOGRAPHIC PROCEDURES/POSITIONING III
DETAILS
This course introduces the student to the radiographic positions and procedures related to the digestive system, urinary/reproductive, and headwork to include skull, facial bones, and paranasal sinuses. The relationship of anatomy, specific radiographic landmarks, patient care, universal precautions, radiographic critique/quality, and terminology to radiographic practice is discussed. This course will also introduce students to proper venipuncture techniques.

Prerequisites: RAD 122, RAD 122L

RAD 220L
RADIOGRAPHIC PROCEDURES/POSITIONING III LAB
DETAILS
This course compliments RAD220 and demonstrates the practical application of radiographic positioning of the digestive system, urinary system, and radiographic headwork to include skull, facial bones, and paranasal sinuses. Students will critique radiographs for diagnostic quality, anatomy, positioning, and use of appropriate technical factors.

Prerequisites: RAD 122, RAD 122L

RAD 261
CLINICAL PRACTICUM III
DETAILS
This course centers on the attainment of competencies that require higher levels of cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills. Surgical radiographic procedures and fluoroscopy of physiological body systems are enhanced during this learning experience. Students gain a mastery of knowledge garnered from previous clinical assignments, focusing particularly on objective assessment of their acquired skill levels.

Prerequisites: RAD 162

SSC 235
THE SOCIOLOGY OF CULTURE
DETAILS
This course explores the ways in which human beings make and remake the meaning of their social world through the production of culture. It employs sociological methods to explore the construction of the dominant, white subculture in the United States. The same methodologies are employed to examine the construction of subcultures in the United States, including those based on race, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation.

Second year - Second Semester

COM 255/262
LANGUAGE & CULTURE IN HEALTHCARE
DETAILS
Access to healthcare is greatly affected by one's command of language. Students in this course engage in the exploration of language and culture then apply these concepts to the healthcare environment through service-learning and community engagement. Students develop practical communication skills that enable effective cross-cultural work with health professionals and clients with backgrounds different from their own. This course lasts over the entire semester.

HUM ---
WORLD OF IDEAS: HUMANITIES ELECTIVE
DETAILS
Students may choose a World of Ideas elective course. The course must be categorized within one of the following three sections: The World of Ideas: Human Connection The World of Ideas: Historical Perspectives The World of Ideas: The Arts See All Humanities Course Descriptions for specific course information.

PSY 101/215
PSYCHOLOGY COURSE
DETAILS
PSY 101     INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY This course offers students an engaging introduction to the essential topics in the field of psychology. Throughout this scientific study of human behavior and the mind, students will survey and gain insight into the history of the field of psychology, as well as explore current theories and issues in areas such as wellness, emotion, cognition, motivation, perception, consciousness, social and personality, and memory. PSY 215     LIFESPAN DEVELOPMENT The Lifespan perspective involves several basic contentions: development is life-long, multidimensional, multi-directional, plastic, historically embedded, multi-disciplinary and contextual. Three imperative developmental issues are explored: maturation and experience, continuity and discontinuity and stability and change. Students study how humans develop and how they become who they are.

RAD 215
RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGING III
DETAILS
This course explores the natural process behind x-ray production. Topics include electrodynamics, magnetism, generators and motors, production and control of high voltage, x-ray circuitry, and the properties of x-rays. Course discussion will also include total quality management of a radiology department, exploring the theory and practice of quality assurance.  The use of department quality assurance test tools, interpretation or results, and management of a quality assurance program through record keeping is presented.

Prerequisites: RAD 165

RAD 264
CLINICAL PRACTICUM IV
DETAILS
This course continues to center on student attainment of clinical competencies with various radiographic procedures. The student will continue to complete radiographic procedures under direct/indirect supervision of a radiologic technologist, while providing patient care and focusing on previous radiographic skills acquired.

Prerequisites: RAD 261

Second year - Third Semester

HUM 250-259
THE WORLD OF IDEAS: HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES
DETAILS
Students critically analyze the impact of history on contemporary society. Historical methods of inquiry inform students' perspectives on societal and institutional development. Most undergraduate students must take one course from this group. HUM 255 HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES HUM 256 THE HISTORY OF WESTERN MEDICINE HUM 257 U.S. HISTORY: PAST, PRESENT, AND PROMISE: A SEARCH FOR THE TRUTH BY CHALLENGING THE PRESENT & DEMANDING A NEW FUTURE HUM 258 WORLD HISTORY TO 1800 HUM 259 HISTORY OF SCIENCE: THE CREATION OF A BIOMEDICAL WORLD

RAD 265
CLINICAL PRACTICUM V
DETAILS
During this course of instruction, students attain completion of all clinical competencies as mandated by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (A.R.R.T.). Clinical attainment of radiographic procedures continues under direct/indirect supervision of a radiologic technologist, while providing patient care and focusing on previous radiographic skills acquired.  Students diversify their clinical knowledge as they explore additional learning opportunities in other advanced imaging modalities.

Prerequisites: RAD 263

RAD 270
RADIOGRAPHIC SEMINAR
DETAILS
This course is designed as a capstone learning experience for the student in preparation of sitting for the A.R.R.T. certification examination in radiography.  Students prepare for professional employment and continuous learning by integrating and synthesizing their professional knowledge, skills, and attitude. Students demonstrate competencies for professional employment at the entry-level and the capacity to pursue lifelong professional growth.

Prerequisites: Completion of all radiography professional coursework, excluding RAD 255 and RAD 222 taken concurrently.

RAD 282
ADVANCED IMAGING MODALITIES
DETAILS
This course introduces the student to advanced imaging disciplines in the health science professions. Basic principles of Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACSs), Mammography, Bone Densitometry, Sonography, Nuclear Medicine, Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Radiation Therapy and other radiographic disciplines will be addressed.

Third year - First Semester

ISC 315
ADVANCED CROSS-SECTIONAL ANATOMY I
DETAILS
Advanced Sectional Anatomy I will discuss anatomical structures of the upper and lower extremities, abdomen, and pelvis located in an array of multiple imaging planes and modalities.  Characteristic appearances of anatomical structures will be discussed as it applies to Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Ultrasound.  Pathology and physiological aspects of major anatomical structures will be addressed and reviewed through identification exercises and assignments when applicable.

Prerequisites: RAD/DMS 262, ARRT(R) candidacy or credential or Instructor Permission

ISC 320
ADVANCED CROSS-SECTIONAL ANATOMY II
DETAILS
Advanced Sectional Anatomy II will discuss anatomical structures of the neck, head, spine, and thorax as identified and located in multiple imaging planes and modalities.  Characteristic appearances of anatomical structures will be discussed as it applies to Computed Tomography (CT), magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Ultrasound images.  Pathology and physiological aspects of major anatomical structures will be addressed and reviewed through identification exercises and assignments when applicable.

Prerequisites: RAD/DMS 262, ARRT(R) candidacy or credential or Instructor Permission

ISC 325
INTRODUCTION TO MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING
DETAILS
This course will cover basic principles of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Instrumentation, equipment, and MRI safety are topics that will be covered in detail within this course. Instruction on Image Weighting and Contrast, Encoding and Image Formation, and MRI Parameters and Trade-offs will also be included within the course.

Prerequisites: ARRT(R) candidacy or credential

ISC 330
ADVANCED MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING
DETAILS
This course is a continuation of ISC325 Introduction to Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Students will engage in an in-depth lecture on pulse sequences that are specific to MRI. MR Flow Phenomena as well as Vascular/Cardiac Imaging will be discussed. Students will explore functional imaging techniques, and MRI contrast agents and artifacts. Course content will include anatomy specific imaging, protocols, and pathology relevant to MRI.

Prerequisites: ISC 325

ISC 340
MAMMOGRAPHY
DETAILS

This course presents the information necessary to the practice of mammography. The course, based on the guidelines of the MQSA and ARRT, will fulfill the didactic component of mammography education. This course includes breast anatomy, physiology and pathology, mammographic equipment and quality assurance, mammographic technique and image evaluation, patient education, mammographic positioning, and interventional procedures. The clinical component of the education is the responsibility of the student.

Prerequisites: ARRT(R) candidacy or credential

ISC 342
APPLICATION AND INSTRUMENTATION OF COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
DETAILS
This course focuses on the physical principles and instrumentation of computed tomography equipment. Historical development, physics, radiation dose, daily operations and data acquisition and manipulations will be discussed. Image post-processing, image archiving, and artifact identification and sources will be explained as it relates to computed tomography.

Prerequisites: ARRT(R) candidacy or credential

ISC 347
IMAGING PROCEDURES IN COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
DETAILS
This course focuses on examination preparation, indications, positioning, contrast media usage, patient education, and safety as they pertain to the field of Computed Tomography. Scanning parameters, radiation dose reduction, and positioning for pathology and anatomical structures will be discussed. Computed Tomography images will be reviewed for pathology, anatomy, and quality during this course.

Prerequisites: ARRT(R) candidacy or credential

Third year - Second Semester

BSH 200/208
SURVEY OF U.S. HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS
DETAILS
This course will explore the basic foundation in which healthcare is delivered in the U.S. Topics include the delivery, financing, and regulation within healthcare systems. Healthcare professionals need to have an understanding of the interaction of U.S. healthcare policies and public health science to be able to act as change agents in their professions.

COM 430
PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION
DETAILS
This course focuses on the particular ways in which writers apply the writing process to genres used regularly by healthcare professionals and utilize research to enhance patient outcomes. Writing assignments will develop students' skills in writing formal correspondence, completing proposals, including effective visual components in formal documents, and completing "Research Evaluation and Utilization Reports", which include recommendations for evidence-based practice in particular settings.

SSC 325
APPLIED ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH
DETAILS
Evidence-based practice is an important component of effective clinical management. This course allows students to develop skills in applied statistics and research while learning to critically examine healthcare information from a variety of sources, including but not limited to professional journals, governmental reports and public media.

WMI 326
BEREAVEMENT AND LOSS FOR THE WOMEN'S HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
DETAILS
This is a specialized course in the study of grief and bereavement for healthcare professionals focusing specifically on women's health. Students will gain insight to their own personal losses and how this impacts their professional practice. Topics include experiences of grief across the lifespan, cultures, gender and spiritual differences. Students will also learn about how they can support those grieving through verbal, non-verbal communication and creating memories. Students will be able to identify local and national resources they can share with their patients. Finally, students will reflect on self-care strategies to help reduce burn out.

Third year - Third Semester

COM 320
HEALTHCARE COLLABORATION & LEADERSHIP
DETAILS
This course applies leadership concepts, conflict management, and assertive communication skills to the healthcare environment. Students will explore the concept of intercultural responsiveness by examining the role of race and gender in leadership. Students will also explore the role of civic engagement for future leaders in healthcare. This course will help students evaluate their leadership and communication capabilities in the context of their careers as future healthcare practitioners and Educated Citizens. The NMC portfolio is integrated throughout this course.

Prerequisites: COM 101 and HUM 150 or HUM 152

HUM ---
WORLD OF IDEAS: HUMANITIES ELECTIVE
DETAILS
Students may choose a World of Ideas elective course. The course must be categorized within one of the following three sections: The World of Ideas: Human Connection The World of Ideas: Historical Perspectives The World of Ideas: The Arts See All Humanities Course Descriptions for specific course information.

RCP 320
HEALTH EDUCATION
DETAILS
This course will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to communicate health-related information among groups and individuals. Topics covered include adult learning styles, strategies for promoting healthy lifestyles, the importance of providing applicable health information, mechanisms used for distribution of information and methods for discussing the relationship between diseases and health behaviors.

SSC 465
CAPSTONE: THE EDUCATED CITIZEN
DETAILS
This course is based in the social sciences and is designed to assist students in the integration of their roles as healthcare professionals and educated citizens. The focus of the class is on deepening students’ understanding of and facility with social and political systems that impact the health and wellbeing of the community. Students demonstrate their preparation to act as educated citizens through the presentation of their portfolio within the context of this capstone course.

Meet the Faculty

Our nursing faculty are highly experienced and credentialed in their own fields, giving you constant real-world insight you can use. While any instructor can recite from a textbook, ours go a step further and draw from vast personal and professional experiences. Instructors here care as deeply about their students as they do the subject matter and it shows.

Meet the Faculty
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Additional information

Which degree is right for me?

Nebraska Methodist College offers several degrees in the field of medical imaging based on your current level of education and certification. Review a few of the options below.

I have my ARRT(R) ...

The imaging sciences degree completion program allows practicing Registered Radiologic Technologist with ARRT(R) credential, to earn a bachelor's of  science through online course work. Depending on transfer credit, the program can be completed in 18-24 months. 

I do not have my ARRT(R)...

The BS in Imaging Sciences can be taken as a dual degree option, which allows you to simultaneously work toward both an associate's and bachelor's degree. Upon successful completion of the associate degree curriculum, you will be able to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART) exam.

Observation Requirements

Hospital/clinic observation in a radiology department is strongly recommended by the NMC Radiologic Technology Program for admission. This is your opportunity to weigh your interest in the field and to learn more about the Radiologic Technology profession. Radiographers [R.T.(R)], who are providing students the opportunity for this experience will need to verify your participation in writing completing the enclosed observation form. Four hours of observation are required to be considered as a potential applicant for the program. It is YOUR responsibility to arrange this observation with one of the clinical sites listed below.

  • Students need to complete a diagnostic radiology experience. Observation in Computed Tomography, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, Radiation Therapy, or Sonography will not be accepted.
  • Students should call ahead to the hospital/clinic of their choice to arrange an appointment for observation. Morning hours are prime hours for observation (8:00a.m.-12:00p.m.). Explain to the receptionist these four hours of observation are a pre-requisite for program admission.
  • Students should expect that it may be one to two weeks before the observation can be scheduled with the facility. Therefore, students are highly encouraged to complete this process as soon as possible.
  • Students are expected to dress professionally since they are completing this process as a representative of Nebraska Methodist College. When completing clinical hours of observation, students need to be mindful of the following: >No jeans, low rise pants or low cut/midriff tops
    • Wear low heeled, closed toe, non-slip comfortable shoes and dress pants.
    • No perfume (potential allergen)
    • Cosmetics and jewelry in moderation
  • Students should notify the hospital/clinic in the event of a late arrival or need to cancel. Canceling of a scheduled observation should be avoided if at all possible.
  • Students should be prepared to ask questions during their clinical observation. If the radiographer is involved in a procedure, please hold questions until after the exam is completed. This will help to minimize any disruption of the radiographic procedure.
  • Students are expected to follow any policies or directions given by hospital/clinic personnel without question. In the event a student is asked to leave a procedure for patient privacy, the student will be directed to a designated waiting area until the exam is completed. Students must remember the patient is always the radiographer’s first responsibility.
  • Students must observe patient confidentiality at all times. Most hospitals/clinics will request that students sign a confidentiality form prior to beginning the clinical observation. Cell phones are not allowed during the observation.
  • Students must keep interactions related to the scope of Radiologic Technology during their observation. Students are encouraged to inform the radiographer immediately if there are any problems or concerns while participating in this clinical observation.

Observation Opportunities with Methodist Health System

To begin the observation process through MHS, please contact: 

Tracy Durbin 
Chief Compliance Officer 
(402) 354-4901 
tracy.durbin@nmhs.org

Minor Curriculum Options

Written Statement

For students applying to Imaging Sciences, BS, or Radiologic Technology, AS.

Please develop a thoughtful and organized response to each of the numbered prompts below.The admissions committee is looking for responses that are well supported and use appropriate style and grammar.

Your complete statement should not exceed 1,000 words and should use APA formatting and citations where applicable. You may attach your statement to an email and submit it to the Admissions Office at admissions@methodistcollege.edu.

Instances of plagiarism within an applicant's written statement will disqualify them for acceptance to Nebraska Methodist College due to the College's commitment to academic integrity and stringent plagiarism policies.

  1. Please address what or who has influenced your decision to pursue a career in healthcare.
  2. Describe the skills, job duties and types of patient exams you will be expected to perform as a radiologic technologist.
  3. If you have job shadowed in radiologic technology, tell us about that experience and how it confirmed that this is the right career choice for you. If you have not shadowed, please respond: Not Applicable.
  4. An NMC graduate is an educated citizen who exhibits breadth of learning through the liberal arts and sciences traditions in concert with professional education. Our goal as an institution is that graduates of NMC will be able to articulate and demonstrate growth in the following areas: as reflective individuals, as effective communicators and as change agents. Considering the educated citizen goals, describe how you would envision using these characteristics as a radiologic technologist.
  5. Provide an example of a difficult situation or dilemma and describe how you demonstrated resilience and maintained a positive attitude during this time.
  6. Outline the steps you will take to ensure your success in this academically rigorous and time-intensive program.  Specifically discuss how you will balance other roles and responsibilities in your life during this time.  Please consider addressing relationships, employment, financial obligations and any additional priorities in your response.
  7. Describe your support system and outline specific areas you anticipate needing support in.  Briefly outline a plan for obtaining that support.
  8. Address any D's F's, W's or other discrepancies on your transcripts.  If you do not have any D's, F's or W's please respond:  Not Applicable. 

Technical Standards

Since the completion of the Associate of Science Degree in Radiologic Technology signifies that the holder is eligible to sit for the A.R.R.T. certification board examination and is prepared for entry into the profession of Radiologic Technology, it follows that graduates must have the knowledge and skills to function in a broad variety of clinical situations.

The following information allows the student to make an informed decision in their educational career by providing a breakdown of student expectations within the program. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply to the program, however, it is the student's responsibility to notify administration of the college if there are any reasons why he/she cannot adequately meet the expectations described below.

  1. Problem solving: the culminating activity in the preparation of a radiographer is clinical reasoning. Therefore, a student must be able to make correct observation, and have the skills of measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis, and synthesis.
  2. Judgment: the student will be expected to demonstrate judgment in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings, which illustrates an ability to make mature, sensitive, effective and ethical decisions in the following areas: Relationships with supervisors, peers, and patients Professional behavior The effectiveness of intervention strategies An understanding of the rationale and justification of his/her performance
  3. Communication:
    1. Written Communication: the student must be able to assimilate information from written sources (i.e., texts, journals, medical/school records, etc.), and attain, comprehend, retain, and utilize new information presented in written formats. The profession calls not only for the initial learning of a new body of knowledge, but also the continual updating of knowledge from current sources. Students are required to utilize information from written sources and must be able to produce appropriate written documentation.
    2. Verbal and Nonverbal Communication: the student must be able to produce the spoken word and elicit information from patients, supervisors, and peers with skills in describing factual information, including subtle cues of mood and temperament. Communication must be accurate, sensitive, and efficient within all facets of healthcare. Response time to emergencies/crisis situations as well as routine communication must be appropriate.
  4. Sensorimotor: the student must have gross motor, fine motor, and equilibrium functions reasonably required to carry out radiographic examinations. Task requirements range from transferring a child or adult from a wheelchair to a radiographic table, to the fine motor manipulation required to draw up emergency medication. Quick reactions are necessary not only for safety, but for one to respond efficiently in most clinical situations. The student must be able to observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand. Observation necessitates the functional use of the visual, auditory, and tactile senses. The student can expect to lift and manipulate patients and radiographic equipment up to 50 lbs or more.
  5. Attitude: the student is expected to exhibit professional behavior and attitudes during his/her participation in classroom and clinical situations. This includes, but is not limited to, appropriate language, flexibility toward change, and acceptance of responsibility for one's own conduct. The student is expected to exhibit a positive attitude toward patients, peers, and supervisors.
  6. Observation: the student will be required to use instruments requiring visual acuity. These devices include, but are not limited to, radiographic equipment, health assessment tools and devices (i.e., blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, etc.). The student will be required to make observations and evaluations, while observing the results of treatment and reactions.
  7. It is the responsibility of the student to understand the duties, responsibilities, skills and abilities required of  this chosen program/profession. In addition to the technical standards as described above, please review the information regarding radiologic technology at the O*NET website.