Costs for Radiology Technician School
What are the costs for Radiology Technician School?
The costs for Radiology Technician School can vary widely based on several factors, such as the type of program, the institution, the location, and whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student. Here’s a rough breakdown of the costs you might encounter:
Tuition
The tuition fees for radiology technician programs can range from $5,000 to $30,000 or more per year. Community colleges tend to be more affordable than private institutions, while public universities typically offer lower tuition rates for in-state students compared to out-of-state students.
Books and materials
Textbooks, reference materials, and supplies can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more per year, depending on the program’s requirements.
Living expenses
If you’re attending a radiology technician school away from home, you will need to account for housing, transportation, and other living expenses. These costs can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more per year, depending on the cost of living in the area.
Uniforms and personal protective equipment (PPE)
As a radiology technician student, you may need to purchase uniforms, scrubs, or lab coats, as well as personal protective equipment such as lead aprons, gloves, and eyewear. The cost of these items can range from $100 to $500 or more.
Certification and licensure expenses
Upon completion of the program, you will need to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam to become a registered radiologic technologist. The exam fee is around $200, and additional fees may apply for state licensure, which varies by state.
Online Radiology Technician Program Costs
Online radiology technician programs can be a more affordable and flexible option for students who want to pursue a career in radiologic technology. While the overall costs can vary depending on the program and institution, here are some general aspects to consider when evaluating online radiology technician program costs:
Tuition: Online program tuition fees can range from $5,000 to $30,000 or more per year, similar to on-campus programs. However, some online programs may offer lower tuition rates compared to their on-campus counterparts due to lower overhead costs.
Technology Fees: Online programs often charge additional technology fees to cover the costs associated with the online learning platform, software, and other resources. These fees can range from $50 to $500 or more per semester, depending on the program.
Books and supplies: Although many online programs use digital materials, which can be more affordable than physical textbooks, you may still need to purchase some books, reference materials, and supplies. The cost for these items can range from $500 to $2,000 or more per year.
Lab and clinical fees: Online radiology technician programs typically require students to complete in-person clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. Some programs may charge additional fees for these clinical experiences, which can range from $500 to $2,000 or more.
Certification and licensure fees: As with on-campus programs, you will need to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam and obtain state licensure upon completion of your online program. The costs associated with these requirements are generally the same for both online and on-campus students.
Computer and internet access: You will need a reliable computer with a high-speed internet connection to participate in an online program. If you don’t already have the necessary equipment, you may need to budget for these costs.
Keep in mind that financial aid is often available for online radiology technician programs, just as it is for on-campus programs. Research different online programs, compare costs, and apply for financial aid to help reduce the overall expense of your education.