Fastest Way to Become a Radiology Tech in Illinois 2025

The radiology career field is lucrative and attainable for motivated Illinois residents. It's a growing healthcare field, which you can enter with just a certification or associate's degree.

It's possible to jumpstart an entry-level career in radiology without spending too long to acquire the appropriate education. Keep reading to see the fastest way to become a radiology tech, what the job entails, the credential requirements in Illinois, and other important considerations for prospective radiographers.

What Does a Radiology Technologist Do?

Radiology technologists assist healthcare professionals as they perform diagnostic imaging, treat patients, ensure radiation safety, and manage patient data records. Daily tasks involve using X-ray machines, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scanners, and other sophisticated equipment. Such technology allows a radiologist to support physicians' goals of performing more precise diagnostics and delivering first-class patient care.

Experienced radiographers guarantee radiation protection and safety by knowing and implementing strict protocols. This also involves routine maintenance of medical imaging equipment, MRI, and other expensive machinery. Expertise comes from a combination of clinical experience and the training you would receive from an accredited program.

What Are the Requirements To Become a Radiology Tech in Illinois?

Licensing requirements are specific to the State of Illinois. This requires you to do at least the following:

• pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam
• obtain licensure from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA)
• apply for and complete the certification from IEMA's Division of Nuclear Safety
• renew every two years through continuing education

This training covers various instruction methods, ranging from clinical experience and general education prerequisites to courses in other foundational health sciences. Upon completion, graduates will possess entry-level competency in X-rays, computed tomography, mammography, nuclear medicine, and other healthcare topics.

How Long Does it Take To Become a Radiology Tech in Illinois?

Initial certification will require 24 hours of coursework. Then, you can expect the renewal education to require between 12 to 24 hours of radiography coursework, depending on the selected degree program. You can accomplish this with an Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS) or other similar community college programs.

Keep in mind, it is essential to only enroll in a radiologic technology program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Fortunately, there are several options in the Chicago area, and you can visit the JRCERT website for more information.

What Is the Shortest Time To Become a Radiology Tech in Illinois?

Although it takes 24 credit hours to complete the required education, there are many ways to expedite this process. Accelerated radiology tech programs are a terrific resource if you want to enter the career field in the shortest duration. A full-time student can enter these programs and finish in just two years.

If you want to enroll in a bachelor's program, some Illinois institutions offer accelerated degree options, permitting students to finish those with just 21 hours of coursework.

Fastest Steps To Becoming a Radiology Tech in Illinois

There are several steps to become a radiology tech in the shortest amount of time. Consider these three tips before enrolling in a program.

1. Find a High-Quality Program with Accelerated Options

As you browse through academic programs, focus on program effectiveness data, placement rates, program completion, and other degree completion metrics. This will give you the best insight into job placement and future career success.

The highest-rated programs can help you earn better jobs and they also grant students greater flexibility with either online or on-campus enrollment. Some even offer a head start toward achieving a bachelor's or master's degree for high achievers in radiologic technology.

2. Leverage Your Military Background

Are you an active-duty or retired military service member? Then you may hold an advantage for becoming a radiology tech sooner.

A military background may qualify you for more lucrative financial aid options as well. Be sure to research the details and requirements before applying to schools.

Radiologic technology is an excellent way to begin or accelerate career paths for other healthcare roles within the military, such as a doctor.

3. Begin with a Certification Program

Begin with a radiologic technology certification program before pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree. This is the ARRT certification, which is the minimum competency for working in the field. It's a great chance for students to confirm their interests while positioning themselves for further study.

Prospective certification candidates can enroll at almost any community college offering radiology tech degrees. The ARRT certification requires clinical education and exposure to several aspects of radiologic technology, including:

• MRI
• mammography
• breast sonography
• bone densitometry
• other procedures

How Much Does it Cost To Become a Radiology Tech in Illinois?

You can assess the total cost of a radiologic technology program by the program type. Here are some estimates based on the degree type:

• radiology tech certificate: $5,000 to $25,000
• associate degree: $6,000 to $40,000
• bachelor's degree: $30,000 and $50,000

FAQs About Becoming a Radiology Tech Quickly in Illinois

Now, let's address the most frequently asked questions on how to become a radiology technician.

Is It Hard To Become a Radiology Technician?

Yes, this can be a challenging academic program. Although academic requirements are always rigorous in science, technology, engineering, and mathematic (STEM) fields, many Americans have entered the field of radiologic technology.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), radiology techs comprised over 200,000 employees nationwide in 2023. The right radiography program should make the entry process attainable for motivated applicants. It should include difficult coursework in subjects such as radiobiology, anatomy and physiology, radiation safety, and so forth.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become an MRI Tech?

The fastest way to become an MRI tech is to complete the licensure requirements through JRCERT and ARRT. However, since radiologic technology is a competitive field, it's important to stand out from the competition.

A combination of a high grade point average (GPA), the ability to pass a background check, and good mentoring in an accredited program can place prospective radiographers in the best position for abundant career opportunities.

Can You Become an X-Ray Tech Online?

Yes, there are plenty of online and on-campus programs to help you obtain either an associate's or bachelor's degree. You can also find several affordable online certification programs. Learn.org has an entire section devoted to online radiology degrees and certifications.

How Much Does a Radiology Tech Make in Illinois?

Radiology technologists receive higher salaries than the national average. This is true of several locations, such as Peoria, where radiographers earn an average of $134,458 per year. Although that's one of the higher-paid locations, the average across the state reaches an impressive $125,491 (or an hourly rate of $43 per hour).

Is There Financial Aid for an Online Radiology Tech Program?

Yes, like many other associate, bachelor's, and master's programs, you can pursue a degree in radiologic technology without shouldering the entire financial burden alone. The best way to afford an online radiology tech program would be to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for Pell Grants and other Illinois-based financial aid packages.

Read More: Cheap Radiology Tech Programs

Find Radiology Tech Programs

These steps can help you identify the fastest way to become a radiology tech. Explore the featured programs on Learn.org to find career opportunities in radiologic technology and other healthcare fields. Reach out to colleges directly for information on degree options, admission requirements, financial aid, program applications, and more.