Fastest Way To Become a Radiology Tech in Arizona 2025

If you're planning a career in radiologic technology, you may be wondering what steps you should take to become a radiology tech. There are several radiologic technology programs in your home state of Arizona, but you're wondering about the fastest way to become a radiology tech.

Keep reading as we discuss accelerated radiology tech programs, certificates, and other ways of getting your medical imaging credentials quickly. We'll also look at what radiology techs do, the requirements to become one in Arizona, and other questions you may have.

What Does a Radiology Technologist Do?

Radiology techs perform diagnostic imaging exams like computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography, and X-ray scans. They are skilled at operating imaging equipment and have excellent communication skills for discussing diagnoses with patients and other healthcare professionals. Other job duties may include:

• positioning patients for imaging exams
• cleaning and maintaining imaging equipment
• updating patient records

Radiology techs may also be known as radiology technicians, rad techs, and radiographers, as well as by specialist titles like X-ray technician and MRI technologist. They work in various healthcare facilities like imaging centers and hospitals.

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

Arizona is one of many states that require radiology techs to be licensed. Candidates can apply for state licensure through the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Before getting a state license, however, candidates must be nationally certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Primary certification requires candidates to have completed an accredited radiologic technology education program and an associate degree.

Those already holding an associate degree in another field may be able to complete a short certificate program in radiologic technology. Other students are encouraged to obtain an associate degree or higher in radiologic technology to ensure they fulfill both ARRT requirements.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Radiology Tech in Arizona?

Students in Arizona can choose from a variety of radiology tech training programs at colleges and community colleges in the state. Most of these programs take between six and nine semesters, or two to three years, to complete.

Some schools may offer flexibility in the form of some online coursework or allow students to take heavy courseloads and finish sooner. Most college programs, however, are highly structured and follow predetermined schedules.

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

The state offers few accelerated radiology tech programs or certificates, but students have other options for speeding up their training. One of the fastest ways to become a radiology tech in Arizona is to complete a military course in radiologic technology.

Additionally, students can enroll in online programs that allow for flexible study schedules or faster completion times. They may be able to enroll in accelerated programs or certificates offered online as well.

Fastest Steps To Becoming a Radiology Tech in Arizona

If you're curious to know more about the steps to become a radiology tech fast, keep reading. Below, we'll look at some top options for Arizona students.

1. Complete Training Through the Military

The Army, Navy, and Air Force all provide short-term courses in radiologic technology and radiography that can help students pursue their career goals in a matter of weeks instead of months or years. For example, the Army's Radiology Specialist program runs for 24 weeks, while the Navy's Advanced Radiographer course takes just 21 weeks to complete.

Students in these programs are prepared to sit for ARRT certification exams and receive 56 to 61 hours of college credit they can apply toward an associate degree program. These military courses are by far the fastest way to meet the education requirements for radiology techs.

2. Complete an Online Program

Some schools in the U.S. provide radiology and radiography programs online, though students will still need to complete clinical training at approved locations. Online programs tend to feature more coursework flexibility, which may help highly motivated students graduate faster.

It's important to make sure you choose a high-quality online program that's accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). This accreditation will help you know the program meets essential academic standards and will be approved by ARRT.

3. Complete an Accelerated Program

As noted, there are very few accelerated online or in-person radiology tech programs in Arizona. However, some programs can be completed in a relatively short timeframe when compared to other programs.

For example, Maricopa Community Colleges offer nine-semester radiologic technology associate degrees at several campuses. Eastern Arizona College, on the other hand, provides a program that can be completed in just five semesters. Enrolling in a short program like this will help students get started in their new career path sooner.

4. Earn a Certificate

Radiologic technology certificates are rare in Arizona, but they are a good option for students who already hold an associate or bachelor's degree and are looking to transition into the field of radiologic sciences. These certificates can often be completed in a year or less.

Arizona students may be able to complete online certificate programs at out-of-state schools. They are encouraged to check the admissions requirements carefully before enrolling to ensure they are eligible for any specific certificate programs they are considering.

How Much Does It Cost To Become a Radiology Tech in Arizona?

Radiology tech program costs vary from school to school and may also vary by program level. The schools offering radiology tech programs in Arizona have average tuition charges ranging from around $2,000 to more than $20,000 per year.

Students enrolled in certificate and bachelor's degree programs in other state may or may not face out-of-state tuition costs, which can greatly affect their yearly tuition totals. Generally speaking, certificate programs may range from several hundred to several thousand dollars total, while bachelor's programs typically cost $10,000 to $20,000 per year.

FAQs About Becoming a Radiology Tech Quickly in Arizona

If you still have questions about working in patient care as a radiology tech, you're not alone. Keep reading as we answer some commonly asked questions you may be curious about.

Is It Hard To Become a Radiology Technician?

Radiology technicians are entry-level healthcare professionals, and the education to enter this field is considered relatively easy compared to other medical careers. That said, some students may find individual courses like medical terminology or nuclear medicine challenging. Whether or not you consider the training ''hard'' or ''easy'' will depend on your specific strengths and weaknesses academically.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become an MRI Tech?

The fastest way to get started in MRI technology is to complete a short certificate program. In most cases, you will have already needed to complete an associate degree in radiologic technology or a similar field to qualify for this type of certificate. In most cases, the certificate program can be completed in a few months; graduates must then pass the ARRT exam for MRI technologists to begin working in the field.

Can You Become an X-Ray Tech Online?

Yes; students interested in becoming X-ray techs typically need to earn a radiologic technology degree or certificate, and many schools offer these programs online. If you already hold an associate degree in radiology or radiography, you may be able to complete an X-ray certificate program online within a few months.

How Much Does a Radiology Tech Make in Arizona?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that radiology techs in Arizona earn a median annual income of $79,770. The lowest 10% of rad techs in the state earn $54,320 a year or less, while the highest 10% earn $102,160 or more each year.

Is There Financial Aid for an Online Radiology Tech Program?

Yes, many schools and programs accept financial aid for radiologic technology training. You may be able to earn federal or state aid, grants and scholarships from private organizations, or tuition assistance from your employer. Check with your school to find out about specific types of financial aid your chosen program qualifies for.

Read More: Cheap Radiology Tech Programs

Find Radiology Tech Programs

If you're ready to begin your radiology tech journey, explore the schools featured here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the colleges to learn more about their rad tech programs and to choose the right option for you.