Fastest Way To Become a Radiology Tech in Georgia 2025

Aspiring radiology technicians in Georgia typically need about two years of study time. Those looking for accelerated pathways have several options though.

If you're interested in becoming a radiology technologist in Georgia, you may be curious about the process. In particular, you'd like to know more about the fastest way to become a radiology tech.

Keep reading as we explore this topic in more detail below. We'll talk about accelerated radiology tech programs and other options for starting your career fast, and we'll provide answers to various questions you may have.

What Does a Radiology Technologist Do?

Radiology technologists may also be known as radiology technicians, rad techs, or radiographers. These professionals are medical imaging specialists that conduct various diagnostic tests like X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, mammography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests.

Radiology techs use diagnostic imaging machines to assist other healthcare professionals in diagnosing various medical conditions. Their duties include:

preparing patients for exams and answering questions
operating diagnostic imaging machines
cleaning and performing basic maintenance on machines
maintaining patient records
communicating with other healthcare professionals about test results

Radiology techs must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills and a strong understanding of radiation safety and machine operation. They must complete practical radiologic technology programs to prepare them for the hands-on nature of the job.

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

The state of Georgia does not currently require state licensure for radiology techs. However, most employers require job candidates to maintain national certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

To earn ARRT certification, candidates must hold an associate degree in any field and have completed an approved training program in the specific credential they're pursuing. For example, candidates hoping to earn certification in magnetic resonance imaging must have completed an accredited MRI technologist training program.

If you already hold an associate degree in an unrelated field, you may be able to pursue a short-term certificate program in radiologic technology to qualify for ARRT certification. Otherwise, pursuing an associate degree in radiology or radiologic technology should help you meet the necessary qualifications.

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

In most cases, it takes about two years to complete the necessary training to become a radiology tech in Georgia. This is because most radiology associate degree programs take about two years to complete.

Some schools in the state also offer bachelor's degrees in radiology, radiation therapy, and similar fields. These programs generally take anywhere from two to four years to complete depending on previous levels of education.

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

There are ways that students can accelerate their radiologic technology training timelines. Some schools offer accelerated associate degrees that can be completed in under two years. Those who enlist in the military can also complete their training more quickly than usual.

Students who already have an associate degree and opt to enroll in a certificate program can accelerate their training even more. This is the fastest way to become a radiology tech; students opting for this pathway can potentially begin their new careers within a year.

Fastest Steps To Becoming a Radiology Tech in Georgia

If you're looking to become a radiology tech fast, you have several options to consider. Below, we'll look at some steps to become a radiology tech in an accelerated timeframe.

1. Complete an Accelerated Program

The majority of radiologic technology programs take at least 24 months or six semesters to complete. However, there are some accelerated radiology tech programs available that can shave at least one semester or a few months off of that time.

Accelerated degrees may require prerequisites and are typically intensive, full-time programs. Students must be committed to meeting all deadlines and completing coursework and clinical rotations on schedule.

2. Complete Training Through the Military

If you join the military, you can earn radiologic technology training in a matter of weeks instead of months or years. For example, the U.S. Army provides a radiology specialist training course that spans just over 24 weeks, while the U.S. Navy offers a similar course (titled Advanced Radiographer) that is completed in 21 weeks.

These courses provide 56 to 61 hours of college credit and prepare students to sit for ARRT certification exams. Students must still obtain an associate degree to meet all ARRT eligibility requirements.

3. Study Online

Some community and technical colleges provide online radiologic technology programs. Students who enroll in these programs may have the option of taking heavy courseloads and finishing their education sooner.

Even online programs will have in-person clinical experience requirements, so it's important to ensure you can fulfill these requirements by traveling to clinical sites or completing rotations at local healthcare facilities. You'll also want to ensure the program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic technology (JRCERT) to make sure it meets ARRT standards.

4. Earn a Certificate

Those already holding an associate degree may be able to earn certificates in one or more radiologic specializations (CT, MRI, etc). This provides a quick pathway to a radiologic technology career.

Some certificate programs may require your associate degree to be in a field related to radiologic technology, while others may require you to complete prerequisites before beginning the program. Check with any school you are considering to find out the requirements before enrolling.

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

Most radiologic technology programs in Georgia are associate degrees. Students in these programs typically pay between about $2,000 and $6,000 for their training.

Bachelor's degree programs are available at select public and private schools like Georgia Southern University and Emory University. These programs cost a little more, typically between $9,000 and $16,000 in tuition.

Certificate programs are much more affordable due to lower credit hour requirements. Students generally pay $2,000 or less for these types of programs.

FAQs About Becoming a Radiology Tech Quickly in Georgia

If you still have questions about fast radiology tech programs in Georgia, keep reading. Below, we'll answer some frequently asked questions you may have.

Is It Hard To Become a Radiology Technician?

Radiology tech training involves some courses students may find challenging, such as anatomy and physiology or medical terminology. However, whether a program is considered ''hard'' or ''easy'' will depend on the individual student's strengths and weaknesses.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become an MRI Tech?

The fastest way to become an MRI tech is to pursue a post-primary certificate in MRI technology. Several schools in Georgia offer these training programs to students who have completed an associate degree in radiography, radiology, or a similar field.

Can You Become an X-Ray Tech Online?

Yes, some schools offer online degrees and certificate programs for aspiring X-ray technicians. These programs typically require in-person clinical experiences but allow students to complete coursework components online.

How Much Does a Radiology Tech Make in Georgia?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiology techs in Georgia earn an average annual salary of $64,550. The lowest 10% of earners average less than $47,870 per year, while the highest 10% earn more than $90,000.

Is There Financial Aid for an Online Radiology Tech Program?

Students may be able to earn state or federal aid, scholarships, grants, tuition assistance, or other forms of financial aid to cover their radiology tech program. Check with your school to ensure your program is financial aid-eligible and what forms of aid may be accepted.

Find Radiology Tech Programs

If you're ready to start your career as a radiology technician, explore the schools found here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools to learn more about the programs they have available and to find the right one for you.