Fastest Way To Become a Radiology Tech in Maryland 2025

Individuals interested in a radiology technology career are not alone. According to the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), radiologic technologists are the third largest group of healthcare professionals behind physicians and nurses.

But how can you start a rad tech career in Maryland? The process involves meeting educational requirements, getting ARRT-certified and registered, and obtaining a state-based license. If you're eager to start this career, read on to learn more about the fastest way to become a radiology tech and what you can expect from this health profession.

What Does a Radiology Technologist Do?

Radiology technologists assist physicians with patient care by performing X-rays and other diagnostic imaging exams (ex. computed tomography (CT) or mammography). Also known as radiology technicians and radiographers, these healthcare professionals take on the following responsibilities:

• maintaining and operating imaging equipment
• preparing patients for procedures by taking medical histories and shielding exposed areas that don't require imaging
• positioning patients and equipment to get the correct images
• evaluating images with physicians and radiologists to determine whether more are needed

These professionals work in hospitals, medical imaging centers, doctor's offices, and outpatient care centers. Long periods of standing are expected in this role, which is why physical stamina is a recommended quality alongside strong technical and interpersonal skills. Fortunately, traditional and accelerated radiology tech programs are available throughout Maryland to ensure future techs have the skills to succeed.

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

Individuals interested in becoming radiology techs in Maryland must apply with the Maryland Department of Health's Maryland Board of Physicians. Here are the steps to start this career:

• Fill out and submit an application supplied by the Board.
• Pay the application fee.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be of good moral character.
• Graduate from a radiography education program recognized by the ARRT.
• Be certified by and registered with the ARRT.

Other requirements include completing a criminal history records check and demonstrating oral and written competency in English. There are no alternative pathways to licensure; however, the Board doesn't require education programs to have the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accreditation.

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

The most common timeframe to qualify for an entry-level radiology tech role in Maryland is two years; however, students can sometimes secure these roles faster, depending on their rad tech program of study. Here's what students learn in accredited programs:

• radiographic procedures
• clinical radiography
• imaging equipment maintenance and operation
• radiologic technology
• radiographic positioning
• clinical education
• radiobiology

Some programs require students to complete prerequisite courses (ex. anatomy and physiology) before or during enrollment. Clinical rotations (alongside didactic coursework) prepare students to sit for the ARRT certification exam and licensure in Maryland.

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

The average time to become a radiology tech in Maryland is about two years; however, programs are available that help students begin their careers in as few as 18 months. Schools offering programs with shorter timeframes might have a full-time option that speeds up completion. They could also allow students to take general education or other non-radiography courses at another school before enrolling, making it possible to graduate in fewer months.

Fastest Steps To Becoming a Radiology Tech in Maryland

Do you want to learn more about the fastest way to become a radiology tech in Maryland? Explore the following steps to become a radiology tech.

1. Associate Degree Radiologic Technology Programs

Associate degree programs in radiologic technology take about two years to complete. Students take didactic courses and participate in clinical practicums to get hands-on experience in patient care.

After graduating, learners typically receive an Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and are eligible to sit for the ARRT certification exam. Students can also continue their education by enrolling in a bachelor's degree program.

Program options in Maryland include the two-year AAS degree in radiologic technology at Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) and the two-year AAS in radiologic (X-ray) technology at Montgomery College.

2. Accelerated Radiology Tech Programs

Accelerated radiology tech programs are usually similar to traditional two-year programs. The main difference between the two is that accelerated programs help students complete their studies and start their careers in less time.

The Community College of Baltimore County offers an AAS in radiography (X-ray technology) consisting of 67 credit hours of coursework, including clinical education and clinical seminar requirements. Students can complete this program in 21 months when taking non-radiography courses before entering the program.

The AAS in radiologic technology from Washington Adventist University is a competency-based program that students complete in 22 months. Learners choosing this degree receive classroom instruction and participate in practical clinical experiences.

3. Hospital-Based Radiology Technology Programs

A hospital-based radiology tech program ensures that students receive the academic background and clinical experiences needed to excel in the workplace. Courses might be available at the hospital's radiography school, or learners could complete coursework at a partnering college or university. Clinicals typically take place at the hospital offering the program.

Depending on the program, students might receive a diploma or certificate of completion. Some help learners earn an associate degree and certificate. Hospital-based programs offered in Maryland include a radiography program from Johns Hopkins Hospital and the Schools of Medical Imaging that learners can complete in as little as 18 months.

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

The amount you'll pay to start a radiologic technologist career varies based on factors like school of choice and residency. Here are the costs you might expect as you prepare for this role:

• Associate degrees: Students often pay per-credit tuition in associate programs with the lowest rates reserved for in-county residents. Depending on your selected school, you could pay as little as $130 per credit.
• Accelerated programs: Programs that let students accelerate their study by bringing in prior learning credits help reduce total tuition. With in-county rates reaching as low as $122 per credit, students can complete their studies at a very affordable cost.
• Hospital-based programs: A hospital-based program might charge students per-credit or flat-rate tuition. For an entire program, you could pay under $12,000.

FAQs About Becoming a Radiology Tech Quickly in Maryland

Radiology technology is an exciting career with plenty of opportunities for advancement. Explore the frequently asked questions below to learn more about becoming a radiologic tech in Maryland.

Is It Hard To Become a Radiology Technician?

Individuals pursuing a career in radiology technology must be prepared for a journey to licensure that requires hard work. Didactic courses and clinical experiences in radiologic technology and radiography programs can be challenging. However, the time and effort dedicated to this process are worth the rewarding career students can enjoy afterward.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become an MRI Tech?

Typically, the fastest way to become a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tech is through a certificate program for imaging professionals with ARRT certification in sonography, nuclear medicine, radiography, or radiation therapy. With an imaging background, students can finish their clinicals and courses fast and begin their new careers in as little as six months.

Can You Become an X-Ray Tech Online?

While online X-ray (or radiologic) tech programs are hard to find in Maryland, they do exist in other states. For instance, the associate degree in radiologic technology at Rasmussen University in Florida and Minnesota offers online coursework with in-person clinicals and labs. Online self-directed assessments are also available to help students move quickly through materials they know and spend more time with unfamiliar concepts.

How Much Does a Radiology Tech Make in Maryland?

After becoming a radiology tech in Maryland, workers earn good salaries. According to May 2023 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, radiologic technologists and technicians in Maryland earned a mean hourly wage of $37.63 and a mean annual wage of $78,270. National estimates over the same period were $36.18 (mean hourly wage) and $75,250 (mean annual wage).

Is There Financial Aid for an Online Radiology Tech Program?

Yes, some online radiology tech programs offer financial aid. For example, eligible students enrolled in the College of Health Care Professions' online AAS in radiologic technology program can receive financial aid after submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal and other student aid options include grants, scholarships, and military benefits.

Read More: Cheap Radiology Tech Programs

Find Radiology Tech Programs

Take steps toward a fulfilling career in radiology technology by exploring the accredited degree programs found on Learn.org. Contact schools of interest directly to learn how they can help you achieve your academic and career goals.