Top 10 Online Radiology Tech Programs 2024

Online radiology tech programs (also known as x-ray tech programs) are designed for working radiologic techs who already have an associate degree and active radiologic certification to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Medical Radiology.

A radiology technician, also known as a radiographer, is an allied healthcare professional who operates imaging and scanning equipment for diagnostic purposes. They use specialized equipment to perform their jobs, such as CT scanners, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or X-ray machines. 

If your career goal is to become a radiology technician, you can choose from three pathways: a certificate program, an associate degree program, or a Bachelor of Science in Medical Radiology degree program.

It is important to remember that many employers prefer to hire x-ray techs with a higher level of education. Higher education also increases your opportunities for career advancement in your field and better overall compensation.

This article will cover the best online radiology tech/x-ray tech programs across the country and share essential information you need to know about each program!

What is an Online Radiology Tech Program?

An online radiology tech program is for students who wish to become a radiology tech without attending in-person classes or for working radiologists who want to advance their education with a bachelor's degree.

Online radiology technician programs vary—some online programs are for entry-level students who wish to earn an associate's degree. However, most bachelor’s degree programs are for working radiology professionals with an associate degree. Online x-ray tech programs typically take about two years to complete.

Additional requirements for online radiology tech/x-ray tech programs may include:

• Previously earned an associate degree
• Previous experience working as a radiology technician 
• Must have an active registry with:
  • American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
  • American Registry for Diagnostics Medical Sonography (ARDMS), or
  • Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB)

Keep in mind that in most states, a minimum of an associate degree is required to work as a radiologic technologist.  However, some states may only require a certificate program to become certified or licensed.

What Do You Study In An X-Ray Tech Program?

It's not just about how to run the x-ray machine! Here are some other topics you'll learn in an online radiology tech program:

• Various forms of imaging, not just x-rays. This can include MRIs, sonograms, and CTs.
• The math needed to calculate and read x-ray equipment
• Learning about the x-ray equipment itself
• Human anatomy and physiology
• Medical terminology
• Patient interaction and communication

Top 10 Online Radiology Tech/X-Ray Tech Programs 

Choosing an online x-ray tech/radiology tech program is a huge decision that requires careful consideration. The good news is that Nurse.org put a list together of some of the best online x-ray tech/radiology tech programs in the country!

Our ranking system considers accreditation, certification pass rates, graduation rates, post-graduation employment rates, and student-faculty ratio.

Types of Radiology Tech and X-Ray Tech Programs

Online

Some radiology tech programs offer online lectures and coursework that students may complete remotely. However, all radiology tech programs have clinical requirements that students must complete in person. 

In-person

Most x-ray tech programs are on a university or hospital campus where students attend in-person classes. However, many in-person programs have a “hybrid” component and offer some online coursework.

Bridge

Bridge programs allow working associate's degree-trained radiologic professionals to earn a BSN more quickly. Many radiology bridge programs are also online, so students have the flexibility to continue working during their studies.

Accelerated

Accelerated radiology tech programs allow students to stack classes to complete their studies more quickly than through a traditional program.

Is an Online X-Ray Tech Program Right For You?

X-Ray Technician is a hands-on career. Therefore, a lot of the online training requires students already have an associate degree and have experience working in the field but want to enhance their knowledge or experience. Because of this requirement, online x-ray tech programs are most commonly not for entry-level radiology tech students. 

As with all online programs, students should be able to excel in a "study from home" type environment. Online programs often require students to be self-motivated to get online to complete coursework, study hours, and tests on time even when there isn't a requirement to be somewhere specific at a given time. If you are the type of students who needs to be pushed to meet deadlines, then an online program may not be right for you. However, if you can trust yourself to get your work done, an online x-ray techn program can be a good fit for people who currently work a full-time job, have family obligations, or live in areas where an in-person program isn't available. 

Additional Radiology Tech Resources

If you're interested in pursuing a career in radiology, check out these other radiology resources:

• How to Become a Radiology Technician
• Radiology Tech Salary by State
• Your Guide to Radiology Careers

FAQs About Online Radiology Tech Programs

• What are the requirements to become a radiology technician?

  • Requirements vary depending on the type of program. However, most radiology tech programs typically require a high school diploma or GED equivalent, an admissions application, ACT/SAT scores, and a minimum 2.5 GPA. Additional requirements for online radiology tech programs may include having direct experience working as a radiology technician and certification. 

• Who is the accredited body for radiology tech programs?

  • Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accreditation shows that a radiology tech program maintains the highest level of academic excellence and safety of patient care.

• Are there radiology technician programs available online?

  • Yes. There are some online programs for entry-level students who wish to earn an associate degree. However, most are bachelor’s degree programs for working radiology professionals with an associate's degree. Online radiology tech programs typically take about two years to complete.

• How much can you make as a radiology technician?

  • According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), radiological technologists in 2023 earned a median annual income of $76,020 per year or $36.55/hr.

• What classes are in a radiology technician program?

  • Programs require classes in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, how to position patients, radiation protection, and radiographic procedures. Bachelor's degree programs require additional coursework in medical ethics and privacy, advanced imaging techniques, clinical research, and decision-making.

• How do you pay for a radiology technician program?

  • There are several ways to pay for radiology tech school, including scholarships, grants, and financial aid. Many students also continue to work through school to pay for tuition. Graduates also may want to look for an employer who offers a work-tuition reimbursement program.

• How hard is a radiology technician program?

  • Radiology technician programs are challenging both academically and physically. Many students spend 20-40 hours a week between studying, classwork, and clinical experience, depending on how quickly they want to complete their program.