Admission Criteria for the School of Radiography

1. Graduation from high school or equivalent G.E.D. and home educated students will be evaluated on an individual basis. Official high school transcripts must also be submitted.
2. Applicant must be 18 years old by the start of program.
3. Applicant must complete and submit an official application to the program and an admissions essay requirement (the deadline is March 31 of even numbered years 2010, 2012, 2014, etc...)
4. Students will not be accepted on a part-time basis and no previous radiography training or experience at prior institutions will be awarded transfer credit.
5. Applicant must have a formal interview with the Program Director.
6. An ACT score of at least 18 in Math, Natural Science, and Composite is preferred.
7. Required postsecondary general education of a minimum 15 college-level credit hours. Written/oral communications and mathematics/analytical studies are required to satisfy a portion of the 15 semester hours and the balance of general education can draw from varying areas of study to diversify your educational experience (e.g. social/behavioral sciences, natural sciences, computing or humanities/fine arts.
8. At least a "C" average in courses taken at other colleges, in the case of transfer students. Official college transcripts must be submitted to the Program Director.
9. One year of high school laboratory science including biology, chemistry, or physics, or equivalent with a grade of "C" or better.
10. One year of high school algebra or equivalent with a grade of “C” or better.
11. 4 hours of mandatory observation in the MDH Radiology Department.
12. Submit three professional letters of recommendation.
13. Never have been convicted of a crime (misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony; the only exceptions are speeding and parking violations). Student admission to the MDH School of Radiography program is contingent upon passing a criminal background check performed by MDH.
14. The MDH School of Radiography has specified the following nonacademic criteria (technical standards) which all applicants are expected to meet and maintain in order to participate and complete the Radiography Program.

The student must be able to:

• Visually inspect radiographic images to evaluate quality and patient positioning.
• Participate in classroom studies and read college level textbooks and materials.
• Stand/walk up to 8 hours per day providing patient care and diagnostic testing in the clinical setting.
• Utilize computers and radiographic room control panels. Climb on step stool to position patients.
• Lift and carry patients when assisting in transfers from wheelchairs, carts, and beds.
• Carry grid cassettes and supplies up to 15 pounds.
• Wear full-length lead aprons up to 5 pounds.
• Reach and stoop to maneuver equipment and patients.
• Position patients and operate equipment (stationary and mobile) simultaneously by using bilateral gross and fine motor dexterity.
• Document treatment in written form.
• Communicate verbally with patients, families, nurses, physicians, staff and other students.
• Normal or corrected vision and hearing.
• Desire to work in a medical setting with patients in various states of illness or trauma.
• Ability to work under stressful situations.
• Ability to listen and follow directions accurately and precisely.

Mandatory Clinical Observation

A four-hour clinical observation is required and must be completed before the last working day of March of even years for students applying for admission. Prospective students may perform an observation anytime during the year since the program only accepts students during even-numbered years. If you are a prospective student interested in becoming a radiologic technologist then it is strongly recommended to perform the clinical observation in a timely manner. During the observation you will be given an opportunity to experience first-hand the daily operations of a diagnostic imaging department and observe the radiologic technologists performing their professional duties and decide if becoming an RT will accomplish your professional career objectives.

Student Policies and Procedures

Prior to the start of the program, all students enrolled in the School of Radiography will receive and sign for a student handbook. The handbook contains school policies which the student is expected to follow throughout the program.

Immunizations

Current immunizations, including Hepatitis B, and criminal background check are required upon admission. Once accepted into the program, students will be required to successfully pass a physical regarding their general health with their GP/family physician at their own expense. The Hepatitis B immunization is a three to six month series.

Health Services and Insurance

Students must assume responsibility for their own health care and hospitalization costs during the school year. It is strongly recommended that all students obtain health insurance coverage for the duration of the program.

Recommended High School Courses:

• Two years of English with a minimum passing grade of a "C"
• Two years of algebra with a minimum passing grade of a "C"
• Two years of lab science including biology, chemistry, or physics with a minimum passing grade of a "C"

Tuition

The MDH School of Radiography does not currently charge tuition. Students are charged a $500.00 per year fee which covers textbooks, training materials, lab fees (dosimetry), graduation fees, and school pin. Textbooks and lab fees are due by the end of August in each academic year.

Financial Aid

The School of Radiography does not participate in any Federal Title IV funding or state financial aid programs.

Uniforms

Students are required to purchase uniforms, white duty shoes, and a white lab coat. Uniforms must be of a specific style. The Program Director can provide further information.

Transfer Students

At present, the program does not consider advanced placement for graduates of limited or foreign radiography programs or credit to transfer students from any other radiography programs. This includes all community-based, vocational, military, or hospital-based accredited radiography programs.

Finalizing Admission

The admissions committee will evaluate the completed application, references, essay and transcripts and make a selection of students without discrimination with regard to age, sex, race, creed, handicap, or national origins. Candidates will receive written notification of admission status.