Radiography

Description of the Profession

Radiographers use x-rays to produce photographic images of body structure. These images are then used to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries incurred by the patient. Radiographers may also assist physicians in performing other complex examination procedures.

Skills and Characteristics Important to this Profession

Radiographers are adept communicators, work well as a member of a team of caregivers, and possess proficient computer skills. They keep handwritten records of their patients' treatments, so accuracy and proper spelling are very important. Those students interested in a career in radiography should also embrace professional development and life-long learning.

Description of the Indiana University Radiography Program

IU Bloomington does not offer a Radiography program, but pre-Radiography students may complete the prerequisites at IUB and then transfer to an IU program at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, IU Kokomo, IU School of Medicine in Indianapolis (IUPUI), IU Northwest, or IU South Bend.

Other Accredited Programs

For a list of accredited radiologic technology programs, see the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.

Additional Notes and Recommendations

Students may be admitted to the IU School of Medicine in Indianapolis (IUPUI) Radiography program directly from high school. For more information please, see the IUPUI All-Campus Bulletin 2006-2008.

Job Shadowing / Observation

Job shadowing and observation is the best way for you to get a first hand look at a given profession and determine whether or not it is one you wish to look into further. HPPLC advisors strongly encourage you to take advantage of any such opportunities that arise during high school; or, if you are already in college, to arrange shadowing / observation as soon as possible. Refer to the PDF document below for further information.

Further Information

Refer to the HPPLC Radiography handout for more detailed information about prerequisite courses, application and admission information, and for additional resources.

If you are interested in other health professions that are advised through HPPLC, we encourage you to sign up for the HPPLC email list associated with your program(s) of interest. Feel free to sign up for more than one list. Also refer to the HPPLC handout, Health Professions Descriptions.