The Complete Guide to Radiology Programs in Memphis, TN
Memphis has become a major hub for healthcare and medical technology in the Mid-South, driving strong local demand for qualified radiology technicians and imaging professionals. As both hospitals and outpatient clinics expand their services, they are actively recruiting radiographers, sonographers, MRI techs and other specialists who can expertly operate complex diagnostic imaging equipment and ensure high-quality patient scans.
This comprehensive guide explores the top radiology technology training programs in Memphis, plus insider advice on choosing the right school, succeeding in radiology coursework, and launching your career.
Overview of Radiology Technician Jobs and Salaries in Memphis
The job outlook for radiology techs in Memphis is very promising thanks to the growing needs of area hospitals and clinics like Baptist Memorial, Methodist Le Bonheur, St. Jude Children‘s Research Hospital and Regional One Health.
Nationwide, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% growth for radiologic technologist positions through 2031, much faster than average. Open positions are abundant as many current techs near retirement age.
In Memphis specifically, salaries for radiology techs tend to range from $42,000 to $67,000 depending on experience and speciality, with ample room for pay increases over time. Lower cost of living compared to other cities means salaries stretch further too. Many part-time and per-diem hospital jobs are also available.
Overview of Degree and Certificate Options
Memphis students aiming for a radiology career have several education options:
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Associate Degrees – Two-year associate degrees covering radiography or sonography fundamentals are ideal for jumpstarting your career. Many local hospitals prefer or require an associate degree.
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Bachelor‘s Degrees – Earning a 4-year bachelor‘s in radiologic imaging sciences provides additional training in advanced modalities like MRI, plus stronger candidacy for supervisory roles.
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Certificates – One-year certificate programs offer accelerated training for focusing on MRI, CT scanning or mammography. Helpful for x-ray techs expanding their skillsets. May require some clinical experience already.
When researching programs, look for proper accreditation and ARRT registry exam preparation which lead to essential radiologic technologist credentials.
Top Radiology Technology Programs in Memphis
Here are 14 of the top colleges and technical schools offering radiology programs in Memphis and the surrounding region:
| School | Details |
|---|---|
| Concorde Career College | Offers associate degrees in radiology technology, MRI, cardiovascular sonography and diagnostic medical sonography. High graduate employment rates. |
| Baptist College of Health Sciences | Bachelor’s programs available including radiation therapy and radiologist assistant training. Features small class sizes. |
| Southwest Tennessee Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Radiography. Competitively priced public college option. |
| University of Tennessee Health Science Center | Prestigious bachelor’s degree program includes advanced clinical rotations. Graduates consistently score high on ARRT exams. |
| Tennessee College of Applied Technology | Certificate program in computed tomography. TCAT Memphis works closely with area hospitals and imaging centers. |
| South College | Accelerated associate and bachelor’s degree options in radiologic technology. Transfer students accepted. |
| Remington College | 18-month associate degree in medical radiography. Includes externship experience. |
| Baptist School of Health Professions | Hospital-based 12-month certificate program with guaranteed interview for a job. Competitive admission. |
| Cleveland University-Kansas City | Features online bachelor’s degrees including clinical practice concentrations. |
| Mid-South Community College | Associate in Applied Science Radiologic Technology viaonline and on-campus delivery. |
| Rhodes College | Students can minorin biophysics/medical physics while earning their bachelor’s degree. Pipeline into graduate programs. |
| Ross Medical Education Center | 21-month associate of applied science in radiologic technology with externship. Small classes. |
| University of Memphis | For current university students interested in radiology, offers a pre-professional concentration and pipeline program into UT Health Science Center. |
| Northwestern Technological Institute | Includes 13.5-month certificate program in radiography. Focuses on clinical experience. |
As you research each school, look closely at cost, program length, specific modalities covered in coursework, reputation of faculty, clinical rotation arrangements, career support offerings and more. Reaching out to current students and alumni can provide insider perspective.
Student & Alumni Experiences
"I chose UT Health Science Center‘s radiologic imaging program for the extensive clinical hours and rotations. By graduation I felt fully confident in my ability to produce clear diagnostic images." – Andres P., Bachelor‘s Graduate
"My associate degree program was challenging but very engaging. The hands-on labs like practicing positioning on classmates prepared me well for working on real patients." – Jennifer T., Associate Degree Graduate
Admissions Requirements
To qualify for a radiology technology diploma or degree program, common admissions requirements typically include:
- High school graduation/GED
- Minimum college GPA ~2.5
- ACT/SAT scores
- Pre-requisite courses (biology, etc.)
- Observation hours
When applying, pay close attention to each program‘s specific prerequisites. The more selective bachelor‘s programs may expect some patient care experience already.
Tip: Maintain contacts from any medical or hospital volunteer work or job shadowing. This helps enormously with admission applications.
What to Expect from Rad Tech Programs
Memphis radiology programs mix scientific knowledge, safety practices and extensive hands-on learning to prepare students for a rewarding technology-focused career in healthcare.
Typical courses include:
- Radiation physics
- Radiographic imaging
- Anatomy, physiology and pathology
- Patient care procedures
- Radiographic equipment operation
- Image evaluation and quality
- Radiation protection and biology
Beyond classes, expect:
- Lab practice positioning patients/peers
- Simulation equipment training
- 500+ hours clinical rotations
- Radiographer exam test prep
- Portfolio for job searching
Also plan for a full-time commitment as most programs condense essential teaching into 18-24 months.
Insights for Succeeding in Radiology Coursework
We asked several program directors and instructors to share their #1 tip for excelling as a radiology student:
"Master your positioning and protocols through hands-on repetition in the lab. The clinical environment moves fast and leaves little room for hesitation." – Cynthia L., M.S., R.T., Program Director
"Carefully studying anatomy and physiology is vital. Understanding the internal landmarks visible on scans takes radiology beyond just ‘taking pictures‘ to informed patient analysis." – Mark J.. M.D., R.T., Instructor
"Practice creative problem solving and explore the rationales behind protocols rather than just memorizing steps. This produces better technologists." – Anna S., B.S., R.T., Clinical Coordinator
Mastering radiography requires diligence. Use available lab time fully, ask questions of your professors and clinical mentors, and don‘t be afraid to make mistakes during training when supported.
Finding a Radiology Job in Memphis
The Memphis region offers radiology graduates abundant opportunities to launch your career, including:
- Full-time radiographer jobs at major hospitals
- Clinical imaging centers and urgent care clinics
- Women‘s health practices hiring mammographers & sonographers
- Temporary/travel positions allowing broad experience
- Opportunities specializing in CT, MRI, interventional radiology, bone density scans
Local facilities frequently hiring radiology techs include:
- Baptist Memorial Hospital
- Methodist Healthcare Hospitals
- St. Jude Children‘s Research Hospital
- Regional One Health
- Stern Cardiovascular Center
Your technology program‘s career center can connect you with job openings. Memphis-area imaging centers also recruit at regional conferences and job fairs.
When interviewing, highlight your competence with latest equipment, commitment to radiation safety protocols, and patience communicating with diverse patients. Share examples of overcoming challenges during clinical hours.
Future Advancement Options
Common advancement pathways for seasoned radiology technologists pursuing higher salaries and authority include:
- Specializing in complex modalities like MRI or CT scanning
- Earning a bachelor‘s degree to qualify for lead/manager roles
- Becoming a radiology instructor at a college or hospital
- Moving into medical sales/applications specialist positions
- Furthering education to become a dosimetrist, radiologist assistant, or radiologist (advanced medical degree)
So for Memphis radiology students willing to work hard, opportunities abound to start and advance your career improving patient lives through medical imaging!
