How to Start a Career in Computed Tomography

Advanced diagnostic imaging anchors the modern healthcare industry, providing physicians with the comprehensive, detailed information they need to make accurate diagnoses and develop precise treatment plans. Computed tomography careers give health professionals an opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation in this essential sector and promote the importance of preventative screening and early detection.

What Is Computed Tomography (CT)?

Computed tomography, or CT, is a form of healthcare imaging in which narrow X-ray beams are aimed at a targeted area and then rotated around the patient's body — creating cross-sectional images that can be digitally stacked to form three-dimensional images for the healthcare team to review and evaluate. These advanced, detailed images make it easier for the provider to assess bodily structure and identify possible abnormalities.

As diagnostic imaging has advanced, a growing number of medical imaging careers have become available for health professionals to consider. CT technologists are healthcare imaging professionals who operate the CT scanners and generate the images for providers. Most often, these technologists work in hospitals or imaging centers, but they also may find employment at outpatient facilities and healthcare labs.

What Does a CT Technologist Do?

Computed tomography technologists are health professionals who use advanced imaging technology to create CT images of internal organs and tissues that are ordered by providers. As medical imaging specialists, they play a vital role in preventative healthcare and early screening, ensuring that providers have access to the detailed, comprehensive images required for accurate diagnosis and effective care.

The path of CT technologist careers may encompass a wide range of responsibilities, depending on the scope of the role and where you work. Below are some common job duties of CT technologists:

Perform Diagnostic Imaging Procedures

Performing diagnostic imaging procedures is the primary responsibility of CT technologists. In addition to knowing how to operate the equipment safely and effectively, CT technologists must read and interpret the specific instructions of the healthcare provider who ordered the images, as they may have to adapt the imaging procedure to meet the exact needs of patients. For example, a CT technologist should be able to:

• Relay scanning instructions.
• Administer the appropriate amount and type of contrast.
• Position the patient correctly.
• Operate all imaging equipment safely.

Ensure Patient Safety

CT scanners emit radiation, so CT technologists must work to protect both patients and themselves from unnecessary exposure to radiation. Each hospital and imaging center will have its own safety protocols in place for properly positioning patients and performing procedures. Additionally, certain workplace safety protocols have to be followed.

Collaborate With Healthcare Teams

CT technologists work behind the scenes in imaging centers and hospitals to operate CT scanners and provide clinicians with diagnostic images efficiently. Still, they are a valued part of the overall care team. Medical imaging technologists bridge the gap between the technical work of healthcare imaging and the bedside care provided to patients. By delivering images as quickly as possible and staying in close communication with the care team, they can help accelerate the diagnostic process and expand patients' access to their health information.

Maintain Equipment and Documentation

When not performing imaging procedures, CT technologists are tasked with caring for equipment and verifying that all protocols are followed. They spend time cleaning and preparing equipment to improve patient safety and satisfaction ratings. Technologists are responsible for precise and accurate documentation, too, ensuring that all imaging information can be entered into the patient's electronic health record (EHR).

Is Computed Tomography an Entry-Level Career?

While it's possible to search for introductory roles in CT technology, in general, this is not an entry-level career path. CT is typically a post-primary specialization that medical imaging professionals pursue after establishing a solid foundation in radiology. Most professionals begin in entry-level radiologic technology roles, where they can gain a firmer grasp of imaging knowledge and build fundamental imaging skills.

Step-by-Step: How to Start a Career in Computed Tomography

Interested in pursuing this specialty area in medical imaging? The following sections outline how to become a CT technologist:

Step 1: Earn a Radiologic Technology Degree

Working in medical imaging requires professionals to possess a strong background in imaging technology, procedures and protocols, which is why an undergraduate degree is needed. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that an associate degree is the typical entry-level education in this field, but a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Imaging Sciences can provide a comprehensive foundation and help build specialized skills in CT, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and mammography.

Step 2: Become a Registered Radiologic Technologist

Both CT technologists and other radiologic technologists must complete an accredited undergraduate program and become registered radiologic technologists. After earning their degree, an individual will need to pass the certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). In addition, they must meet the specific certification and licensing requirements for the state where they intend to practice.

Step 3: Gain Clinical Experience

Foundational experience in medical imaging settings can equip aspiring CT technologists with the fundamental skills to operate advanced and specialized equipment safely and effectively. This primary clinical experience in radiology is valuable, helping health professionals understand their strengths and interests within this sector.

Step 4: Complete CT-Specific Training

Healthcare imaging professionals who have a background in general radiology may move into CT technologist roles through ongoing education and training. A CT training program is a post-primary certificate track that delivers a focused overview of the practical and technical skills needed in this role. This type of program also aims to develop the interpersonal skills and core competencies necessary to provide safe, effective care when performing imaging procedures.

Step 5: Earn CT Certification

Administered by the ARRT, the CT Certification credential proves that an individual has the specialized knowledge and skills required to safely operate CT scanning equipment and perform imaging procedures on patients. In most states, CT certification is mandatory to practice as a CT technologist.

Alternative Pathways Into CT (Less Common)

While there do exist other career routes, such pathways toward becoming a CT technologist are less common:

• Direct-entry CT programs
• Cross-training in hospital settings
• Transitioning from other imaging modalities

The foundation developed through undergraduate education, fundamental experience in introductory roles and certification is the most reliable way to progress into this role.

Skills Needed to Succeed in CT Careers

To thrive in your CT technologist career, you should strive to continually enhance your practical, technical and interpersonal skills in order to advance into specialized roles and make an impact on the healthcare landscape.

These are the types of skills beneficial to computed tomography careers:

• Critical thinking
• Communication
• Technical proficiency
• Attention to detail
• Emotional intelligence
• Resilient and adaptable
• Working well under pressure

Where CT Technologists Work

For the most part, CT technologists work in clinical settings where diagnostic imaging procedures are performed, including:

• Hospitals
• Emergency rooms
• Outpatient imaging centers
• Trauma centers
• Specialty clinics

Final Takeaway: CT Careers Start With the Right Foundation

So, how long does it take to become a CT tech? The answer varies based on your individual path and career progression. It can take anywhere from four to six years to become a CT technologist, especially if you choose to earn a bachelor's in medical imaging.

The key to a lasting career as a CT technologist is to get a strong start. An undergraduate program will allow you to develop a comprehensive understanding of medical imaging technology and procedures, and foundational experience instills the practical insight required to move into specialty areas. While it may take some time to prepare for your CT technologist career, the investment in your education and training will prove worthwhile.

Elevate Your Medical Career With Nebraska Methodist College

Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) specializes in healthcare, offering programs in nursing, allied health and healthcare management alongside the opportunity to establish a reliable foundation for your health career. Students at NMC can complete certificate, undergraduate and graduate nursing programs designed to equip graduates with the industry-focused skills required for roles in this evolving sector.

Now that you know how to become a CT technologist, you may begin pursuing a relevant degree or certificate program.

Discover Our Healthcare Imaging Programs

At NMC, you can earn your:

• Imaging Sciences (BS)
• Cardiovascular Sonography (Associate & Bachelor's)
• Multispecialty Sonography (Associate & Bachelor's)
• Computed Tomography (CT) Certificate
• Mammography Certificate