Become a Radiologist Assistant: Education and Career Roadmap

A radiologist assistant is an advanced-level radiographer who supervises various radiological procedures and assists radiologists in caring for patients. Radiologist assistants must first qualify as radiographers, then obtain several more years of education to be considered radiologist assistants.

Radiologist Assistant Career Profile

Radiologist assistants are advanced-level radiographers who perform many radiological examinations previously performed only by radiologists. A radiologist assistant assesses and manages patient care and also assists radiologists with invasive and noninvasive procedures. In addition, radiologist assistants may evaluate the quality of radiologic images and report observations to a supervising radiologist.

Become a Radiologist Assistant in Five Steps

Step One: Earning a Radiography Degree

In order to become a radiologist assistant, one must first train to be a radiographer, learn to manage diagnostic imaging equipment and perform basic radiographic procedures. Radiographers usually hold at least a certificate or associate's degree in radiography, but a bachelor's degree may be required for those seeking entrance into radiologist assistant programs.

Step Two: Completing Radiologist Assistant Program Prerequisites

Radiologist assistant programs have both academic and experience-related requirements. First, they require candidates be certified as radiographers for admission. Second, they require work experience in the field as radiographers, with usually at least two to three years spent working as radiologic technicians.

Step Three: Enrolling in a Radiologist Assistant Program

Those who wish to become radiologist assistants must complete an accredited radiologist assistant program, including a clinical preceptorship. Educational programs specifically for radiologist assistants award variations of the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences, Master of Science in Radiologic Sciences or post-baccalaureate certificates.

Step Four: Obtaining Certification

Candidates must pass the examination offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in order to become a practicing radiologist assistant. To maintain professional registration, radiologist assistants need to fulfill continuing education requirements.

Step Five: Getting Licensed

Though the American Society of Radiologic Technologists sets out model guidelines for Radiologist Assistant licensure, specific licensing regulations vary by state. With licensure, radiologist assistants can demonstrate practical competency and industry proficiency