Radiologic Technology

The Radiologic Technology program at Columbia Basin College is an eight-quarter program preparing students to be eligible to become certified by taking the National Registry Examination offered by the American Registry of Radiology Technologists.

Radiology Technologists work directly with the patient and physician performing sophisticated diagnostic x-ray procedures including radiation safety, radiographic exposures, image and film processing and operating many types of technological equipment. The radiologic technologist also provides professional handling and care of patients.

The program requires a series of credit courses directly related to radiologic sciences. The program also requires students have completed major support and general education courses prior to admission. For additional information, please refer to the Associate in Applied Science in Radiologic Technology degree requirements.

The Radiologic Technology program admits students annually during summer quarter for this eight-quarter program. Once admitted into the program, each student will be responsible for providing documentation of the following additional requirements:

  • Program specific immunization records (details provided with admission into the program)
  • Current American Heart Association CPR card for Healthcare Provider
  • Satisfactory criminal history background check using a college approved vendor.

Criminal history background information is required of all Health Science students. Information obtained will be considered in determining student eligibility to complete clinical coursework. Inability to participate in clinical experiences due to the information obtained from the background check may result in the student's inability to satisfactorily complete program degree requirements. Any infraction while enrolled in the Radiologic Technology program should be self-reported to the program coordinator. Questions regarding the background policy should be directed to the Dean for Health Sciences at 509-544-8310.

For more information regarding the Radiologic Technology program, please visit columbiabasin.edu/radtech or contact the Health Sciences Division at 509-544-8306 or 509-544-8300.

Degrees and Certificates

Courses

RATEC 102: Radiographic Physics [RE]

Credits 5

This course offers an in-depth exploration of radiation principles, including matter and energy dynamics, electricity, and electromagnetism. Students will delve into x-ray technology, covering circuits, tubes, equipment, and production. Key topics also encompass x-ray prime factors, interactions, and radiation safety. Designed for concise yet comprehensive coverage, this course equips participants with essential knowledge and practical insights into radiologic technology. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $11.40 lab fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 103: Principles of Radiographic Exposure [RE]

Credits 3

This course delves into digital imaging in radiography, covering spatial and contrast resolution, image signal characteristics, and the essentials of pixel and detector technology. Learn about the technicalities of sampling frequency, matrix size, bit depth, and the critical role of modulation transfer function. Compare plain film, computed, and digital radiographic imaging, including their pre/post-processing features. Understand how technical factors influence detector exposure and the significance of informatics in medical imaging. A concise yet thorough exploration tailored for a deep understanding of digital imaging's technical considerations. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 104: Advanced Radiographic Procedures [RE]

Credits 3

This course focuses on radiographic positioning and anatomy for the bony thorax, airway, skull, facial bones, sinuses, mandible, and covers fluoroscopic procedures for the urinary, digestive, and biliary systems. It includes lectures and labs on contrast exams and fluoroscopy in the operating room. Weekly, students receive two hours of lecture and two hours of lab, learning to apply radiation protection, prepare patients, adjust technique factors, and evaluate radiographs for diagnostic quality, all while upholding professional standards. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $11.40 lab fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 105: Introduction to Radiographic Technique [RE]

Credits 2

Explore radiographic image evaluation and quality management in this course. Learn to assess image quality, understanding exposure indicators, resolution, and artifacts. Dive into x-ray quality concepts, image receptor exposure, and diagnostic image critique. Study mobile imaging, including portable x-rays and C-arms, plus fluoroscopy unit functions and radiation safety. Perfect for enhancing skills in radiography and quality assurance. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 106: Computed Imaging [RE]

Credits 2

Presents computed imaging in comparison to screen-film technology. Topics include identifying components, understanding how they affect the image, and quality control.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 107: Positioning and Related Anatomy I [RE]

Credits 3

This course offers a foundational exploration into the realms of body planes, anatomical landmarks, medical terminology, and the essentials of radiographic techniques. With a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, students will gain hands-on experience in positioning and imaging for the pelvis, thoracic, and abdominal cavities. The curriculum is structured around weekly sessions comprising two one-hour lectures and a two-hour lab, designed to foster a deep understanding of radiographic equipment, body positions, planes, projections, and the anatomical intricacies of key body cavities. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $11.40 lab fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 108: Positioning and Related Anatomy II [RE]

Credits 3

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the anatomy and radiographic positioning techniques for the upper and lower extremities, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. Through a structured format of weekly two one-hour lectures and two-hour lab sessions, students will learn to describe and identify the intricate anatomical structures and execute precise radiographic positioning for these areas. Emphasis is placed on delivering proper patient care, especially for trauma patients, and performing specialized radiographic techniques tailored to the extremities. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $11.40 lab fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 109: Positioning and Related Anatomy III [RE]

Credits 3

This course offers hands-on training in radiographic positioning and anatomy for the shoulder girdle, lumbar spine, sacrum, coccyx, and cervical and thoracic spine. Through weekly two one-hour lectures and two-hour lab sessions, students will learn to identify anatomical structures, apply shielding, prepare and position patients (including trauma cases), and adjust radiographic techniques for optimal imaging. The course emphasizes professional ethics, patient care, and evaluating and adjusting radiographs for diagnostic quality, preparing students for excellence in radiologic technology. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $11.40 lab fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 111: Clinical Education I [RE]

Credits 5

Second in a series of supervised clinical education experiences. Students are assigned to clinical sites, 16 hours per week. Students observe and perform diagnostic radiologic procedures. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $25.65 dosimetry badge fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 112: Clinical Education II [RE]

Credits 5

Third in a series of supervised clinical education experiences. Students are assigned to clinical sites, 16 hours per week. Specific performance objectives are established for each student. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $25.65 dosimetry badge fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 113: Clinical Education IV [RE]

Credits 13

Clinical Education IV advances the series of clinical education with a focus on enhancing the breadth of radiologic skills and responsibilities. As the fourth course, it aims to consolidate students' proficiency in more complex radiographic procedures, patient care, and interprofessional collaboration within a healthcare setting, preparing them for the transition into professional practice. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $25.65 dosimetry badge fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 114: Supplemental Clinical Practicum I [RE]

Credits 1

An optional course that offers supervised clinical education experiences between the fall and winter quarter of the first program year. Students are assigned to clinical sites, 16 hours per week. Students observe and perform diagnostic radiologic procedures.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 120: Nursing Procedures [RE]

Credits 2

Presents basic nursing procedures emphasizing the role of the radiologic technologist in various patient-care situations. Incorporates seven hours of AIDS and bloodborne pathogen education. Healthcare provider BLS is included. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 121: Patient Care [RE]

Credits 2

Examines patient care and assessment in the imaging department, as well as in other special care units. Topics include medications and their administration, acute patient care, bedside radiography, and patient lines and tubes. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 127: Introduction to Sectional Anatomy [RE]

Credits 2

Expands knowledge of anatomy through the introduction of multiple plane orientations. Students review normal anatomy of the brain, chest, abdomen, pelvis, neck, and spine. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 207: Concept Integration [RE]

Credits 2

Prepares students for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam through a comprehensive review. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 210: Clinical Education III [RE]

Credits 13

Clinical Experience III is the third in our series of supervised clinical education, offering an immersive rotation where students engage in an expanded set of skills and responsibilities. Tailored performance objectives guide each student's development, enhancing their practical expertise in radiologic technology and preparing them for complex roles in healthcare environments. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $25.65 dosimetry badge fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 212: Clinical Education V [RE]

Credits 8

Clinical Education V is the penultimate clinical experience in the series, advancing students' proficiency in radiologic practices. Students engage in focused clinical rotations, applying their skills to meet individual performance objectives. This stage is designed to refine their competency in specialized imaging procedures, patient care, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing them for their final transition into professional practice. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $25.65 dosimetry badge fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 213: Clinical Education VI [RE]

Credits 8

Clinical Education VI, as the final clinical course, provides a capstone experience for radiologic technology students. This course solidifies students' competencies in all radiographic procedures and patient care protocols. It emphasizes autonomy in clinical decision-making, mastery in advanced imaging techniques, and readiness for entry into the professional environment. Students demonstrate integrative knowledge and skills, reflecting their full transition from learners to healthcare professionals ready to contribute to a dynamic workplace. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee. $25.65 dosimetry badge fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 214: Supplemental Clinical Practicum II [RE]

Credits 1

An optional course that offers supervised clinical education experiences between the fall and winter quarter of the second program year. Students are assigned to clinical sites, 16 hours per week. Students observe and perform diagnostic radiologic procedures.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 220: Pathology I [RE]

Credits 3

Introduces changes that occur in disease and injury, with application to radiologic technology. Topics include respiratory, skeletal, gastrointestinal, and urinary systems. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 221: Pathology II [RE]

Credits 2

Continues RATEC 220. Students become familiar with the etiology, symptoms, prognosis, and imaging of disease processes of the cardiovascular, nervous, hemopoetic, endocrine, and reproductive systems. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 240: Radiation Biology and Protection [RE]

Credits 3

Explores types of radiation, interaction of radiation with matter, and the effects of those interactions in human tissue. Students learn methods and principles of radiation protection for both patient and technologist. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 296: Special Topics In Radiology [RE]

Credits 2

Allows study of special topics that may be necessary to update students in the field of radiologic technology. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.

RATEC 299: Special Studies [RE]

Credits 1 10

A class used to explore new coursework. $10.72 per quarter malpractice insurance fee.

Prerequisite

Acceptance into CBC's Radiologic Technology program.