Applicants to any Imaging Sciences program are ranked based on academic and interview scores. Emphasis is placed on math and science coursework related to Imaging Sciences at all degree levels. A minimum interview score of 25 out of a possible 40 is also required. Those programs admitting on a rotational basis do so annually and class sizes admitted are dependent on available clinical sites. In addition to course work, each student must provide proof of ability to perform the skills needed to practice in the imagine sciences effectively. Students should have reliable transportation because travel to assigned clinical sites could be greater than 60 miles from the college. Health care facilities must meet federal guidelines, and students must also meet these requirements in order to be allowed to gain clinical experience in these facilities. To meet these requirements, each student must supply proof of a negative TB test, hepatitis B vaccine or waiver, physical exam certifying ability to function in the required capacity, proof of immunizations (including MMR immunity), and CPR training. A criminal background check and drug screen are required for admission. If the background check reveals previous convictions, it is up to each clinical site to determine the eligibility of students to attend clinical at the site. Students who are denied clinical experiences due to past convictions may be unable to progress in the program which will result in failure to complete the required courses for the program. In any case where a drug screen is positive and an authorized prescription is not produced to validate the presence of the drug in the individual’s system, a student may be disqualified as a candidate for admission. Upon notification of the drug screen results, the student will have 5 working days to provide prescription validation. Students are responsible for costs associated with any required testing.

Applicants to any Imaging Sciences program must be able to meet the functional capacities outlined in the South College Catalog. Students who believe they will not be able to meet one or more of these requirements without accommodation must notify the Imaging Sciences Department Chair and a determination will be made on a case by case basis whether reasonable accommodation may be made. In no instance will an accommodation be made which will put the applicant, other students, or patients at risk.

The mission of the Associate of Science in Radiography program is to provide undergraduate students with academic and clinical foundations to competently perform as radiographers that provide quality patient care, actively participate in the profession, possess the ability to specialize in advanced degree programs and/or imaging specialties, and pursue life-long learning.

The South College AS Radiography program prepares students to become members of the health care team in a variety of settings. Radiologic Technologists must be sensitive to patients’ physical and psychological needs, pay attention to detail, follow instructions, work as part of a team, and demonstrate mechanical ability and manual dexterity. Radiologic Technologists operate sophisticated equipment to help physicians, surgeons, and other health practitioners diagnose and treat patients.

Students successfully completing the Associate of Science degree program are eligible to apply for admission to write the certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Successful completion of the ARRT examination provides licensure to practice as a registered radiographer. Students convicted of a felony or misdemeanor may be excluded from clinical experience and/or taking the certification examination.

The AS Radiography program is designed for students to complete degree requirements in two years. The degree curriculum integrates didactic and clinical instruction with increasing expectations at each level. A combination of courses from the general education core and the radiography major are required. Clinical sites utilized by the program are geographically dispersed. Students may have to travel outside the local area for clinical placements. Some evening and weekend rotations may be required. Students must complete a separate application to the Radiography program and secure formal admission to the program.