Start your Radiologic Technology Career!
The Radiologic Technology program provides the general education core, program specific courses, and the clinical practicum to prepare students for a career as a Radiologic Technologist (Radiographer). Radiographers work in a variety of medical imaging settings, including hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, urgent care clinics, outpatient surgery centers, and physician’s offices. Medical imaging represents the second-largest Health Science profession in the nation.
This program prepares you to become a radiographer skilled in administering ionizing radiation for medical diagnostic imaging. The focus is on ensuring radiation safety and delivering quality patient care. The curriculum includes specialized radiography courses, along with studies in basic sciences, mathematics, and general education. Instruction takes place both on campus and at affiliated clinical education settings. To provide a comprehensive clinical experience, some travel to out-of-town clinical locations may be required
Northeast State Radiologic Technology Program
Kingsport Center of Higher Education
300 W. Market Street, Kingsport, TN 37660
423.354.5532
Registered Technologists in Radiography - R.T.(R) may be employed in hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, ambulatory surgery centers, urgent care clinics, physician offices, educational institutions, and mobile diagnostic imaging services. Radiologic Technologists are trained in the use of different types of X-ray equipment and digital radiography systems. After becoming certified, Radiologic Technologists may choose to pursue additional training in imaging modalities such as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR), Mammography (M), Bone Densitometry (BD), Cardiac Interventional Radiography (CI), and Vascular Interventional Radiography (VI). With an advanced education program, Radiologic Technologists can also pursue a career as a Registered Radiologist Assistant (RRA), which involves advanced responsibilities such as performing imaging procedures, conducting preliminary interpretations, and assisting radiologists in various diagnostic and interventional tasks.
The mission of the Northeast State Community College Radiologic Technology Program is to prepare clinically competent, entry-level radiographers who excel in the radiography workforce, with a strong emphasis on delivering high-quality patient care.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Student Learning Outcomes:
Student Learning Outcomes:
Northeast State Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the associate degree. Northeast State also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Northeast State Community College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679.4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
The Northeast State Community College Radiologic Technology program is pursuing accreditation by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Questions about programmatic accreditation and the accreditation process may be located on the JRCERT website (www.jrcert.org).
Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL. 60606-3182
P: (312) 704.5300 E: mail@jrcert.org
The Northeast State Community College Radiologic Technology Program is an American Registry of Radiologic Technologists recognized primary-pathway education program allowing our students eligibility to sit for the ARRT certification examination in Radiography once all primary eligibility pathway requirements are met. Questions about ARRT recognized primary-pathway education programs may be located on the ARRT website (https://www.arrt.org/pages/about-the-profession/learn-about-the-profession/recognized-educational-programs).
Northeast State’s Radiologic Technology Program first line of advisement is the Radiologic Technology Information Session. The Information Session is face-to-face and free. Click on the Radiologic Technology Information Session Registration link below to schedule a day and time.
The first step for any student interested in the Northeast State Radiologic Technology program is to attend a Radiologic Technology Information Session. These sessions are led by a radiologic technology faculty member and provide valuable information for prospective students. The session covers the program's goals and student learning outcomes, the process for applying to Northeast State, and the required courses, which applicants must have completed or be currently enrolled in before applying to the Radiologic Technology Program. Additionally, the session explains how applicants are ranked after applying. It also offers insights into the radiologic technology-specific courses students will take once admitted, as well as the time commitment needed for studying to succeed in the program. The clinical obligations and the program’s anticipated additional expenses are presented. The Radiologic Technology Program uses an online schedule format for Information Sessions and Student Advisement appointments. To register for an Information Session or Student Advisement appointment, click the link below to access our online registration system.
Note: All Information Sessions are held face to face in the Kingsport Center for Higher Education (KCHE) located at: 300 West Market Street, Kingsport, TN 37660 and the Wayne G. Basler Library on the Northeast State Main Campus at: 2425 Highway 75, Blountville, TN 37617
The admission point system takes a cumulative approach to selecting the top 25 applicants. The following criteria are used, with approximate percentage weights provided. All eligible applicants are initially ranked based on criteria A-C, and the top 50 candidates are invited to interview. After the interviews, applicant rankings are adjusted to include criterion D. The maximum possible score for admission is 67 points.
The Northeast State Radiologic Technology Program utilizes a fair and comprehensive admission ranking system to select the top 25 applicants. This process is designed to evaluate candidates based on their academic achievements, professional potential, and readiness for the program's rigorous demands.
The ranking system is cumulative, with specific criteria weighted to ensure an objective and thorough evaluation. All eligible applicants are initially ranked based on academic and prerequisite qualifications (Criteria A-C). The top 50 applicants are then invited to participate in an interview, which allows for the assessment of essential non-academic attributes, such as communication skills and professionalism. After the interviews, rankings are adjusted to include additional evaluation criteria (Criterion D) for a holistic final score.
This approach ensures a transparent and equitable selection process that identifies candidates best prepared to succeed in the program and contribute to the healthcare field.
Students can earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Radiologic Technology* within two years with a full-time course load. Once admitted to the program, students will complete coursework across four consecutive semesters.
Please note that this overview is supplementary to the Northeast State Catalog. Always consult your faculty advisor when selecting classes to ensure all degree requirements are met.
Questions about RADT General Common Curriculum Information including program length, credit/contact hour ratios, clinical practicum contact hours, general education requirements, RADT core course descriptions, and additional approved courses may be located on the Tennessee Board of Regents website (Program: Radiologic Technology - Tennessee Board of Regents - Modern Campus Catalog™).
*As this program is a selective-admissions program, students will be initially enrolled in the Associate of Science in Pre-Allied Health degree program. Once a student makes application and is accepted into a selective-admissions program, they will be enrolled into that specific program.
The Radiologic Technology program has specific admission criteria, and admission to Northeast State does not guarantee admission to this program. A student desiring admission into the Radiologic Technology program must complete all required general education courses listed in the typical program of study with a grade of “C” or higher. A student must have attained an overall 2.0 grade point average. All science courses required for the degree (API & APII) must be taken within 10 years of the application deadline and have a grade of “C” or higher.
The didactic courses and simulation laboratory for the Radiologic Technology Program are scheduled Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Kingsport Center for Higher Education (Building KC) on the Northeast State Kingsport Campus, located at 300 West Market Street.
The Radiologic Technology program grading scales do not align with the Northeast State Community College general education grading scale. Below are the grading scales that is used by the Radiologic Technology program.
The instructional method for a didactic radiography course typically combines lecture-based learning, interactive discussions, and simulation-based lab activities. This approach allows students to engage with foundational radiologic concepts, practice procedures in a controlled environment, and develop the critical thinking needed for clinical decision-making.
Accordingly, the grading policy for radiologic technology Didactic On-Campus Courses is structured as follows:
DIDACTIC COURSE GRADING SCALE:
To maintain enrollment in the Radiologic Technology Program, learners must achieve a minimum grade of “C” in each Radiologic Technology course, required natural science courses, and quantitative reasoning courses. * This grade is considered unsatisfactory and a failing grade.
Due to radiographers' close patient interactions and critical responsibilities, achieving a high level of academic knowledge and technical proficiency is essential. Clinical practicum courses involve hands-on participation at affiliated clinical education sites.
Accordingly, the grading policy for radiologic technology Radiographic Practicum Courses is structured as follows:
RADIOGRAPHIC PRACTICUM COURSE GRADING SCALE:
To maintain enrollment in the Radiologic Technology Program, learners must achieve a minimum grade of “C” in each Radiologic Technology course, required natural science courses, and quantitative reasoning courses. * This grade is considered unsatisfactory and a failing grade.
Once an applicant accepts their position in the program, the following requirements must be completed before beginning the radiologic technology coursework. Deadlines for each requirement will be provided at the mandatory program orientation.
* Please be advised that any findings on your substance screen or federal background check could lead
clinical education affiliates to deny your participation at their sites, which would result in ineligibility
for program admission and continuation.
Northeast State Community College employees and students are prohibited from engaging in the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, use, or being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol on the College campus, at off-campus facilities owned or controlled by the College, or as a part of college-sponsored activities. All categories of employees and students are subject to this policy and to applicable federal, state, and local laws related to this matter. (NeSCC Policy 05:04:02). Find out more about our drug-free campus and workplace policy (https://www.northeaststate.edu/resources/be-safe/drug-free-campus.html).
Radiography involves the provision of direct care for individuals and is characterized by the application of verified knowledge in the skillful performance of radiological technical functions. Therefore, all applicants should possess sufficient:
Accepted applicants must provide documentation to the Director of Radiologic Technology that the applicant is, with reasonable accommodation, physically and mentally capable of performing the essential job functions of a registered technologist as outlined in the Core Performance Standards of Admission and Progression adopted by the Tennessee Board of Regents institutions offering radiologic technology programs.
Admission to Medical, Nursing, and Allied Health Programs*
*Tennessee Board of Regents – Academic Policies – 2.03.00.00 Admission at the Community Colleges – General Provisions. PolicyTech - Browse (navexone.com)
The Radiologic Technology program at Northeast State provides a comprehensive clinical education designed to immerse learners in hands-on learning experiences. Clinical education is a collaborative effort between the college, the learner, and the clinical education facilities, aimed at integrating theoretical knowledge with real-world application. During clinical rotations, learners work alongside professionals but do not replace existing staff. Unlike the classroom, where activities are designed for the learner’s benefit, the clinical setting is structured around patient care.
This clinical education requires a full-time commitment. Learners are expected to arrive on time and complete their full assigned hours (excluding a 30-minute meal break) for the entire clinical term. Additionally, they must follow all policies and procedures of their assigned clinical site.
Learners may be placed at various types of healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, diagnostic centers, surgery clinics, orthopedic clinics, urgent care centers, and physician offices (hereafter referred to as "clinical education sites"). Some placements may require travel up to approximately 120 minutes from the college’s Kingsport campus, and clinical sites are primarily located in Northeast Tennessee.
The Northeast State Radiologic Technology clinical coordinator will assign each learner to a clinical education site (CES), and learners are responsible for commuting. Travel expenses for clinical assignments are not compensated. To ensure a well-rounded experience, learners will typically rotate through multiple clinical sites each semester, depending on availability.
This approach ensures that all learners are exposed to a sufficient variety and volume of procedures to meet program competencies. Faculty review each learner's clinical schedule to ensure equitable learning opportunities, considering previous rotations and clinical experiences. Evening and weekend rotations offer learners comparable experiences in terms of procedure volume, supervision, and skills development. These rotations also provide opportunities to refine skills in time management, patient care, and department dynamics.
The program’s clinical education component requires learners to complete approximately 1,200 hours of clinical education. Learners are limited to no more than 40 hours of combined clinical and classroom involvement per week, with a maximum of 10 hours per day (excluding meal breaks).
Specialty rotations may occasionally require out-of-town travel or overnight stays. By enrolling in the program, learners acknowledge their responsibility to attend all assigned clinical hours, regardless of the site location.
In accordance with Student Affiliation Agreements between the program and clinical education facilities, learners are responsible for the costs associated with criminal background checks, drug screening, immunizations, and any required testing.
Learners are responsible for ensuring the completion, cost, and ongoing compliance with the following requirements (but not limited to):
Program Costs - click here for more information TUITION and FEES LINK here
Required Textbooks – Approximately $1,200.00
Anticipated expenses students may incur prior to the Radiologic Technology Program start date. All costs are estimates. These may not be covered by financial aid:
Anticipated expenses students will incur during the first semester in the Radiologic technology Program All costs are estimates. These may not be covered by financial aid:
Anticipated expenses students will incur during enrollment in the Radiologic technology Program All costs are estimates. These may not be covered by financial aid:
Other anticipated expenses students may incur. These may not be covered by financial aid:
In addition to completing the program, students must pass the American Registry for Radiologic Technologists national certification exam to become registered. Questions about ARRT application certification and registration process and requirements may be located on the ARRT website (www.arrt.org).
In over 75% of U.S. states, radiologic technologists are required to obtain a state license before they can practice. Many of these states use ARRT exam scores or credentials as part of the licensing process. However, requirements vary by state; while some require ARRT certification and registration as a condition for licensure, others do not. Keep in mind that even if you hold an ARRT credential, you may still need to fulfill additional state-specific criteria to work legally as a radiologic technologist in that state.
The Radiologic Technology program at Northeast State offers the opportunity for training to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, creed, gender, national origin, disability, religion or age. The institution complies with Titles VI, VIII and XI, the American Disability Act, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and all other federal, state, and local statues.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, students are encouraged to register with the counseling/disability services office for possible assistance with accommodations. It is the student’s responsibility to voluntarily and confidentially provide appropriate documentation regarding the nature and extent of a disability. Students requesting special accommodation are (strongly) encouraged to contact the counseling/disability services office at the beginning of the semester.
Northeast State Community College encourages students to comment on their experiences at the College in a responsible manner. These comments may include complaints, compliments, or suggestions for improving college services. Comments help the College administration improve processes, pinpoint problems, eliminate waste, plan for strategic growth, or recognize outstanding personnel and programs.
The following procedures have been established to help students submit their comments:
Procedures for submitting Suggestions for Improving College Services are stated in Policy 03:05:13 Suggestions for Improving College Services: Speak Out. Contact the following for more information on student complaints, compliments, and suggestions for improvement:
Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Services
Room 2110 of the General Studies Building
423.323.0229
For concerns or complaints regarding Title IX, civil rights, discrimination, or harassment, please visit the Policy and Compliance web site or contact the Assistant Director of Policy and Compliance via email: Compliance@NortheastState.edu
Although crimes are not part of the complaints process, for issues involving campus safety, personal security, or to Report Behaviors of Concern, please visit the Be Safe web portal or contact:
Northeast State Police Department
423.323.0255 (non-emergency) or 423.677.7927 (emergency cell)
Students have the right to file a formal complaint of non-compliance with the JRCERT Standards and may submit concerns in writing to the program director within ten school days of the incident in question. Please be mindful of the timeline for submissions listed below.
Program Director
Dr. Mitchell Housenick
Northeast State Community College
e-mail: mahousenick@NortheastState.edu
The program director will investigate the complaint and will answer the complainant within 5 business days. (Days can be changed by agreement of both parties).
If the complainant is not satisfied with the response, he/she should notify the college Dean of Health Professions. The Dean of Health Professions will investigate and respond to the complaint within 10 business days.
Dean of Health Professions
Mr. David Bryant
Northeast State Community College
e-mail: dlbryant@NortheastState.edu
If the complainant is not satisfied with the response, he/she should notify the college Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs Programs and Services
Vice President for Academic Affairs Programs and Services
Dr. Connie Marshall
Northeast State Community College
e-mail: cmarshall@NortheastState.edu
The College’s AVP for Academic Affairs Programs and Services will review and respond to the complainant within 10 business days. This response serves as the final appeal in the internal grievance process for allegations of non-compliance with JRCERT standards.
Once all avenues have been exhausted and the student still feels that the program does not meet the standards set forth by their accrediting body, JRCERT, they may contact them.
Please note that only allegations regarding non-compliance with the JRCERT Standards will be considered by the JRCERT. The JRCERT’s role is to evaluate programs based on accreditation standards, not to advocate for individual students or impact individual student status. While it takes allegations seriously and investigates programs potentially out of compliance, the JRCERT requires complainants to first complete the program's internal grievance process through final appeal. If this process has been followed and you wish to submit a formal complaint to the JRCERT, please complete an Allegations Reporting Form and reference the specific JRCERT Standards you believe the program has not met. For more information on these standards, consult the Standards for an Accredited Program in Radiologic Sciences under the Accreditation Information menu.
The contact information for JRCERT is listed below:
JRCERT
20 N. Wacker Drive
Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-2901
Phone: (312) 704.5300
JRCERT Standards: https://www.jrcert.org/jrcert-standards/
Website: https://www.jrcert.org/program-director-and-faculty/allegations/
East Tennessee State University – Online BS Completion Program in Radiologic Science
Dr. Mitchell Housenick, PhD, R.T.(R)
Program Director, Radiologic Technology
Telephone: 423.354.5532
Email: MAHousenick@NortheastState.edu
David Bryant, M.S.A.H.
Dean, Health Professions
Telephone: 423.323.0238
Email: DLBryant@NortheastState.edu
Connect with Northeast State