Program: 47000

The Computed Tomography Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC) is a post-primary certification that is designed for the imaging professional who is currently certified in Radiography (ARRT), Radiation Therapy (ARRT), or Nuclear Medicine (ARRT/NMTCB). The Program combines both academic and clinical components that allow the student to accumulate the experience necessary to meet the eligibility requirements to qualify for the Computed Tomography (CT) certification examination sponsored by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Two courses for the program, RTE 2590 Principles of Computed Tomography and RTE 2765 Computed Tomography Sectional Anatomy are offered during the summer and fall semesters; they are offered only in online format. The student can take these courses sequentially or in the same semester. Both courses are prerequisites for the clinical course, RTE 2940 Computed Tomography Clinical Practicum. This course is offered during the fall and spring terms.

Admission

Consideration for admission to the Computed Tomography Advanced Technical Certificate Program requires the following:

1. Acceptance to Polk State College with all required admission documents received by the Registrar’s Office. (Note: Acceptance to Polk State College does not guarantee admission into the Computed Tomography Advanced Technical Certificate Program.)
2. Graduation with an Associate in Science or Associate in Applied Science degree from an accredited imaging program in Radiography, Radiation Therapy, or Nuclear Medicine. The student must have achieved a minimum overall GPA of 2.5.
3. Registration as a member in good standing in one of the following disciplines: Radiography (ARRT), Radiation Therapy (ARRT), or Nuclear Medicine (ARRT/NMTCB). 

Additional Requirements Post-Admission

After acceptance to the program, a student must finalize the following additional requirements:

1. Submission of proof of current healthcare provider CPR certification.
2. Submission of a physical exam and documented completion of immunizations and communicable disease screenings.
3. Completion of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) required background checks.
4. Completion of a drug screening.

Selection Process

Each student is admitted to the Computed Tomography (CT) Advanced Technology Certificate Program using a selective admissions procedure. A student seeking admission to the program may download a program application online at: www.polk.edu/radiography. The application period is February 1 to February 28 for the May start date. The application must be submitted, along with an official transcript, to an advisor at one of the College’s campuses or centers by February 28. A selection committee meets to evaluate applications, and a notice of acceptance is mailed to each selected candidate. The selection committee evaluates applications using overall college GPA and related experience as a guide.

Note: Polk State College reserves the right to make changes in the admission criteria and program requirements as circumstances require. Every reasonable effort is made to communicate changes in the program to interested students.

Program Cost

The approximate cost of the program is $2,000. This cost estimate includes tuition, course fees, books, uniforms, program physical and medical requirements, and national certification applications.

Potential Earnings

The salary for a technologist can vary by state, facility, specialty, and experience. Further information regarding salaries can be obtained through the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) as well as The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (www.asrt.org).

Certification

Following the completion of all requirements for the Computed Tomography Advanced Technical Certificate, the individual is encouraged to pursue the national registry examination in Computed Tomography that is administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The ARRT makes the final determination of an applicant’s eligibility based on factors such as documentation of examinations completed, proper application submission, etc. Polk State College does not guarantee eligibility to take the CT certification examination administered by the ARRT based solely on completion of the Computed Tomography Advanced Technical Certificate. The student should contact the Radiography Program Director to request additional information, if needed, before applying to the program.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):
Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is able to:
PLO 1:  The student will demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of CT.
PLO 2:  The student will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of anatomy in various imaging planes.
PLO 3:  The student will demonstrate effective patient care.
PLO 4:  The student will practice radiation protection for the patient and self.
PLO 5:  The student will graduate clinically competent.