NATCHITOCHES – A new Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Computed Tomography at Northwestern State University has been approved by the State Board of Regents. Enrollment will begin this summer.
Northwestern State’s radiologic science faculty, in response to employer and student need and demand, developed the proposed 12-credit program targeted toward working, registered radiologic technologists who wish to earn advanced certification in computed tomography (CT). The American College of Radiology has suggested requiring certification for all computed tomography technologists, which requires passage of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Computed Tomography Exam.
According to Joel Hicks, director of NSU’s School of Allied Health, eligibility for the exam requires 16 clock hours of classroom learning and professionals and employers have found that this is often not sufficient to acquire the knowledge needed to pass the exam. Professionals and employers are asking for certificate programs to support CT certification.
Projections from the U.S. Department of Labor and Louisiana Workforce Commission projections indicate CT technologists are in demand and predict that the market will grow about 13% in the next ten years. The Joint Commission (healthcare provider institution accreditor) requires documented training for all CT technologists. Hicks said embers of NSU’s School of Allied Health Advisory Board have confirmed that, in line with recommendations of the American College of Radiology and The Joint Commission requirements, they are requiring certification for all CT Technologists, further confirming the need for a program designed to prepare students for the certification exam.
The program is designed to attract working registered radiologic technologists who hold a bachelor’s degree and are seeking additional certification in computed tomography. Hicks expects the program to appeal to recent graduates of Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science programs from NSU and other programs in the region because it will be offered completely online. Additionally, there is an optional clinical option that may be beneficial to students looking to expand their imaging skills.
For more information on NSU’s School of Allied Health, go to nursing.nsula.edu/allied-health-programs.
