Radiologic Technology (Radiography)

(Jackson County Campus)

Summer Entry

Radiographers perform imaging examinations and accompanying responsibilities at the request of physicians qualified to prescribe and/or perform radiologic procedures. They utilize equipment emitting ionizing radiation to produce radiographic images of the internal structures of human anatomy. These radiographic images are utilized by the physician for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The radiographer is responsible for all functions in the Radiology Department to insure consistent radiographic images and provide for personal and patient safety from ionizing radiation. In addition to producing diagnostic images and primary patient care, other responsibilities may include administrative and educational functions.

Graduates of this program will be awarded an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Radiologic Technology and are eligible to make application to the American Registry of Radiologic Technology in order to become a Registered Radiographer.

The Radiologic Technology Program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182. The telephone number is 312-704-5300. Accreditation standards are located at http://www.jrcert.org.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) Radiologic Technology Program is to produce competent entry-level radiographers.

RGT Program Goals:

1. Students will demonstrate entry-level clinical performance and competence.
2. Students will demonstrate problem solving and critical thinking skills in the laboratory and/or clinical setting.
3. Students will develop communication skills.
4. Students and graduates will understand the importance of professional development and growth.

In addition, the RGT Program faculty monitors program effectiveness.

Admission Procedure

1. Make application and be accepted to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. Application can be completed online.
2. Submit copies of official transcripts of all schools attended to the Office of Admissions. All transcripts must be reviewed by the Office of Admission for determination of course credits.
3. Meet all Academic Requirements (listed below) and complete any program pre-requisites or Entry Requirements.
4. After successful completion of all academic and entry requirements, the student may submit an Allied Health Application for Program Admission beginning January 15^th of each year. Please meet with a counselor on the Jackson County Campus to submit and complete your Radiologic Technology Program Application Packet.

Application deadline for Summer Entry programs is April 1^st. All test scores, transcripts and required documentation must be received by this date. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Late applications may be considered depending upon the availability of program openings.

Academic and Entry Requirements

• Achieve a minimum Composite ACT Score of 18
• Have a minimum cumulative (GPA) of 2.5 on college work with no grade less than “C” on any Academic Core* courses in the current RT curriculum. (Courses may be re-taken and highest score will be used)
• Complete pre-requisites. Student must complete at least 4 of the program’s Academic Core* courses. One of the 4 courses must be Anatomy & Physiology I. All courses considered for selection must be completed prior to making application.
• Register for and complete the HESI A² Exam (see program webpage or contact the RGT Program Director for test registration instructions and dates)
• Attend a Mandatory Pre-Allied Health Orientation Session (Check http://www.mgccc.edu/programs_of_study/health_related_programs/ for current dates & times)

*Academic Core courses include: BIO 2514 , BIO 2524 , MAT 1313 , ENG 1113 , SPT 1113 , a Humanities/Fine Arts Elective and a Social /Behavioral Science Elective

Selection Process

Program openings are filled based on Selective Admission; applicants are ranked based on their individual achievement test scores and prior college course work. The selection criteria used to rank applicants are:

• Academic Core GPA 10%
• Cumulative GPA 30%
• ACT Composite 30%
• HESI A2 Exam 30%

Program enrollment is a floating number which can fluctuate each year and is determined by the Radiologic Technology Advisory Committee based on the local job market needs. The college is assisted and advised by the Radiologic Technology Advisory Committee composed of radiologists, department directors and technologists, college administrators and instructors. Students who are selected are also held to the following program policies.

RGT Program Policies

• Once a program opening has been awarded, the student will be required to obtain a clear or acceptable Criminal Background Check from the MGCCC Campus Police at JD, JC, Perkinston or the George County Campus/Center. MGCCC’s Criminal Background Check Policy can be viewed on-line at www.mgccc.edu/programs_of_study/health_related_programs/
• All Nursing and Allied Health students must submit to substance testing in accordance with the Substance Testing Policy and Procedures for Associate Degree Nursing and Allied Health Programs. The Nursing and Allied Health Program’s substance testing policy can be viewed on-line at www.mgccc.edu/programs_of_study/health_related_programs/.
• A student must be deemed physically and emotionally able to meet the requirements for the RGT program. A physical examination, immunization records and completed health form, signed by a Medical Physician, is required prior to the first meeting of the program. (Required immunizations: measles and rubella, diphtheria-tetanus (within last 10 years), chicken pox, and current TB skin test. The Hepatitis B series is recommended.)
• Upon admission to the Radiologic Technology Program, students must maintain a 2.0 GPA on the required courses and complete each course with a C or better.
• Adherence to additional clinical affiliation requirements may be necessary depending on clinical rotation placement. (i.e. hospital orientation, HIPPA training, CPR certification)