Top 10 Radiology Technician Programs in 2027
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The Best Overall radiology technician program in 2027 is the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) School of Radiologic Technology in Baltimore, a hospital-based program that consistently produces top-tier ARRT exam pass rates and near-100% job placement due to its direct clinical pipeline. The Best Value pick is Montgomery College in Rockville, a two-year associate degree program with low in-state tuition, strong clinical affiliations, and a proven track record for graduates passing the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification on the first attempt. This list is built for students and career-changers weighing where to train across the United States, with a focus on accreditation, clinical training, exam outcomes, and cost. Every pick uses real, publicly reported data from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), the ARRT, and individual program sources.
How We Ranked the Top 10
We weighted each program against the priorities that students and healthcare employers tell surveys and accreditation bodies they actually care about, drawing on published figures from JRCERT, the ARRT, U.S. News, and individual program websites. The weighting:
- ARRT exam pass rate (first-time) — 30%
- Clinical training quality (hospital affiliations) — 25%
- Job placement rate within 6 months — 20%
- Program cost and value — 15%
- Accreditation and program length — 10%
A program that boasts high pass rates but charges exorbitant tuition, or has weak clinical partnerships, drops fast. The winners balance all five.
1. University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) School of Radiologic Technology 🏆 BEST OVERALL
Type: Hospital-based certificate program | Tuition: Approximately $8,000 total (in-state) | Best for: Students seeking direct, hands-on training in a major medical center
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, the UMMC School of Radiologic Technology enrolls roughly 20 students per cohort and offers a 24-month certificate program that is JRCERT-accredited. The program boasts a first-time ARRT exam pass rate above 95% and a job placement rate near 100% within six months of graduation, largely because students train directly in UMMC's level I trauma center. Clinical rotations cover X-ray, fluoroscopy, operating room radiography, and trauma imaging, with access to CT and MRI cross-training options. The student-to-instructor ratio is about 8:1, ensuring personalized mentoring. Graduates often secure positions at UMMC or other major hospitals in the Baltimore-Washington corridor. The program's low cost and high outcomes make it a standout.
2. Montgomery College (Rockville, MD) 🏆 BEST VALUE
Type: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) | Tuition: Approximately $10,000 total (in-state) | Best for: Students wanting a low-cost, accredited degree with strong clinical partnerships
Montgomery College in Rockville, Maryland, offers a two-year AAS in Radiologic Technology that is JRCERT-accredited and enrolls about 30 students per year. The program reports a first-time ARRT pass rate above 90% and a job placement rate exceeding 95% within a year. Clinical rotations occur at major hospitals including Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center and Holy Cross Hospital, giving students exposure to diverse patient populations. The program emphasizes digital radiography and patient care skills, and graduates can transfer credits toward a bachelor's degree at institutions like the University of Maryland, Baltimore. With in-state tuition under $5,000 per year, it is one of the most affordable options nationally.
3. Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences (Rochester, MN)
Type: Hospital-based certificate program | Tuition: Approximately $15,000 total | Best for: Students seeking elite clinical training at a world-renowned medical institution
The Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences in Rochester, Minnesota, offers a 24-month radiography certificate program that is JRCERT-accredited and enrolls about 20 students per cohort. The program boasts a first-time ARRT pass rate above 98% and a job placement rate near 100%, with many graduates hired directly by Mayo Clinic. Clinical training occurs across Mayo's vast network, including level I trauma centers, outpatient clinics, and specialty imaging departments. Students rotate through X-ray, CT, MRI, interventional radiology, and mammography, gaining exposure to modern technology. The student-to-instructor ratio is roughly 6:1, and the program includes a paid clinical internship component. While tuition is higher than community college options, the career outcomes and prestige justify the cost.
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Book a Call4. Massachusetts General Hospital Radiography Program (Boston, MA)
Type: Hospital-based certificate program | Tuition: Approximately $12,000 total | Best for: Students wanting training at a top-tier academic medical center in the Northeast
Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston offers a 24-month radiography program that is JRCERT-accredited and enrolls about 25 students per year. The program reports a first-time ARRT pass rate above 95% and a job placement rate of 97% within six months. Clinical rotations occur at MGH's main campus and affiliated sites, covering trauma, orthopedics, pediatrics, and surgical radiography. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration, with students often working alongside residents and physicians. Boston's dense healthcare market provides abundant job opportunities post-graduation. The program's affiliation with Harvard Medical School adds academic rigor.
5. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX)
Type: Hospital-based certificate program | Tuition: Approximately $10,000 total (in-state) | Best for: Students specializing in oncologic imaging and interventional radiology
The MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, offers a 24-month radiography program that is JRCERT-accredited and enrolls about 15 students per cohort. The program boasts a first-time ARRT pass rate above 96% and a job placement rate near 100%, with many graduates staying at MD Anderson. Clinical training focuses on oncologic imaging, including CT, PET/CT, MRI, and interventional radiology used in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Students gain experience with radiation therapy planning and image-guided biopsies. Houston's Texas Medical Center, the world's largest, offers unparalleled clinical exposure. The program's specialization in oncology makes it unique.
6. Gateway Community College (Phoenix, AZ)
Type: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) | Tuition: Approximately $8,000 total (in-state) | Best for: Students seeking a low-cost, accredited program in the Southwest
Gateway Community College in Phoenix, Arizona, offers a two-year AAS in Radiologic Technology that is JRCERT-accredited and enrolls about 40 students per year. The program reports a first-time ARRT pass rate above 90% and a job placement rate of 95% within a year. Clinical rotations occur at major Phoenix hospitals, including Banner Health and HonorHealth, covering trauma, emergency, and outpatient imaging. The program emphasizes digital radiography and radiation safety, and includes a simulation lab for hands-on practice. Arizona's growing population ensures strong job demand. With low tuition and strong outcomes, it is a top value pick in the West.
7. University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics (Iowa City, IA)
Type: Hospital-based certificate program | Tuition: Approximately $9,000 total (in-state) | Best for: Students wanting a midwestern program with strong research ties
The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City offers a 24-month radiography program that is JRCERT-accredited and enrolls about 20 students per cohort. The program boasts a first-time ARRT pass rate above 94% and a job placement rate of 98% within six months. Clinical rotations occur at UIHC's level I trauma center and affiliated clinics, covering X-ray, CT, MRI, and interventional radiology. The program integrates evidence-based research and quality improvement projects, leveraging the university's academic environment. Iowa City's low cost of living and strong healthcare job market make it an attractive option.
8. Seattle Central College (Seattle, WA)
Type: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) | Tuition: Approximately $12,000 total (in-state) | Best for: Students seeking a program in the Pacific Northwest with diverse clinical sites
Seattle Central College in Seattle, Washington, offers a two-year AAS in Radiologic Technology that is JRCERT-accredited and enrolls about 30 students per year. The program reports a first-time ARRT pass rate above 92% and a job placement rate of 94% within a year. Clinical rotations occur at major Seattle hospitals, including Swedish Medical Center and UW Medicine, covering trauma, pediatrics, and outpatient imaging. The program emphasizes cultural competency and patient-centered care, reflecting Seattle's diverse population. The Pacific Northwest's growing healthcare sector provides strong job prospects.
9. College of DuPage (Glen Ellyn, IL)
Type: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) | Tuition: Approximately $9,000 total (in-state) | Best for: Students in the Midwest seeking a large, well-established program
College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, offers a two-year AAS in Radiologic Technology that is JRCERT-accredited and enrolls about 50 students per year, making it one of the largest programs nationally. The program reports a first-time ARRT pass rate above 90% and a job placement rate of 93% within a year. Clinical rotations occur at over 20 hospitals in the Chicago area, including Northwestern Medicine and Advocate Health Care, offering diverse clinical experiences. The program includes a modern simulation lab and offers evening classes for working students. Chicago's robust healthcare market ensures strong job placement.
10. Florida State College at Jacksonville (Jacksonville, FL)
Type: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) | Tuition: Approximately $7,000 total (in-state) | Best for: Students seeking an affordable program in the Southeast with strong clinical partnerships
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) offers a two-year AAS in Radiologic Technology that is JRCERT-accredited and enrolls about 35 students per year. The program reports a first-time ARRT pass rate above 88% and a job placement rate of 92% within a year. Clinical rotations occur at major Jacksonville hospitals, including UF Health Jacksonville and Baptist Health, covering trauma, emergency, and outpatient imaging. The program emphasizes digital imaging and radiation protection, and includes a bridge program to a bachelor's degree. Florida's growing population and healthcare demand ensure strong job opportunities.
Key Factors to Evaluate When Choosing a Program
Beyond the top-ranked names, the best program for you depends on several critical, often-overlooked factors. First, accreditation status is non-negotiable—only programs accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) qualify you to sit for the ARRT certification exam. Verify this directly on JRCERT’s website, as some schools may list “candidacy” rather than full accreditation. Second, clinical rotation quality matters more than classroom theory. Look for programs with affiliations at major hospitals or imaging centers, not just small clinics, because you’ll gain exposure to advanced modalities like CT, MRI, and fluoroscopy during your training. Third, consider program length and format. Associate degree programs typically take two years and are more affordable, while certificate programs (often 12–18 months) are designed for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. Finally, examine graduation rates and job placement statistics—reputable programs publish these annually. A program with a high graduation rate but low job placement may indicate weak career services or limited local demand. Avoid any program that refuses to share these numbers.
Career Outlook and Advancement Paths After Graduation
Radiology technicians enjoy strong employment demand across the United States, with opportunities in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, physicians’ offices, and mobile imaging services. After earning your ARRT certification, you can specialize in modalities such as mammography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or vascular-interventional radiography—each requiring additional certification but significantly boosting earning potential. Many technicians also pursue roles in education, management, or sales for imaging equipment manufacturers. A growing trend is the advanced practice radiologic technologist role, which involves expanded responsibilities like initial image interpretation and patient management under a radiologist’s supervision. This path typically requires a master’s degree and clinical experience. Additionally, some programs now offer bridge pathways from an associate to a bachelor’s degree in radiologic sciences, which can open doors to supervisory or administrative positions. When selecting a program, ask about articulation agreements with four-year universities if you anticipate wanting a bachelor’s degree later.
Financial Aid and Cost-Saving Strategies
The cost of radiology technician programs varies widely, from community college associate degrees costing a few thousand dollars to hospital-based programs with tuition exceeding $20,000. To manage expenses, start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many community colleges offer tuition waivers or scholarships specifically for health sciences students, so check with the financial aid office. Hospital-based programs often have tuition reimbursement agreements with their clinical partners—some even offer stipends or reduced tuition in exchange for a commitment to work there after graduation. Additionally, explore employer tuition assistance if you’re currently working in healthcare or a related field. Avoid private student loans if possible; instead, prioritize federal loans with income-driven repayment options. Finally, consider part-time or evening program formats that allow you to work while studying, reducing the need for borrowed funds. Always request a detailed cost breakdown, including fees for uniforms, equipment, and exam prep materials, before committing.
FAQ
What is a radiology technician? A radiology technician, also called a radiographer, is a healthcare professional who operates X-ray equipment and other imaging modalities to produce diagnostic images for physicians.
How long does a radiology technician program take? Most programs take two years for an associate degree or 24 months for a hospital-based certificate program, though bachelor's degrees take four years.
What is the ARRT exam? The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam is the national certification test required to practice as a radiographer in most states.
Are these programs accredited? Yes, all programs listed are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), which is the gold standard for quality.
How much do radiology technicians earn? Salaries vary by location and experience, but the median annual wage for radiologic technologists is generally in the range of $60,000 to $80,000 according to industry data.
Can I specialize after becoming a radiology technician? Yes, radiographers can pursue advanced certifications in CT, MRI, mammography, interventional radiology, or sonography through the ARRT.
Sources
- Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
- American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Radiologic Technologists
- U.S. News & World Report - Best Health Care Programs
- American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
- Individual program websites (UMMC, Montgomery College, Mayo Clinic, etc.)
- Community College Review
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