Embarking on a career in radiologic technology is a rewarding choice for those fascinated by medical imaging and patient care. If you’re exploring radiology programs, particularly in Southern California, you might have come across the American Career College (ACC) Radiology Program. As you research your options, understanding what this program offers and whether it aligns with your career aspirations is crucial. This article delves into the American Career College Associate of Occupational Science in Radiography program, providing a comprehensive overview to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your future.
The American Career College Radiography program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel as entry-level radiologic technologists. The program’s core philosophy, grounded in the ASRT and ARRT Code of Ethics, emphasizes the development of ethical and competent professionals. Graduates are expected not only to pass the certification and registration exam but also to embrace lifelong learning and professional growth within the dynamic field of radiology.
This radiography program aims to cultivate well-rounded professionals through a blend of academic rigor and hands-on clinical experience. Let’s explore the key components that make up the ACC Radiography program.
Comprehensive Curriculum for Aspiring Radiologic Technologists
The program’s curriculum is structured to provide a robust foundation in radiologic sciences, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application. It encompasses a wide range of subjects, from the fundamental sciences to specialized radiologic techniques and patient care. The curriculum is broken down into General Education courses and Core Courses, ensuring a balanced educational experience.
General Education Courses
These foundational courses provide students with a broader academic base, essential for critical thinking and communication skills in any profession, including healthcare. The General Education component includes:
- Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology (ANAT200 & ANAT200-L): This two-part course, including a lab component, introduces the basic structure and function of the human body, crucial for understanding medical imaging.
- Written Communications I (ENGL100): Focuses on developing effective written communication skills, vital for clear and concise documentation in a medical setting.
- Introduction to Psychology (PSYC100): Provides an understanding of human behavior and mental processes, enhancing patient interaction and care skills.
- College Mathematics I (MATH100): Develops essential mathematical skills applicable to various aspects of radiologic technology and problem-solving.
These courses lay the groundwork for the more specialized radiography coursework, ensuring students have a well-rounded educational foundation.
Core Radiography Courses
The heart of the program lies in its comprehensive core courses, meticulously designed to cover all aspects of radiologic technology. These courses are a blend of lectures, labs, and extensive clinical practicums, providing a holistic learning experience. Key core courses include:
- Introduction to Radiologic Sciences (RAD120): An introductory course providing an overview of the field and its various disciplines.
- Career Advantage (CAREER200): Focuses on professional development and career readiness skills.
- Medical Terminology (RAD150): Essential for understanding and communicating effectively in the medical field.
- Radiographic Physics (RAD220): Delves into the principles of physics underlying radiography, crucial for image production and radiation safety.
- Principles of Image Production (RAD250): Covers the technical aspects of creating high-quality radiographic images.
- Radiographic Positioning I, II, & III (RAD320, RAD450, RAD520): A series of courses focusing on the correct positioning techniques for various radiographic examinations.
- Radiation Biology and Protection (RAD350): Covers the effects of radiation on living tissues and the principles of radiation protection for both patients and technologists.
- Digital Imaging (RAD370): Explores the technology and techniques used in modern digital radiography.
- Patient Care (RAD420): Focuses on providing compassionate and effective care to patients in a radiology setting.
- Law and Ethics in Imaging (RAD470): Covers the legal and ethical considerations relevant to radiologic practice.
- Clinical Practicums I-VI (RAD500C, RAD600C, RAD700C, RAD800C, RAD900C, RAD1000C): These extensive practicums form a significant part of the program, providing hands-on clinical experience in real healthcare settings. They are designed to progressively build skills and confidence through practical application of learned knowledge.
- Pharmacology/Venipuncture (RAD620): Provides training in pharmacology and venipuncture techniques, increasingly relevant in modern radiology.
- Introduction to Computed Tomography with Cross Sectional Anatomy (RAD720): Introduces students to the principles of CT scanning and cross-sectional anatomy.
- Radiology Seminar I & II (RADSEM1, RADSEM2): Seminars designed to enhance learning and professional development through discussions and focused topics.
The program’s emphasis on clinical practicums is a significant strength, providing a substantial 1860 clinical hours. This hands-on experience is invaluable for developing practical skills and confidence before entering the profession.
Hands-on Training and Clinical Experience
Beyond the classroom, the ACC Radiography program emphasizes practical training. Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment, including:
- CR/DR digital equipment
- Portable radiography unit
- Mini C-arm unit
- And a comprehensive list of accessories for positioning and radiation protection (lead aprons, gloves, shields, etc.)
This exposure to a wide array of equipment ensures graduates are well-prepared for the technology they will encounter in their careers. The clinical practicums are conducted in affiliated healthcare facilities, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Career Objectives and Ethical Standards
The program explicitly aims to prepare graduates to be competent, ethical, and professional radiologic technologists. It instills the importance of the ASRT and ARRT Code of Ethics, emphasizing legal and ethical practice. Furthermore, the program fosters leadership qualities and community engagement, encouraging graduates to be proactive and responsible healthcare professionals.
The program objectives are clearly defined:
- To provide comprehensive learning experiences preparing students for competent radiologic technology practice.
- To ensure students are academically and clinically prepared for the ARRT certification exam.
- To graduate professionals who demonstrate leadership and provide competent patient care.
- To encourage community awareness and responsiveness.
- To maintain accreditation standards.
- To support the radiologic technology community through professional development opportunities.
These objectives highlight the program’s commitment to producing well-rounded, highly skilled, and ethically grounded radiologic technologists.
Program Locations and Delivery
The American Career College Radiography program is offered at multiple locations: Los Angeles, Anaheim, and Ontario. This provides flexibility for students in Southern California to choose a campus convenient for them. The program utilizes a blended delivery method, combining online coursework with on-ground classes and clinical practicums. This format offers a degree of flexibility while ensuring hands-on training and in-person interaction. The program is designed to be completed in 100 weeks, offering a focused and relatively quick pathway to a career in radiography.
Is the American Career College Radiology Program Right for You?
Choosing a radiography program is a significant decision. The American Career College program offers a structured curriculum, extensive clinical experience, and a clear focus on ethical and competent practice. If you are looking for a career-focused program in radiologic technology in the Southern California area, the ACC program is definitely worth considering.
While “reviews” in the traditional sense might vary, the program’s detailed curriculum, emphasis on clinical hours, and clear objectives suggest a strong foundation for aspiring radiologic technologists. Prospective students should further explore program outcomes, talk to program advisors, and potentially visit campus locations to gain a more personalized understanding and determine if the American Career College Radiography program aligns with their individual career goals and learning preferences.
To learn more and get detailed information, visit the official Radiography Program page on the American Career College website.
