Graduates of the program experience high ARRT exam pass rates, program completion rates and job placement rates. Students have access to multiple types of x-ray equipment for hands-on practice on campus, and receive a well-rounded clinical internship experience at both major hospitals and busy clinics. The program has been accredited through JRCERT since 1996.
The program is full-time, starts in the Fall, and spans 21 month/5 semesters. Instruction occurs primarily at the Arvada campus, but also via online coursework and clinical internship at medical facilities. Clinical internship occurs throughout the program. Basic clinical training is completed before students enter clinical rotation. A capstone registry review course is required during the final semester prior to graduation. Due to the fast-paced and rigorous nature of the program, students are encouraged to have little to no outside employment responsibilities while enrolled. Prospective students are encouraged to attend an info session and review the Student Handbook below.
Join us for an informative info session for prospective x-ray, CT, and MRI students. We will cover general information, tips for applying, and FAQs. No RSVP needed.
RRCC is accredited by the The Higher Learning Commission (Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools), and its programs are approved by the State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education and Colorado Community College System.
The Red Rocks Community College radiologic technology program is also accredited by:
The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, Illinois 60606-3182
312-704-5300
Email: mail.jrcert.org
The program's current accreditation award is 8 years (the maximum award term granted). For general program accreditation information and the current accreditation award letter visit JRCERT Accredited Program Details. www.jrcert.org provides information about the JRCERT Standards and the reporting process.
Students are encouraged to meet with an advisor to discuss requirements
Admission to the radiologic technology program is highly competitive and requires admission to the college, pre-requisites, a separate radiologic technology program application, an interview, and an eligibility screening process. See the Admissions Policies and Procedures for further details. Entry into the program does not guarantee national licensing or employment upon graduation. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure they meet any specific eligibility requirements of the ARRT and/or potential employers. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to apply. Admissions information is subject to change.
Multi-Phase Admissions Process
- Program Application Window: Dec 1- Jan 31
- Application Scoring: February
- Interviews: March
- Eligibility Screenings: June
- Offers of Acceptance: June
- Orientation: July
- Program Start: August
Interview
Based on application scoring, about 36 candidates will be offered an interview consisting of Q&A and other activities. Then based on interview performance about 20 candidates will be moved on to the eligibility screening process.
Eligibility Screening
To ensure eligibility to participate in the program, candidates must undergo a drug screen, background check, physical exam, and provide documentation of current vaccines, active health insurance, and BLS certification. Other physical and safety requirements may be assigned as needed. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age to apply. Candidates with Disqualifying Criminal Offenses or that do not meet the Technical Standards of the program may not be eligible for program entry.
PROGRAM APPLICATIONS ARE ACCEPTED DECEMBER 1 – JANUARY 31
Applications submitted outside of the application window, or that contain unreadable, missing, incomplete or incorrect information will not be considered.
START EARLY! Requirements may take several weeks or more to complete
STEPS TO APPLY:
- Register at Red Rocks Community College and declare the AAS Radiologic Technology Degree
- Transfer completed pre-reqs to RRCC (if applicable)
- Submit program application
Application Scoring:
Application scoring criteria, listed from highest to lowest score weight:
- GPA (in program pre-requisite coursework only)
- Recommendations
- For higher points: from healthcare professionals, faculty or supervisors
- Personal Statement
- Paid Healthcare Experience (optional)
- For higher points: experience with direct patient care (providing face to face medical services to patients as a member of a team of professional healthcare providers, in a medical or in-home environment)
- Job Shadowing (optional)
Application Contents:
1. Program Pre-requisite Documentation
- May be in-progress at time of application, but must be completed by May of the program start year
- Completed credits from prior semesters should appear on RRCC transcript at time of application. If transferring credit, initiate the process at least 30 days prior to applying. Make sure you have declared the AAS Radiologic Technology degree, and send electronic transcripts to Student Records.
2. Recommendations
- Provide 2 references to receive a questionnaire from the college
3. Personal Statement:
- 200 words or less
- Topic: Radiography blends professionalism, technical skill, knowledge of anatomy, and patient care. Which of these aspects resonates most strongly with you, and why? Share a personal experience that sparked a connection to that area.
4. Resume
- To include paid healthcare experience (optional)
5. Job Shadowing (optional):
- Candidate is responsible for securing their own shadowing
- 1 point for every hour completed, up to 10 hours
- Must be documented with this form and signed by a licensed radiologic technologist
Students will complete clinical internship at multiple sites, including major hospitals and busy clinics. While student’s preferred clinical sites are taken into account, final assignments are determined by the Clinical Coordinator. Most shifts are 8-10 hours during weekdays, but may include nights, weekends or overnights. Students provide their own transportation to clinical facilities. Most clinical sites are within a 20 mile radius of Denver, but students may attend sites within a 100 mile radius. Basic clinical training is completed on-campus before students enter clinical rotation.
Clinical affiliates include but are not limited to:
- Good Samaritan Medical Center (Lafayette)
- Kaiser Permanente (Denver)
- Lutheran Medical Center (Wheat Ridge)
- Parker Adventist Hospital (Parker)
- Platte Valley Medical Center (Brighton)
- Porter Adventist Hospital (Denver)
- St. Anthony’s Hospital (Lakewood)
- St. Joseph’s Hospital (Denver)
Estimated Total Cost of Radiologic Technology Program: $15,500
Includes in-state tuition, fees, books & uniforms. Does not include pre-requisites, transportation, or required health insurance. Financial aid, scholarships and other tuition assistance programs may be available. Students are encouraged to pursue WIOA funding if eligible.
The AAS degree in Radiologic Technology consists of 79 credit hours of pre-requisite and in-program coursework. Courses consist of online, hybrid, and in-person offerings. The following courses listed as online may carry increased tuition and fees. RTE 1001, 1031, 1032 and 2031 are offered online and may carry increased tuition and fees.
Typical Schedule
(subject to change)
Fall I Semester: 1 clinical shift, 4 days class/lab
Spring I Semester: 2 clinical shifts, 3 class/lab
Summer Semester: 5 clinical shifts
Fall II Semester: 3 clinical shifts, 2 days class
Spring II Semester: 3-4 clinical shifts, 1 day class
Mission
Our Radiologic Technology Program is committed to excellence in education demonstrated by providing effective, hands-on instruction in the classroom and clinical settings. Graduates of the program provide safe, person-centered care and quality diagnostic services to the community as radiologic technologists.
RTE Program Goals & Student Learning Outcomes
- Goal #1: Students will model clinical competency
- Students will demonstrate competency in patient positioning
- Students will employ appropriate technical skills when using radiation-producing equipment
- Students will apply effective patient care and safety skills
- Goal #2: Students will communicate effectively with colleagues, patients and the public
- Students will communicate effectively verbally
- Students will communicate effectively in writing
- Goal #3: Students will employ effective critical thinking skills
- Students will effectively adapt radiographic exam methods to accommodate challenging scenarios
- Students will critically evaluate images for diagnostic quality
- Goal #4: Students will be properly prepared to earn the ARRT credential as a registered radiographer
- Students will successfully pass mock ARRT prep exams
- Students will promptly complete all ARRT required competencies
This handbook is as a guide for radiologic technology (RTE) students accepted to Red Rocks Community College (RRCC). Students assume the responsibility for observing the policies as stated in the current college handbook, Radiologic Technology Student Handbook, and syllabi. These policies may be altered or revised at any time as needed.
"I am so lucky to have attended RRCC rad tech program! Charlotte, the director of the program is absolutely amazing. She is a talented instructor, able to explain difficult concepts in a fun and interesting way. Teresa, the clinical coordinator was also great and always available if needed. Red Rocks has many clinic sites they work with which allows students to get a wide variety of experience. I was more than prepared for the registry and for employment upon completion of the program. Lastly, it is an extremely affordable associates degree, especially compared to other programs offered in the state. I tell anyone interested in x-ray to attend Red Rocks."
-Hillary Stafford RT(R)
"I really enjoyed going through the rad program at RRCC. I felt the teachers really tried to help us feel supported, yet gain independence at the same time. The most important thing to me was being prepped for the ARRT.. which this rad program has a great reputation for helping their classes pass. I also met my best friends here, and will now always recommend people to go back to school because going back honestly changed my life for the better."
-Whitley Canady, RT(R)
"The radiology program at Red Rocks Community College exceeded my expectations. The comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training provided a solid foundation for my career. The dedicated instructors fostered a supportive learning environment, and the program's emphasis on practical skills truly prepared me for success in the field. I highly recommend it to anyone pursuing a career in radiology."
-Kelley Stevens, RT(R)
I've been a Radiologic Technologist for over 40 years. I've worked in seven states in various facilities (i.e. hospitals, clinics, orthopedic surgeons office, etc.). I've been very impressed by the knowledge shown by the Red Rocks Radiology students. They've shown a lot of confidence in the clinical setting. I recommend their program to anyone interested in Radiological Sciences.
-Deborah Sagraves, RT(R)
St. Anthony's North Medical Campus
Program At A Glance:
Upon Completion of Program: Eligible to sit for the ARRT CT Licensing Examination
Program Length: One semester
Program Start: Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters
Class Size: 6-10
Program Coursework: Online and Clinical Internship
The Computed Tomography (CT) certificate program at RRCC offers the opportunity to obtain coursework and clinical experience in computed tomography. Fall & Spring semesters are 15 weeks and the accelerated Summer semester is 10 weeks. Instruction occurs via online coursework and through clinical internships at medical facilities. Clinical internship shifts are held 2-3 times per week. Basic clinical safety training is completed before students enter clinical rotation.
Enrollment in each cohort is limited and competitive. Candidates for the CT program must have completed an accredited medical imaging program, be ARRT certified and registered in Radiography, Nuclear Medicine, or Radiation Therapy and in good standing with the ARRT. Registry-eligible candidates may also apply if they will be licensed prior to the program start. The program curriculum satisfies the 16 hours of structured education as required by the ARRT. Coursework includes: equipment, procedures, radiation safety, imaging, and cross-sectional anatomy.
Application Process - All the application steps are found at the Computed Tomography Application (CT) link
The Program Application form is found here
For further details, see online application requirements below, and Instructions & FAQs. Applications that contain illegible, missing, incomplete or incorrect information will not be considered.
Admissions Timeline:
For all dates applications are accepted year round and the orientation is online.
Program Start : Spring
First Day of Program: Mid January
Program Start: Summer
First Day of Program: MId May
Program Start: Fall
First Day of Program: Late August
Program start will be determined based on timing of application and clinical internship availability. Official acceptance into the program occurs after successful completion of an interview and eligibility screening process which includes a background check and drug screen.
Curriculum:
COURSE PREFIX: RTE 2055 - Multiplanar Sectional Imaging :: 2 Credits
COURSE PREFIX: RTE 2057 - Computed Tomography Basics :: 3 Credits
COURSE PREFIX: RTE 2080 - Internship :: 5 Credits
Total Credits :: 10
Online application requirements:
1. Applicants must be:
- 18 years of age
- currently registered by the ARRT in one of the following primary-pathway licenses: radiography, radiation therapy, or nuclear medicine OR ARRT registration pending, to be complete and documented during eligibility screening
2. RTE 2055 Multiplanar Sectional Imaging is required to complete the certificate and:
- can be taken as a pre-requisite prior to the program or co-requisite during the program
- must be documented on the application (transcript, course registration status, etc.)
- must be taken in the U.S.
- have a final grade of C or higher
- if taken as a pre-req, course completion must have occurred within 4 years of the start of the program
- transfer credit must be accepted by Red Rocks Community College (RRCC) and documented on the RRCC transcript within 6 weeks of completion Visit the Transferring Credits section on the Advising page for more info on how to transfer credit from other institutions.
3. Resume:
Please include any paid experience as an ARRT-licensed technologist in radiography, radiation therapy, or nuclear medicine. This is not required, but candidates with over 1,000 hours of paid experience as a licensed technologist in the past year will receive higher application points.
4. Two letters of reference, dated within the last six months, with a signature and phone contact information. Letters are scored based on quality of content. Letters from supervisors and/or healthcare professionals will receive more points.
5. Statement of Intent: in 200 words or less, address the following questions
- Why do you want to become a CT Technologist?
- As a CT student, how will you go above and beyond expectations in both the healthcare internship facility and classroom?
6. Job Shadowing Forms (optional)
Job Shadowing is optional, but strongly recommended. Shadowing hours must be done with a licensed CT Technologist and the completed RRCC CT job shadowing form must be submitted with the application to receive credit. The school does not arrange or recommend sites. Points are awarded based on hours reported on job shadowing form(s). 1 point is awarded for every hour of shadowing, up to a maximum of 10 hours.
7. ARRT License: Licensed candidates must provide a copy of one current primary-pathway license. If your ARRT license is pending, you will document this on your application. A current license is required prior to program start to be eligible for program entry.
8. Unofficial transcript: Upload unofficial transcript documenting all completed primary-pathway coursework at the time of application.
How the Applications are Scored
Applications are scored based on the below items, listed from highest to lowest score weight:
- GPA in primary-pathway program (in-program courses only)
- Statement of Intent
- Overall Quality of Application (accuracy, completion)
- Paid ARRT-licensed Technologist Experience
- Job Shadowing
- Letters of Reference
Cost of Program:
Tuition, fees, books and scrubs are needed for the program. This program is not eligible for Financial Aid. For more information on other types of financial assistance, visit our Financial Aid and Scholarships pages. Other funding may be available through Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Act (WOIA) or Veteran Services.
Estimated Cost of Program: $3,200
In-State Tuition: $1,700
Fees: $1,000
Books: $200
Uniform: $300
Interview:
Candidates with the highest application scores will be selected for an interview and notified via email. The interview may consist of various activities and interview sessions. Top performing interviewees will earn a spot in the program, solely on their interview performance.
Physical & Health Requirements:
Inability to meet physical and health requirements at any time during the program may result in disruption of education, delayed completion or program dismissal. Students admitted to the program are required to have current, compliant documentation of the following items on file with the program:
- Drug Screen
- Background Check (see Disqualifying Criminal Offenses)
- Physical Exam Certification (see Technical Standards)
- MMR Vaccination
- Varicella (Chicken Pox) Vaccination
- Hepatitis B Vaccination
- Tuberculosis Screening
- Tdap Vaccination
- Health Insurance Card (proof of active medical insurance)
- MRI Safety Form
- Seasonal Flu Vaccination
- AHA BLS Healthcare Provider Certification
- Other physical and safety requirements as assigned by the program or clinical site (e.g. COVID-19 vaccination, etc.)
Students may be required to undergo vaccination and/or medical evaluation to be eligible to participate in the program, and these requirements are subject to change.
Accessibility
Accessibility Services exists to ensure Red Rocks Community College’s compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, wherein qualified students with disabilities are provided accommodations upon request, to assist in their academic success. If you have questions about accessibility or accommodations, please contact Accessibility Services. Red Rocks Community College is committed to diversity in its people and programs. Please visit the RRCC Human Resources page to view our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information.
Program At A Glance:
Upon Completion of Program: Eligible to sit for the ARRT MR Licensing Examination
Program Length: Two semesters
Program: Fall and Spring semesters
Class Size: 6-10
Program Coursework: Online and Clinical Internship
The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR) certificate program at RRCC offers the opportunity to obtain coursework and clinical experience in MRI. Fall & Spring semesters are 15 weeks for a total of 30 weeks. Instruction occurs via online coursework and through clinical internships at medical facilities. Clinical internship shifts are held 3 times per week. Basic clinical safety training is completed before students enter clinical rotation.
Enrollment in each cohort is limited and competitive. Candidates for the MR program are required to be ARRT registered in radiography, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, or sonography. Registry-eligible candidates may also apply if they will be licensed prior to the program start. The program curriculum satisfies the 16 hours of structured education as required by the ARRT. Coursework includes: patient care, safety, image production and procedures.
Application Process:
Application Process - All the application steps are found at the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Application (MRI) link
The Program Application form is found here
For further details, see online application requirements below, and Instructions & FAQs. Applications that contain illegible, missing, incomplete or incorrect information will not be considered.
Admissions Timeline:
For all dates applications are accepted year round and the orientation is online.
Program Start : Spring
First Day of Program: Mid January
Program Start: Summer
First Day of Program: MId May
Program Start: Fall
First Day of Program: Late August
Program start will be determined based on timing of application and clinical internship availability. Official acceptance into the program occurs after successful completion of an interview and eligibility screening process which includes a background check and drug screen.
Curriculum:
COURSE PREFIX: PRE-REQ RTE 2055 - Multiplanar Sectional Imaging :: 2 Credits
SEMESTER I
COURSE PREFIX: RTE 2061 - Principles of MR Imaging I :: 2 Credits
COURSE PREFIX: RTE 2080 - Internship :: 5 Credits
SEMESTER II
COURSE PREFIX: RTE 2063 - Principles of MR Imaging II :: 2 Credits
COURSE PREFIX: RTE 2084 - Internship :: 5 Credits
Total Credits :: 16
Online application requirements:
1. Applicants must be:
- 18 years of age
- Candidates for the MR program are required to be ARRT registered in radiography, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, or sonography
2. RTE 2055 Multiplanar Sectional Imaging is required to complete the certificate and:
- can be taken as a pre-requisite prior to the program or co-requisite during the program
- must be documented on the application (transcript, course registration status, etc.)
- must be taken in the U.S.
- have a final grade of C or higher
- if taken as a pre-req, course completion must have occurred within 4 years of the start of the program
- transfer credit must be accepted by Red Rocks Community College (RRCC) and documented on the RRCC transcript within 6 weeks of completion Visit the Transferring Credits section on the Advising page for more info on how to transfer credit from other institutions
3. Resume:
Please include any paid experience as an ARRT-licensed technologist in radiography, radiation therapy, or nuclear medicine. This is not required, but candidates with over 1,000 hours of paid experience as a licensed technologist in the past year will receive higher application points.
4. Two letters of reference, dated within the last six months, with a signature and phone contact information. Letters are scored based on quality of content. Letters from supervisors and/or healthcare professionals will receive more points.
5. Statement of Intent: in 200 words or less, address the following questions
- Why do you want to become an MRI Technologist?
- As an MRI student, how will you go above and beyond expectations in both the healthcare internship facility and classroom?
6. Job Shadowing Forms (optional)
Job Shadowing is optional, but strongly recommended. Shadowing hours must be done with a licensed MRI Technologist and the completed RRCC MRI job shadowing form must be submitted with the application to receive credit. The school does not arrange or recommend sites. Points are awarded based on hours reported on job shadowing form(s). 1 point is awarded for every hour of shadowing, up to a maximum of 10 hours.
7. ARRT License or Degree:
- ARRT License: candidates must provide a copy of one current ARRT license in radiography, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, or sonography. If your ARRT license is pending, you will document this on your application. A current license is required prior to program start to be eligible for program entry.
8. Unofficial transcript: Upload unofficial transcript documenting all completed primary-pathway coursework at the time of application.
How the Applications are Scored
Applications are scored based on the below items, listed from highest to lowest score weight:
- GPA in primary-pathway program (in-program courses only)
- Statement of Intent
- Overall Quality of Application (accuracy, completion)
- Paid ARRT-licensed Technologist Experience
- Job Shadowing
- Letters of Reference
Cost of Program:
Tuition, fees, books and scrubs are needed for the program. This program is not eligible for Financial Aid. For more information on other types of financial assistance, visit our Financial Aid and Scholarships pages. Other funding may be available through Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Act (WOIA) or Veteran Services.
Estimated Cost of Program: $4,800
In-State Tuition: $2,800
Fees: $1,400
Books: $300
Uniform: $300
Interview:
Candidates with the highest application scores will be selected for an interview and notified via email. The interview may consist of various activities and interview sessions. Top performing interviewees will earn a spot in the program, solely on their interview performance.
Physical & Health Requirements:
Inability to meet physical and health requirements at any time during the program may result in disruption of education, delayed completion or program dismissal. Students admitted to the program are required to have current, compliant documentation of the following items on file with the program:
- Drug Screen
- Background Check (see Disqualifying Criminal Offenses)
- Physical Exam Certification (see Technical Standards)
- MMR Vaccination
- Varicella (Chicken Pox) Vaccination
- Hepatitis B Vaccination
- Tuberculosis Screening
- Tdap Vaccination
- Health Insurance Card (proof of active medical insurance)
- MRI Safety Form
- Seasonal Flu Vaccination
- AHA BLS Healthcare Provider Certification
- Other physical and safety requirements as assigned by the program or clinical site (e.g. COVID-19 vaccination, etc.)
Students may be required to undergo vaccination and/or medical evaluation to be eligible to participate in the program, and these requirements are subject to change.
Accessibility
Accessibility Services exists to ensure Red Rocks Community College’s compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, wherein qualified students with disabilities are provided accommodations upon request, to assist in their academic success. If you have questions about accessibility or accommodations, please contact Accessibility Services. Red Rocks Community College is committed to diversity in its people and programs. Please visit the RRCC Human Resources page to view our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information.
Schedule an Advising Appointment by visiting our Advising page or call the Arvada Campus Front Desk: 303-914-6010
Becoming a student at RRCC prepares you for transfer to a four-year university, prepares you for an exciting new career or can enhance your current skills.
Red Rocks Community College offers courses in Arvada, Lakewood and online as well as hybrid courses.
In collaboration with Colorado 4-year schools, Colorado has developed a statewide guaranteed transfer program to create a seamless transfer.
Becoming a student at RRCC prepares you for transfer to a four-year university, prepares you for an exciting new career or can enhance your current skills.