Apr 18, 2024  
PUBLISHED 2023-2024 Credit Catalog 
    
PUBLISHED 2023-2024 Credit Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Medical Radiologic Technology


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Program Description


Medical Radiologic Technology (MRT) is the art and science of correctly positioning the patient and X-ray equipment to produce and record images for visualizing the extent of disease or injury. The MRT program trains students as medical radiologic technologists, responsible for the safe and competent operation of a wide range of X-ray generating machines, the production of digital images, and the use of accessory medical equipment.

Students will complete courses in anatomy and pathology, apparatus and image management, computed tomography, radiation protection, general and specialized radiographic techniques, professional practice and patient care. They will also focus on specialized imaging, clinical integration, quality assurance and control, and professional practice. Additionally, students will complete three clinical practica where they rotate through general and specialized medical radiologic technology departments, applying what they have learned in these clinical settings.

Program Overview


Fast Facts


  • Based on the availability of the practicum sites, students may have to travel or re-locate to anywhere in Alberta (and in some circumstances outside of Alberta) in order to complete their practica
  • Students are responsible for any additional expenses related to their practicum, including pre-practicum requirements as outlined by the program, and relocation costs to practicum sites outside of Calgary
  • During the clinical portion of the program, students are expected to participate in normal MRT shiftwork that can include evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays
  • Students require access to a personal computer with Internet in order to complete the required courses

All courses must be completed within the program completion timeframe. Please be advised that for the purpose of student loans, full-time student status requires that learners are enrolled in a minimum of 60% of a full course load per semester.

Your Career


Graduates find work as medical radiologic technologists in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices and public health agencies. Future specialization opportunities are also available for experienced medical radiologic technologists with technical excellence in areas such as angiography, mammography, management and teaching.

Student Success


Job expectations for success in this profession include:

  • Fine motor skills
  • Critical thinking
  • Communication (speaking, reading, writing, and listening)
  • Able to work independently
  • Able to participate in classroom, lab, and practicum activities as scheduled by the program
  • Adaptable
  • Able to work well under stress
  • Able to use technology
  • Attention to detail
  • Able to maintain professional behaviour; emotional self-regulation
  • Able to wear Personal Protective Equipment for extended periods of time
  • Able to work extended hours, including nights and/or weekends and shift work
  • Able to tolerate the sight of human blood and tissue
  • Able to assist in transporting, lifting, and positioning of patients and/or equipment
  • Able to meet the physical demands of the job (e.g. spend most hours working on your feet, walking, repetitive bending, repetitive tasks)
    • Please note that individuals with previous chronic or repetitive strain injuries have experienced re-injury or aggravation of these conditions in this program and/or as a technologist
  • Able to reach, handle, and move equipment at a minimum height of 180cm (to move overhead equipment)
  • Able to tolerate latex and disinfection chemicals
  • Comfortable with performing patient care procedures which may be sensitive or performed in close proximity

Prospective students are strongly encouraged to refer to the ALIS website for career, learning, and employment information for Medical Radiologic Technology, as well as the governing body’s competency profile for the profession, to ensure that they are able to successfully demonstrate the skills required to achieve all the competency-based objectives for the program and profession.

Credentials


After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Medical Radiologic Technology diploma.

Graduates from this program are eligible to challenge the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) certification exam which is a requirement for registration and employment for medical radiologic technologists in Canada.

Accreditation


The Medical Radiologic Technology program delivered by SAIT is accredited by Accreditation Canada. The program also works closely with our Diagnostic Imaging Advisory Committee to ensure that our curriculum continues to meet or exceed provincial and national accreditation standards.

Progression


The progression requirement for students taking credit courses is a Term GPA and Total Institutional GPA of 2.0, with the exception of English Language Foundations and Academic Upgrading programs.

Admission Requirements


At least 75% in the following courses or equivalents:

  • Math 30-1, or Math 30-2, AND,
  • English Language Arts 30-1, AND,
  • Physics 30, AND,
  • One of either Biology 30, or Chemistry 30, or Science 30

Successful applicants must meet or exceed a score of 50% in the School of Health and Public Safety’s Entrance Testing Process.

All applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Program Outline


Total Credits 63


Program Outcomes


  1. Provide patient care to ensure comfort, safety, and dignity.
  2. Collaborate effectively within the inter-professional environment to achieve a high standard of patient service.
  3. Engage in the healthcare system with a comprehensive understanding of, and accountability towards, your impact.
  4. Produce, evaluate, process, and critique diagnostic digital images in MRT clinical settings.
  5. Perform, evaluate, process, and critique non-imaging procedures in a MRT clinical setting.
  6. Evaluate and guide the technical and professional development of students using educational institute guidelines.
  7. Use verbal, non-verbal, and written skills to communicate appropriately with patients, members of the healthcare team, and the public.
  8. Model professionalism by adhering to the professional code of ethics, legal and workplace standards, and by embracing a commitment to lifelong learning.
  9. Ensure the physical and psychological safety of patients, co-workers, and self while maintaining radiation safety standards.
  10. Competently operate and evaluate equipment performance to ensure accuracy of clinical procedures.
  11. Apply critical thinking and creativity to adapt to challenging situations in the workplace.

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