High School

High school classes that will help you prepare for further education as a special procedures technologist include advanced courses in anatomy, physiology, and math. Science courses, including biology, chemistry, and physics, are also helpful. Classes in communication such as speech and English, and classes that reinforce written and verbal skills are also helpful. Because most imaging specialties depend heavily on computer technology, you should gain a good understanding of the use of computers. Studies regarding various cultures will also help you deal with patients from various backgrounds. In addition, you might consider studying a foreign language, so as to be able to communicate with patients whose understanding of English is not strong.

Postsecondary Training

The most common way to enter this field is to get an associates degree in radiology. Some people choose to get a bachelors degree, but this route is mainly for those interested in going into administrative or teaching positions. Associate degree programs can be found at community colleges, vocational and technical training schools, or in the military. When deciding on which program to attend, look for those accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs; a degree from an accredited school will aid you in your job search. Your course of study will include both classroom instruction and clinical experience. Courses will cover topics such as medical terminology, medical ethics, radiation physics, and positioning of patients. In all cases, special procedures technologists must complete additional training, usually offered through a hospital, medical center, college, or vocational or technical training school, in their specialty area.

Other Education or Training

The American Society of Radiologic Technologists offers continuing education (CE) courses on patient care, leadership, and practice areas such as magnetic resonance, mammography, and computed tomography. The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging also provide CE classes and webinars. Contact these organizations for more information. 

Certification or Licensing

Special procedures technologists can become certified through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) after graduating from an accredited program. After becoming certified, many technologists choose to register with the ARRT. Registration is an annual procedure required to maintain the certification. Registered technologists meet the following three criteria: They agree to comply with the ARRT rules and regulations, comply with the ARRT standards of ethics, and meet continuing education requirements every two years. Although registration and certification are voluntary, many jobs are open only to technologists who have acquired these credentials. In addition to receiving primary certification in various imaging disciplines, special procedures technologists can receive advanced qualifications in mammography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, quality management, bone densitometry, cardiac-interventional radiography, vascular-interventional radiography, sonography, vascular sonography, or breast sonography. 

Certification or registration are also available through the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board, American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists, and the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. 

Licensing requirements for special procedures technologists vary by state, although most states and Puerto Rico do require some form of licensing. The ARRT provides general information on state requirements and also notes that licensure legislation is under consideration in several states. Contact your states licensing board for specific information about requirements in your area.

Participation in radiologic technology, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or other imaging/therapy-related internships while in college will provide useful experience for aspiring special procedures technologists. 

You should have an interest in medicine and compassion for patients to be a successful special procedures technologist. You should have an aptitude for science and math and have strong communication skills. In addition, you should be conscientious, responsible, efficient, and have the ability to work under stress and in emergency situations. You should also work well with people, both independently and as a part of a team. Manual dexterity and stamina are also required. Many employers also require technicians to have up-to-date cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training.