Graduate Nursing vs Radiology Technician (2024)
Two popular career paths to healthcare are Graduate Nursing and Radiology Technology. These fields offer rewarding opportunities to make a significant difference in patients' lives. Here's a quick comparison to help you make an informed decision:
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A Graduate Nurse is a registered nurse who has completed advanced education provides specialized care and often hold leadership roles. A Radiology Technician is a healthcare professional who performs diagnostic imaging examinations, such as X-rays and MRIs.
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To become a Graduate Nurse in the US, one must complete a bachelor's degree in nursing, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and then pursue advanced education. A Radiology Technician, an associate degree in radiologic technology is required, followed by certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
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Graduate nursing programs in the US typically last 2 to 4 years, while radiology technician programs generally take 2 years to complete, with additional time for certification and licensing.
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for Graduate Nurses in the US is roughly $86,070, while Radiology Technicians earn around $76,020 on average.
Is radiation therapy school harder than nursing school?
Radiation therapy school requires a strong understanding of physics and anatomy, while nursing school emphasizes patient care and medical knowledge. Both programs are rigorous and require dedication and hard work.
Is nursing school or ultrasound tech harder?
Nursing school covers a broader range of medical topics and typically requires more clinical hours. Ultrasound tech programs, on the other hand, require in-depth knowledge of imaging technology and human anatomy. The difficulty level ultimately depends on individual learning preferences and career goals.
Is it better to be a radiologist or sonographer?
Radiologists are medical doctors with extensive training, earning a higher salary but also carrying more responsibility. Sonographers, on the other hand, have a shorter educational path and less responsibility, but also a lower salary.
Final Thoughts
Your choice between graduate nursing and radiology technician depends on your interests. If you’re drawn to direct patient care, diagnosis, and treatment, nursing may be ideal. If you prefer a role focused on technology and diagnostics, radiology might suit you better. Assess your strengths and long-term goals to decide.
Explore Dreambound's program accessibility across different locations. Immerse yourself in these blogs for a detailed exploration of the two vocations, unraveling specific requirements and gaining insightful perspectives on how to embark on your journey:
Harold Roldan is a Growth team member at Dreambound. With a background in IT, he works with data and automation to improve team efficiency and workflows. He spends his free time playing musical instruments or studying data, computers, and technology.
