Radiology Technician vs Respiratory Therapist (2024)
When considering a career in the medical field, two popular options stand out: becoming a radiology technician or a respiratory therapist. While both professions play vital roles in patient care, they offer different experiences and responsibilities.
Radiology Technician
To become a radiology technician, you typically need:
- Education: Certificate, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology.
- Coursework: Anatomy, physiology, imaging techniques, and radiation safety.
- Certification: Must pass the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) certification exam.
- Continuing Education: Required to maintain certification and stay updated with new imaging technologies.
Respiratory Therapist
To pursue a career as a respiratory therapist, you will need:
- Education: Associate’s degree in respiratory therapy; bachelor’s degree is optional but may enhance job opportunities.
- Coursework: Anatomy, patient care, and therapeutic interventions.
- Certification: Pass the CRT (Certified Respiratory Therapist) exam; many pursue the advanced RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) certification.
- Continuing Education: Necessary for maintaining certification and staying informed about industry advancements.
Career Outlook and Salary Comparison
Radiology Technician
- Job Growth: 6% (2023–2033), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
- Median Salary: $73,410/year (May 2023).
Respiratory Therapist
- Job Growth: 13% (2023–2033), significantly faster than average due to the rising prevalence of respiratory conditions.
- Median Salary: $77,960/year (May 2023).
Choosing the Right Path
Your choice between Radiology Technician and Respiratory Therapist depends on your interests and career goals:
- Prefer working with advanced technology? Radiology Technician roles allow you to focus on operating state-of-the-art imaging equipment.
- Want hands-on patient care? Respiratory Therapist careers provide more direct interaction and involvement in patient treatment plans.
- Looking for faster job growth? Respiratory therapy offers a higher growth rate and diverse opportunities in patient care.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a career as a radiology technician or a respiratory therapist can be challenging, but both paths offer fulfilling opportunities in the healthcare field. Think about your interests, strengths, and career aspirations as you make your decision. Consider reaching out to professionals in each field or shadowing them for a day to gain a better understanding of the daily responsibilities involved.
Dreambound is dedicated to helping you find accessible educational programs that suit your career goals. For a closer look at the opportunities within these two vocations, explore the following resources:
Pia Yapjoco is part of the school growth and sales team at Dreambound. She helps facilitate school partnerships that expand educational opportunities for aspiring students in allied health and other trades. Beyond work, she curates her pup's Instagram, hunts for hidden coffee gems, and escapes into cozy gaming.
