Limited X-Ray Machine Operator Certificate

Instructional Program (CIP)

Description

The Limited X-Ray Machine Operator Certificate is a 24-week program. The certificate program will prepare students for entry level positions as Certified Practical Technologists in Radiology (CPTR), only in the state of Arizona. Students will complete a minimum of 240-hours of clinical education experience and 19 credits of major core courses.

The certificate program is designed around a model of online coursework, as well as a face-to-face laboratory course. Clinical education is a hands-on experience within an assigned clinical setting that provides a foundation to enter the workforce as a Certified Practical Technologist in Radiology.

This career ladder opportunity assists MAs and other healthcare employees in obtaining stackable credentials for job placement within Arizona. If a student chooses to continue their Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology (AAS) degree through Yavapai College, an application for Limited X-Ray Transition Certificate (coming Fall 2025) will be required. All remaining prerequisite courses and the Limited X-Ray Transition Certificate must be completed to be considered for placement.

Credit Hours Required: 23

This certificate is not currently eligible for Federal Financial Aid. To explore other financial aid opportunities, please visit YC Admission.

Application for Admission to the Limited X-Ray Machine Operator Certificate

A special application is required for admission to the Limited X-Ray Machine Operator Certificate program. It is recommended that students work closely with their advisor to ensure all application requirements are fully met. Refer to the website: www.yc.edu/radiology 

Transfer Students

Students transferring from other regionally accredited institutions will have their completed general education coursework evaluated on an individual basis. 

Health Declaration

It is essential that all radiology students be able to perform a number of physical activities in the clinical portion of the program. At minimum, students will be required to lift patients, stand for several hours at a time, perform bending activities, and perform fine motor skills with dexterity. The clinical education experience places students under considerable mental and emotional stress as they undertake responsibilities and duties impacting patients' lives. Students must be able to demonstrate rational and appropriate behavior under stressful conditions. Individuals should give careful consideration to the mental and physical demands of the program before applying. The technical standards for the program are identified in the application.

Graduation Requirement

All required courses for the Limited X-Ray Machine Operator Certificate must be completed with a minimum grade of 75%. 

Licensure

Graduates receiving an Limited X-Ray Machine Operator Certificate are eligible to challenge the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) Arizona State Exam for Practical Technologists in Radiology (CPTR). The CPTR has an opportunity to be employed in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, mobile imaging, and physician offices. Certified Practical Technologists of Radiology function within their legal scope of practice set forth by Arizona state, the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) Practice Standards, and the American Registry of Radiology Technology (ARRT) Standard of Ethics.The Limited X-Ray Machine Operator Certificate provides the articulation foundation for advanced placement within the Radiologic Technology AAS degree offered at Yavapai College.

Transfer

Generally, 64 credits from community colleges are transferable to Arizona public universities: specific articulation information is available through AZTransfer at www.aztransfer.com

Pre-Entry Requirements

HESI A-2 Entrance Exam is required prior to consideration for placement into the Limited X-Ray Machine Operator Certificate. More information can be found at www.yc.edu/radiology

Program Requirements Biology Requirement (4 credits)

Biology coursework must be completed within the last ten years.

• 
  BIO 160 - Intro to Human Anatomy and Physiology Credits: 4


• 
  

  OR BIO 201 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I Credits: 4

  
  

Limited X-Ray Machine Operator Core (19 Credits)

• 
  RAD 100 - Introduction to Medical Imaging Credits: 2


• 
  RAD 101 - Limited Radiographic Positioning I Credits: 3


• 
  RAD 102 - Limited Radiographic Positioning Lab I Credits: 2


• 
  RAD 135 - Radiation Physics and Equipment Credits: 3


• 
  RAD 158 - Radiographic Image Production Credits: 2


• 
  RAD 161 - Radiology Clinical Education I Credits: 3


• 
  RAD 170 - Radiology Patient Care and Pharmacology Credits: 2


• 
  RAD 175 - Radiation Biology and Protection Credits: 2

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Limited X-Ray Machine Operator program, the learner will:

1. Demonstrate the clinical competency expected of entry-level limited x-ray machine operator.


2. Communicate effectively within the radiologic science industry.


3. Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills.


4. Exhibit professional behavior in alignment with the ethical and professional standards of radiologic science.

Details

Cost Items

Demand Occupation(s)