Medical Radiation Technology MRT

Holland Code: R (Realistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This program is very competitive; applicants will need post-secondary experience to be competitive. The Pre-Health Science program is the recommended academic preparation for this program.

Math & Science Excellent math skills required to take measurements using specialized tools. Strong interest and ability in Physics as well as a foundation in high school level Biology is necessary for success.

Literacy Strong written and verbal communications skills are needed.

Technology Basic computer skills recommended (Microsoft Office suite, Internet, checking student portal daily).

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• A sense of responsibility and a high degree of integrity
• The ability to maintain a high level of accuracy in their duties
• Patience and adaptability
• An interest in science and technology
• Good problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Empathic
• Handle situations involving blood/graphic and traumatic cases
• Sensitivity to the needs of ill and injured people
• Good communication skills and the ability to put people at ease
• The ability to work well in a team environment
• Maintain poise and composure in stressful situations
• Be a people person
• Work with people in vulnerable situations
• Willingness to keep skills and knowledge up to date
• Good organizational skills

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Radiologic Technologist MRT (R); or work in technical support/administration; or be an application specialist/sales.

Places you may find yourself employed include

Hospitals, community clinics, doctors' offices, government agencies, public health agencies, industrial medical service units, military bases, or private or public Medical Imaging Departments.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Those employed in community clinics work regular office hours but may be required to work some evenings and weekends
• This is a physically demanding occupation. Medical Radiation Technologists are on their feet for most of their shift. They handle very heavy equipment, move equipment positioned at heights of about 2 metres, lift accessory equipment weighing up to 10 kilograms, and help patients move.
• Medical Radiation Technologists must follow strict radiation safety precautions for themselves and their patients, and be prepared to respond to and manage emergency situations
• Working with new technologies, there is a need for continual study to keep informed
• Working with doctors, nurses, radiologists and other medical staff

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• The profession of radiological technologist involves a broad variety of procedures and covers a number of specialties, including: Plain film radiological technology, i.e., x-rays of the chest, bones, joints, gastrointestinal studies, spine; Mammography to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages; Angiography to examine the heart, blood vessels and blood flow; Fluoroscopy, i.e., real-time images that show movement; Computerized tomography (CT scans), i.e., detailed cross-sectional images of the body (Taken from CAMRT site).
• Explain procedures to patients and answer questions
• Help patients prepare for procedures, when necessary
• Monitor patients during procedures
• Provide primary patient care while patients are in the diagnostic imaging department
• Ensure patient comfort and privacy
• Interpret physicians' requests for radiological examinations
• Use appropriate techniques and positioning for different pathological conditions
• Correctly position patients and equipment
• Inject contrast media when required
• Operate diagnostic imaging equipment to produce quality images that assist in diagnosis
• Recognize various anatomical structures radiographed
• Critique images to ensure high quality results
• Follow radiation protection practices, regulations and philosophy to reduce risk to patients, staff and visitors

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• CAMRT certification exam
• Registration with College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario (CMRTO) required to work in Ontario
• Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Graduates may apply for the  Medical Resonance Imaging graduate certificate
• Course work may be used as a basis of university admission or credits may transfer to a university degree at many different schools. More information.

Last Modified: January 15, 2024