Computed Tomography (CT)

Program Overview

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Computed Tomography (CT)

This certificate prepares individuals to work as entry-level CT imaging technologists.

Career Pathway

• Healthcare

Related Programs

• Diagnostic Medical Sonography
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Radiography

Program Dean

• Nicole Winkler
• Health and Life Sciences Division

Faculty Contact

• Stephanie Gentry-Reynolds

Program

• Career Studies Certificate

Credit Hours

• 19

Program Information

The Career Studies Certificate in Computed Tomography Imaging will prepare competent CP technologists in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains.

Occupational Objectives

• Successful graduates will be prepared to operate computed tomography scanners in healthcare facilities to create diagnostic images.
• Successful completers will sit for the Registered CT certification exam through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Admission Requirements

• In addition to admission to the college, students must also meet eligibility requirements specific to this program, and only a limited number of students are admitted into a given cohort.
• If there are more applicants during a cycle than there are available positions in the cohort, eligible applicants will be ranked according to specific criteria and students are admitted or deferred according to that rank.
• Please see the Admissions Information Book below for program requirements, minimum eligibility requirements, applicant ranking criteria, and other important information for prospective students.
• IMPORTANT NOTE: Applicants to the CT program must hold any one of the following current credentials in order for their application to be considered: ARRT certification in radiography RT(R), radiation therapy RT (T), or nuclear medicine RT (N), or NMTCB certification.

Information Sessions

• Information sessions are provided each application cycle for prospective students.
• The purpose of these sessions is to help students to decide if this program and profession will be right for them, and to walk students through the application and admissions process.
• Attendees will also be able to ask the faculty questions about the program and the profession.
• Attendance at an information session is strongly encouraged for all students.
• Refer to the current Admissions Information Book for information regarding whether your application will be ranked based on attendance.

Apply for Admission

• Applications are accepted through the Health and Life Sciences Application Portal.
• Hardcopy applications and applications received outside of the portal will not be considered for admission.
• Applying to other health sciences programs has no impact on an applicant’s qualifications for this program.
• Applications for previous years are not valid for current or future application years.
• All applicants must be current PVCC students to begin their health sciences application.
• If you are not a current PVCC student, please click the “Apply Now” link at the top of this page and complete a VCCS/PVCC application.
• Applications for the Fall 2025 cohort open at 9:00am on February 3, 2025 and will close at 5:00pm on May 20, 2025.

Degree Requirements

• Computed Tomography Certificate Requirements CSC

Program Outline

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Degree Overview

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Overview:

The Career Studies Certificate in Computed Tomography Imaging prepares students to operate computed tomography (CT) scanners and create diagnostic images in healthcare facilities. The program provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to succeed in the field, following the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective learning domains.

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Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to operate CT scanners.
• Prepare graduates to perform examinations and create high-quality diagnostic images.
• Enable graduates to pass the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) CT certification exam.

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Program Description:

The CT program combines classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and clinical experiences to provide graduates with comprehensive training. They gain hands-on experience using CT scanners in simulated and actual healthcare settings under the supervision of qualified instructors. The program emphasizes professional development, ethics, and communication skills to prepare graduates for a successful career as CT technologists.

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Outline

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Program Content:

• CT Physics and Instrumentation
• Radiation Safety and Protection
• Patient Care and Positioning
• CT Image Acquisition and Processing
• Pathology and Disease Recognition
• Contrast Media
• CT Protocols for Various Body Regions
• Quality Assurance in CT
• Professional Development and Ethics

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Program Structure:

The CT program consists of 19 credit hours of coursework and clinical experiences. The coursework includes a mix of lectures, labs, and online modules. The clinical experiences provide students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world situations under the supervision of experienced professionals.

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including exams, quizzes, assignments, case studies, and presentations. The program also uses clinical evaluations to assess student competency in a real-world setting.

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Assessment Criteria:

Students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in CT physics, image acquisition techniques, patient care protocols, safety procedures, and professional communication. The program assesses student performance based on established benchmarks and industry standards.

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Hands-on lab sessions
• Simulation exercises
• Clinical experiences
• Online modules
• Group discussions and case presentations
The program focuses on active learning and student-centered approaches to encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.

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Faculty:

The program faculty consists of highly qualified and experienced instructors with expertise in CT technology, patient care, and imaging protocols.

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Unique Approaches:

The program emphasizes hands-on training, individualized attention, and a supportive learning environment. The program provides students with access to advanced CT simulation technology and clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings.

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Careers

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Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the CT program are qualified to work as:

• CT Technologists
• CT Scanners
• Computed Tomography Specialist
• Radiologic Technologists (with additional training)

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Career Outcomes:

Graduates can find employment opportunities in hospitals, imaging centers, clinics, private practices, and other healthcare facilities. The demand for skilled CT technologists is expected to remain strong in the years to come due to the increasing use of CT scans in medical diagnosis.