Program Overview

Introduction to the Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology Concentration (DIR)

The Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology Concentration (DIR) is a program within the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science degree. This program focuses on the health profession concerned with the direct administration of radiation, primarily x-rays, in disease diagnosis and injury assessment.

General Overview

Medical Imaging (Radiologic Technology) is a cornerstone in medical diagnosis, with technological advances and new imaging modalities making it a dynamic, expanding, and high-demand field in clinical medicine. The program includes general radiography, vascular imaging, cardiac catheterization studies, computerized tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Graduates are employed in medical centers, community and private hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices.

Mission

The radiologic science program prepares students to practice competently, safely, and effectively as medical imaging professionals in diverse healthcare environments, with awareness of global health issues. The academic and clinical foundation in the curriculum develops graduates with professional flexibility and adaptability to assume prominent roles and responsibilities after graduation.

Goals

• Develop competent, safe, and effective medical imaging professionals.
• Support development of skills necessary to practice in diverse healthcare environments and to acquire prominent roles in radiologic science.
• Program curriculum, teaching methods, and philosophy promote development of integrative, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Graduates successfully pursue scholarly activities such as contributions to the profession and post-baccalaureate education.
• Encourage global awareness of cultural and health care perspectives.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students progress through the curriculum and meet course learning objectives that culminate in the accomplishment of the following student learning outcomes:

1. Obtain a level of clinical competence appropriate for an entry-level medical imaging professional

• Students will demonstrate accurate patient positioning techniques.
• Students will utilize radiographic exposure factors to optimize image quality and minimize patient dose.
• Students will practice radiation protection principles for patient and occupational safety.

2. Possess critical thinking skills to adapt to changing clinical environments and patient needs

• Students will adapt procedures based on patient needs and clinical situation limitations.
• Students will analyze images to ensure diagnostic quality.

3. Exhibit professionalism through consistent, responsible, and ethical behavior

• Students will provide nondiscriminatory care for all patients.
• Students will adhere to program policies and procedures.

4. Demonstrate effective communication skills

• Students will practice effective oral communication skills in the classroom and in the clinical setting.
• Students will demonstrate effective written communication skills.

Program Accreditation

The UNC-CH Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science Degree Program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. The program’s current accreditation award is 8 years, with the next review in 2030.

Program Outcomes and Information

• Credentialing/Certification Data: The program has sustained an overall 100% pass rate on the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Radiography Certification Examination since its inception. The yearly exam score averages are consistently above the national average.
• Career/Job Placement Data: The five-year employment average is 98%. Graduates pursue a range of career opportunities within medical imaging, as well as in post-graduate education and professional school programs.
• Program Completion Rate Data: The five-year program completion rate is 91%. Reasons for non-completion include academic difficulty, academic plans change, and decision to begin medical school.

Program Improvement

The program encourages comments and suggestions from the community on its design and outcomes data. Primary program review occurs each summer, with ongoing programmatic evaluation and assessment throughout the academic year. There is ample opportunity for interested parties to participate in the ongoing evolution of this degree program.