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Computed Tomography - Certificate (E90)

The Computed Tomography (CT) certificate program is a full time one-semester program designed for the post-graduate radiologic technologist. Upon completion, the graduate will have the knowledge and skill to use computed  tomography technology to produce cross sectional anatomic images of the human body for diagnostic testing, radiation treatment planning, and nuclear medicine PET scanning.

Work and Employment

CT certification will provide an increased chance of employment by increasing technologists' knowledge and skills to better meet the needs of employers and the public.  Employment may be gained in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, radiation therapy centers, mobile imaging, sales, and applications.

Special Considerations

Students with proof of ARRT radiography certification, radiation therapist (ARRT) certification, or nuclear medicine technologist (ARRT or NMTCB) certification will be eligible to enroll in the CT program. A current license in medical radiation technology from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), Department of Nuclear Safety is required.

Admission Requirements

• Documentation of graduation from an ARRT approved radiography program.
• Evidence of active registration with the ARRT or registry eligible status.
• Documentation of completion of RAD 200-Phlebotomy, or equivalent course.
• Completion of RAD 223-Cross Sectional Anatomy, or equivalent course.

Admission Procedures

1. Complete the College general admission procedure.
2. File an application form with the Office of Dean of Health Professions.
3. Two letters of recommendation on file in the Office of Dean of Health Professions.
4. Appointment with Coordinator of Radiologic Technology.
5. A "point system" will be utilized to evaluate all qualified applicants. Applicants will be awarded points for completion of specific general education and program admission requirements. These are explained in the Computed Tomography Admission Handbook.

Application Deadlines

The SVCC admission policy requirements and minimum Computed Tomography Academic Admission Requirements must be completed by the deadline of June 1st of the year the applicant wishes to be admitted.

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Program Contacts at Sauk Valley Community College

• Health Careers Education Counselor, 815-835-6354
• Dianna Brevitt, Coordinator Radiologic Technology, 815-835-6362

Total Hours Required - 16 Hours

Major Field Requirements

• RAD223 - Cross Sectional Anatomy ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Anatomy of the human body will be studied in cross section. Anatomy of the brain, neck, thorax, abdomen/pelvis and the musculoskeletal system will be presented in the axial (transverse), sagittal, coronal, and orthogonal (oblique) imaging planes using multiple diagnostic imaging modalities. Anatomical structure, location, and function will be identified using illustrations and radiographic images comparing computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Angiography, pharmacology and contrast will also be investigated. Pre-requisite: RAD 220 or instructor consent with proof of ARRT certification. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• RCT101 - Computed Tomogr Phys & Equip ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course is intended to provide the technologist with comprehensive knowledge of instrumentation and physics of a computerized tomography unit. Fundamentals of data acquisition with a digital system, concepts of image reconstruction principles in conventional, helical and multislice helical installations are included. Other principles of the technology include: image manipulation and visualization, radiation dose, scan parameters, and quality control. Advanced imaging utilizing 3D imaging, CT angiography, PET, and virtual reality imaging are introduced. Prerequisite: Admission to the CT Certificate Program. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• RCT102 - Computed Tomography Procedures ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course is intended to provide the technologist with comprehensive knowledge of computed tomography procedures. An emphasis is placed on radiation safety, patient care and assessment. Upon completion, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of contrast agents and injection techniques, CT protocols and procedures. Pathology and its appearance on the CT image, PET fusion imaging, and interventional CT procedures are introduced. Prerequisite: Admission to the CT Certificate program 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• RCT103 - CT Clinical Applications ( 7 Semester Hours)

  Students function in the CT department under the direct supervision of a technologist to complete CT procedures. Students will use theory and techniques learned in the didactic courses of the program and apply these in the clinical setting. Arrangement for clinical education will be selected according to student geographic area. Students will demonstrate progression in clinical competency through the course. Prerequisite: Admission to the CT Certificate Program. 7 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 24 lab/week