The Medical Radiation program at Algonquin College provides students with an integrated clinical experience from the beginning of the program.
Starting Fall 2013 the process of medical and non-medical pre-clinical requirements, has changed.
Review the updated requirements
This is a Mobile Learning Program.
As a student in this program you will require a mobile computing device, for example a laptop or tablet computer.
Review the Mobile Requirements >>
eTextbooks
Algonquin has expanded the use of learning technology by adopting digital textbooks. Effective Fall 2013, the required text and digital resources in all your courses (with the exception of general education electives) will be provided to you at the beginning of each term.
- Ontario College Advanced Diploma
- 3 Years
- Program Code:
- 1615X01FWO
- Academic Year:
- 2012/2013
Our Program
This three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma program accredited by the Canadian Medical Association prepares graduates with the knowledge and technical skills required to produce diagnostic images or carry out diagnostic procedures in the role of a medical radiation technologist. Working independently and in collaboration with health care team members, medical radiation technologists analyze a variety of complex diagnostic images to assist physicians in the diagnosis and management of multiple system disorders. Through theoretical courses, simulation, laboratory practice and extensive clinical experiences students acquire the ability to produce quality images of internal structures of the human body. Students apply health, safety and quality assurance principles while using ionizing radiation in the laboratory and clinical settings. Critical-thinking and problem-solving skills are developed to adapt theoretical knowledge to clinical practice. Students work within an interprofessional health care team to provide safe patient assessment, and the diagnostic and therapeutic skills consistent with best practice standards for medical radiation technology.
This program is part of Algonquin's mobile learning initiative. All students entering into the program are expected to have and use a laptop or mobile computing device that meets or exceeds the recommended hardware requirements as designated by the program. Students in mobile learning programs will use their devices to enhance their learning expreience, obtain and work with course materials, particpate in collaborative and mlearning environments and become skilled, confident users of the technologies used within an educational environment and workplace.Hardware and software specifications are outlined at http://mlearning.algonquincollege.com. Computers and supplies can be purchased directly from Algonquin's New Technology Store at educational rates.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Can be self-directed in a team environment.
- Possess an applied technical and computer aptitude.
- Have strong analytical and perceptual skills.
- Are detailed oriented.
- Want to work in a variety of challenging work settings.
- Are able to work effectively under stressful situations.
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Your Career
Graduates may find employment in community and teaching hospitals, medical clinics, education and research settings and in private industry. Upon successful completion of the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (C.A.M.R.T.) national certification exam, graduates must register with the College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario (C.M.R.T.O.) to be eligible for employment in Ontario.
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Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with online learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.| Level: 01 | Hours | |
| BIO0002 | Applied Anatomy and Physiology I Students are introduced to the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Tissue types are explored and analyzed with emphasis placed on osseous tissue. Using examples, students study the appendicular skeleton and the respiratory system in depth. | 45.0 |
| ENL1813S | Communications I Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments. | 45.0 |
| IMG0100 | Medical Radiation Sciences I Students examine the properties and components of the electromagnetic spectrum and magnetism. Using examples, students explore the factors affecting the quality and the quantity of the radiation beam. Students study the components and operation of the x-ray tube and analyze the interaction between matter and electromagnetic radiation. | 60.0 |
| IMG0101 | Introduction to Radiological Imaging Principles Students analyze technical factors to evaluate their effects on the quality of diagnostic images. Using radiographic images, students study factors that influence the image quality including geometric and photographic properties. Students compare the properties of various image receptors and their uses. | 60.0 |
| IMG0102 | Radiological Protocols I Students examine the fundamental principles of patient positioning skills for radiological procedures. Students develop a plan for procedure variations based on consultation requirements and patient needs. Detailed knowledge of anatomy and radiological techniques are integrated to optimize imaging procedures of the extremities and the respiratory system. Students assesss radiological images to identify anatomy and pathology. | 90.0 |
| IMG0103 | Radiological Protocols Laboratory I Students apply evidence-based decision making to safe and best practice protocols used in the clinical setting. Imaging protocols of the appendicular skeleton and the respiratory system are simulated. Radiological technique and imaging concepts are applied to critique simulated clinical examples for image quality. Co-requisites: IMG0102 | 45.0 |
| IMG0104 | Clinical Practicum 1 Students focus on health care team interactions and the role of the medical radiation technologist. A basic understanding of patient needs and management skills are developed. Students observe the use of imaging equipment and use critical thinking to critique radiographic protocols applications. | 37.5 |
| IMG0105 | Patient Management Skills Students learn patient transfer and transport methods using health and safety principles for patients and health care team members. Basic patient assessment skills, such as patient interview techniques and the assessment of patient's needs are explained. Using case examples, students adapt techniques to patient needs and determine if intervention is required when problems arise. The principles of infection transmission are related to best practice protocols for evidence-based infection control standards. Protocols for basic patient care, such as suctioning, monitoring and legal documentation are reviewed. Students adapt communication methods for diverse patient populations. Concepts of pharmacology related to contrast media and adverse reactions are examined. | 15.0 |
| IMG0106 | Patient Management Skills Laboratory In a simulated clinical setting, students practise skills for patient management in the role of a medical radiation technologist. Students select and critique methods of patient care, such as assessment, patient transfer and transport, adapting procedures as indicated to meet patient needs. Students perform suctioning and intravenous skills. Varied communication skills are incorporated for patient interviews, patient care procedures, patient education and documentation. Evidence-based infection control protocols are performed utilizing current standards. Co-requisites: IMG0105 | 15.0 |
| Level: 02 | Hours | |
| BIO0003 | Applied Anatomy and Physiology II Students study detailed anatomy of the axial skeleton with relationship to radiographic imaging requirements. Students integrate the anatomy of soft tissue structures to the skeleton. Anatomical development is studied and the neonate, paediatric and adult patients are contrasted. The anatomy and physiology of the digestive and urinary systems are explained. Students perform problem solving related to the maintenance of homeostasis. Prerequisites: BIO0002 | 45.0 |
| HLT0200 | Health Ethics Issues related to society and health care are examined. The evolution of health care and the role society has asked of it throughout history is explored. The current structure of the Canadian health care system including levels of health care, health care regulation and funding are reviewed. Students review the role of health care in meeting health related needs throughout individuals' lifespan. Current health care related issues, such as euthanasia, alternate health care practices, and public versus private health care provision are examined relative to society's mores. An introduction to health research, looking at research processes and ethical issues, is provided. | 45.0 |
| IMG0107 | Medical Radiation Sciences II Students compare the components and operation of a variety of imaging systems to develop an understanding of the technical function of each component. Using examples, the function and use of ancillary equipment, such as computer control systems is discussed. Students study the design and safety requirements of imaging rooms to meet standards. Prerequisites: IMG0100 | 60.0 |
| IMG0108 | Image Processing and Management Using clinical examples, students compare the application of analogue and digital imaging concepts. Students differentiate between standards for various computerized systems that are used in the management of imaging protocols. Information and storage systems, such as the Radiology Information System (RIS) and the Picture Archive Communication System (PACS) are reviewed. Prerequisites: IMG0101 | 60.0 |
| IMG0109 | Radiological Protocols II Students apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology to clinical examples of radiological methodology for the imaging of axial skeleton and the digestive and urinary systems. Students use critical thinking to adapt procedures to meet patient needs and to problem solve to optimize the image quality. Paediatric and adult patient populations are compared relative to imaging protocols used. Students examine the use of different types of contrast media agents for the purpose of diagnostic and interventional medical imaging of the digestive and urinary systems. | 90.0 |
| IMG0110 | Radiological Protocols Laboratory II Students perform imaging protocols of the axial skeleton and the abdomen, adapting routine techniques based on consultation requirements. Best practice and safety protocols are implemented in a simulated clinical setting. Image quality is critiqued relative to radiographic technique and imaging concepts. Students perform problem solving of simulated clinical examples to determine intervention techniques to optimize images. Prerequisites: IMG0103 Co-requisites: IMG0109 | 45.0 |
| IMG0112 | Clinical Practicum II Students integrate themselves as functional members of the health care team in various areas of a radiological department. Under direct supervision students apply theory to radiological protocols demonstrating best practice principles. Through scenarios, students explore interprofessional practice issues including ethical practice principles, ethical conflict and decision making, professional collaboration and communication strategies. Resource management principles required in the clinical setting as a medical radiation technologist are discussed. Prerequisites: IMG0104 Co-requisites: IMG0110 | 150.0 |
| IMG0114 | Quality Control for the Imaging Department Students analyze examples of quality control data and apply them to the clinical setting. Regulations for quality assurance and control are studied with emphasis placed on quality control of image acquisition, radiographic/fluoroscopic equipment and ancillary equipment. | 60.0 |
| IMG0122 | Pathology I Students examine medical terminology, such as prefixes and suffixes to apply to the definition of pathological processes. Students also examine pathological principles, such as cellular activities involved in disease processes. Common pathologies and anomalies of the skeletal system, the gastrointestinal system and the urinary system are described. Students relate patients' signs, symptoms and clinical presentation to various case examples of pathologies. | 30.0 |
| Choose one from equivalencies: | Hours | |
| GED0615 | General Education Elective Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following four theme requirements: Arts in Society, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ARC9001 or DSN2001 or ENL7643 or FAM1218 or FIN2300 or GED1896 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED5009 or GED5200 or GED5300 or GED6022 or GEN1001 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2003 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or RAD2001 or SOC2003 or PSI0003 | 45.0 |
| Level: 03 | Hours | |
| BIO0004 | Applied Anatomy and Physiology III Students study detailed anatomy of the cranium in relationship to radiographic requirements. The anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular, nervous, endocrine, lymphatic and reproductive systems are described. Students evaluate the relational anatomy of soft tissues and skeletal structures for multi-system cross-sectional imaging. Prerequisites: BIO0003 | 45.0 |
| ENL0064 | Professional Communication Skills for Medical Radiation Technologists Students apply communication principles in the written, spoken and visual forms in a variety of simulated health related scenarios. Using medical terminology and objective language, students prepare and deliver verbal and written reports for different audiences (e.g. patients, interdisciplinary peers, future employers). Specific writing strategies emphasize professionalism, clarity and self-reflection. Students develop active listening skills and show knowledge of group dynamics through simulations, such as patient interviews and peer education sessions. Prerequisites: ENL1813S | 45.0 |
| IMG0111 | Professional Practice and Legislation Students learn relevant government legislation and regulations that apply to the professional practice of the medical radiation technologist. Students gain an understanding of the roles of professional associations, accreditation, codes of ethics, scope of practice and evidence-based best practice standards. Professional behaviour expectations related to their role within the health care team and the community are discussed as are principles of sustainability. | 30.0 |
| IMG0113 | Medical Radiation Sciences III Students contrast the function and operation of equipment required to perform specialized diagnostic procedures. Imaging and therapeutic modalities, such as magnetic resonance imaging, are compared with a focus on best practices and current trends in imaging technology. Prerequisites: IMG0107 | 60.0 |
| IMG0115 | Radiological Protocols III Students apply anatomy and physiology theory to radiological methodology for imaging the cranium. Specialized imaging procedures of the cardiovascular, nervous and reproductive systems are analyzed. Students examine the use of different types of contrast media agents for the purpose of diagnostic and interventional medical imaging. Students use critical thinking and problem solving to adapt procedures to patient needs and to optimize the image quality. | 90.0 |
| IMG0116 | Radiological Protocols Laboratory III In a simulated setting, students perform routine imaging protocols of the cranium. Students problem solve to adapt techniques as needed based on patient and consultation requirements. Students apply best and safe practice standards to adapt routine protocols for trauma and pediatric imaging. Radiological techniques and imaging concepts are applied to critique image quality. Prerequisites: IMG0110 Co-requisites: IMG0115 | 45.0 |
| IMG0117 | Pathology II Students examine pathological principles, as applied to the respiratory system, the cardiovascular system, the neurological system and the reproductive system. Students relate patients' signs, symptoms and clinical presentation to various case examples of pathologies. Students compare and contrast the use of different imaging modalities required to demonstrate various pathologies. | 30.0 |
| IMG0118 | Radiation Biology and Protection Students use evidence-based research to evaluate best practice guidelines for limiting radiation exposure to patients, health care workers and the public in the clinical use of ionizing radiation. Basic concepts of the types and sources of radiation and their relationship to biological effects are compared. | 30.0 |
| Choose one from equivalencies: | Hours | |
| GED0615 | General Education Elective Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following four theme requirements: Arts in Society, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ARC9001 or DSN2001 or ENL7643 or FAM1218 or FIN2300 or GED1896 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED5009 or GED5200 or GED5300 or GED6022 or GEN1001 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2003 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or RAD2001 or SOC2003 or PSI0003 | 45.0 |
| Level: 04 | Hours | |
| IMG0119 | Clinical Practicum III Students progress from observing to performing assigned procedures applying best practice principles under direct supervision in all areas of a radiological department. Professional behaviour including interprofessional collaboration is emphasized. Students apply evidence-based practice guidelines to analyze pathology, radiographic protocols and imaging concepts related to skeletal system cases. They review cases, integrate related imaging disciplines and contrasting images from similar clinical cases. Prerequisites: IMG0112 and IMG0116 and IMG0117 | 562.5 |
| Level: 05 | Hours | |
| IMG0120 | Clinical Practicum IV Students apply best practice standards for assigned clinical experiences. Students progress to remote supervision for common procedures. Students use critical thinking and problem solving to achieve optimal diagnostic images and provide optimal patient care. Students function as part of the collaborative health care team, incorporating reflective practice, time management and organizational skills into their clinical experience. Students apply evidence-based practice guidelines to analyze pathology, radiographic protocols and imaging concepts related to multiple system cases. They review cases, integrate related imaging disciplines and contrasting images from similar clinical cases. Prerequisites: IMG0119 | 562.5 |
| Level: 06 | Hours | |
| IMG0121 | Clinical Practicum V All imaging protocols as listed in the national competency profile are performed in a competent manner at the level expected for entry to practice. Students progress to perform skills under indirect supervision demonstrating independent problem solving and decision making for routine and non-routine procedures. Students function as part of the collaborative care team, incorporating time-management and organizational skills into daily department tasks. Students perform reflective practice and identify examples of alternative methods to achieve lifelong learning. Students prepare for the national certification exam by completing a comprehensive review and a practice exam modelled on the national radiological technology competency profile. Exam review allows students to identify specific areas for improvement. Prerequisites: IMG0120 | 562.5 |
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Fees & Expenses
Tuition Fees: $2,215.58 per term in Levels 01 and 02 and $2,133.52 per term in Levels 03 and 04, and $2,054.50 per term in Levels 05 and 06.
Information Technology Fee: $62 per term. *
Mobile Computing Fee: $150 per term. **
Incidental Fees: $21 in Level 01.
Student Activity/Sports Fee: $200.50 per term in Levels 01, 02, 03 and $21.80 per term in Levels 04, 05 and 06.
Student Commons/Auditorium Fee: $22 per term in Levels 01, 02 and 03.
Student Centre Building Fee: $17.50 per term in Levels 01, 02 and 03.
Health Service Fee: $20 per term.
Health Plan Fee: $117.02 paid once annually. ***
A $40 graduation fee is payable in the final term.
A $25 transcript fee is payable in the first term a student attends
Algonquin College.
International Students pay all relevant Canadian fees plus an International Premium of $4,400 per term.
* Students paying the Information Technology fee are provided with a network account, an email address, and Internet access. For more information please visit our website at www.algonquincollege.com/its/support/IT-Fee/index-it-fee.htm
** The Mobile Computing Fee covers the costs associated with providing various services to students registered in a mandatory laptop programs.
*** Students who have coverage with another plan can request a refund by supplying the Students' Association with documentation supporting the request. This request will have to be made annually.
Books and supplies cost approximately $2,000 and can be purchased in the campus bookstore. The uniform required for clinical site activities (all three years) costs approximately $300. Given that this program has online learning components, it is highly recommended that students have a personal computer with Internet connectivity. Please note that travel and parking expenses, to partnering clinical sites for observation and clinical experiences throughout the program, will be the responsibility of the student. In addition, students are required to finance clinical experience related expenses, such as travel and housing accommodations for all activities in the program. The College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario (CMRTO) student application fee is $105. The Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) national certification exam fee is $800. In Ontario, there is an additional exam site administration fee of $100. All fees are based on 2010 costs and are subject to change.
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Admission Requirements
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $40 (subject to change) will be charged.
- English Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- Mathematics Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Biology Grade 11 or 12 (SB13C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
OR - Chemistry Grade 11 or 12 (SCH3C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
AND - Physics Grade 11 or 12 (SPH3C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- All applicants must complete testing through our Test Centre, for which a fee of $50 will be charged. Results of the tests will be considered in the final evaluation of the applicants. Applicants will be permitted to attend only one testing session each year.
- Basic Life Support Training (C.P.R. - Level "C") and Standard First Aid Certificate.
- Accepted applicants must submit a Health Assessment Form and provide an Immunization Certificate prior to entry to the program. Applicants must have complete immunization including Hepatitis B, and T.B. test (a Chest X-ray is required if the T.B. test is positive) and are required to have annual immunization for influenza by some clinical affiliates.
- Students in the program must be mask fit-tested for N-95 equivalent masks required for infection-control measures. Applicants must be fit-tested as required by the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care Guidelines.
Successful completion of clinical placement is a requirement for graduation from the Medical Radiation Technology program. Agencies that provide placement opportunities require you to have a clear Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS). Your acceptance for placement is at the discretion of the agency. If you register in the program without a clear PRCSVS and as a result are unable to participate in placement, you will not be able to graduate.
Clinical Placement Eligibility:
To be eligible for placement, you must submit proof of a clear PRCSVS, which will be retained on your departmental file and used only for purposes related to your placement. You will be required to disclose the contents of the PRCSVS, including all notations, to the placement agencies.
It is your responsibility to obtain the PRCSVS from your local Police Department prior to the deadline identified by your Department and to pay any associated costs. It may take a long time to obtain this documentation; please submit your application as early as possible. Should you require further information, contact the Program Chair.
Fall 2013 medical and non-medical requirements:
Health Form Template - Fall 2013
Student Communication Package Fall 2013
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Application Information
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should contact their Guidance Office to apply. For all other applicants, applications are available online at www.ontariocolleges.ca A $95 fee applies.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the International Student Application Form at https://xweb.algonquincollege.com/FormIE/index.aspx or by contacting the Registrar's Office.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar's Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave, Room C150
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Email: AskUs@algonquincollege.com
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Additional Information
Clinical Placement: Some clinical placements are outside of Ottawa. Students are responsible for their own travel and accommodation. Timetable: Timetable for the program includes days, evenings and weekends.
For more information, contact Sylvie Ferguson. Program Coordinator, fergus@algonquincollege.com or at 613-727-4723 ext. 3568 or Program Support, Sherri Pagnan at 613-727-4723 ext. 5078 or pagnans@algonquincollege.com.
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