NHTI launches new computed tomography certificate

New certificate is the only one of its kind in New Hampshire 
CONCORD — NHTI, Concord’s Community College has launched a new certificate program in computed tomography, a medical imaging technology commonly known as a CT or CAT Scan.
The only certificate program of its type in New Hampshire, it is designed for professionals already certified in radiography, radiation therapy or nuclear medicine technology to add diagnostic medical applications of CT imaging to their skill set. Students can complete the 19-credit program within a year, and graduates are eligible to sit for the CT certification examination conducted by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
            “We are constantly looking for ways to add value to our curriculum and enhance the skills of our students across medical imaging disciplines,” said Michelle Wade, program coordinator for NHTI’s Computed Tomography (CT) Certificate program. “With an aging patient population, the large number of radiologic technologists reaching retirement age and the growing number of CT procedures performed each year, our graduates are in an excellent position to advance their career while providing much-needed care to people in their community.”       

Diagnostic medical imaging is a growing field. Jobs for radiologic technologists are projected to grow 12 percent in the U.S. from 2016 to 2026, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook. Continuing education is crucial as technology improves, practical applications and clinical benefits increase. Technologists who complete NHTI’s new CT Certificate program will be highly skilled professionals prepared to work in hospitals, clinics, labs and outpatient centers. Graduates may also find employment as managers, supervisors, and manufacturer sales and applications representatives.
            The Computed Tomography Certificate program integrates scientific concepts and working skills through intensive clinical experience and classroom study. After the first (summer) semester, students will spend two days a week at one of many clinical sites across New Hampshire and New England that partner with NHTI.  
The American Society of Radiologic Technologists defines computed tomography technologists as highly skilled professionals who use a rotating x-ray unit to obtain "slices" of anatomy at different levels within the body. A computer then stacks and assembles the individual slices, creating a diagnostic image. With CT technology, physicians can view the inside of organs - a feat not possible with general radiography. 
            To learn more about the new program or to enroll, contact CT Certificate Program Coordinator Michelle Wade at mwade@ccsnh.edu or (603) 271-6484 x4109.   
            NHTI is a dynamic public institution of higher learning providing accessible, rigorous education, serving students, businesses and the community by creating pathways for lifelong learning, career advancement and civic engagement. With 100 full-time faculty and 250 adjunct faculty, NHTI Concord’s Community College offers more than 90 academic programs to more than 4,000 students annually.  NHTI is a member of the Community College System of New Hampshire, and has been accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, a nongovernmental, nationally recognized accrediting agency, since 1969.