As the need for mammography screenings remains essential for women as they age, Malcolm X College has introduced a certificate that will provide licensed radiologic technologists with training that will enable them to specialize as mammography technologists.
Set to begin in the Spring of 2021, those interested in applying for the program must meet the following criteria:
- Have at least an associate degree in radiology
- Haold the ARRT and BLS certifications
- Be accredited and licensed by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA)
“We are proud that we can offer this certificate to working licensed professionals. We know that mammographers are essential in the screening process and the detection of disease. As women age and regular monitoring is encouraged, we expect employment opportunities and the demand for these specialists to continue to increase,” said Dandcee Kittivanichkulkrai, Program Director of the Mammography Technologist profession.
Those admitted to the program will need to complete an additional semester of study and will also be required to fulfill a clinical component of a minimum of 12 hours per week for 16 weeks at an assigned clinical affiliate.
“It’s imperative that we continue to develop and provide offerings that are not only relevant to what employers are looking for, but also deliver on a proven need in the marketplace, especially for our health sciences programs which prepare students to advance in a career,” said President David Sanders, M.S., Ed.
Job postings for technologists that specialize in mammography has increased 200% in Cook County since September 2016. For radiologic technologists and technicians, Cook County jobs are projected to increase six percent over the next 10 years (2020-2030). The median annual salary for this job in Cook County is $67,303.41, with starting salaries at $48,920.53.
“We keep a close watch on healthcare trends to help us understand what educational programs are likely to grow as the needs of patients shift,” said Dr. Sherine Gabriel, president of Rush University. “Mammography technologists are clearly in demand and this certificate is a terrific entry point for those pursuing a career, especially if they are considering additional education and clinical training.”
For more information about the Malcolm X College Mammography Technologist Profession, visit the school’s website.
