Certificate in Women’s Imaging

Certificate

Hours: 8 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Women's Imaging at Fort Hays State University is designed for certified imaging technologists seeking to expand their expertise in areas such as mammography and bone densitometry. This certificate enhances a technologist's diagnostic skills and versatility, fulfills continuing education requirements, and provides college credit hours that support eligibility for professional certification.

It includes exclusive courses in mammography and bone densitometry, which are approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) as meeting the initial education requirements for the ARRT certification exams. With a blend of online and on-campus instruction, the certificate offers both flexibility and accessibility for working professionals.

Why pursue a Certificate in Women’s Imaging at Fort Hays State University?

The Certificate in Women’s Imaging distinguishes itself through its specialized focus on mammography and bone densitometry—areas that are often not emphasized in other imaging certificates. The courses are approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), ensuring a high standard of education aligned with industry requirements.

FHSU also prioritizes keeping the curriculum up to date with the rapid advancements in imaging technology. This ensures that students gain the latest knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the evolving healthcare field. By combining theoretical instruction with practical experience, the certificate prepares technologists to meet the demands of the profession with confidence and competence.

Who is this program for?

This certificate is well-suited for certified radiologic technologists who specialize in mammography and bone densitometry. It is also an excellent option for those seeking to advance their careers, meet continuing education requirements, or earn the credentials needed to become ARRT-certified in these specialized imaging areas. Ideal prospective students include:

Certified radiologic technologists seeking specialization in women's imaging
Professionals looking to fulfill continuing education requirements
Technologists aiming to gain ARRT certification in mammography and bone densitometry
Individuals interested in advancing their careers in the diagnostic imaging field

Learning Outcomes

Our Certificate in Women's Imaging program is designed to equip students with the specialized knowledge and skills required for excellence in mammography and bone densitometry. Through a combination of rigorous coursework and hands-on clinical experience, students gain a comprehensive understanding of imaging procedures, patient care, and current technological advancements. This preparation supports successful certification and effective practice in these vital areas of healthcare.

Detailed Anatomy Knowledge

Students who complete the certificate will understand the anatomy and physiology relevant to women's imaging, allowing for precise imaging and diagnosis.

Technical Proficiency

Students will master the technical aspects of imaging procedures, including positioning and equipment settings.

Pathology Identification

Students will be able to identify and understand the imaging characteristics of various pathologies.

Patient Care Skills

Students will develop robust patient care techniques, ensuring high-quality care throughout imaging examinations.

Real-World Applications

Students who complete the certificate are well-prepared for real-world applications across a variety of healthcare settings. The certificate qualifies individuals to work as mammography or bone densitometry technologists in imaging clinics, hospitals, or as traveling technologists.

The practical, hands-on training gained in the Certificate in Women’s Imaging allows students to directly apply classroom knowledge to patient care, enhancing both competence and confidence in the field. In addition, its strong emphasis on clinical competencies and observational learning provides valuable experience under the guidance of seasoned professionals. This comprehensive preparation supports success on national certification exams and readiness for day-to-day responsibilities in clinical environments.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University incorporates the latest advancements and trends in medical imaging into the certificate curriculum. Coursework is regularly updated to reflect new technologies and techniques, ensuring that students remain informed about current best practices and emerging innovations in mammography and bone densitometry.

Staying ahead of the curve is essential in the field of medical imaging, where rapid technological developments can significantly impact diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. FHSU’s commitment to continuous curriculum enhancement ensures that students who complete the certificate are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.

Hands-on Activities

The Certificate in Women’s Imaging places a strong emphasis on experiential learning through hands-on activities. Students enrolled in the Mammography course complete clinical competencies after their didactic training, ensuring proficiency in practical applications. In the Bone Densitometry course, students observe and assist technologists during examinations, gaining direct experience in both patient care and imaging procedures.

These hands-on experiences are essential for developing the practical skills required in the field. By working closely with patients and operating advanced imaging equipment, students build the confidence and competence needed to succeed in professional clinical settings.

What You’ll Learn:

Anatomy and physiology relevant to women's imaging
Proper positioning techniques for mammography and bone densitometry
Imaging characteristics of pathologies
Technical factors for imaging examinations
Equipment physics and operations

How You’ll Learn:

Online coursework combined with clinical competencies
Observational learning from field technologists
Interactive modules and virtual simulations
Hands-on practice in imaging clinics or hospitals
Updated curriculum to include the latest advancements

Courses

This certificate offers a focused curriculum that delivers both comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience in mammography and bone densitometry. The core courses are thoughtfully designed to cover essential concepts and practical skills, ensuring students gain the proficiency required to excel in these specialized areas of diagnostic imaging.

MDI 419: Mammography for Radiologic Technologists

This course provides the students with knowledge and cognitive skills underlying the performance of the major tasks typically required of a technologist employed in the specialized field of mammography. This course is designed to cover the major content areas according to the ARRT mammography certification specifications and fulfill the MQSA initial training requirements.

MDI 423: Principles of Bone Densitometry

This course presents the student with the foundation and the current status of bone densitometry techniques in the radiologic science field. Included is the history of bone densitometry, technology involved, scanning protocols, the disease processes associated with bone densitometry, and the technologist's role in bone densitometry.

MDI 424: Advanced Mammography for Radiologic Technologists

This course is designed to expand the cognitive skills of technologists in the mammography field to include a greater knowledge of the different imaging procedures used to detect breast cancer and breast diseases. Students will explore the technology and techniques involved in interventional procedures, including stereotactic breast biopsy, and additional modalities used in breast imaging.

Discover the full Certificate in Women's Imaging course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Students who complete the Certificate in Women’s Imaging are well-positioned to pursue a range of rewarding career opportunities within the healthcare industry. With specialized training in mammography and bone densitometry, they are qualified to work in hospitals, imaging centers, private practices, or as traveling technologists. The advanced knowledge and skills gained through this certificate open the door to numerous professional paths, enabling participants to make a meaningful impact in their field.

Mammography Technologist

Mammography technologists perform breast imaging procedures to aid in the detection and diagnosis of breast diseases.

Bone Densitometry Technologist

Bone densitometry technologists conduct bone density tests to assess bone health and can support medical staff in diagnosing conditions like osteoporosis.

Clinical Educator

Clinical educators train and mentor new technologists in imaging techniques and patient care practices.

Traveling Technologist

Traveling technologists provide imaging services in various locations, offering flexibility and the opportunity to work in diverse healthcare settings.

Admission Requirements

Fort Hays State University has established specific admission requirements to ensure that students are well-prepared for the advanced coursework and clinical training involved in the Certificate in Women’s Imaging. These criteria uphold high educational standards and confirm that all participants possess the foundational knowledge and professional credentials needed to succeed in the certificate and subsequent certification exams.

Educational Background

Applicants must hold an associate's degree or certificate in Radiologic Technology from an accredited program. This foundational education ensures that all students have the necessary background knowledge and skills in radiologic technology to succeed in the advanced coursework of the Certificate in Women’s Imaging.

Professional Certification

Applicants must be registered and in good standing with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in Radiography to qualify for admission to the certificate. This requirement ensures that applicants have met the ARRT’s rigorous standards of professional competence and ethics, which are essential for advanced practice in specialized imaging fields.

Completed Application Form

Prospective students must submit a completed application form through the Fort Hays State University admissions portal. This form gathers essential information about the applicant’s educational and professional background and serves as the initial step in the admissions process.

Official Transcripts

Applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions they have attended. These transcripts are reviewed to confirm the completion of required educational prerequisites and to evaluate academic performance in relevant coursework.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $1,629.84* (on-campus) or $2,120.40* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 8 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Applying to the Women’s Imaging program requires you to complete two applications, one for FHSU and one for the program.

Applicants must be accepted to Fort Hays State University before official admittance to the Women’s Imaging program.

Apply

Please submit your Certificate in Medical Diagnostic Imaging Application Form

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that complement the Certificate in Women’s Imaging, providing additional pathways for professional development and specialization. These programs address diverse interests and career goals, ensuring students have access to comprehensive educational opportunities in radiologic technology and diagnostic imaging:

FAQ

Are all the courses online?

Yes, the certificate offers online courses for flexibility, along with a 4-day campus requirement for the mammography course.

Do I have to be a certified radiography technician to complete the certificate?

Yes, you must be a certified radiography technologist and in good standing with the ARRT to enroll in this certificate.

Can I complete the clinical requirements in my local area?

Yes, students can arrange to complete their clinical competencies at approved imaging facilities in their local area, ensuring convenience and accessibility.

What is the duration of the certificate?

The duration of the certificate varies depending on the student's pace, but if pursued full-time, it can typically be completed within one year.

Are there any financial aid options available for this certificate?

Fort Hays State University offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the financial assistance office for more details.

Information about the Department of Allied Health

The Department of Allied Health at FHSU merges health care and technology to provide contemporary on-campus and online programs that prepare students for successful careers in the medical field. Our programs equip you with the skills to operate advanced imaging technologies, enabling you to assist physicians in diagnosing and treating a wide range of health issues. Whether studying on-campus or online, you will benefit from hands-on experience and a curriculum designed to prepare you for in-demand careers in various medical imaging environments.

Our nearly 100% pass rate on national certification exams demonstrates the effectiveness of our curriculum, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared for the job market. Faculty members offer personalized academic and career mentoring, helping you secure ideal job opportunities.

Student Organizations

Women’s Imaging

Certificate

On-Campus
Online

Request Information

Are you a current student at FHSU?*

First name*

Last name*

Email*

Phone number*

I would like more information about