Certificate in Women’s Imaging

Certificate

Hours: 8 On-Campus Online

About

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

It includes focused courses in mammography and bone densitometry, approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) as meeting the initial education requirements for ARRT certification exams. Delivered through a combination of online and on-campus instruction, the certificate offers flexible and accessible options for working professionals.

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

The Certificate in Women’s Imaging is distinguished by its specialized focus on mammography and bone densitometry, areas often underrepresented in other imaging certificates. The courses are approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), ensuring that the curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

FHSU prioritizes maintaining an up-to-date curriculum that reflects the rapid advancements in imaging technology. This approach ensures that certificate recipients acquire the most current knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the evolving healthcare environment. By integrating theoretical instruction with practical application, the certificate equips technologists to confidently and competently meet professional demands.

Who is this program for?

This certificate is well-suited for those seeking professional growth, meeting continuing education requirements, or pursuing eligibility for ARRT certification.

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

The Certificate in Women's Imaging provides certified radiologic technologists with the specialized knowledge and skills needed to excel in mammography and bone densitometry. Through a combination of structured coursework and hands-on clinical experience, participants develop a thorough understanding of imaging procedures, patient care, and emerging technologies. This certificate supports preparation for professional certification and effective practice in these critical areas of healthcare.

Detailed Anatomy Knowledge

Students who complete the certificate will gain a solid understanding of anatomy and physiology specific to women’s imaging. This knowledge supports accurate image acquisition and informed diagnostic practices.

Technical Proficiency

Students will develop technical proficiency in imaging procedures, including proper patient positioning and equipment operation. This expertise ensures high-quality imaging and adherence to best practices in clinical settings.

Pathology Identification

Students will learn to recognize and understand the imaging characteristics of a range of pathologies, enhancing their ability to support accurate diagnoses and patient care.

Patient Care Skills

Students will develop strong patient care skills, ensuring compassionate, safe, and effective care throughout imaging procedures.

Real-World Applications

Students who complete the certificate are well-prepared to apply their skills in a variety of healthcare settings. The certificate qualifies technologists to work in mammography or bone densitometry roles within hospitals, imaging clinics, or as traveling technologists.

Through practical, hands-on training, participants are able to translate classroom knowledge into real-world patient care, building both competence and confidence. The certificate’s emphasis on clinical competencies and observational learning provides valuable experience under the supervision of experienced professionals. This comprehensive preparation supports success on national certification exams and ensures readiness for the demands of clinical practice.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University integrates the latest advancements and trends in medical imaging into the curriculum. Courses are regularly updated to reflect new technologies and techniques, ensuring that participants stay current with best practices and emerging innovations in mammography and bone densitometry.

In a field where rapid technological progress directly influences diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes, staying up to date is essential. FHSU’s ongoing commitment to curriculum improvement ensures that individuals who complete the certificate are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.

Hands-on Activities

The Certificate in Women’s Imaging emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on training. In the Mammography course, participants complete clinical competencies following their didactic instruction, ensuring proficiency in practical applications. In the Bone Densitometry course, students gain direct experience by observing and assisting technologists during examinations, enhancing their understanding of both patient care and imaging procedures.

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

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 combines comprehensive knowledge with practical experience in mammography and bone densitometry. Core courses are carefully designed to cover key concepts and essential hands-on skills, ensuring participants develop the proficiency needed 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-equipped to pursue a variety of rewarding career opportunities in healthcare. With specialized training in mammography and bone densitometry, they qualify to work in hospitals, imaging centers, private practices, or as traveling technologists. The advanced knowledge and skills acquired through the certificate prepare participants to contribute meaningfully to their profession and advance in their careers.

Mammography Technologist

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

Bone Densitometry Technologist

Bone densitometry technologists perform bone density tests to evaluate bone health and assist medical staff in diagnosing conditions such as osteoporosis.

Clinical Educator

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

Traveling Technologist

Traveling technologists deliver imaging services across multiple locations, offering flexibility and experience in diverse healthcare environments.

Admission Requirements

Fort Hays State University has established specific admission requirements for the Certificate in Women’s Imaging to ensure participants are prepared for the advanced coursework and clinical training. These criteria maintain high educational standards and verify that individuals possess the foundational knowledge and professional credentials necessary for success in the certificate and related certification exams.

Educational Background

Applicants must hold an associate degree or certificate in Radiologic Technology from an accredited program. This foundational education ensures that all participants possess the essential knowledge and skills in radiologic technology needed 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 be eligible for the certificate. This requirement ensures that participants 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 collects essential information about the applicant’s educational and professional background and serves as the first step in the admissions process.

Official Transcripts

Applicants are required to submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. These transcripts are reviewed to verify the completion of required educational prerequisites and to assess 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 cater to a variety of interests and career goals, ensuring participants 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

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Women’s Imaging