There are a lot more options to acquire a BSRS degree today than ever before. One of those increasingly popular options is an online program. I had an opportunity to interview Nancy Daugherty, MA, RT(R), the BSRS Program Director from PIMA Medical Institute with some important questions you may want to research if you are thinking about continuing your education:
Who is eligible to enroll in the BSRS program at Pima Medical Institute?
Students can transfer into the BSRS from most U.S. Radiography programs, both certificate and degree. Admission to the program requires that an applicant hold a registration by the ARRT and currently employed in radiography, or if not currently employed in the field, graduated from a radiography program within the last five years. Applicants will need to have completed a total of 70 semester credits of specific coursework at the postsecondary level. The content of these 70 transfer credits shall consist of 15 general education credits and 55 radiography technical credits. Additional transfer credit may be accepted as determined on an individual basis by the campus director and program director. Pima Medical Institute has additional online radiography courses for applicants not transferring 70 credits.
How long is the program?
The B.S. Radiologic Sciences program consists of 60 weeks of content, or 70 weeks including semester breaks. Students can Fast Track the program by receiving up to eighteen optional transfer credit for general education courses. Individual completion time may vary by student depending on individual progress and credits transferred.
What methods of instruction are used?
Pima Medical Institute’s online radiography course programs are taught online allowing for schedule flexibility to help students balance school, family, work and other personal commitments. These programs feature a rigorous curriculum and dedicated instructors and staff. Each online class is led by an instructor, and you will be part of a virtual class of other students. The courses are varied with different types of activities, quizzes, assignments and discussions to enhance the learning experience.
Is there any travel involved?
None at all. The program can be completed 100% online.
What is tuition for the B.S. Radiologic Sciences program?
$250.00 per credit hour.
How many students are selected for each class, and how often are classes started?
We have chosen to keep our classes small and limited to 25 students. A new program begins each January, May and August.
What is unique about the B.S. Radiologic Sciences program at Pima Medical Institute?
I think it is the personal touch we try to provide to each student. Each enrolled student receives a one-on-one phone conference with the Program Director and the Financial Aid Advisor to answer any questions about the program. I tell the students all the time to feel free to contact me with any questions. I like to say I have an open door policy; even ONLINE.
What kinds of jobs have some of the graduates of the B.S. Radiologic Sciences acquired?
Our graduates are working in Medical Imaging as managers, technologists and medical sales representatives.
What are the advantages to obtaining a Bachelor’s of Radiologic Science?
Today it is almost a requirement to hold a BS degree for advancement.
Who accredits the B.S. Radiologic Sciences program?
The program is accredited through Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
Can classes count toward a Master’s Degree at a later time?
Yes. We currently have articulation agreements with Chadron State College and University of Phoenix. Students can contact other colleges to see if they will accept these classes towards a Master’s.
Can the program be completed while working a full-time job?
Yes. Most of our students are working full time while completing the program. The semesters are set up in a 2 + 2 format so they take 2 classes at a time. Only the last course, the Professional Capstone is 15 weeks in length.
What does Pima Medical Institute do to remain competitive with other B.S. Radiologic Sciences programs?
What sets PMI apart from other B.S. Radiologic Sciences programs is one-on-one rapport that we build with our students as well as our curriculum. PMI has an instructional design team that works alongside subject matter experts to create online courses that captivate and engage.
Is there a Master’s Degree program in the future for Pima Medical Institute?
There are no current plans for this right now, but watch out! Anything could happen.
For more information or to inquire about enrollment, please visit www.pmi.edu
