Computed Tomography (CT) Certificate Program

Computed Tomography (CT) Certificate Program

Duration of the Program

The CT Certificate Program is structured as an intensive one-semester (16-week) curriculum designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Computed Tomography technology, cross-sectional anatomy and pathology, and extensive clinical practicum experience.

Overview

The CT Certificate Program at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU) is designed to prepare licensed Radiologic Technology Professionals for advanced roles in Computed Tomography. The program integrates rigorous academic coursework with extensive practical clinical experiences at CDU’s affiliate medical centers, focusing on fostering high proficiency in CT technology and patient care.

Program Objectives

1. Professional Skill Enhancement:
   • Advance the technical and interpretive skills of practicing radiologic technologists in CT.
2. Comprehensive Education:
   • Deliver a comprehensive curriculum that covers the theoretical foundations, safety considerations, and practical applications of CT technology.
3. Advanced Healthcare Services:
   • Contribute to advancing healthcare services by training professionals in state-of-the-art imaging techniques.
4. Academic and Practical Excellence:
   • Ensure a blend of academic rigor and practical experience, emphasizing an understanding of cross-sectional anatomy, pathology, and CT procedures.
5. Clinical Proficiency:
   • Provide a substantial clinical practicum to develop hands-on skills and real-world experience in CT settings.
6. Career Development:
   • Equip technologists for new opportunities or enhanced roles in the specialized field of CT.
7. Industry Standards and Certification Preparation:
   • Align with industry standards and prepare students for potential certification and advanced career paths in CT technology.

Criteria for Admission

• Professional Licensure: Must provide copies of their certification in Radiography with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and certification in Diagnostic Radiologic Technology with the California Department of Public Health’s Radiologic Health Branch (CRT).
• Academic Excellence: A minimum overall GPA of 2.5 is required. Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previous college-level coursework.
• Observation Experience: Applicants who complete a minimum of 8 hours of observation in their chosen modality will be viewed more favorably during the admissions review process, as it demonstrates a proactive understanding of and commitment to the field. Applicants are asked to complete a minimum of 8 hours of observation in Computed Tomography (CT) procedures to gain initial exposure and a basic understanding of the CT environment. As part of the application process, applicants must provide the contact information of their Clinical Observation Supervisor, who will receive an email from CDU with a secure ‘Submit Recommendation’ link. The supervisor will use this link to verify the number of hours the applicant observed CT procedures at their facility.

Clinical Internship Requirements

• Placement Approval: Mandatory acceptance for a clinical internship at an affiliate medical center, requiring a commitment of at least 16 hours per week during the internship.
• Clinical Competencies: Fulfillment of designated competencies for each clinical placement is required.
• Occupational Clinical Placement: Applicants who wish to complete their clinical internship at their current place of employment must submit a clinical affiliation agreement at least two weeks prior to the start of the program. This ensures adequate preparation time and alignment with the program’s clinical objectives.
• Program Continuation: Maintain a minimum grade of C in each course within the program. (Note: A grade of C- is not acceptable).

Policy on Clinical CT Rotations

The program’s policy on clinical CT rotations is committed to providing comprehensive clinical experiences, adhering to the policies of clinical settings. Students are informed that placement in CT rotations is subject to the availability and discretion of the clinical setting. The program is dedicated to seeking diverse and meaningful clinical experiences for its students.