The Emory School of Medicine Radiologic Technology (RT) Certificate Program, based at Emory Decatur Hospital, has been preparing students for careers in health care since 1962. The program is one of the longest-running clinical educational initiatives at Emory and aims to train entry-level radiologic technologists to address clinical imaging needs in Atlanta.
Located off-campus at Emory Decatur Hospital, the RT Certificate Program is part of Emory’s allied health offerings. Radiologic technologists use X-rays and other imaging techniques for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The program provides training in general X-ray procedures, trauma imaging, fluoroscopy, and includes rotations through specialties such as CT scans, MRI, and mammography.
Each year, the full-time 24-month program admits between 19 and 25 students, with a total capacity of up to 50. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. According to program data, about 70% of graduates secure jobs within Emory Healthcare within a year after finishing their studies. Since its inception, approximately 1,100 students have graduated from the program.
“The Emory School of Medicine Radiologic Technology Certificate Program has been a leader in imaging education on a continuous basis for over 60 years,” says Jen Schuck, CEO of Emory Decatur, Emory Hillandale and Emory Long-Term Acute Care hospitals. “I’m proud that the program is a leader in creating career opportunities for people in our community and ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to make a real impact in health care.”
LaShaun Taylor, RTR and program director, noted: “From the start, our students are placed in fast-paced health care settings where they use advanced equipment, care for patients from all backgrounds and learn to adapt to the changing needs of the medical field. By operating at Emory Decatur Hospital, our program students get hands-on training in a busy medical imaging department, giving graduates an advantage when pursuing their careers.”
Applicants must hold at least an associate degree before starting; however, there are ongoing efforts to help future participants earn this qualification as part of their pathway into the profession. The RT Certificate Program is also working more closely with Emory’s Medical Imaging B.S. Bridge Program to allow graduates further educational advancement toward a bachelor’s degree.
Applications are accepted annually from September 1 through March 1 via the Emory School of Medicine Radiologic Technology Certificate Program website.
Emory Decatur Hospital operates as part of the larger Emory Healthcare network with a range of services including emergency medicine, oncology care, heart and vascular treatment—including stroke—maternity services and orthopaedics.
The Emory School of Medicine offers various programs aimed at developing future leaders across different health professions by combining patient care with research-driven medical education.
