Computed Tomography

(30 credits)

Program Mission:

The Imaging Sciences Programs at Tacoma Community College are committed to providing comprehensive instruction designed to respond to the dynamics and evolving nature of the healthcare community. It emphasizes excellence in patient care that is respectful of others, deliberate in the safe administration of ionizing radiation, and graduates high quality professionals that contribute as critically thinking team members.

Program Description:

The Computed Tomography Program was developed under the philosophy that clinical experience should be preceded by extensive academic preparation that includes intense four hour labs utilizing GE and Siemens CT platforms to prepare them for their performance at the console on the clinical site. The didactic portion is set up as a hybrid learning environment with engagement with our qualified professors. The blend of online and in-person learned allows all types of learners to be successful. The ultimate goal of the program is to prepare outstanding staff technologists who have the potential to become effective supervisors and instructors.

Advancing past your registered radiology license and nuclear medicine license opens up a whole new pathway with increased compensation. Computed Tomography is a skill that can only be learned by active, personal experience.  Because the skills involved are quite complex, close supervision will be necessary during the clinical quarter(s). However, the quicker you learn to function under limited supervision, the easier it will be for you to make the transition from student CT tech to technologist upon graduation. Students are integrated into a computed tomography department routine that may include the reception office, and transporting, in addition to attending CT rooms. The number of students at each site is limited by regulations set by our accrediting agency so that a proper ratio of students to technologists exists.

Healthcare delivery in general changes rapidly. Consequently, healthcare education generally and radiologic technology education must be capable of rapid adaptation. The CT program at TCC is a dynamic program and students from one class should not find it surprising that clinical requirements, didactic requirements, program policy and procedures, etc. may change from one year to the next. 

Licensing Information

In accordance with U.S. Department of Education Regulation 34 CFR 668.43 (a) (5) (v), educational institutions must provide information related to whether their programs will fulfill educational requirements for specific professional licensure or certification and to inform prospective students whether their degree upon graduation will qualify them to work in the state where they are located. Please see the Radiologic Technologist practice laws detailed by state. 

First Quarter
Number	Modality	Title	Credits
CT280	Online	Patient Care for Computed Tomography	2
CT281	Online	Digital Image Production for Computed Tomography	3
CT282	Online	Cross Sectional Anatomy & Pathophysiology	3
CT283	Online	Procedures for Computed Tomography	4
CT284	In-Person	Computed Tomography Lab & Clinical Introduction	3
NURS260	In-Person	Advanced IV Therapy Skills	1

Second Quarter
Number	Modality	Title	Credits
CT286	In-Person	PT Clinical I (20 hrs/wk) 6 credits	6

Third Quarter
Number	Modality	Title	Credits
CT285	Online	CT Registry Review	2
CT287	In-Person	PT Clinical II (20 hrs/wk) 6 credits	6

Fourth Quarter
Number	Modality	Title	Credits
CT289	Didactic/Lab/Clinical	CT Independent Study (4-40 hrs/wk) 2-12 credits	12

Program Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to: 

• PLO 1: CT students will provide appropriate patient care. In doing so, they will practice appropriate radiation safety principles for the protection of patients. Students will be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of contrast reactions within their patients. (COK) (COM) (CRT) (ICD) (RES)  
• PLO 2: CT students will demonstrate the ability to analyze cross sectional images and demonstrate the ability to recognize common pathologies on scans. (COK) (CRT)(IIT)  
• PLO 3: CT students will demonstrate a basic knowledge of the computed tomography equipment by demonstrating the ability to adjust imaging parameters and other options needed for each case. Students will demonstrate that they comprehend the principles and instrumentation involved in computed tomography. (COK) (COM) (CRT) (ICD) (IIT) (RES)  
• PLO 4: CT students will perform CT exams as outlined in the ARRT competency requirements for post-primary certification in Computed Tomography. (COK) (COM) (CRT) (ICD) (IIT) (RES)  

Degree Learning Outcomes

• Core of knowledge (COK):  Demonstrate a basic knowledge of each of the distribution areas (Written Communication, Humanities, Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences) or, as applicable, specific professional/technical content, and program-level content and apply.
• Communication (COM):  Listen, speak, read, and write effectively and use nonverbal and technological means to make connections between self and others.
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving (CRT):  Compare, analyze and evaluate information and ideas, and use sound thinking skills to solve problems. 
  Information & Information Technology (IIT):  Locate, evaluate, retrieve, and ethically use relevant and current information of appropriate authority for academic or, as applicable, specific professional/technical applications.
• Intercultural Collaboration & Diversity (ICD):  Demonstrate successful application of an interdependent, diverse, and multicultural worldview through collaborative engagement.
• Responsibility & Ethics (RES):  Demonstrate an understanding of what constitutes responsible and ethical behavior toward individuals, the community and the environment. 

Course Related Costs:

• Background check/Health Record Tracking: $85
• WATCH Background check: $11/year
• Course Lab & Clinical Fees for all 8 quarters: $1,000
• Facility, Technology & Safety Fees: $500
• Books: $2,000
• Name Tag: $6
• Dosimeter: $300
• Laterality Markers: $50
• Health Physical: Variable
• Immunizations: $350+
• Medical Insurance: Variable
• WSRT Membership: $25/year
• CPNW (Clinical Onboarding): $75/year
• mCE (Clinical Onboarding): $39.50/year
• Trajecsys System: $100/year
• Bridge Tolls (Traveling towards Gig Harbor): $5.25 with pass/$6.25 without pass daily

Note: Due to variations in books, disposables, and other associated costs, prices are subject to change without notice.

Graduation and Registered Technologist fees:

• Washington State Certification: $200
• National Registry Exam: $250
• Graduation Regalia (optional): $25

Funding Resources:

TCC has Financial Aid and other funding resource information, such as scholarships, grants, and loans, you can apply for to offset the cost of attending college. Please note eligibility requirements and deadlines for certain resources.

Need help paying for college? You may be eligible for scholarships and financial aid.

Tuition Rates