If you want to enter a mammography training program, you should first obtain an associate's degree in radiography. Once this has been achieved, you will need to take and pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certificate exam. When searching for a certificate program, look for training programs that are approved by the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA). Some courses are hands-on and others require internships, so explore the requirements carefully. Review the cost and financial aspects of each course, as well.
The ARRT certificate is a requirement for entrance into almost all mammography training programs, and to sit for the exam, you must have graduated from a radiography program. There may be other requirements for each training program, including state licensing and CPR certification. Review these carefully when applying for training programs. These courses fill up quickly, so you may want to apply to more than one program for your best chance at acceptance.
These courses are often found at community colleges and technical schools. Make sure that the program you choose is approved by the MQSA. This approval means the course meets any necessary legal standards, and many employers require potential employees to hold a certificate from an MQSA program. MQSA programs require students to complete 100 mammograms and 40 classroom hours of work throughout the entire program.
Some mammography training programs are more hands-on, and the students work directly with certified professionals. In these types of courses, the students actually evaluate mammogram images and learn various procedures and techniques. There are other programs that do not offer as many hands-on courses but that do require students to complete an internship. Some programs have opportunities for the students to make rounds with professionals in hospitals or clinics. You may also want to search for a program that helps with job placement upon completion of your mammography training.
In 2011, there are not many mammography training courses that are eligible for financial aid. Check with the financial aid office or admissions office when researching programs, to see if there are any payment options that fit your needs. If financing your education is an issue, you may want to consider a course that is only part-time. The extensive requirements of these programs make it difficult for many students to sustain employment throughout if a full-time option is chosen.
