To become a radiology technician in Michigan, complete a 2-year associate degree in radiologic technology from an accredited program, earn ARRT certification, and obtain Michigan state licensure.
What education does a radiology tech need?
Radiology technicians need an associate degree in radiologic technology from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
These programs usually run about two years and blend classroom learning with hands-on clinical training. (That’s the standard path most students take.) Come 2026, Michigan will require all radiologic technologists to hold a license from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). You’ll also need to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam to earn certification.
How much does a radiologist technician make in Michigan?
Radiologic technologists in Michigan earn an average of $52,279 per year, or $25 per hour
Pay scales vary—some techs start around $39,243 (25th percentile), while top earners bring in $73,637 or more. Urban spots like Detroit hospitals and diagnostic centers usually pay better than rural clinics. For the freshest numbers, check the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How do I start a career in radiology tech?
Start by enrolling in a radiologic technology program at a community college or university accredited by JRCERT
Once you finish the degree, apply for ARRT certification and Michigan state licensure. Try to line up internships or volunteer stints in local hospitals—real experience makes landing your first job way easier. Don’t underestimate networking either; chatting up people already in radiology departments can open doors.
How long does it take to become an Xray Tech in Michigan?
It takes about 2 years to complete an associate degree in radiologic technology and become eligible for certification
Most programs pack 21–24 months of classes and clinical rotations into that span. After you graduate, you’ll still need to pass the ARRT exam and apply for state licensure. A handful of schools even offer accelerated tracks that can shave a few months off the usual timeline.
How much do ultrasound techs make in Michigan?
Ultrasound technologists in Michigan earn between $52,472 and $74,078 per year, with top earners making up to $89,070
Where you work matters—hospitals usually pay more than private clinics. If you specialize in areas like echocardiography or vascular sonography, your paycheck can grow even bigger. Consider tacking on credentials from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS); it boosts your job prospects.
How much does a radiologist tech make 2020?
In 2020, the median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $61,900 nationwide
That year, the lowest 10% earned about $42,180 while the highest 10% cleared $92,660. Those figures come straight from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, though keep in mind they’re national averages—Michigan’s numbers tend to run a little lower.
How difficult is radiology tech program?
Radiology tech programs are challenging but manageable with dedication
You’ll tackle anatomy, radiation physics, patient care, and imaging techniques all at once. Expect a mix of textbook work and real-world clinical rotations. Strong study habits and close attention to safety rules matter a lot—especially when you’re first learning the ropes.
How much does a xray tech make?
X-ray technicians earn between $37,849 and $53,087 per year, with top earners making up to $65,376
Pay swings widely by state and workplace. Big-city hospitals usually pay more than small-town clinics. According to the BLS, the national median for all radiologic technologists (including X-ray techs) sits around $61,900.
Is radiology tech school harder than nursing school?
Radiology tech school is less academically intense than most nursing programs but requires strong technical skills
Nursing programs dive deep into pharmacology, patient care, and clinical decision-making over two to four years. Radiology tech programs zero in on imaging tech and physics, often wrapping up in two years. Both demand hands-on training, but nursing’s academic load is generally heavier.
Is it hard to become ultrasound Tech?
Becoming an ultrasound tech requires passing rigorous coursework and clinical training
You’ll wrestle with tough classes in anatomy, physics, and patient care before logging hundreds of supervised scans. Fast-paced clinical rotations can be stressful, so staying calm under pressure helps. Most pros recommend ARDMS certification to move ahead in the field.
How much do MRI techs make in Michigan?
MRI technologists in Michigan earn between $47,180 and $87,747 per year, with top earners making up to $104,503
Experience, extra certifications, and location all nudge those numbers up or down. MRI techs need more training than X-ray techs because the machines are more complex. For salary benchmarks and career tips, the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) is a solid resource.
How much does an OB GYN sonographer make in Michigan?
OB/GYN sonographers in Michigan earn an average of $68,182 per year, or $1,311 per week
Seasoned specialists can pull in up to $95,684 annually. Focusing on obstetrics and gynecology usually means higher demand and fatter paychecks. Earning an OB/GYN sonography credential from the ARDMS is practically a must for this niche.
Who makes more CT or MRI Tech?
MRI technologists generally earn more than CT technologists
Recent data shows MRI techs pulling in a median of $69,930, while CT techs earn a bit less unless they’ve got advanced certifications. Both jobs require extra training beyond basic radiography—CT techs focus on computed tomography procedures.
What is the highest paid job in radiology?
Radiation oncologists earn the highest average salaries in radiology, followed by diagnostic radiologists
These physicians rack up medical school and residency years, so their pay reflects that investment. Even non-physician roles like radiologist assistants or specialized technologists can hit six figures with the right certifications and experience. For deeper salary intel on advanced positions, the American Association of Physicists in Medicine has solid data.
