An online radiology degree offers a comprehensive education in diagnostic imaging but allows you to study remotely. These programs integrate medical knowledge with specialized radiologic techniques, ensuring you develop clinical competence alongside theoretical understanding. Courses cover anatomy, radiation safety, and imaging technology.
Key Takeaways:
- Pima Medical Institute is #1 with the best median salary among its graduates with radiology degrees 鈥� $79,949.
- Loma Linda University offers an outstanding student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1.
- The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is noteworthy for its overall review rating from students of 4.26 out of 5.
Our methodology for ranking the best online online radiology degrees focuses on evaluating alumni salaries to determine financial outcomes. We assign each program a Salary Score, presented as a letter grade, to rank programs relative to one another. Following that, our list is based on high online enrollment, ensuring a representation of popular online options.
2025 Best Online Radiology Degrees
| Rank | School | Salary Score | Median Earnings | A- | $79,949 | 1,755 | N/A | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon Institute of Technology | A- | $79,400 | 704 | $9,660 | ||||||||
| Loma Linda University | A- | $77,459 | 544 | B | $66,675 | 294 | Learn more about how we make money.' > | N/A | N/A | 6,006 | A- Online degree: Why we like them: PMI's Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences is distinguished by its impressive median earnings of $79,949, placing it among the top 18% nationwide for graduate salaries. This demonstrates the potential financial benefits you can expect upon completing this program. This 16-month program, delivered entirely online, focuses on augmenting your skills with advanced modalities, sectional anatomy, patient assessment, and a capstone project to apply learned concepts. The curriculum adheres to American Society of Radiologic Technologists guidelines. #2
Online degree: Why we like them: OIT ranks highly due to its strong earnings potential, with a median salary of $79,400 placing it in the top 18% of graduate earnings nationwide. This impressive financial outcome is a testament to the quality and relevance of the education OIT provides. OIT's online Bachelor of Science in Health Care Management with a Radiologic Science option is designed for those aiming for managerial roles in medical imaging facilities. It offers significant credit for those holding the ARRT registry, with 89 credits awarded, focusing on management without the need for patient contact. #3
Online degree: Why we like them: LLU has remarkable median earnings of $77,459, placing it among the top 21% of institutions in this regard. LLU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Radiation Sciences, ideal for working professionals seeking career advancement. The program accommodates part-time studies and can be completed in 1-2 years, depending on prior credits. Students can pursue emphases in administration and education, special imaging like CT/MRI, or prepare for further professional degrees in management or radiology assistant roles. #4
Online degree: Why we like them: IUPUI’s online BS in Medical Imaging Technology ranks 4th, with graduates earning a median salary of $71,669. Designed for certified professionals, the 120-credit hour program includes advanced diagnostic imaging, anatomy, research, and 12 elective credits. It offers both full-time and part-time options, delivered entirely online. The curriculum enhances communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, preparing students for leadership roles in healthcare. Eligible students may receive up to 12 special credit hours for their certifications, making it a flexible, career-focused choice. #5
Online degree: Why we like them: UNM's distinguished position in our rankings is underscored by its median earnings of $71,667, placing its graduates in the upper echelons with earnings ranked higher than 68% of peers. This degree completion program is tailored for certified technologists, such as radiographers and nuclear medicine technologists. Designed for flexibility, it accommodates both full- and part-time learners, allowing professionals to continue working while advancing their education. Participants complete 30 credit hours in residency, focusing on enhancing their qualifications in radiologic sciences. #6
Online degree: Why we like them: UOHSC’s online BS in Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences offers a strong return on investment, with graduates earning a median salary of $66,675. Designed for credentialed professionals like nuclear medicine technologists, radiographers, and sonographers, this program awards up to 30 credit hours for prior experience. Students complete 31 online credit hours over 18 months, with flexible options extending up to 60 months. The curriculum covers health management, clinical accreditation, and multidisciplinary seminars. Non-resident students benefit from in-state tuition rates, making it an affordable option. #7
Online degree: Why we like them: La Roche’s online Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging stands out with graduates reporting median earnings of $66,535, reflecting strong career prospects. Designed for certified radiological technologists, the program accepts up to 90 transfer credits, leaving just 10 courses to complete. It blends liberal arts with healthcare, covering topics like management, communication, and statistics. The curriculum focuses on leadership, communication, and problem-solving, preparing graduates for leadership or supervisory roles in radiologic technology. #8
Online degree: Why we like them: BSU’s online Bachelor of Science in Advanced Medical Imaging stands out with graduates earning a median salary of $65,680, placing it in the top 55% among peers. The program offers flexibility with seven-week accelerated courses and six enrollment starts annually, ideal for aspiring radiology professionals. Taught by expert faculty, it prepares students for credentialing exams in specialties like MRI or diagnostic medical sonography. Additional pathways include certificates in interventional radiology, cardiology, and computed tomography, providing training for in-demand healthcare careers. #9
Online degree: Why we like them: UAMS's online Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Medicine Imaging Sciences offers a strong mid-career earning potential, with graduates reporting a median salary of $61,378, placing it in the 45th percentile. This full-time, cohort-based program enrolls 40 students each fall and requires 120 credits 鈥� 80 in prerequisites and 40 in the program. It combines online coursework through Blackboard with clinical education provided by affiliates across several states, offering both flexibility and hands-on experience in diverse settings, ensuring preparation for the field. #10
Online degree: Why we like them: ECPI University’s online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences ranks in the top 6% for online enrollment on a national scale. Designed for ARRT Registered Radiographers, the program follows ASRT’s BSRS curriculum guidelines, preparing students for leadership, education, and administrative roles in radiology. Offering advanced standing or transfer credits, it can be completed 100% online in 2.5 years. Courses include Radiology Administration Law and Ethics, Specialized Imaging Modalities, and Advanced Patient Assessment, equipping students for careers as radiologist assistants. #11
Online degree: Why we like them: NSULA’s online radiology degree stands out with its strong online enrollment, placing it in the top 8% nationally, and an 83% recommendation rate. Certified by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, the program prepares students for careers in radiology, including specializations like Bone Densitometry and MRI. It emphasizes high-tech imaging and compassionate patient care, with a focus on ethical standards. NSULA also offers a concentration in Ultrasound, providing hands-on clinical experience, fostering career advancement and leadership in radiologic sciences. #12
Online degree: Why we like them: PennWest’s online Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging with a Radiologic Technology concentration stands out with strong online enrollment, ranking in the top 26%, and a 91% recommendation rate. Tailored for credentialed diagnostic medical sonographers, the program requires 120 credits and includes courses like Public Speaking, Biomedical Ethics, and the Allied Health Leadership Capstone. The curriculum also features specialized clinical courses and research methods. #13
Online degree: Why we like them: KSU Ashtabula offers a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic and Imaging Sciences. The program is versatile, providing concentrations in Computed Tomography, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Radiation Therapy. It's structured to prepare online learners for various careers in healthcare, featuring pathways for those with an existing associate degree in radiologic technology or similar fields or new entrants to the discipline through fully online options. For those already holding certifications or degrees, focused completer concentrations allow you to specialize. #14
Online degree: Why we like them: With a retention rate of 89%, placing it in the top 9% across institutions, you can be assured of a supportive environment at UI. We also like the recommendation rate of 94% that demonstrates high levels of satisfaction. UI offers an Online RT to BS degree program tailored for registered radiologic and nuclear medicine technologists eager to pursue a major in radiation sciences digitally. The program allows selection of specializations, such as CVI, CT, MRI, BI, or a multi-modality path. It does not necessitate a clinical internship, focusing instead on coursework and potentially partnering with other institutions if you're aiming for ARRT certification. #15
Online degree: Why we like them: ULM excels with an 87% recommendation rate overall. The radiologic technology degree online at ULM is ideal for ARRT registered radiologic technologists aiming to earn a baccalaureate degree through the Registered Technologist Education Plan (RTEP). The program is constructed to advance education for professionals already holding hospital-based certificates or associate degrees. Course content focuses on management, advanced imaging procedures, and specialized medical imaging modalities. #16
Online degree: Why we like them: LCSC’s online Bachelor of Arts/Science in Radiographic Science requires 120 credits and includes one year of preprofessional coursework followed by two years of clinical theory and application, with the option to earn an associate degree along the way. It prepares students for the national radiography certification exam by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and offers hands-on training through local clinical sites. The program combines flexibility with practical experience, making it ideal for aspiring radiologic technologists. #17
Online degree: Why we like them: Morehead State offers a Bachelor of Science in Leadership in Medical Imaging, delivered entirely online. This program spans 2 to 4 years and is tailored for individuals already accredited in fields like radiography and sonography. A structured curriculum emphasizes skills such as health care financial management, program planning, and leadership. To enroll, you must present transcripts of prerequisite coursework, a valid certification from agencies like ARRT, and meet with a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. #18
Online degree: Why we like them: Kent State’s online Bachelor of Radiologic and Imaging Sciences Technology requires 120 credits and offers a flexible, 100% online learning environment. Concentrations include CT, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, MRI, and Radiation Therapy, each preparing students for specific certifications. The curriculum covers anatomy, patient management, and pathology, with the radiation therapy concentration accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Completion can be as quick as nine months for the CT or MRI tracks. #19
Online degree: Why we like them: IU South Bend’s bachelor's in medical imaging technology online is tailored for certified radiographers (ARRT) and requires 120 credits. The program includes core courses in imaging technology principles, multiplanar anatomy, pathology, ethics, and a capstone project. Clinical practicums, requiring 24-34 weekly hours over two semesters, and specific ultrasound courses must be completed in person. Ultrasound practitioners follow a five-semester schedule. we also like to see that IU South Bend has an 80% recommendation rate from its students. #20
Online degree: Why we like them: IU - Kokomo offers a medical imaging technology degree online, which is designed for certified professionals in radiography or diagnostic medical sonography. The program, offered through IU Online, deepens expertise in anatomy, pathology, and research, preparing students to solve complex healthcare issues and communicate effectively. To enroll, you must hold certifications such as ARRT or NMTCB and complete general education requirements at your home campus. It’s an ideal path for advancing in medical imaging specialization. #21
Online degree: Why we like them: SJC’s online bachelor's in radiologic science administration stands out with top-tier financial aid, ranking in the top 11% for accessibility. Designed for radiologic technologists, this 120-credit program focuses on management and leadership in radiologic sciences. It includes 24 credits in radiologic sciences, 42 in general education, electives, and a senior project. With five annual start dates and no campus visits required, it’s flexible for working professionals. Up to 50 credits can be transferred, and the program offers a fast track to an MHA, preparing students for leadership roles and licensure. #22
Online degree: Why we like them: BSC's online imaging science degree is career-focused and designed for current imaging professionals. Delivered entirely online, it builds upon existing skills in radiologic technology and imaging modalities, offering advanced courses such as patient assessment, management, and education, as well as covering legal and ethical issues in the field. Graduates are prepared for roles like chief technologist or department manager. Notably, an articulation agreement with Chattanooga State enables students to obtain advanced certifications in specialized areas such as MRI and Mammography. #23
Online degree: Why we like them: MDACC offers an online bachelor's in diagnostic imaging with a tailored emphasis to advance careers in radiologic sciences. The program is structured as a hybrid model catering to both full- and part-time students. With weekday online activities and limited on-site sessions scheduled on three Saturdays per semester, the program is designed for working professionals seeking advancement in fields like medical imaging instruction or application specialization. Emphases within the program include Computed Tomography and Vascular Interventional Radiography. #24
Online degree: Why we like them: Holy Family's radiologic science degree is structured for ARRT-certified radiologic technologists. The program builds on the ASRS degree, offering advanced practice in medical imaging and management. Flexible online didactic courses align with working technologists' schedules, supplemented by clinical experience. The curriculum meets ARRT Structured Education Requirements, preparing you for post-primary certification in specialties like MR, CT, and VI, ensuring you are well-prepared for ARRT examinations. Online Radiology Degrees: An OverviewRadiology is a crucial healthcare field for diagnosis and imaging. Online radiology degrees provide specialized education for individuals seeking a career in medical imaging and diagnostic procedures. These programs equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this important healthcare sector. Radiology online degrees cover a wide range of topics, including medical imaging principles, radiation safety protocols, and the operation of cutting-edge diagnostic equipment. Note that the job title radiologist refers to the medical doctors who interpret diagnostic imagery and communicate results to patients. Becoming a radiologist requires a medical degree, while becoming a technician or technologist does not. However, there is a distinct difference between a technician, who operates machinery and may run tests but does not make assessments, and a radiologic technologist, who may take part in running tests as well as assessing the results with a medical team. It's important to mention that accreditation should be a priority when choosing an online radiology degree program as it indicates adherence to industry standards, ensuring a high quality education and professional recognition. OnlineU only features accredited schools on its website. How Long Does It Take To Get a Radiology Degree Online?Most online bachelor's degrees in radiology are degree-completion programs for students who have an entry-level associate degree and are already registered radiologic technologists. These degrees can take 16-24 months of full-time study or 24-36 months of part-time study to complete all 120 credits. In addition to regular coursework, the bachelor's degree includes a field experience with a set number of required clinical hours in a healthcare practice setting. This experience can last from a few months to a year but may occur simultaneously with online classes. Radiology Degree SpecializationsStarting in their degree program, radiologic technologists can specialize in one or several imaging modalities, which include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, and bone densitometry. There are a number of online bachelor's degree concentrations that can help prepare graduates for different career paths, such as MRI technologists or nuclear medicine technologists. If you're specifically looking to become a diagnostic medical sonographer, specifically, you may want to research online sonography degrees. Common Courses in Radiology Degree ProgramsEnrollment in a radiology degree 鈥� even a program with fully online courses 鈥� requires an in-person field experience, where students will have supervised practice on the complex machinery they'll use in their jobs. Students currently working as technologists may be able to complete this at their place of employment, or they may need to arrange for another location. Course offerings can differ across radiology programs, but most of them have a few courses in common. This is because faculty want to train diagnostic imaging specialists who are not just proficient at one set of tests but also adept at cross-training on new technology according to the needs of their employers. Below, we've listed a few classes that radiology students are likely to encounter: Fundamentals of Computed Tomography Students learn the uses and limitations of CT scans in diagnosing illnesses and injuries. Professors teach the scan process, including safety protocols and administration of contrast agents. Although a doctor is responsible for diagnoses, professors may cover a basic interpretation of results. Introduction to Diagnostic Medical Sonography Lessons in this course cover the use of sound waves to retrieve images. Students learn the practical applications of sonography, including echocardiograms for cardiovascular imaging and ultrasound for obstetrics and gynecology. Faculty generally cover patient care, professional behavior, and ethics. Introduction to MRI This course introduces the principles of MRI, including the operation of machinery and the interpretation of results. Students learn about the physical processes behind using magnets and contrast agents to reveal organs and tissues. Faculty emphasize safety around magnets and common patient reactions to immersion in an MRI tube. Physics in Diagnostic Imaging Faculty teach the scientific principles that allow machines to render diagnostic images. Coursework may cover image formation and processing, magnetism, and basic electronics. Students are introduced to concepts explored in more depth in later courses, such as contrast (including the use of nuclear medicine) and the effects of the body's structures on imaging. Sectional Anatomy Radiology students learn the human body's systems and how they interconnect. Professors often discuss which imagining machinery best reveals each system in this class. The focus is generally on the physical plane viewable in different types of images, along with the limits of each. What Jobs Can I Get With a Radiology Degree?All radiologic technologists train in human anatomy in order to take precise and accurate images. Their responsibilities usually also include maintaining complex radiology equipment, managing patient records, and occasionally helping doctors interpret image results. Depending on their state regulations, an aspiring technologist generally needs to obtain certification after earning a degree. Graduates of an online radiology degree program can pursue various careers in medical imaging, diagnostics, and patient care: Radiologic Technologists Median Annual Wage: $67,180 Job Growth: 6% administer diagnostic imaging exams on patients. MRI Technologists Median Annual Wage: $80,090 Job Growth: 5-8% run MRI scanners, overseeing patient safety and comfort. They analyze the scanned images of the scanned areas to ensure image quality. Cardiovascular Technologists Median Annual Wage: $63,020 Job Growth: 2-4% carry out tests to analyze the pulmonary or cardiovascular systems of patients to help determine the diagnosis and the best path for treatment. Nuclear Medicine Technologists Median Annual Wage: $85,300 Job Growth: 0% prepare and deliver radioactive drugs for imaging or treatment purposes. How Much Money Can I Make With a Radiology Degree?A radiology degree offers multiple career options, with salaries varying based on the specific role. To give some examples, radiologic technologists specializing in diagnostic imaging earn a median annual salary of $67,180, while nuclear medicine technologists can earn a median annual salary of $85,300. Overall, a radiology degree is likely a great investment toward a promising career path. Applying For a Radiology Degree OnlineThe typical requirements for radiology degrees generally include the following:
Some programs may have additional requirements, like prerequisite courses or work experience, so it鈥檚 helpful to check for those before applying online. FAQs About Degrees in RadiologyCan You Get Radiology Degrees Online?Yes, you can pursue radiology degrees online through accredited institutions. Online programs offer flexibility that allows students to balance education with other commitments. It's essential to choose reputable online programs to ensure quality education and recognition within the field. What Bachelor鈥檚 Degree Is Best for Radiology?While a specific bachelor's degree isn鈥檛 always required for entry into the field, degrees in fields such as radiologic technology, medical imaging, or healthcare administration can provide a strong foundation. These degrees cover essential concepts in anatomy, biology, and medical imaging technology, preparing students for success in radiology-related careers. Is Radiology Harder Than Becoming an RN?The difficulty of pursuing a career in radiology versus in nursing depends on individual preferences and strengths. Radiology relies on medical imaging technology and diagnostics, demanding proficiency with technology and attention to detail. Becoming a nurse involves getting a nursing degree to gain an understanding of patient care and medical procedures. Prospective healthcare professionals should choose a career path that aligns with their interests and talents. How Difficult Are Online Programs in Radiology?There's no absolute answer to this question because individuals have different strengths, experiences, and learning styles. One way to gauge the difficulty of individual online programs is by reviewing graduation rates. These can be hard to find for individual programs, but the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology provides a helpful data search tool. Prospective students can review JRCERT-accredited programs for their student completion rate and credential exam pass rate to get a sense of how well a college supports its students and how prepared graduates are for their necessary certifications. Depending on your aptitude for science and technology, you may find one of these aspects more difficult to learn than the other. Many radiology programs feature courses covering a variety of imaging machines, so current radiology techs may find new equipment difficult to learn if it differs from the equipment they already use in their work. It's also possible that students will excel in their health science and imaging science courses but struggle in some required general education or liberal arts classes. Is a Bachelor's in Radiology Worth It?A bachelor's degree in radiology can unlock a range of fulfilling career options in medical imaging and diagnostics. That said, it鈥檚 possible to enter a field with an associate degree. The main advantage of a bachelor's degree is a wider range of job opportunities, including more specialized roles and potentially higher pay. However, it's important to consider the stress that comes with a radiology career, which can involve intense, high-stakes decisions and patient care. Here are some pros and cons to weigh: Pros
Cons
Student Reviews of Online Radiology ProgramsAdventist University Health Science was a wonderful school. This doesnt mean it was easy! I already had an associates degree and diagnostic imaging so I was very familiar with a lot of the topics that were reviewed in obtaining my bachelors degree but these classes were more in depth and were 14 weeks long. Going to school online is not as easy as I thought it was going to be. Studying by myself was something that I had to practice at in order to have this work for me mainly because I did have a... Read More Review Date: 9/16/2019 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No This was a well structured college which allowed me to further my education online. Being that I worked full time and had just started a family this college fit my needs. I was really impressed with the relatively ease of applying for classes and the help was very easy to obtain, even during my already busy lifestyle, when help was needed. I am now pursuing a graduate degree in physician assistant studies, through University of Dayton Dayton, OH, I would have loved to attended this school for a second... Read More Review Date: 6/25/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to attend Weber State University and to be a graduate from the Radiation Therapy program. From the moment I began inquiring about the program to the very end, the program director Casey Neville, was there to encourage and support us through the program. The instructors are excellent and will stay late to help you with any topic that you do not understand. It is very apparent that they are truly there for the students and to help us succeed. I am very proud... Read More Review Date: 6/30/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes Director of Radiology Program is not in support of her students success or wellbeing. The Director in this program does not care about mental health she only cares about her reputation. She will will not follow what is right on student behalf if they make report to her. If you get n her radar she will push yo-yos out if you place in the program. Overall the school has to look the other way. So sad how many students I have seen affected by her poor leadership. Review Date: 1/19/2023 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No Quinnipiac University is known for producing extraordinarily well prepared professionals. As a whole my Quinnipiac education provided me with an in depth and well rounded experience. My Radiological Sciences program has given me many opportunities to grow as a student and as a competitive member within my community. Through a critical analysis of my undergraduate degree I have discovered that not only have I expanded my ability to make decisions but gave me the opportunity to grow my awareness and... Read More Review Date: 3/16/2018 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No Why Trust Us?27 Data Researchers 60,000 Degrees Researched Annually 20,000 Hours Spent on Research Annually Launching Rankings Since 2009 Related Articles |
