Most Popular Online Radiology Degrees 2025
Our list of the most popular online radiology degree programs highlights accredited schools ranked by the number of students graduating with this major.
Key Takeaways:
- At #1, Northwestern State University of Louisiana leads with the most graduates from its online bachelor’s in radiologic sciences, reflecting strong student interest and program reach.
- Pima Medical Institute demonstrates exceptional career returns, reporting median alumni earnings of $91,209, placing it among the top 15% nationally for earnings in this field.
- ECPI University Online offers one of the largest online learning communities, with 6,854 students enrolled at just the undergraduate level.
Read our methodology for details about our ranking. After our analysis below, we include an interview with Joel Butterly, CEO of InGenius Prep, who provides guidance for students looking to pursue a radiology degree online.
Most Popular Online Radiology Degrees 2025
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwestern State University of Louisiana | 64 | $11,250 | $56,512 | 91% | |
| Oregon Institute of Technology | 50 | $9,660 | $87,197 | N/A | |
| Pima Medical Institute | 46 | N/A | $91,209 | 100% | |
| The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center | 43 | $30,420 | N/A | 100% | |
| University of Iowa | 42 | $31,374 | $67,426 | 94% | |
| University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences | 39 | $18,750 | $67,741 | 100% | |
| University of Louisiana - Monroe | 31 | $12,000 | $63,413 | 93% | |
| Morehead State University | 28 | $14,660 | $71,986 | 100% | |
| Kent State University at Salem | 25 | $13,050 | $57,289 | N/A | |
| Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis | 24 | $33,646 | $79,743 | 94% | |
| Lewis-Clark State College | 21 | $22,028 | N/A | 100% | |
| University of New Mexico | 19 | $26,450 | $82,671 | 88% | |
| ECPI University Online | 19 | $18,484 | N/A | N/A | |
| La Roche University | 18 | $32,600 | $58,145 | 83% | |
| Indiana University - Kokomo | 13 | $22,103 | $66,315 | 75% |
A Closer Look at Our List: Analyzing What a Bachelor’s in Radiology Really Means — and Where It Can Take You
At the bachelor’s level, “radiology” almost always refers to degree-completion paths for credentialed imaging professionals (typically ARRT-registered) who want to move beyond entry-level practice.
You can think of it as a jumping-off point from a staff technologist into lead tech, modality specialist (CT/MRI/CV-interventional), PACS/informatics, clinical educator, or department supervisor/manager. Importantly, some of the radiology degree programs we listed tilt toward leadership and operations (e.g., medical imaging technology, leadership in medical imaging, or radiologic science management), while others emphasize stackable post-primary credentials (CT/MRI/CI/VI). We'll get more into those details below.
Bachelor’s-level radiology degrees are about advancement within technologist and imaging-operations roles, often while working full time.
Crucially, this is different from becoming a radiologist (a physician) — that path requires medical school and residency. Bachelor’s-level radiology degrees are about advancement within technologist and imaging-operations roles, often while working full time.
When evaluating our list of the most popular online bachelor’s degrees in radiologic sciences, we utilize online scale to show the bachelor's programs that consistently graduate large cohorts demonstrate market trust, have strong employer recognition, and have the virtual infrastructure to sustain student success.
The schools on our list graduate anywhere from 13 to 64 students per year, with a median of 31 graduates, reflecting meaningful success. For some context, radiologic technology programs often cap enrollment due to clinical-site limitations. Still, it's true that larger graduate counts imply stronger clinical partnerships, more consistent course rotations, and an alumni network that employers already recognize.
Firsthand Student Recommendations Are a Trust Signal
Recommendation rates are a stamp of trustworthiness because these percentages come from over 90,000 verified student surveys collected over years across U.S. institutions. They reflect lived experience with advising, online delivery, clinical coordination, and instructional quality.
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and Morehead State University (MSU) both earned a perfect 100% recommendation rate, meaning every surveyed student said they would recommend the school to others. That’s an extraordinary level of endorsement in any field, and it reflects not just academic quality, but how smoothly these programs fit into students’ working lives.
The schools on our list with exceptionally high recommendation rates tend to share a few defining traits. In terms of the radiology programs they host, they make the pathway as frictionless as possible for working technologists. For example, both the University of Iowa (UI) and Northwestern State University of Louisiana (NSU) award substantial block credit — often 60 or more hours — for ARRT or NMTCB certification. In other words, they are recognizing prior professional training rather than forcing students to repeat what they already know, and that approach means that your experience counts.
Career Growth and Pay Trends in Online Radiology Degrees
Let’s start with the national context. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (), the median annual wage for radiologic technologists is about $77,660, while MRI technologists earn closer to $88,180. These figures mark the midrange for professionals who hold an associate degree and a primary credential, often working in hospitals or outpatient centers. But bachelor’s-level technologists (those who add managerial, educational, or advanced-imaging credentials) can climb higher over time. The top 10% in the field can even push beyond $106,000, according to the BLS, especially in roles that combine clinical depth with leadership.
That trend is visible across this ranking. Graduates of Pima Medical Institute (PMI) report median earnings of roughly $91,000, landing above both national benchmarks. This clearly means that many who graduate from this program are moving into supervisory or specialized imaging positions soon after completing the degree.
Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) follows closely, with alumni reporting around $87,000. Both schools emphasize management and leadership in radiologic science, and their outcomes suggest that kind of coursework translates directly into higher pay.
Which Online Radiology Programs Show the Strongest ROI?
Looking at the ratio between estimated four-year tuition and earnings four years after graduation, a few programs stand out for delivering particularly strong returns. OIT leads the pack here, with graduates reporting median earnings near $87,000, while four years of tuition total under $39,000. It seems that OIT’s managerial and leadership-focused curriculum converts directly into higher-paying roles.
OIT leads the pack here, with graduates reporting median earnings near $87,000, while four years of tuition total under $39,000.
Public universities like the University of New Mexico (UNM) and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) also perform well, each yielding earnings above $67,000-$82,000 against total tuition costs between $75,000-$105,000. These figures imply a near-break-even return within the first few years after graduation, a strong outcome in healthcare education where many learners already work full-time while completing their degree.
Once you add advanced credentials or leadership experience, the bachelor’s degree in imaging sciences can potentially repay itself faster than most other healthcare credentials at the same level.
Why Structure and Supervision Define Online Radiology Success
CEO of InGenius Prep
Do you think it's a good idea for professionals to pursue a bachelor's in radiologic sciences through an online format?
"Online degrees in radiologic science can work well if there's accountability built in.
Students achieve success in theory learning through online platforms because these platforms provide organized learning paths which maintain their attention. The most effective programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical supervision."
Online study forces self-discipline. Students who manage their time well tend to transition smoothly into hospital work because they're already used to running their own schedule.
In your opinion, what specialized areas are most in demand today?
"MRI and nuclear medicine are where hiring is strongest. The two roles need stable technical competencies and decision-making abilities because hospitals expand their emergency department and ICU facilities."
How is imaging technology evolving, and what digital tools or simulation platforms are improving online radiology education?
"Students can operate imaging simulations through new learning tools which mimic the actual medical equipment operations. The simulation training serves as a confidence builder... but it does not replace actual hands-on clinical training."
EXPERT TIP
"Check certification rules early. States operate with distinct procedures for handling these matters so it is essential to identify them at an early stage to prevent delayed processing."
FAQs About Degrees in Radiology
Can 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.
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.
What Bachelor’s Degree Is Best for Radiology?
While a specific bachelor's degree isn’t 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’s 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
- Diverse career opportunities
- Solid earning potential
- Advanced knowledge of radiology
- Professional advancement in the field
Cons
- Financial and time investment to earn a degree
- High stress levels
- Rapid technological changes in the field
- Licensing requirements for some advanced positions
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.
What Do You Learn in an Online Radiology Degree Program?
Radiology 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.
Enrollment in a radiology degree — even a program with fully online courses — 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.
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.
What Specializations Are Available in Online Radiology Degree Programs?
Starting 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.
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:
- administer diagnostic imaging exams on patients.
- run MRI scanners, overseeing patient safety and comfort. They analyze the scanned images of the scanned areas to ensure image quality.
- carry out tests to analyze the pulmonary or cardiovascular systems of patients to help determine the diagnosis and the best path for treatment.
- 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 (sources linked in the careers listed above) varying based on the specific role. To give some examples, radiologic technologists specializing in diagnostic imaging earn a median annual salary of $78,980, while nuclear medicine technologists can earn a median annual salary of $97,020. Overall, a radiology degree is likely a great investment toward a promising career path.
Student Reviews of Online Radiology Programs
Adventist 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