Medical Radiation Technology
Providing insight into the human body: using diagnostic procedures, build your career as a member of a healthcare team.
- Off-site labs provide a unique experience learning in a hospital setting with state- of-the-art equipment
- Extensive CT theory and practice including IV certification from the provincial association
- Lab instructors who are actively involved in clinical practice providing the most current skills
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Winter 2025
No
Fall 2025
Yes
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Work Integrated Learning
This three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma program, accredited by the Accreditation Canada Accreditation Canada EQual™. The program prepares you with the knowledge and technical skills required to produce diagnostic images and carry out diagnostic procedures in the role of a Medical Radiation Technologist. These skills are outlined by the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists Radiological Technology competency profile. Working independently, and in collaboration with healthcare team members, Medical Radiation Technologists analyze a variety of complex diagnostic images to assist physicians in the diagnosis and management of multiple system disorders.
Through theory, simulations, practice and extensive clinical experiences, you acquire the ability to produce quality images of internal structures of the human body. You also apply health, safety and quality assurance principles while performing venipunctures, interacting with patients, and using ionizing radiation in labs and clinical settings....(read more)
Overview
Providing insight into the human body: using diagnostic procedures, build your career as a member of a healthcare team.
This three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma program, accredited by the Accreditation Canada Accreditation Canada EQual™. The program prepares you with the knowledge and technical skills required to produce diagnostic images and carry out diagnostic procedures in the role of a Medical Radiation Technologist. These skills are outlined by the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists Radiological Technology competency profile. Working independently, and in collaboration with healthcare team members, Medical Radiation Technologists analyze a variety of complex diagnostic images to assist physicians in the diagnosis and management of multiple system disorders.
Through theory, simulations, practice and extensive clinical experiences, you acquire the ability to produce quality images of internal structures of the human body. You also apply health, safety and quality assurance principles while performing venipunctures, interacting with patients, and using ionizing radiation in labs and clinical settings.
Weekly lab sessions with hands-on guidance from faculty prepare you for three practicums totaling more than 1,500 hours in clinical settings either within Ottawa or requiring relocation to another clinical setting across Ontario. These acquired skills help you to function as a member of a healthcare team.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to write the national certification exam. You must pass the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) national certification exam to be eligible to register with the College of Medical and Imaging Technologists of Ontario, which is a requirement to work in Ontario.
You may find employment in:
- community and teaching hospitals
- medical clinics
- education and research settings
- private industry
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Can beself-directed in a team environment.
- Possess applied technical aptitudes.
- Have strong analytical skills.
- Are detail-oriented.
- Want to work in avariety of challenging work settings.
- Are able to work effectively under stressful situations.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
BIO0002
Course Name:
Applied Anatomy and Physiology I
Course Description:
The study of the human body as outlined by anatomy and physiology concepts is the basic knowledge for positional techniques of patients. All... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1813S
Course Name:
Communications 1
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0102
Course Name:
Radiological Protocols I
Course Description:
Radiological protocols incorporate positioning skills, imaging principles and best practice standards for patient care. Students examine the... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
IMG0103
Course Name:
Radiological Protocols Laboratory I
Course Description:
Imaging protocols of the appendicular skeleton and the respiratory system are simulated using evidence-based decision making. Students apply... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0128
Course Name:
Quality Control for General Radiography
Course Description:
Quality assurance in the imaging department is maintained to ensure the technical and diagnostic quality of images. Students analyze example... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0140
Course Name:
Professional Practice Foundations for Imaging Technologist
Course Description:
Professional values and behaviors establish an essential foundation for MRT practice. Concepts of wellness and healthy lifestyle are explore... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0141
Course Name:
Introduction to Radiological Imaging Principles
Course Description:
Knowledge of the properties of the x-ray beam is the foundation to its daily application as a medical radiation technologist. Using radiogra... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0149
Course Name:
Medical Radiation Physics
Course Description:
The technical and physical principles of the X-ray beam is the foundation for radiological technology. Students explore the essential princi... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO0003
Course Name:
Applied Anatomy and Physiology II
Course Description:
Understanding of anatomical and physiological variances in diverse patient populations is essential to enable the medical radiation technolo... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0110
Course Name:
Radiological Protocols Laboratory II
Course Description:
Imaging protocols of the axial skeleton and the abdomen are practised and performed in a simulated environment. Students learn to adapt rout... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0118
Course Name:
Radiation Biology and Protection
Course Description:
Radiation safety as a best practice standard is incorporated into each radiological examination. Students use evidence-based research to eva... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0122
Course Name:
Pathology I
Course Description:
Medical imaging is directly correlated to pathological changes of the human body. Using accurate medical terminology students describe patho... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0133
Course Name:
Applied Radiological Protocols
Course Description:
Principles of patient positioning and technical requirements are applied to each radiological protocol. Students apply the concepts of anato... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
IMG0134
Course Name:
Computed Tomography-Physical Principles
Course Description:
The knowledge of the physical components of CT technology allows the MRT to produce static and dynamic diagnostic images. Concepts of data a... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0139
Course Name:
Imaging and Quality Control Laboratory
Course Description:
Imaging principles application and quality control guidelines are replicated and evaluated. In a simulated environment, students apply the t... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0146
Course Name:
Imaging Systems, Acquisition, and Data Management
Course Description:
Digital imaging technology incorporates unique techniques and specialized equipment. Students examine the operational components, design, an... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG1038
Course Name:
Patient Management for Medical Imaging Professionals
Course Description:
Best practice standards guide the Medical Imaging Professional to provide care to the patient. Students learn the principles of conducting r... + Read More
Hours:
14.0
Code:
IMG1039
Course Name:
Patient Management Skills for Medical Imaging Professionals
Course Description:
The support, care and understanding of the patient is the primary role of the Medical Imaging Technologist. Using case scenarios, students p... + Read More
Hours:
14.0
Code:
GED1615
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following four theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO0004
Course Name:
Applied Anatomy and Physiology III
Course Description:
The understanding of multi-sectional relationship in the human anatomy is an essential skill used to adapt imaging protocols. Students study... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL0064
Course Name:
Professional Communication Skills for Medical Radiation Technologists
Course Description:
Professional communication skills are essential for Medical Radiation Technologists. Students learn about written and spoken communication p... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0116
Course Name:
Radiological Protocols Laboratory III
Course Description:
Simulation of protocols enables students to develop critical thinking skills. Students perform routine imaging protocols of the cranium. Stu... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0117
Course Name:
Pathology II
Course Description:
Pathological principles are the link to various radiological appearances on medical images. Students examine pathological principles and rel... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0132
Course Name:
Contrast Media Agents and Intravenous Injection Skills
Course Description:
Contrast media agents are commonly used for diagnostic and interventional examinations. The properties of contrast media and related drugs a... + Read More
Hours:
14.0
Code:
IMG0142
Course Name:
Computed Tomography-Imaging Procedures and Protocols
Course Description:
Computed tomography is a dedicated imaging modality used to identify disease or injury within different regions of the body. Analyzing case-... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
IMG0143
Course Name:
Transition to Clinical Practice
Course Description:
Professional practice standards in the clinical setting is an essential part of the technologist's integrity. Students explore professional ... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0144
Course Name:
Adaptive Imaging Principles
Course Description:
Clinical conditions, procedural requirements, and diverse patient demographics require modifications in medical imaging. Using critical-thin... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0145
Course Name:
Advanced Radiological Procedures and Protocols
Course Description:
Specialized imaging protocols require specific equipment and technical requirements. Students apply anatomy and physiology theory and imagin... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0147
Course Name:
Advanced Patient Management for MRTs
Course Description:
The delivery of safe quality patient care is required in all health care settings. Students explore specialized techniques to provide care a... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0148
Course Name:
Introduction to Health Research in Medical Imaging
Course Description:
Evidence-based practice involves critical appraisal of information used to answer a clinical question. Students explore research ethics, met... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG1035
Course Name:
Professional Practice and Legislation for Medical Imaging Professionals
Course Description:
Legislation and regulations govern the practice of the medical radiation technologist. Students gain an understanding of the roles of profes... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
IMG0119
Course Name:
Clinical Practicum 1
Course Description:
Application of theory allows the student learner to progress from observing to performing assigned procedures while applying best practice p... + Read More
Hours:
600.0
Code:
GED1615
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following four theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0120
Course Name:
Clinical Practicum 2
Course Description:
Application of critical thinking and problem solving allows learners to progress to remote supervision for common radiological procedures. S... + Read More
Hours:
600.0
Code:
GED1615
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following four theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
IMG0121
Course Name:
Clinical Practicum 3
Course Description:
All imaging protocols as listed in the national competency profile are performed in a competent manner at the level expected for entry to pr... + Read More
Hours:
525.0
Code:
IMG1041
Course Name:
Comprehensive Review for Certification Exam
Course Description:
Students prepare for the national certification exam by completing a comprehensive review and a practice exam modelled on the national radio... + Read More
Hours:
66.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment in community and teaching hospitals, medical clinics, education and research settings and in private industry. Upon successful completion of the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) national certification exam, graduates must register with the College of Medical and Imaging Technologists of Ontario (CMRITO) to be eligible for employment in Ontario.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Produce and assess a variety of high-quality diagnostic images employing current technologies for image acquisition and processing.
- Interpret requests and adapt procedures relative to patient and diagnostic image requirements in routine and complex clinical cases.
- Comply with relevant legislation, regulations and ethical standards for the best practice in diagnostic imaging.
- Employ accepted radiation, health and safety practices with self, patients, their families, and healthcare team members in a variety of clinical settings.
- Provide quality care to diverse patients in assessment, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic intervention, while incorporating patient advocacy and education to patients, their family, healthcare team members and the public.
- Monitor patients` status at all times and respond to emergency situations where indicated.
- Operate, calibrate, set up, troubleshoot and evaluate a variety of complex equipment safely.
- Analyze a broad range of diagnostic imaging procedures to assist physicians in the diagnosis and management of multiple system disorders.
- Interact with patients, their families, the healthcare team members and the public using effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Exhibit behaviour consistent with the professional role of a medical radiation technologist, including teamwork, provision of health education and establishment of strategies for lifelong learning.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Prior to placement, Clinical Practicums require training in Health and Safety, WHMIS and OWHSA training. There are some additional costs associated with training that should be anticipated by students which are not covered by tuition fees.
- Printed books required for the program are approximately $1,200.
- The uniform costs required for clinical/lab activities (all three years) are approximately $300.
- Please note that travel and parking expenses, to partnering clinical sites for observation and clinical experiences throughout the program, are the responsibility of the student.
- In addition, students are required to finance clinical experience related expenses, such as travel and housing accommodations for all activities in the program.
- In order to be eligible for employment in Ontario, students must register with the College of Medical and Imaging Technologists of Ontario (CMRITO) with a preregistration fee of $105 (subject to change).
- The Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) national certification exam fee is $907 with an additional test centre fee of $150.41 plus tax. All fees are based on 2023 costs and are subject to change.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher
- Physics, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher; AND
- Biology, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher; OR Chemistry, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher.
- All applicants must complete an assessment of their knowledge and skills through the Test Centre, and pay an exam fee. Results from the Algonquin College Health Program Admissions Test (AC-HPAT) will be utilized to establish minimum eligibility and applicant ranking. The AC-HPAT can only be written once per academic cycle. For further information on the HPAT and how to book your assessment, please visit Algonquin`s Test Centre.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
International Applicants: International applicants who meet the program eligibility requirements are required to complete preparatory courses (4-months in duration): Introduction to Canadian Health Studies (ICHS). Students who successfully complete the introduction will then proceed to their original health program of choice. The ICHS requires applicants to submit an academic IELTS score.
Please click this link for more information: https://www.algonquincollege.com/healthandcommunity/ICHS/.
ACCEPTED APPLICANTS MUST:
Police Records Check Documentation:
Applicants must note important information listed below regarding Police Record Check program requirements.
It is your responsibility to obtain the Police Records Check For Service With Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS) from your local Police Department prior to the deadline identified by your program and to pay any associated costs. It may take a long time to obtain this documentation; please submit your application as early as possible. Should you require further information, contact the Program Chair.
Lab and Clinical Placement Eligibility:
Lab Requirements: Proof of a clear (PRCSVS)- annual requirement. You may be required to disclose the contents of the PRCSVS, including all notations, to the placement agencies.
Clinical Placement Requirements:Successful completion of clinical placement is a requirement for graduation from the Medical Radiation Technology program. To be eligible to participate in clinical placement activities, you must complete ParaMed requirements and submit:
- Proof of a clear (PRCSVS)- annual requirement. You may be required to disclose the contents of the PRCSVS, including all notations, to the placement agencies.
- Evidence of a current Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation Training C.P.R. Basic Rescuer `C` Level certification and Standard First Aid certification.
- Evidence of mask fit-tested for N-95 equivalent masks required for infection-control measures as required by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Guidelines.
- A Health Assessment Form and provide an Immunization Certificate. Applicants must have complete immunization including Hepatitis B, and annual T.B. test (a Chest X-ray is required if the T.B. test is positive) and are required to have annual immunization for influenza by some clinical affiliates.
- All ParaMed Clinical/Field Pre-Placement Health requirements one (1) month prior to starting clinical placements. Applicants must have complete immunization including Hepatitis B, and annual T.B. test (a Chest X-ray is required if the T.B. test is positive) and are required to have annual immunization for influenza by some clinical affiliates. Additional details regarding the requirements including immunizations, may be found in the form mentioned above under the Accepted Applicant tab-Placement Forms.
- Evidence of Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) and Ontario Health and Safety Awareness (OHSA) Training certification. These courses meet program requirements are free to registered students and can be accessed through the Algonquin College website: https://www.algonquincollege.com/safety-security-services/home/occupational-health-and-safety/health-safety-training-resources/.
- Some clinical affiliates require a yearly proof of de-escalation training.
Application Information
MEDICAL RADIATION TECHNOLOGY
Program Code 1615X01FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
The College of Medical and Imaging Technologists of Ontario has a number of requirements for registration that relate to the past and present conduct of the applicant, as well as mental and physical health conditions. To find out if you would be eligible to practise in Ontario, please access the website: https://www.cmrito.org/applicants/registration-requirements/.
Students are required to participate in clinical/lab simulations including invasive procedures such as venipuncture both as a patient and technologists roles.
Clinical Placement:
Some clinical placements are outside of Ottawa. Students are responsible for their own travel and accommodation.
If, at any time during the program, there is a break in the student`s progress of one term or more, the student is required to enroll and pass a mandatory Continuing Education course to update practicum skills. The student is responsible for the cost of the required Continuing Education course and must advise the Program Coordinator of their intensions to return to the program six weeks in advance of the start of the semester in which they would like to return. Returning status will be granted based on the availability of placement sites.
During clinical practicum placement, if there are significant professional/safety infractions, students will be removed from the clinical site and pending the results of an investigation may receive an F grade for the clinical placement course.
Timetable:
Timetable for the program includes days, evenings and weekends.
Contact
Shannon Gidge
Program Coordinator
Room P112b
Shannon Gidge holds an undergraduate degree from Carleton University, a Computed Tomography Imaging Certificate (CTIC), and is a proud Alumni of Algonquin College’s Medical Radiation Technology (MRT) program. He began his teaching career at AC in 2013 and is an enthusiastic educator who tries to incorporate fun into the classroom, engaging students in an optimal learning environment. He actively volunteers with the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) as an exam writer for the national entry-to-practice certification exam. In addition to his volunteer work and full time Professor and Lab Coordinator position, Shannon continues to maintain his clinical proficiency by working as a part time CT Technologist in one of Canada’s leading tertiary care teaching hospitals. This continued experience, allows him to keep abreast on advancing technologies in the ever-changing medical imaging field and brings the most current, up to date, real life experiences to his students.
Sylvie Ferguson
Professor
Lisa Woodtke
Professor
Room P112
Lisa Woodtke has worked at Algonquin College since the inception of the MRT program in 2010. Her love for education and the Medical Radiation profession merged into the ideal position as a full-time faculty member. She continues to practice in her specialty area of breast imaging as a Certified Breast Imager (CBI). As well as working full-time and continuing to practice she finds time to volunteer with the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technology (CAMRT). Her current position as a Coordinator and Professor with the MRT program is very satisfying and the most gratifying element is to watch graduates walk across the stage, accept their diploma and then become coworkers.