Best Radiologic Technology Programs in Aurora Colorado

Key Takeaways

• Aurora, Colorado offers accredited radiologic technology programs through community colleges and private institutions with strong clinical partnerships.
• The most reputable programs are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
• Most programs award an Associate of Applied Science degree and take 18 to 24 months to complete.
• Clinical rotations at leading healthcare systems such as UCHealth and Children’s Hospital Colorado provide hands-on experience.
• Radiologic technologists in the Aurora metro area earn competitive salaries, often above the national average.

Why Study Radiologic Technology in Aurora, Colorado?

Aurora is home to one of the largest medical hubs in the Rocky Mountain region. The Anschutz Medical Campus hosts UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and the Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center. This concentration of advanced healthcare facilities creates strong demand for qualified radiologic technologists and provides students with exceptional clinical training opportunities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiologic technologists in Colorado earn an average annual salary of approximately $70,000, with the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area often exceeding that figure depending on experience and certifications. Job growth remains steady due to an aging population and expanding diagnostic imaging services.

What to Look for in a Top Radiologic Technology Program

1. JRCERT Accreditation

The gold standard for radiography programs is accreditation by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. JRCERT accreditation ensures the program meets national standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, and clinical training.

2. ARRT Certification Eligibility

Graduates must pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam to practice. Choose a program that provides documented ARRT exam pass rates and strong board preparation.

3. Clinical Partnerships

Quality programs secure rotations at major hospitals and diagnostic centers. In Aurora, affiliations with UCHealth and other leading providers significantly enhance hands-on training.

4. Program Outcomes

Look for transparency regarding job placement rates, graduation rates, and first-time ARRT pass rates.

5. Cost and Financial Aid

Community colleges generally offer lower tuition, while private institutions may provide accelerated options. Always compare total program costs, not just tuition.

Best Radiologic Technology Programs in Aurora, Colorado

SchoolDegreeAccreditationProgram LengthClinical AffiliationsEstimated TuitionCommunity College of Denver (CCD)AAS Radiologic TechnologyJRCERT Accredited21-24 MonthsUCHealth, Denver Health, VALower in-state public tuitionConcorde Career College AuroraAssociate DegreeProgrammatic Accreditation20 MonthsLocal hospitals & imaging centersHigher private tuitionUCHealth School of Radiologic TechnologyCertificate ProgramAccredited24 MonthsUCHealth University of Colorado HospitalCompetitive hospital-based tuition

Community College of Denver

CCD is widely recognized for academic rigor and affordability. The Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology includes classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, and extensive clinical education.

Highlights:

• JRCERT-accredited program
• Strong ARRT first-time pass rates
• Affordable in-state tuition
• Multiple clinical partners across the metro area

This program is ideal for students seeking a balance between cost and strong employment outcomes.

Concorde Career College Aurora

Concorde offers a career-focused associate degree designed for students who want an accelerated, structured pathway into the workforce.

Highlights:

• Year-round scheduling
• Emphasis on hands-on labs
• Career services support

Tuition is higher than public colleges, but some students prefer the focused, private-school environment.

UCHealth School of Radiologic Technology

This hospital-based program provides immersive training within UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital. Students gain direct exposure to advanced imaging equipment and complex case environments.

Highlights:

• Intensive clinical experience
• Highly competitive program
• Strong employer recognition

This pathway is ideal for high-achieving applicants who want training embedded within a top-tier medical center.

Curriculum Overview

Radiologic technology programs in Aurora generally include:

• Radiographic positioning and procedures
• Radiation physics and protection
• Anatomy and physiology
• Image evaluation
• Patient care techniques
• Clinical rotations across multiple imaging settings

Students typically complete between 1,500 and 2,000 clinical hours before graduation.

Admission Requirements

While requirements vary, most Aurora radiography programs require:

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, algebra, and medical terminology
• Minimum GPA requirements
• Background check and drug screening
• CPR certification

Programs often have competitive admission processes due to limited cohort sizes.

Career Outlook and Salary in Aurora

The Denver-Aurora region offers robust employment opportunities in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, and specialty clinics.

• Median Colorado Salary: Approximately $70,000 per year
• Experienced Technologists: $80,000+ annually
• Entry-Level Starting Salary in Aurora: Often between $55,000 and $65,000

Technologists who pursue additional certifications in CT, MRI, or mammography often see higher earning potential.

Public vs Private Radiologic Technology Programs

Public Programs

• Lower tuition for Colorado residents
• Competitive admission
• Established clinical networks

Private Programs

• Higher tuition
• Accelerated schedules may be available
• Smaller class sizes in some cases

Your decision should factor in cost, schedule flexibility, and long-term financial impact.

How to Choose the Best Program for You

Follow this practical framework:

1. Confirm JRCERT accreditation.
2. Compare ARRT pass rates and job placement data.
3. Calculate total program cost including fees and supplies.
4. Visit campuses and speak with current students.
5. Review clinical rotation sites and commuting distance.
6. Evaluate financial aid packages carefully.

Prospective students should request outcome data directly from admissions offices if not clearly published.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Students attending Aurora radiologic technology programs may qualify for:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Colorado state grants
• Work-study programs
• Healthcare workforce scholarships
• Institutional payment plans

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the first step in accessing most funding options.

Licensing and Certification in Colorado

After graduating from an accredited program:

1. Pass the ARRT Radiography Certification Exam.
2. Apply for state licensure through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
3. Maintain continuing education credits to keep certification active.

Colorado employers typically require ARRT certification before hire.

Frequently Asked Questions about Radiologic Technology Programs in Aurora, Colorado

How long does it take to complete a radiologic technology program in Aurora?

Most Aurora programs take about 18 to 24 months to finish. Associate degree programs usually run 20 to 24 months, while some private schools offer slightly accelerated schedules of around 18 to 20 months.

Do you need to attend a JRCERT-accredited program in Aurora?

You are strongly advised to choose a JRCERT-accredited program. It helps ensure you meet national education standards and supports your eligibility for ARRT certification and state licensure in Colorado.

What degree or credential will you earn from these programs?

Most Aurora schools award an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Radiologic Technology. UCHealth offers a hospital-based certificate that also prepares you to sit for the ARRT Radiography exam.

Where do radiologic technology students in Aurora complete clinical rotations?

You can expect clinical rotations at major healthcare systems in the Denver–Aurora area, such as UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Denver Health, VA facilities, and local imaging centers.

How much can you earn as a radiologic technologist in Aurora, Colorado?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiologic technologists in Colorado earn about $70,000 per year on average, with the Denver–Aurora–Lakewood metro often above that, especially if you have experience or extra certifications.