Best Radiologic Technology Programs in Monroe Louisiana

Key Takeaways

• The top radiologic technology programs near Monroe, Louisiana are offered by the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM), Louisiana State University at Eunice (LSUE), and Southern University Shreveport (SUSLA).
• All reputable programs should hold accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
• Associate degrees typically take 18–24 months, while bachelor’s options offer advanced career mobility.
• ARRT certification and Louisiana state licensure are required for employment.
• Monroe and Northeast Louisiana show steady demand for radiologic technologists across hospitals and outpatient care centers.

Radiologic Technology Career Outlook in Monroe, Louisiana

Radiologic technologists, also known as X-ray techs, are essential in diagnostic healthcare. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for radiologic technologists is projected to grow steadily through 2032, driven by an aging population and expanded diagnostic imaging needs.

In Northeast Louisiana, major employers include:

• St. Francis Medical Center (Monroe)
• Ochsner LSU Health Monroe
• Glenwood Regional Medical Center (West Monroe)
• Outpatient imaging and specialty clinics

Graduates who pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam and meet Louisiana State Radiologic Technology Board requirements are positioned for stable, well-paying careers with opportunities for advancement into CT, MRI, mammography, or interventional radiography.

What to Look for in a Monroe Area Radiology Tech Program

1. JRCERT Accreditation

Accreditation ensures curriculum quality, clinical standards, and eligibility for ARRT certification. Always verify accreditation through JRCERT before applying.

2. ARRT Exam Pass Rates

High first-time pass rates indicate strong academic preparation. Ask programs about their 5-year average success rates.

3. Clinical Rotations

Quality programs partner with Monroe-area hospitals and imaging centers to provide hands-on experience. Expect 1,200 or more supervised clinical hours in most associate programs.

4. Tuition and Financial Aid

Louisiana public institutions offer affordable in-state tuition. Students may qualify for federal aid through Federal Student Aid, TOPS scholarships, and institutional grants.

5. Degree Options and Career Mobility

An Associate of Applied Science qualifies you for entry-level roles. A Bachelor of Science may provide pathways into management, education, or specialized modalities.

Best Radiologic Technology Programs Near Monroe, Louisiana

University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM)

Location: Monroe, LA
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology
Accreditation: JRCERT accredited

ULM offers the most advanced radiologic technology program directly in Monroe. Unlike many regional schools that offer only associate degrees, ULM provides a bachelor’s pathway, preparing graduates for leadership and specialization.

Program Highlights:

• Comprehensive coursework in radiographic procedures, imaging physics, and patient care
• Clinical rotations at leading Monroe healthcare facilities
• Preparation for ARRT certification
• Opportunities for advanced imaging specialization

This program is competitive, typically requiring prerequisite science courses and a strong GPA. Students benefit from a university-level academic environment while gaining local clinical experience.

Louisiana State University at Eunice (LSUE)

Location: Eunice, LA
Degree: Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology
Accreditation: JRCERT accredited

Although located outside Monroe, LSUE is a respected option within driving distance. It offers a focused associate degree designed for entry-level employment.

Program Highlights:

• Typically 18–24 months in length
• Strong emphasis on hands-on imaging training
• Established clinical partnerships across Louisiana
• Meets ARRT eligibility requirements

LSUE may appeal to students seeking a cost-effective, streamlined path into the workforce.

Southern University Shreveport (SUSLA)

Location: Shreveport, LA
Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology
Accreditation: JRCERT accredited

SUSLA serves students in North Louisiana with a structured radiography curriculum emphasizing technical competency and patient-centered care.

Program Highlights:

• Balanced classroom and clinical education model
• Career-focused associate degree
• Preparation for ARRT exam and Louisiana licensure

Side-by-Side Program Comparison

SchoolDegreeLengthAccreditationClinical HoursLocationUniversity of Louisiana MonroeBachelor’s4 yearsJRCERTExtensive multi-year rotationsMonroeLSU EuniceAssociate18–24 monthsJRCERT1,200+ approx.EuniceSouthern University ShreveportAssociate24 monthsJRCERT1,200+ approx.Shreveport

Admission Requirements and Application Process

While each school differs slightly, most Monroe-area radiologic technology programs require:

Common Prerequisites

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology, algebra, and medical terminology
• Background check and drug screening
• Immunization records

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Complete prerequisite coursework with competitive grades.
2. Apply to the college or university first.
3. Submit a separate application to the radiologic technology program.
4. Attend information sessions if required.
5. Complete interviews, entrance exams, or point-based ranking evaluations.

Because these programs admit limited cohorts, applicants should apply early and ensure all documentation is accurate and complete.

Certification and Louisiana Licensure

Graduates must pass the ARRT certification exam to practice. After passing, candidates apply for Louisiana state licensure through the Louisiana State Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners.

Maintaining certification requires continuing education credits every two years, ensuring technologists remain current with imaging standards and patient safety protocols.

Associate vs. Bachelor’s Degree: Which Should You Choose?

Choose an Associate Degree If:

• You want to enter the workforce quickly
• You prefer lower upfront tuition costs
• You plan to specialize later through certifications

Choose a Bachelor’s Degree If:

• You seek leadership or supervisory roles
• You want long-term advancement in advanced modalities
• You prefer a broader science and healthcare foundation

In Monroe, ULM offers a clear pathway for students who want maximum career flexibility without relocating.

Online Radiology Tech Programs in Monroe

Radiologic technology requires in-person clinical training. Fully online programs are not available for initial certification. However, some schools offer hybrid coursework for didactic classes, while clinical components must be completed onsite at approved facilities.

Licensed radiologic technologists may later pursue online bachelor’s completion programs to expand career opportunities.

Job Placement and Career Advancement

Strong programs maintain relationships with regional hospitals, which often translates into employment opportunities for graduates. When evaluating schools, ask about:

• Graduate placement rates within 6 months
• ARRT first-time pass rates
• Employer partnerships in Monroe and West Monroe
• Alumni advancement into CT, MRI, or mammography

With the right accredited education, ARRT certification, and clinical training, Monroe-area radiologic technology graduates can enter a stable healthcare field with clear pathways for professional growth.

Frequently Asked Questions about Monroe, Louisiana Radiology Tech Programs

How long does it take to become a radiologic technologist near Monroe?

If you choose an associate degree at schools like LSU Eunice or Southern University Shreveport, it usually takes about 18–24 months after prerequisites. A bachelor’s degree at the University of Louisiana Monroe usually takes about four years of full-time study, including general education and radiologic technology courses.

Which Monroe-area programs are accredited for radiologic technology?

The University of Louisiana Monroe, Louisiana State University at Eunice, and Southern University Shreveport all hold program-level accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. You can confirm current status on the JRCERT program search page.

What license and certification do you need to work as an X-ray tech in Louisiana?

You must graduate from a JRCERT-accredited program, pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam, and then apply for a state license. Licensing details are available from the Louisiana State Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners and ARRT information is on the ARRT education requirements page.

Can you complete a radiology tech program fully online?

You cannot complete an initial radiologic technology program fully online because you need supervised clinical hours in hospitals or imaging centers. Some Monroe-area schools may offer hybrid options, where lecture courses are online and you complete labs and clinical rotations in person at local facilities.

What is the job outlook for radiologic technologists in and around Monroe?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for radiologic technologists through 2032, driven by greater use of diagnostic imaging and an aging population. You can review national outlook and pay data on the BLS radiologic technologists summary, then compare that with local openings at employers such as St. Francis Medical Center and Ochsner LSU Health Monroe.