Best Radiology Tech Schools in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Radiologic Technology Programs Near Hot Springs: What You Need to Know

Pursuing a career as a radiologic technologist in Hot Springs, Arkansas starts with choosing the right accredited program. Because Hot Springs has limited in-city options, most students attend programs within commuting distance or elsewhere in Arkansas that offer strong clinical partnerships in the region.

This guide ranks and compares the best radiology tech schools available to Hot Springs residents based on accreditation, program quality, affordability, and career outcomes.

Key Takeaways

• Accreditation by JRCERT is essential for ARRT certification eligibility and Arkansas licensure.
• Most programs near Hot Springs offer Associate of Applied Science degrees completed in 18 to 24 months.
• Clinical rotations typically take place in hospitals and diagnostic imaging centers across central and southwest Arkansas.
• Radiologic technologists in Arkansas earn a median salary of approximately $58,000 to $65,000 per year, with steady job growth projected.
• Competitive admission requires prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, math, and medical terminology.

Top Radiology Tech Schools Serving Hot Springs, Arkansas

SchoolLocationDegreeLengthAccreditationEstimated In-State TuitionNational Park CollegeHot Springs, ARAAS in Radiologic Technology24 monthsJRCERTLow community college ratesUniversity of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical CollegeNorth Little Rock, ARAAS in Radiography21–24 monthsJRCERTAffordable public tuitionArkansas State University Three RiversMalvern, ARAAS in Radiography24 monthsJRCERTCompetitive community college ratesUniversity of Arkansas for Medical SciencesLittle Rock, ARBachelor of Science4 yearsRegional + SpecializedPublic university rates

1. National Park College – Hot Springs

Best Local Option for Hands-On Training

Located directly in Hot Springs, National Park College offers the most accessible radiologic technology program for local students. The Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology combines classroom instruction with extensive supervised clinical rotations in area healthcare facilities.

Why It Stands Out

• Convenient in-city location
• Accredited by JRCERT
• Strong partnerships with Hot Springs hospitals and diagnostic centers
• High ARRT exam pass rates

Program Overview

Students complete coursework in anatomy and physiology, radiographic positioning, patient care procedures, radiation physics, and imaging equipment operation. Clinical rotations begin early and continue throughout the program, preparing graduates for real-world practice.

This program is competitive and typically admits a limited number of students per cohort. Strong grades in prerequisite science courses significantly improve acceptance chances.

2. UA Pulaski Technical College – North Little Rock

Excellent Regional Reputation and Clinical Network

Approximately one hour from Hot Springs, UA Pulaski Technical College offers a well-established radiography program known for its rigorous technical training and clinical diversity.

Program Highlights

• Clinical placements in major Little Rock healthcare systems
• Modern imaging laboratories
• Structured ARRT board preparation
• Transfer pathways toward bachelor's completion programs

The curriculum emphasizes digital radiography, radiation protection, pathology, and advanced positioning techniques. Graduates are eligible to sit for the ARRT certification exam, a requirement for Arkansas licensure.

3. Arkansas State University Three Rivers – Malvern

A Practical and Affordable Option Close to Home

Located roughly 25 minutes from Hot Springs, ASU Three Rivers provides a highly accessible option for students seeking shorter commute times combined with strong hospital partnerships.

What Makes It Competitive

• JRCERT accreditation
• Community-focused instruction with smaller class sizes
• Direct clinical experiences throughout Hot Spring County
• High graduate employment rates

The program focuses heavily on patient interaction, radiation safety, imaging techniques, and professional ethics. Many graduates secure employment shortly after passing the ARRT examination.

4. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences – Little Rock

Ideal for Students Seeking Advanced Education

Students who want career advancement opportunities in imaging management, specialized modalities, or healthcare administration may consider UAMS. While not located in Hot Springs, it serves central Arkansas and offers bachelor level degrees with expanded clinical exposure.

A bachelor degree can improve competitiveness for supervisory roles, MRI or CT specialization, and long-term leadership advancement.

Admission Requirements for Radiology Tech Programs

Although requirements vary slightly by school, most programs near Hot Springs require:

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA between 2.5 and 3.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as:
  • Anatomy and Physiology I and II
  • College Algebra
  • Medical Terminology
  • English Composition
• Background check and immunization records
• CPR certification

Because admission is competitive, strong performance in science courses and prior healthcare experience can strengthen your application.

Certification and Licensing in Arkansas

To work as a radiologic technologist in Hot Springs or anywhere in Arkansas, graduates must:

1. Complete an accredited radiography program.
2. Pass the ARRT Radiography Certification Exam.
3. Apply for Arkansas state licensure.
4. Maintain continuing education credits every two years.

Choosing a JRCERT accredited school ensures eligibility for the ARRT exam, which is a non-negotiable industry standard.

Career Outlook for Radiologic Technologists in Hot Springs

Radiologic technology remains a stable and growing healthcare profession. According to recent labor data:

• Median salary in Arkansas ranges from $58,000 to $65,000 annually.
• Employment growth aligns with national projections of approximately 6 percent through the decade.
• Demand remains steady in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, and physician offices.

Hot Springs is home to regional medical centers, outpatient surgical facilities, and specialty clinics that regularly hire certified radiologic technologists.

Clinical Training in the Hot Springs Area

Hands-on clinical education is typically completed at:

• Local hospitals
• Outpatient diagnostic imaging centers
• Orthopedic clinics
• Mobile imaging providers

Students rotate through various imaging environments to build competency in trauma imaging, emergency department procedures, surgical C-arm operation, and outpatient diagnostic studies.

Online vs Campus Radiology Tech Programs

Campus Programs

• Required for core radiography training
• Structured clinical scheduling
• Direct lab access and instructor supervision

Online Components

• General education coursework may be online
• Flexible scheduling for working students
• Often used in bachelor completion pathways

Fully online radiography degrees are not available due to the hands-on clinical requirements, but hybrid formats can reduce commuting time.

How to Choose the Right Program

When evaluating radiology tech schools near Hot Springs, prioritize:

• JRCERT accreditation status
• ARRT exam pass rates
• Job placement statistics
• Clinical site diversity
• Total program cost and financial aid options
• Commute feasibility

Schedule campus visits when possible and ask about graduate success rates, faculty experience, and student support resources.

Financial Aid and Tuition Considerations

Community colleges such as National Park College and ASU Three Rivers offer some of the most affordable tuition rates for Arkansas residents. Students may qualify for:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Arkansas Challenge Scholarships
• Institutional aid packages
• Healthcare workforce grants

Because radiography programs are intensive and structured, working full time while enrolled may be challenging. Financial planning is critical before starting the program.

Transfer and Advancement Opportunities

After earning an associate degree and ARRT certification, technologists can pursue advanced certifications in CT, MRI, mammography, or interventional radiography. Many Arkansas programs offer transfer agreements with four-year institutions for bachelor completion.

Specialization and additional credentials often lead to higher earning potential and expanded clinical responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Radiology Tech Programs near Hot Springs

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

Most programs near Hot Springs take about 18 to 24 months to complete if you choose an Associate of Applied Science degree. A bachelor’s degree, such as the one at UAMS in Little Rock, usually takes four years of full-time study.

Why is JRCERT accreditation important for radiology tech schools in Arkansas?

You must graduate from a JRCERT-accredited radiography program to be eligible for the ARRT certification exam. Passing the ARRT exam is required to get your Arkansas radiologic technologist license and work legally in the state.

What admission requirements do radiology tech programs near Hot Springs usually have?

You typically need a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA around 2.5–3.0, and prerequisites like Anatomy and Physiology, College Algebra, Medical Terminology, and English Composition. Schools also usually require a background check, immunizations, and CPR certification.

Where will you complete clinical training if you study near Hot Springs?

You will complete supervised clinical rotations in area hospitals, outpatient diagnostic imaging centers, orthopedic clinics, and sometimes mobile imaging providers across central and southwest Arkansas, including sites in and around Hot Springs.

How much do radiologic technologists earn in Arkansas?

Radiologic technologists in Arkansas typically earn a median salary of about $58,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and specialization, according to recent labor data and state wage reports.

Can you complete a radiology tech program fully online?

No. Core radiography training and clinical rotations must be done in person. Some programs near Hot Springs do offer online general education courses or hybrid formats to reduce your time on campus.