Imaging Assistant – Undergraduate Certificate
Kent State University’s online Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate equips students with the foundational skills needed to support registered technologists in medical imaging environments. Covering patient care, medical terminology, and medical imaging procedures, the program opens doors to entry-level roles across radiologic technology, sonography, MRI, CT, and beyond. At just 17 credit hours, it’s designed to be completed in as few as two semesters — entirely online.
Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate Program Overview
The Imaging Assistant undergraduate certificate prepares students to support registered technologists with pre- and post-exam tasks while ensuring a safe environment for the patient and other medical personnel. Upon successful completion, students will be eligible for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Imaging Assistant certification exam to practice in a non-imaging role.
Professional Licensure Disclosure
This program is designed to prepare students to sit for applicable licensure or certification in Ohio. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Ohio, please review state educational requirements for licensure or certification and contact information for state licensing boards at Kent State’s website for professional licensure disclosure.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Communicate effectively with patients, technologists and healthcare personnel.
- Conduct MR safety screenings and identify contraindications.
- Assist with patient positioning and exam preparation.
- Assist with contrast administration.
- Maintain safety and compliance.
Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate Program Admissions Requirements
The university affirmatively strives to provide educational opportunities and access to students with varied backgrounds, those with special talents and adult students who graduated from high school three or more years ago.
Kent State campuses at Ashtabula, East Liverpool, Geauga, Salem, Stark, Trumbull and Tuscarawas, and the Twinsburg Academic Center, have open enrollment admission for students who hold a high school diploma, GED or equivalent.
Some programs may require that students meet certain requirements before progressing through the program. For programs with progression requirements, the information is shown on the Coursework tab.
International Students: All international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions to waive) by earning a minimum 71 TOEFL iBT score, minimum 6.0 IELTS score, minimum 47 PTE score or minimum 100 DET score, or by completing the ELS level 112 Intensive English Program. For more information on international admission visit the admissions website for international students.
For more information on admissions, contact the Regional Campuses admissions offices.
- 18+ years old
- Minimum 2.500 high school or college GPA
- Current employment in a health care facility as an imaging aide
- Submission of an Imaging Assistant program application and Technical Standards form
What is an Imaging Assistant?
An Imaging Assistant is a healthcare professional who supports radiologic technologists and imaging departments by assisting with patient care, MRI safety procedures, patient preparation, and workflow coordination.
What can I do with an Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate?
Graduates can pursue roles supporting medical imaging departments in hospitals, outpatient centers, and healthcare facilities. The certificate may also help current healthcare professionals expand their knowledge of imaging operations and patient care.
Is the Imaging Assistant Certificate offered fully online?
Yes. The Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate is offered in a fully online format, allowing students to complete coursework from anywhere while balancing work, family, and other commitments. Students should review program requirements and consult with an advisor regarding any potential experiential or professional requirements associated with the program.
Do I need healthcare experience to enroll?
Yes. At this time, applicants must be currently employed as an imaging aide to be eligible for admission to the Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate program. The certificate provides specialized training in medical imaging environments, patient care, healthcare operations, and MRI safety to help imaging aides further develop their knowledge and skills.
How long does it take to complete the certificate?
Completion time varies based on a student’s enrollment status and course load. Students who take courses consistently may be able to complete the certificate in as little as one year. An academic advisor can help create a personalized plan for completion.
Will this certificate prepare me to become a radiologic technologist?
The Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate is not a radiologic technology program and does not prepare students for licensure as a radiologic technologist. However, it provides valuable exposure to medical imaging environments and may serve as a stepping stone for students interested in pursuing additional education and careers in the medical imaging field.
Does this program prepare students for certification?
The certificate provides foundational knowledge and skills related to imaging environments, patient care, and MRI safety. Students interested in pursuing professional certifications should consult program faculty and relevant certifying organizations to understand any additional education, training, clinical experience, or eligibility requirements.
What skills will I learn in this program?
Students develop knowledge and skills related to patient care, healthcare communication, MRI safety procedures, imaging department operations, patient preparation, and professional practices within medical imaging environments. These skills help prepare students to support healthcare teams and contribute to positive patient experiences.
Where do Imaging Assistants work?
Imaging Assistants may work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, physician offices, specialty clinics, and other healthcare facilities that provide diagnostic imaging services. Work environments may vary depending on the employer and specific role responsibilities.
Is this certificate a good option for someone interested in a healthcare career but not ready to pursue a full degree?
Yes. The Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate can be an excellent option for individuals who want to explore healthcare careers, gain specialized knowledge, or begin building skills in a growing healthcare field without immediately committing to a full degree program. It may also be beneficial for career changers and working adults looking to expand their opportunities in healthcare.
Can I Complete This Certificate While Working Full Time?
Many students in the Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate program balance their education with work and personal responsibilities. The program’s online format provides flexibility, allowing students to complete coursework on a schedule that fits their needs. Students should review course requirements and time commitments to determine the best path for their individual circumstances.
Can Certificate Courses Apply Toward a Future Degree Program?
Students interested in continuing their education should consult with an academic advisor to learn whether certificate coursework may apply toward future degree opportunities. Academic pathways and transferability of credits can vary depending on the program and degree selected.
What Makes Kent State’s Imaging Assistant Certificate Unique?
Kent State’s Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate combines healthcare knowledge, patient care principles, and imaging-related coursework in a flexible online format. Students gain exposure to topics such as MRI safety, patient communication, healthcare operations, and imaging procedures while learning from faculty with expertise in medical imaging and healthcare education.
What Is MRI Safety and Why Is It Important?
MRI safety refers to the procedures and protocols used to protect patients, healthcare workers, and visitors in magnetic resonance imaging environments. Because MRI machines use powerful magnetic fields, safety screening and proper procedures are critical. Imaging Assistants play an important role in supporting safe imaging practices and helping patients prepare for MRI examinations.
Is This Program Designed for Career Changers?
Yes. The Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate may be a good option for individuals interested in entering the healthcare field or exploring careers in medical imaging. The program provides foundational knowledge of imaging environments, patient care, and healthcare operations that can help students better understand opportunities within the medical imaging profession.
Program Courses
Program Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate Requirements | ||
| IHS 14020 | MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY | 3 |
| RADT 24068 | RADIOLOGY AND IMAGING EXPLORATION | 2 |
| RIS 24001 | ESSENTIALS OF COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (min C grade) | 3 |
| RIS 24002 | PATIENT MANAGEMENT IN COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (min C grade) | 2 |
| RIS 24003 | MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING SCREENING AND SAFETY (min C grade) | 2 |
| RIS 24004 | IMAGING ASSISTANT ARRT EXAM PREPARATION (min C grade) | 1 |
| TAS 20092 | PRACTICUM FOR TECHNICAL AND APPLIED STUDIES (ELR) (min C grade) | 4 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 17 | |
Imaging Assistant Undergraduate Certificate Tuition and Fees
Ohio Residents
| Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Approximate Tuition Cost |
| $355.99 Lower Division Courses | $1,067.97 | $6,100 part-time1 $3,900 part-time2 |
Non-Ohio Residents
| Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Approximate Tuition Cost |
| $365.99 Lower Division Courses | $1,097.97 | $6,200 part-time3 $4,100 part-time4 |
1The $ 355.99 per-credit-hour tuition rate for LOWER division courses applies to part-time Ohio resident undergraduate students taking fewer than 12 credit hours per semester. This certificate consists of all lower division courses.
2The flat-rate semester fee of $3,917.52 for LOWER division courses applies to full-time Ohio resident undergraduate students taking between 12-18 credit hours per semester, This certificate consists of all lower division courses.
3The $365.99 per-credit-hour tuition rate for LOWER division courses applies to part-time non-Ohio resident undergraduate students enrolled in a fully online degree program and taking fewer than 12 credit hours per semester, PLUS a $10 per-credit-hour surcharge. This certificate consists of all lower division courses.
4The flat-rate semester fee of $3,917.52 for LOWER division courses applies to full-time non-Ohio resident undergraduate students taking between 12-18 credit hours per semester, PLUS a $10 per-credit-hour surcharge for actual credits taken (between 12-18 semester credits or $120-$180). This certificate consists of all lower division courses, and is based on student completing the program in 1 semester.
- An additional Distance Learning fee for all students enrolled in a distance learning course is $15 per credit hour. Program tuition and costs are estimated and subject to change.
- Actual tuition costs will vary based on a student’s chosen academic plan. The full cost of attendance consists of tuition and fees, and when applicable, food, housing, books, course materials, supplies and equipment, transportation and personal expenses for the enrolled terms. Other expenses not included in tuition and fees totals can be found on the Kent State University cost of attendance web page.
- For a complete listing of tuition rates for approved online programs, please contact Kent State’s Financial, Billing & Enrollment Center at 330-672-6000 or via our website Contact Us link.
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