Post-Primary Pathways

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Post-Primary Pathways

After earning your initial credential, you can grow your career by pursuing additional certifications in post-primary disciplines. These pathways offer opportunities to gain new skills, broaden your expertise, and take on expanded roles in patient care — all through paid, on-the-job training. Post-primary certification helps you deliver safe, high-quality care in specialized imaging areas while supporting your ongoing professional growth.

To become certified and registered, you must first complete an accredited program — like ours — and pass a national certification exam. Depending on the area you choose, credentialing is awarded through the appropriate credentialing organization for that specialty. These credentials are nationally recognized and support employment in a wide range of practice settings.

Candidates must meet requirements for education, ethics, and examination. Before getting started, you’ll choose your eligibility pathway and the discipline you’d like to pursue.

Explore the options below to see what each pathway offers and the key skills you’ll need to thrive.

Computed Tomography (CT)

CT technologists perform detailed cross-sectional imaging that helps diagnose a variety of conditions. They work closely with patients and care teams in fast-paced settings, balancing high-quality images with efficient, patient-focused care. CT technologists typically rotate through different areas, adapting quickly and staying organized to keep exams on schedule, even when delays arise.

Key Skills:

Practices safety guidelines
Teamwork
Communication
Flexibility
Organization
Interpersonal skills
Patient care
Working independently

Vascular Interventional Radiography (VIR)

VIR technologists support physicians with minimally invasive, image-guided procedures across nearly every organ system. This role combines advanced equipment use, sterile technique, and hands-on patient care in a procedural setting. Each day, VIR technologists prepare procedure suites, assist with imaging during cases, and manage a variety of procedures while maintaining high-quality images and patient care. The work requires adaptability to handle emergencies and keep workflows running smoothly.

Key Skills:

Patient care
Operates IR equipment
Sterile technique
Safety guidelines
Teamwork
Communication
Flexibility
Interpersonal skills
Organization
Working independently

Mammography (M)

Mammography technologists perform screening and diagnostic exams that are critical for early detection and care. This role emphasizes patient-centered care, clear communication, and attention to detail to ensure comfort and accuracy. Mammography technologists complete physician-ordered imaging studies, assist with procedures, and work in specific areas each day, balancing high-quality images with efficient, timely care while staying adaptable to any scheduling changes.

Key Skills:

Practices safety guidelines
Teamwork
Communication
Flexibility
Organization
Interpersonal skills
Patient care
Working independently

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI technologists use powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs and tissues. This role demands a strong focus on safety, high-quality imaging, and patient care in dynamic clinical settings. MRI technologists perform physician-ordered exams across different areas as needed, ensuring each scan meets the highest diagnostic standards.

*MRI is available through both the primary and post-primary pathways, depending on your educational background and clinical experience.

Key Skills:

Practices safety guidelines
Teamwork
Communication
Flexibility
Organization
Interpersonal skills
Patient care
Working independently