Key Takeaways
- The West Virginia Junior College is launching a new 18-month online/hybrid Radiologic Technology program
- The program is designed to address the growing workforce shortage in the region and provide accessible education to students
- The program will consist of virtual courses and simulations paired with hands-on learning at regional healthcare facilities
- Graduates will be prepared to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination and receive an Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology Degree
- The first cohort of students is expected to start in August 2026
Introduction to the Program
The West Virginia Junior College has announced the launch of its new 18-month online/hybrid Radiologic Technology program, which is designed to address the growing workforce shortage in the region. This program is a significant development in the field of radiologic technology, as it provides accessible education to students who live within an hour and a half of several locations in West Virginia, including Morgantown, Elkins, Philippi, Buckhannon, Charleston, Beckley, and Princeton. According to Dr. Stephanie Stauver, the Radiologic Technology Program Director, the program is a direct response to the region’s growing workforce shortage and is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field.
Program Structure and Benefits
The program will consist of virtual courses and simulations paired with hands-on learning at regional healthcare facilities. This online-hybrid model provides accessible, high-quality education while ensuring students receive the essential hands-on skills required for clinical excellence. Dr. Stauver emphasized that the program is designed to prepare the next generation of radiologic technologists who will make a true difference in the rural communities they serve. The program represents a commitment to supporting both students and the healthcare systems that rely on well-trained radiologic technologists. By providing accessible education, the program aims to strengthen both student opportunity and the healthcare systems that depend on well-trained imaging professionals.
Program Details and Outcomes
The 18-month program is designed to be completed in an accelerated timeframe, allowing students to quickly gain the skills and knowledge needed to enter the workforce. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination and will be conferred an Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology Degree. This certification is a critical step in becoming a licensed radiologic technologist, and the program’s focus on preparing students for this examination is a key aspect of its design. The first cohort of students is expected to start in August 2026, and interested students can visit the West Virginia Junior College website at www.wvjc.edu for more information.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The launch of the West Virginia Junior College’s new Radiologic Technology program is a significant development in the field of healthcare education. By providing accessible, high-quality education to students in rural communities, the program aims to address the growing workforce shortage in the region and prepare the next generation of radiologic technologists. With its online-hybrid model and focus on hands-on learning, the program is well-positioned to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the need for well-trained radiologic technologists will only continue to grow, making programs like this one critical to meeting the needs of rural communities and ensuring that patients receive high-quality care.