All 2022 North Essex Community College Radiologic Tech Students Pass Licensure Exam on First Try

For the second year in a row, all North Essex Community College radiologic technology students passed the national licensing exam on their first attempt.

“These students have accomplished a lot since the middle of the pandemic: adapting to the changing demands of magnified learning and clinical needs,” said Professor Angela Bowers, coordinator of the radiology technology program. Groveland graduate Heather McLeod, despite the challenges of online learning, felt more than prepared for the exam.

“The professors really helped us along the way and were always available for one-on-one advice when we got stuck,” she says. “The clinical supervisors were also incredibly supportive.”

Prior to 2021, North Essex’s pass rate on the American Board of Radiologic Technologists certification exam was in the low to mid-90th percentile, surpassing the national average of 83.6. The class of 2021 broke the first test with 100% passing and this year, the class of 2022 did it again.

“NECC outperforms this national average every year, but this is the first time in the program’s history that we have achieved 100% first attempt in consecutive years,” said Professor Pat Willett.

All 2021 and 2022 graduates are employed as certified and licensed radiology technologists. McLeod is working at Lowell General Hospital and plans to continue her education in mammography. “Being a single mother of three, I couldn’t have done it without NECC and the support of the community college environment,” she said.

A new class of 15 students will begin an associate degree in radiologic technology this fall. When the program is full, interested students can contact Bowers at [email protected].

The college’s accredited program covers all aspects of radiology care, including safety procedures, proper patient positioning, and an understanding of the technology used to create diagnostic images. Graduates are prepared for entry-level technologist jobs in hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices using a variety of X-ray equipment. There are transfer agreements with many colleges and universities for students who wish to pursue an undergraduate degree.

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