Mammography

two people using a mammography machine

Program Admissions

Department: Medical Imaging

Program Type: Health Professions

Planning to Transfer? Learn more about the transfer process including the importance of choosing a major and transfer school.

Request Information

Overview

Working in a mammography department at a hospital is a rewarding career for highly trained professionals. After completing your radiography certification, you can take your career to the next level. Consider specializing in breast imaging and mammograms. This one-semester post-radiography advanced certificate is available to accredited radiography graduates. Adding this credential to your resume may give you an additional opportunity to work in outpatient clinics.

Our Training Standards

ECC's curriculum follows the standards established by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT). It also adheres to the guidelines set by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The curriculum includes the initial Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) training and education requirements. After successful completion, students may take the ARRT national certification exam in Mammography to become certified professionals. This highly sought-after and competitive certification admits approximately ten part-time and ten full-time applicants on a first-come, first-served basis. Full-time students will be given priority for clinical placement.

Prepare for Immediate Employment

The employment outlook for mammography technologists is expected to be positive in the coming years. Growth is attributed to an aging population and an increase in the use of medical imaging for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Additionally, advancements in technology and the use of digital mammography are expected to increase the demand for mammography technologists. Roughly 16,600 job openings are projected each year over the next decade.

Refer to Career Coach for information on similar x-ray technologist occupations and compensation.

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the mammography plan of study and course descriptions.

Basic Vocational Certificate

Associate of Applied Science

What is Mammography?

A mammography technologist is a person who has gone through training to become a licensed X-ray technologist. This specialty trains students to operate machines that capture breast images for medical purposes, such as detecting health issues. The training follows the rules outlined in the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA).

Mammography has been around for 30 years and has improved with new technology. Mammograms can't confirm cancer, but if results appear suspicious, doctors may need to remove tissue for further testing.

What does a Mammographer do?

You'll work with sophisticated low-dose X-ray equipment to produce breast screening and diagnostic images. Professional duties include:

  • Performing breast imaging procedures.
  • Recording a patient's clinical history.
  • Preparing patients for procedures.
  • Operating and evaluating breast images for technical quality.
  • Assisting with interventional procedures and quality control tests.

How do I become a mammography technician?

Mammography is an advanced certification option for Associate of Applied Science in Radiology graduates. The program accepts candidates for admission in the fall semester. All classes are available online or in a hybrid format. Hybrid courses require students to attend occasional face-to-face sessions and scheduled laboratory experiences at the college. Clinical experiences will take place at various locations.

How much do mammographers make?

The average Mammography Technologist's salary in the United States is $78,447, but the range typically falls between $71,199 and $85,489.

Is mammography technologist a good career?

Adding mammography certification to your radiographer's resume can significantly enhance your qualifications to perform mammography procedures. Many employers require certification, and ECC's program provides the advanced credentials needed to secure a position in your field.

Blaze your own path forward with ECC.

Earn your associate degree or certificate and launch your career today.

Request Information

Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

Contact

Medical Imaging Programs

Building A, Room A106
847-214-7350
medicalimaginginfo@elgin.edu