Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences Grads Play an Integral Role in the Healthcare Team

Jefferson’s medical imaging and radiation sciences (MIRS) department cultivates professionalism and life-long learning and provides a comprehensive education to prepare students for entry-level practice as competent, caring healthcare team members.

“They’re highly sought out by employers and become leaders in our profession,” says Dr. Colleen Dempsey, MIRS department chair. “The program boasts a 100% employment rate across all imaging concentrations over the past few years.”

The MIRS department features concentrations in radiation therapy, medical dosimetry, abdomen-extended and OB/GYN sonography, cardiac sonography, vascular sonography, computed tomography, invasive cardiovascular technology, MRI and X-ray. Jefferson won the prestigious Aunt Minnie award for best radiologic technology program five times over the last 11 years.

Dr. Dempsey shares more about the MIRS department and how it helps to shape the next generation of healthcare providers.

How does Jefferson best prepare students for the real world?
Our concentrations incorporate classroom, lab and clinical settings, which allow students to experience real-life situations from the start. We expose students to various situations and events that will empower them to succeed.

Some keys to success include connecting theory to practice and students with academic success, writing and career support. They’re challenged to understand why, not just how. We ensure the curriculum includes simulation and critical decision-making skills. Faculty incorporate creative pedagogy, focusing on scholarship, oral and written presentations, and collaborative practice with the healthcare team members.

We build multidisciplinary education and simulation experiences into the curriculum. This allows students to learn with and from other health professions students and gives our students the opportunity to advocate and promote our profession.

To help them gain experience, students also have access to high-tech lab equipment, such as a virtual environment radiotherapy training room, a dosimetry lab with three planning systems, a laser patient positioning radiation therapy lab, radiation therapy immobilization device fabrication labs and equipment, and imaging scanners.

In addition, students complete their clinical experience in the tri-state area. Our department has over 120 clinical affiliation agreements, including Jefferson Health, to provide students with the best experiences.

What else separates the Jefferson MIRS program from other schools?
Graduates receive a BS with one or two medical imaging major concentrations. This unique and innovative approach to MIRS education opens a variety and volume of opportunities. After graduating, students have roles and responsibilities in leadership, education, research, sales, systems applications and as technologists and therapists. We have high expectations of our students and graduates, and we support, guide and lead by example to help them meet those expectations.

What would you say to prospective students considering entering the MIRS profession?
MIRS professionals play an integral part in the healthcare team. If you’re interested in healthcare, are service- and people-focused, and enjoy learning about the human body, your skills will be in demand and appreciated for a career. This profession gives you robust opportunities to contribute to your community and make a difference daily.