Industrial Radiologic Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Industrial Radiologic Technology equips professionals with the scientific and technical expertise needed to operate advanced industrial and research testing systems that utilize radioisotopes. This field focuses on ensuring material integrity and process efficiency through precise, non-invasive evaluation techniques across manufacturing, construction, and scientific research environments.
- X-ray analysis of materials: Techniques for assessing internal structures and identifying defects in metals, composites, and other industrial materials using controlled X-ray radiation.
- Nondestructive testing and inspection: Methods that evaluate material properties and detect flaws without causing damage, critical for maintaining safety and reliability in high-stakes industries.
- Continuous measurement of material thickness: Real-time monitoring systems for paper, metal, and similar materials during production to ensure consistent quality and dimensional accuracy.
Industrial Radiologic Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Industrial Radiologic Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Industrial Radiologic Technology degrees, including Nuclear Technicians. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 5,990 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuclear Technicians 19-4051 | $104,240 | $64,370 - $126,890 | 5,990 | $50.11 |
Industrial Radiologic Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $94,620 in Tennessee to $121,460 in New York—a 28% difference. The highest-paying states include New York, Florida, and Alabama. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 5,990 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Industrial Radiologic Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 7 institutions offering Industrial Radiologic Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Industrial Radiologic Technology is found at South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) (96 graduates), Cowley County Community College (83 graduates), Wichita State University (WSU Tech), Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (10 graduates), Wharton County Junior College (WCJC) (10 graduates), and Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) (7 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 213 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Other Award
|
96 | Lafayette, Louisiana | Public | solacc.edu |
| Cowley County Community College |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Associate's
Other Award
|
83 | Arkansas City, Kansas | Public | cowley.edu |
| Wichita State University (WSU Tech) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Associate's
|
10 | Wichita, Kansas | Public | wsutech.edu |
| Wharton County Junior College (WCJC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
10 | Wharton, Texas | Public | wcjc.edu |
| Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Other Award
|
7 | Camden, Arkansas | Public | sautech.edu |
| Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) |
Associate's
Other Award
|
5 | Charlotte, North Carolina | Public | cpcc.edu |
| Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) |
Associate's
|
2 | Salt Lake City, Utah | Public | slcc.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Industrial Radiologic Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Industrial Radiologic Technology degree?
Salaries for Industrial Radiologic Technology graduates vary by role and location. Nuclear Technicians earn a median of $104,240 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in New York average $121,460 compared to $94,620 in Tennessee. Approximately 5,990 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Industrial Radiologic Technology programs?
Currently 7 accredited institutions offer Industrial Radiologic Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) (96 graduates), Cowley County Community College (83 graduates), and Wichita State University (WSU Tech), Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (10 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Industrial Radiologic Technology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 171 in 2010 to 213 in 2023-24. This represents a 25% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Industrial Radiologic Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Nuclear Technicians. Related occupations employ approximately 5,990 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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