Starting in fall 2025, Ozarks Technical Community College (Ozarks Tech) will offer a new Associate of Applied Science degree in Radiography, expanding access to this high-demand healthcare field at a significantly lower cost.
Previously only available through private colleges, radiography education is now more accessible and affordable in southwest Missouri thanks to the formation of the Alliance for Healthcare Education, a partnership between Ozarks Tech, Missouri State University, Springfield Public Schools, and CoxHealth.
“This will be the first time Ozarks Tech has offered imaging programs,” said Chancellor Hal Higdon. “We’re proud to give our community increased access to these careers while helping them save money to get there.”
The radiography program will accept 40 students annually, with 20 beginning in August and another 20 starting in January. Students will graduate prepared to enter the workforce as certified radiologic technologists. Ozarks Tech will also offer fully online specialization certificates in computed tomography (CT), nuclear medicine, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for individuals who already hold a radiography associates degree.
Courses will be held in the Alliance Education Center, which features fully operational X-ray rooms, mock operating rooms with two C-arms and three portable machines for mobile imaging practice. Students will also train in two live X-ray rooms using phantoms—realistic models that simulate the human body. Renovations are underway to add a fluoroscopy room and an additional C-arm, ensuring students train on the same advanced technology used in the field.
“We have so many hospitals and clinics in need of imaging professionals, but not enough graduates to fill those roles,” said Dr. Aaron Light, Ozarks Tech dean of health sciences. “This program will help close that gap and launch students into high-demand, high-paying careers.”
To learn more or apply, visit the program webpage.