Earning a degree was a lifelong goal for Ryan Harper, and he always had his sights set on the medical field. In 2008, Harper earned an associate’s degree in radiologic technology, focusing on x-ray. After 14 years of working in Computed Tomography (CT), he aspired to complete his Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences.
A bachelor’s degree allowed him to open new doors rather than stay stagnant in his career. “Having a [bachelor’s] degree is going to give you more options in our field because there’s a lot of jobs that you can’t even apply for. I think that having a degree in imaging sciences from Boise State gives you options in health care and in imaging that you wouldn’t have otherwise.”
- Ryan Harper, Boise State Imaging Sciences graduate, in front of a CT Scanner. Photo by Adam Eschbach, Boise State Extended Studies.
Imaging Degrees for Established Professionals
Within the past decade, hospitals have increased their educational requirements for much of their staff, including medical imaging professionals. Boise State University offers many online imaging programs, including Ryan Harper’s chosen program, the Online Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences, and new in 2022, a Bachelor of Science in Advanced Medical Imaging (with options in Computed Tomography, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Interventional Cardiology, Interventional Radiology, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and a Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cardiology Certificate.
Boise State University’s fully online Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences is an associate to bachelor’s degree completion program for medical imaging professionals. The program’s curriculum aligns with the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences Core Curriculum.
I think that having a degree in imaging sciences from Boise State gives you options in health care and in imaging that you wouldn’t have otherwise.”
Ryan Harper
Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI) is a new degree program that gives you credentialing opportunities in new modalities. Both AMI and the Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences (BSIS) offer 100% online coursework. In addition, AMI offers the ability to complete clinical experience within your local region. Low cost per credit, the lack of out-of-state tuition difference and the ability to transfer up to 25 credits for prior learning reflect the program’s commitment to graduating you as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.
Flexible, Online Imaging Programs
Ryan Harper found Boise State’s online imaging sciences program and was immediately drawn to the flexibility and convenience it offered — being able to continue working full-time while achieving his academic goals made all the difference.
Finding the best way to manage time was a significant takeaway from his experience with Boise State Online. Harper was apprehensive that the first semester would be too hectic, so he took a step back and approached it day by day. Harper successfully balanced being a full-time student, professional and father to two young sons.
“I think the biggest hurdle was time management. Rather than overwhelming myself, I just went one day at a time. That helped me.”
“This is my first experience with online classes, and by far, it’s been my most enjoyable out of any college experience that I’ve had. I think it’s given me the ability to be flexible,” Harper said.
More Opportunities with Imaging Bachelor’s Degrees
Although working and going to school through a pandemic was challenging, Harper strived to complete his degree to expand his skill-set, help more patients and trusts the new degree brings new opportunities!
“I love what I do. I get satisfaction out of it. I love being a tech. I love giving people the proper exam so they can hopefully get a proper diagnosis,” Harper said.
- Ryan Harper, imaging sciences graduate, sets up a scan. Photo by Adam Eschbach, Boise State Extended Studies
The Value of Online Learning
Boise State Online allowed Ryan Harper to communicate virtually with students worldwide. Sharing experiences and knowledge, no matter the location, cultivated the opportunity for him to learn and feel comfortable using a wide range of skills.
“I think the ability to be open to communication […] through discussion boards, video chats or whatever it may be — it’s allowed me to be a lot more comfortable reaching out to peers that I don’t know that might be 2500 miles away. It’s kind of cool.”
Using the experience and knowledge gained from his Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences, Ryan Harper hopes to continue his upward trajectory in the imaging field. He fully recommends Boise State’s online imaging sciences program.
“I’ve had nothing but a great experience with the faculty at Boise State. It has been fantastic for me. I continued to work very flexible hours and could still do my degree online,” Harper said.
“I’m really proud of myself, actually. Now that I think about it, I’m glad to just do it and get through it. It’s one of those things that nobody can ever take away from you.”
Learn more about Online Imaging Degrees
Boise State Online’s imaging programs are intentionally designed by a team of online learning experts — so you can learn anytime, anywhere. Boise State Online was recently ranked in the top 16% of the nation for best online bachelor’s programs by U.S. News and World Report.