Students in St. John’s Radiologic Sciences Program Can See a Bright Future

Students in St. John’s University’s Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences degree program enjoy a rigorous course of study that pays off at graduation. Students who complete the program enter a robust career field in which starting salaries can reach six figures.

But it is more than the promise of postgraduate success that motivates students in the program; it is also the ability to contribute to a health-care industry that seemingly evolves by the day.

“I always wanted a career in the health-care field,” junior Ryan Samaroo said. “I always wanted the honor of helping people live better lives. Plus, with radiology, there are so many opportunities to diversify yourself, and so many different specialties.”         

“The technology in radiology is always developing, so you are always learning,” added junior Amr Nahshal. “It is a challenge because not every patient is the same—but that is a good thing.” 

Radiologic technologists, also known as radiographers, use medical imaging equipment such as X-ray and computer tomography (CT) scanners, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create images of the body, which are used to diagnose, monitor, and treat diseases and injuries.

They have been a part of the health-care establishment since the late 19th century, when the first X-ray machines were developed. In 1947, Sister Mary Alacoque Anger, S.S.M., a member of the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother, became the first person to earn a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology. At that time, about one-third of all radiologic technologists were nuns, whose strong presence at Catholic hospitals continued into the 1960s.

Studying Radiologic Sciences at St. John’s University    

The industry has, of course, evolved since. Today’s technologists are highly efficient and capable of assisting patients in routine and trauma settings. The 128-credit St. John’s curriculum emphasizes technical sophistication, patient care, and professional behavior.

Upon completion of the program, St. John’s graduates are eligible to take the national board examination in radiography administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).  Students earn a state license to practice as a radiologic technologist when they pass the exam. Graduates often advance into more specialized areas, including CT, MRI, and mammography testing.

“We emphasize compassionate care, and remind students that our patients are someone’s mother, father, brother, grandparent,” said Jennifer G. Chiu, Ed.D., MBA, RT (R) (CT) (ARRT) Associate Clinical Professor and Associate Industry Professional, Department of Health Professions, and Executive Director, Academic Assessment, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. “Care for them the same way you would want someone to care for your family.”

“We hold our students to a high standard,” Dr. Chiu added. “Not only do we expect them to practice as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) radiation protection and safety and effective positioning and technical selection, but how essential it is to connect with each patient, communicate with them, anticipate their needs, and keep them comfortable, as the latter is what truly makes a difference.”

St. John’s began offering bachelor’s degrees in Radiologic Sciences in 2008, a year after it acquired the Saint Vincent Catholic Medical Centers School of Allied Health Professions. The former St. Vincent facility in Fresh Meadows, NY, was renamed the Dr. Andrew J. Bartilucci Center, where students studied and trained until the opening of the 70,000-square-foot St. Vincent Health Sciences Center in September 2024.

Radiologic Sciences Program Housed in St. John’s New Health Sciences Facility 

Current students now enjoy a state-of-the-art facility with a laboratory equipped with the latest digital radiography systems, on par with leading New York City-area hospitals, medical centers, and private medical practices. 

“The X-ray machine in the new building is state-of-the-art,” Amr said. “It is newer than the one where I am interning. The entire facility is wonderful.”  

Students also feel a greater connection to the University community at home on the Queens, NY campus.

“It is a great building and place to study,” junior Ava Zazzarino said. “It truly aids in my learning and excites me to go to school every day. We are more connected to campus life now.”     

Only 143 students are enrolled in St. John’s bachelor’s degree program, including 31 who will receive their degrees at May 2025 Commencement. Many, like Amr, intern at area hospitals, orthopedic facilities, or urgent care centers. Ryan interns at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.

Following graduation, most, if not all, will enter a career field with a median annual income of $76,000. Salaries in the New York City metropolitan area are even higher, with starting salaries approaching $100,000 or more for those with bachelor’s degrees. Graduates who prefer to work part time can expect to earn $60 per hour or more. 

Students appreciate the preparation the St. John’s program provides. They said the key is an innovative curriculum combining practical knowledge with effective skills development.    

“It’s a well-rounded program that does a great job of helping us understand the purpose of radiology,” Ryan said. “You realize that we are the ‘eyes’ of medicine, and we play such a role in the diagnostic process.”

“The administration and faculty help us realize that we are not sitting here just pushing buttons,” Ryan continued. “We are making a difference in patients’ lives.”