The Anderson University College of Health Professions has new bachelor’s degree program in Medical Imaging that’s one of few in the region and country. Students receive a well-rounded education that blends academic understanding, technical know-how and clinical experience. They learn about X-rays, CT scans, MRI and ultrasound—hands-on.
Thanks to a close partnership with AnMed Health, this new program offers a hospital-based experience. Students are quickly putting into practice what they’ve learned in the classroom, gaining valuable clinical experience beyond what’s possible with other programs.
“We are on the floor with the technologists as well doing X-Rays, so we have very first hand experience at AnMed for clinicals,” said Tori Cole, a junior from Pickens County.
Having a grandfather who was an orthopedic surgeon inspired Tori and her sister Maddie Cole to choose healthcare careers. They are among the first to enroll in the medical imaging program.
“It gives you a broad range… Even if you don’t want to stay in X-Ray, you can go to CT, MRI, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy. This week I’m in surgery,” Maddie said.
Erika Martin, a junior from Williamston, was also greatly influenced by a family member. She started out studying physical therapy when she enrolled at Anderson University, but had her sights set on Medical Imaging from the time she first heard the program was being developed.
“My aunt is a CT supervisor at Prisma in Greenville, so I’ve always been interested in her work, just because she enjoys her job,” Erika said.
Erica commented about the Medical Imaging program, “It’s really nice because you rotate through different departments each week, so we get to see a little bit of everything.”
While it’s important to master the equipment that helps doctors see clearly what’s going on inside their patients, it’s also important to be sensitive to what they and their family members are going through. Maddie noted that’s especially important when patients face equipment that can be intimidating.
“It’s really a good thing to get in there and get some patient care and not just take an X-ray and leave but to really be involved with the patients and their families to make them feel like they are comfortable and safe,” she said. “That’s a very vulnerable state you’re in when you’re in the hospital. Being that light, even if it’s for just a couple of minutes to take an X-ray or to take somebody’s scan… it can be very beneficial to the patient, just letting them know they’re safe and welcome them.”
“Every time you’re with patients at the hospital, even if it’s a small interaction, they say ‘thank you, you’ve helped me a lot.’ Just having a positive patient interaction is always rewarding,” Erika said.
“I definitely feel that God has directed me to this path,” Tori said. “I’ve prayed about this and feel that definitely He’s let me go through this program for a reason.”
Details about the new bachelor’s degree in health sciences program with a concentration in Medical Imaging degree program offered by the Anderson University College of Health Professions can be found online.