Distance Learning Makes Pursuing a Medical Imaging Degree Possible

Distance learning is becoming more and more accessible at higher education institutions, but Clarkson College has been a leader in the arena for decades. Leigh Cooper, BSMI, RT(R)(VI)(ARRT) (’21), recently completed her Bachelor’s degree in Medical Imaging as well as Certificate in Medical Imaging Informatics, both from the comfort of her home in Alabama.

As a mother and full-time working professional, Cooper needed a program that offered flexibility and supportive faculty. When she began searching for programs to meet her needs, Clarkson College seemed like the right fit. “I wanted a tough school that was willing to push me to become a better radiology technologist and help me keep my integrity toward myself and others,” she says. “I received that and so much more at Clarkson College.”

Before she enrolled in her programs, Cooper participated in the self-paced courses the College offers to help technologists achieve their American Registry of Radiology Technologists (ARRT) certifications. In July 2021, Cooper received her licensure in Vascular Intervention. Both her certification as well as her degree and certificate are vital for her professional role as a radiologic technologist at a sports medicine clinic in Alabama.

Cooper often sees as many as 50 patients a day through her work as she assists doctors and physician assistants with their imaging needs. According to her, the key components of being a health care worker are patience, kindness and a servant’s heart—all three of which were reflected in her studies at Clarkson College and guide her in her day-to-day role.

“Having worked in a few different parts of the radiology and medical imaging fields, I can honestly say the most rewarding thing is being able to help patients,” she says. “Whether I am helping take their socks and shoes off, holding their hand and comforting them when in pain, or laughing with them, I'm helping them in some aspect.”

Having completed her Bachelor’s degree, Cooper hopes to continue on to earn her Master’s degree and get one step closer to her goal of teaching. When the time comes, she’ll be looking to Clarkson College to continue her education. “From the moment I communicated with someone at the College, to the professors, and everyone in between, I felt like they cared every bit about my success,” she says.

“I may not have ever stepped foot on that campus in Omaha, but I sure felt like I was part of the school.”

Learn more about our Bachelor’s degree in Medical Imaging, Certificate in Medical Imaging Informatics and ARRT Self-Paced courses, all of which are offered 100% online.

Distance Learning Makes Pursuing a Medical Imaging Degree Possible

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