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Post-Associate Certificates Specialize in the imaging modality you choose.
Six specialty certificates for graduates of a Radiologic Technology program: Mammography, Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound, Computerized Tomography, Magnetic Resonance, Interventional Radiology and Angiography, and Vascular Sonography.
Application deadlines
March 12027 · August section
CT, Mammography and Ultrasound Certificates.
November 1 (January section) – MRI and Interventional Radiology and Angiography Certificates.
Choose a certificate
Six specialties
All certificates require an Associate Degree in Radiological Technology with a 2.50 minimum GPA. See the certificate requirements.
Post-Associate Certificate
Mammography
Mammography is the imaging procedure which utilizes ionizing radiation to produce images of the human breast. Its effectiveness in the early detection of medical conditions of the breast and surrounding tissues has been widely corroborated. Because of its importance in the battle against breast cancer, condition that has increase in the past ten years between women and men, Mammography is now considered an area of specialization in the field of medical diagnostic images.
The certificate intents to produce a comprehensive professional dedicated to the breast health. The didactic-practical program of the Certificate in Mammography is designed to develop in the graduates from a Radiologic Technology program, the theoretical knowledge and practical competencies required to produce optimum quality images of this anatomical region to be used in the diagnosis of medical conditions. Also, the new tendency to complement the conventional mammography with sonomammography images is taken into consideration as part of the training. This certificate comprises 14 academic credits, which are offered in a one semester long (15 weeks) period.
Description of the Mammographer
The Mammographer is the imaging technologist specialized in the operation of complex equipment for the production of medical diagnostic images of the female or male breast. These images are used as screening or as diagnostic tools in the determination of conditions related to this anatomical region. Other functions of the mammographer are to effectively interact with the patient to orient him/her about the procedures to be performed; the importance of the study in the early diagnosis of breast conditions; the need and importance of compressing the breast; and other aspects of breast health, so as to reduce patient anxiety. Another issue of importance to the mammographer is the quality of the images and of the services provided, as required by the certification and accreditation agencies.
Certificate in Mammography Graduate Profile
A graduate from the Post-Associate Certificate in Mammography of the Radiologic Technology Program of the Universidad Central del Caribe, will be able to:
- Evaluates patient’s medical and clinical information to determine the procedure to perform, following the protocols established by his/her workplace and the accreditation agencies and according to the patient’s medical and physical condition.
- Perform mammography and sonomammography procedures acquiring the anatomical information, and integrating patient’s medical and clinical information to facilitate diagnosis.
- Perform any prescribe procedure, regardless of physical or mental condition of the patient and without any evidence of social, racial or cultural prejudice.
- Provide comfort and support to the patient and clarify all doubts the patient might have regarding equipment and the importance of compressing the breast during the process to enhance the possibilities of early diagnosis of breast conditions.
- Explain to the patient the Food and Drug Administration and the American College of Radiologists recommendations regarding: baseline and follow-up mammographies; how to perform breast self-exam; and the need to preserve the previous studies for comparison.
- Present and discuss with the Radiologists, his/her impressions about the patient’s condition and of the resulting images.
- Collaborate with the Radiologist in interventional procedures.
- Document any incident that might occur before, during and after the procedure, in the patient’s record and/or any form designed for this purpose.
- Perform routine quality assurance procedures to evaluate: darkroom, processor, mammography equipment and accessories, image Beijing conditions and others require by the certifying and accrediting agencies.
- Apply discretion and critical thinking to the performance of all procedures and the operation of the equipment.
- Assume responsibility for his/her personal and professional development and enhancement through his/her participation in continued education activities and new procedures capacitating workshops.
Post-Associate Certificate
Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound
Among the modalities in Medical Imaging, Ultrasound or Sonography has become one of the most common. This technique of producing images by means of sound waves because of its low cost and its wide use in prohibited areas to ionizing radiation (to reproduct organs) is used every day more in the specialty of obstetrics, gynecology, urology, internal medicine, pediatrics, cardiology and pediatric neurology. Ultrasound is a different technique than the other modalities because here the operator determines the diagnostic information that he/she needs and the protocols he/she will use to gather said information according to the specific necessities, situations and conditions of the patient. This form of acquiring information requires of specialized professionals capable in the interpretation of anatomic signs, physiology, pathological changes and normal variations of the anatomic structures.
Academic Contents of the Certificate in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound
The academic-didactical-practical program seeks to develop, in the graduated of a Radiologic Technology program, theoretical knowledge and practical training in the modalities of medical diagnoses by means of the Ultrasound. The academic content is balanced in order to offer the student other opportunities to comprehend theoretical processes related to this trend and develop practical skills in the equipment operation and patient’s management. After a one year period of participation in didactic activities related with the Ultrasound techniques and working directly with patients, the student will receive the post-Associate Certificate in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound Degree, accrediting his/her training in this area. The participant will be able to take and approve any professional evaluation required to practice the imaging modality selected, in Puerto Rico as well as in the continental United States.
Description of the Sonographer
The Sonographer is the health professional that produces images for diagnosis by means of specialized equipment that use high frequency sound waves. He/she is responsible of gathering images and information using electronic means and submitting them to a physician for analysis and diagnosis. This technologist makes a preliminary assessment of the case while making the study and then discusses the case and findings with the Radiologist or other specialized physician. The Sonographer is responsible for preserving the integrity of the patient/client under his/her charge and as a Health Professional has the responsibility of educating, supporting and serving his patient/client.
Profile of the Sonographer
The Sonographer is a health professional capable of:
- Evaluating medical and clinical information of the patient to determine the procedure to follow.
- Performing sonographical procedures using specialized electronic equipment to gather anatomic information that facilitates the interpretation of findings and the diagnostic of pathological conditions.
- Assisting the physician in gathering sonographic information by means of the integration of medical information, clinic background and the images obtained.
- Using discretion and valorative judgement in the use of procedures and operation of the equipment.
- Providing orientation to the patient about the procedures made and as a health professional collaborates in the promotion of good and healthy life styles.
Post-Associate Certificate
Computerized Tomography
Computerized Tomography, develop in 1972 by Engineer Geoffrey Hounsfield, uses ionizing radiation (X-rays) and radiation detectors to provide a computer with information about the density of the human tissues, which the computer then turns into a digital image of the body volumes. Resulting images are similar to a radiograph in its density, but the image is oriented perpendicular to the body axis. Computerized Tomography is used primarily to evaluate gastrointestinal, nervous and musculo-squeletal systems.
The academic program of the Certificate in Computerized Tomography is designed to develop, in graduates of a radiologic technology program, the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills to produce medical diagnostic images by means of the Computerized Tomography equipment. This certificate comprises 13 academic credits, which are offered in a one semester long (15 weeks) period.
Description of the Computerized Tomography Technologist
The Imaging Technologist specialized in Computerized Tomography, is the health professional which operates very complex and sophisticate equipment which combines electronic elements with ionizing radiation producing equipment to produce images of the human body with the purpose of making or defining a medical diagnosis.
Because of the impression the equipment produces on patients, a Computerized Tomography technologist first task, before doing the procedure, it’s the responsibility of the technologist to interact with the patient in an effective way to orient him on the procedure to be performed and lower the patient anxieties. Before the procedure, the technologist explains to the patient the importance of following the instructions he will receive during the procedure; of maintaining the proper positioning and the proper way of breathing so as to acquire optimum quality images.
Certificate in Computerized Tomography Graduate Profile
A graduate from the Post-Associate Certificate in Computerized Tomography of the Radiologic technology Program of the Universidad Central del Caribe, will be able to:
- Evaluate patient’s medical and clinical information to determine the procedure to perform, following the protocols established by his/her workplace and according to the medical and physical condition of the patient.
- Perform Computerized Tomography procedures acquiring the anatomic information, and integrating patient medical information and clinical to facilitate the patient diagnosis.
- Assume full responsibility for his/her patient’s and accompanying person’s safety during the procedure, avoiding unnecessary radiation exposures to them.
- Accurately manipulate the Computerized Tomography equipment to produce optimum quality images.
- Demonstrate his/her knowledge about the operation and physical principles related to the Computerized Tomography equipment.
- Perform any Computerize Tomography procedure that it’s required from him/her, regardless of the level of physical and/or mental condition of the patient and without any evidence of social, racial and cultural prejudice.
- Educate patient and clarify any doubt the patient might have regarding the equipment; the need to use contrast media when indicated, and the importance of performing an optimum quality procedure to enhance diagnosis.
- Support patient, before, during and after the procedure.
- Offer optimum quality services in a prudent and reasonable lapse of time.
- Document any incident that might occur before, during and after the procedure, in the patient’s record and/or any form designed for this purpose.
- Evaluate the quality of the services, keeping control on the quality of the operations and functioning of the equipment and its accessories; image printing and post-processing routines and image viewing conditions, among others.
- Acquire optimum quality images in all procedures performed.
- Apply discretion and critical thinking to the performance of all procedures and the operation of the equipment.
- Collaborated with the Radiologist in the performance of interventional procedures using Computerize Tomography.
- Assume responsibilities for his/her own personal and professional development and enhancement through his/her participation in continued education activities and in new procedures capacitating workshops.
Post-Associate Certificate
Magnetic Resonance
Magnetic Resonance images have revolutionized the medical diagnostic imaging field with the superb resolution of tissues of its images. Magnetic Resonance utilizes a strong magnetic field (several times stronger than gravity force) to aling free protons (hydrogen ions), then this protons are stimulated with an radiofrecuency and pushed out of alignment. When the protons return to the magnetized state, they resonate (they resend the energy used to dealigned them), during which process they emit a signal, which is captured by a radio antenna and passed to a computer. The computer then processes the information and produces an image based on the density and volume of the tissue being imaged. Images produced with Magnetic Resonance differ from Computerized Tomography in that there are various ways to analyze tissue density based on their magnetic properties.
The academic-practical program of the Post-Associate Certificate in Magnetic Resonance is designed to develop in graduates from a Radiologic Technology program, the theoretical knowledge and practical skills need to produce optimum quality images to be used in medical diagnosis through the use of highly sophisticate equipment using magnetic and radiofrecuency energy. This certificate comprises 13 academic credits, which are offered in a one semester long (15 weeks) period.
Description of the Magnetic Resonance Technologist
The Imaging Technologist specialized in Magnetic Resonance, is the health professional which operates very complex and sophisticate equipment which combines magnetic and electronic elements with ionizing radiation producing equipment to produce images of the human body with the purpose of making or defining a medical diagnosis.
Because of the impression the equipment produces on patients, a Magnetic Resonance technologist first task, before doing the procedure, it’s to interact with the patient in a effective way to orient him on the procedure to be performed and lower the patient anxieties. Before the procedure, the technologist explains to the patient the importance of following the instructions he will receive during the procedure; of maintaining the proper positioning and the proper way of breathing so as to acquire optimum quality images.
Certificate in Magnetic Resonance Graduate Profile
A graduate from the Post-Associate Certificate in Magnetic Resonance of the Radiologic Technology Program of the Universidad Central del Caribe, will be able to:
- Evaluate patient’s medical and clinical information to determine the procedure to perform, following the protocols established by his/her workplace and according to the medical and physical condition of the patient.
- Perform Magnetic Resonance procedures acquiring the anatomic information, and integrating patient medical information and clinical to facilitate the patient diagnosis.
- Assume full responsibility for his/her patient’s and accompanying person’s safety during the procedure, indicating the precautions to be taken around a strong magnetic field.
- Interview patient to asses the possible risk of metal magnetization.
- Accurately manipulate the Magnetic Resonance equipment to produce optimum quality images.
- Demonstrate his/her knowledge about the operation and physical principles related to the Magnetic Resonance equipment.
- Perform any Magnetic Resonance procedure that it’s required from him/her, regardless of the level of physical and/or mental condition of the patient and without any evidence of social, racial and cultural prejudice.
- Educate patient and clarify any doubt the patient might have regarding the equipment; the need to use contrast media when indicated, and the importance of performing an optimum quality procedure to enhance diagnosis.
- Offer optimum quality services in a timely and reasonable time and manner.
- Document any incident that might occur before, during and after the procedure, in the patient’s record and/or any form designed for this purpose.
- Evaluate the quality of the services, keeping control on the quality of the operations and functioning of the equipments and its accessories; image printing and post-processing routines and image viewing conditions, among others.
- Acquire optimum quality images in all procedures performed.
- Apply discretion and critical thinking to the performance of all procedures and the operation of the equipment.
- Collaborated with the Radiologist in the performance of interventional procedures using Magnetic Resonance.
- Assume responsibilities for his/her own personal and professional development and enhancement through his/her participation in continued education activities and in new procedures capacitating workshops.
Post Associate Certificate
Interventional Radiology and Angiography
The associate’s degree in Interventional Radiology and Angiography is designed to follow the curricular recommendations developed by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) and the academic preparation requirements established by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) for those interested in taking the credential of specialized technologist in cardiac and vascular interventional radiology. Students in the program would take four specialization courses, three didactic courses and one clinical course, in the same format in which the other specialty certificates are offered within the Medical Imaging Technology Program.
Description of the Interventional Radiologic Technologist
A radiologic technologist in interventional radiology and angiography is responsible for preparing and positioning patients, operating advanced imaging equipment, and assisting radiologists during procedures such as angioplasties and image-guided biopsies. Additionally, they ensure radiation safety, administer contrast media, and monitor the patient before, during, and after the procedure, ensuring comprehensive and accurate care. Their professionalism is reflected in their ability to remain calm under pressure, communicate effectively with the medical team and patients, and adhere to the highest standards of safety and quality in every procedure.
General Admission Requirements
- Associate Degree in Radiologic Technology with a minimum GPA of 2.50
- Proficiency in English and Spanish (speaking, reading, and writing)
- Learn more about the requirements
Graduate Profile
The radiologic technologist specialized in interventional radiology and angiography is trained to perform the following functions:
- Explain the procedures for patients, obtaining their consent and trust.
- Prepare the patient appropriately for the interventional procedure to be performed.
- Organize a sterile work field before and during all procedures.
- Check the patient’s vital signs during the interventional procedure and inform the physician.
- Through monitoring sonographic and radiological images, identify cardiovascular signals to record detailed information on cardiovascular, central, and peripheral function, cerebral, thoracic, or abdominal circulation, and oxygen saturation.
- Manipulate essential tools when assisting the physician during the interventional procedure.
- Operate the radiographic equipment and ensure its proper use to obtain optimal images following the established protocol.
- Establish fluoroscopy time control to ensure that it does not exceed the recommended limits (ALARA).
- Recognize the procedures for administering contrast media to carry out the interventional procedure.
- Validate patient records before, during, and at the end of the interventional procedure, ensuring the confidentiality of the information.
Post Associate Certificate
Vascular Sonography
Curricular Design
The Post Associate Certificate in Vascular Sonography is designed according to the curricular recommendations developed by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) and the academic preparation requirements established by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) for those wishing to obtain the credential of a specialized technologist in vascular sonography.
Students in the program must complete eight specialization courses equivalent to twenty-four (24) credits. These are divided into six theoretical courses of three (3) credits each, and clinical practice equivalent to two courses of three (3) credits each. All will be offered in the same format as the other specialty certificates affiliated with the Medical Imaging Technology Program.
Description of the Vascular Sonography Technologist
The vascular sonographer is a highly trained healthcare professional capable of performing detailed studies of anatomical structures using vascular ultrasound and Doppler techniques. This specialist applies appropriate tracking techniques and protocols, categorizes communication processes and patient care, and integrates theoretical principles into real practices. Additionally, they interpret medical orders, guide patients on the instructions for each routine and protocol, and review clinical studies to obtain accurate diagnoses. They analyze the sonographic anatomy of vascular structures, classify, identify, and correct common artifacts. They are governed by laws and professional standards, assuming leadership roles. This professional can work in hospitals and clinics, imaging diagnosis centers, specialized medical offices, research laboratories, educational institutions, and medical equipment companies, adapting to various contexts within the healthcare field.
Graduate Profile
The Vascular Sonographer is trained to perform the following functions:
- Apply appropriate tracking techniques and protocols in the evaluation of anatomical structures using vascular ultrasound, according to their location.
- Categorize processes related to communication, care, attention, and safety of the patient.
- Integrate theoretical principles of vascular ultrasound into virtual (simulated) practice and real practice.
- Interpret medical orders before managing each clinical case.
- Explain the basic routine, protocols, and instrumentation necessary for conducting different vascular sonographic studies.
- Appreciate clinical laboratories and related imaging studies to establish a correlation that aids in obtaining a more accurate diagnosis of vascular anatomy.
- Analyze the normal and pathological sonographic appearance of the vascular structures evaluated in a vascular sonogram.
- Classify the most common artifacts that impact the quality assurance of vascular ultrasound images.
- Understand the social groups, including their beliefs, philosophies, and particular interests, concerning patients and collaborating with other healthcare professionals in vascular sonography.
- Determine the laws, norms, regulations, and policies related to the profession, as well as the legal, ethical, and social implications and sanctions of these.
- Relate leadership roles and professional responsibility in a variety of scenarios, both real and simulated, in the context of vascular sonography.
- Compare the fundamentals of physics and hemodynamics of the circulatory system using vascular ultrasound.
- Contrast the anatomy and pathophysiology of the circulatory system and its interaction with other systems.
Choose your specialty
Review the certificate requirements and apply online.