Riverland Community College

This is an introductory college writing course designed to help students develop effective writing skills for college level work.  Students learn to generate ideas and organize them into unified, coherent essays.  Methods of instruction vary, but most sections combine individual conferences and peer review with regular class meetings.  Prerequisites:  A grade of C or higher in ENGL 0960 or appropriate placement score.

MnTC (Goals 1/CM and Goal 2/CT); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course provides an overview of central issues in medical ethics. Students investigate the nature of ethics and ethical theories and principles before moving on to examine such topics as medical research and technological developments in medicine. The course will provide both historical and contemporary background on a number of ethical issues in the health-care field and will consider proposed answers to what we should do about the questions they raise. Course delivery may include the presentation and discussion of various ethical and health-care perspectives. MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 9/EC); (3 credits - 3 lecture, 0 lab)

This is a one-semester survey course covering basic physics concepts and laws that govern everyday physical phenomena. This course is intended for students with no previous physics experience. Topics include mechanics, properties of matter, heat, waves, and electricity. Students will learn to apply basic physics principles through problem solving and laboratory experiments. The algebra skills required for this course are met by two years of high school algebra.

• Prerequisite: Student meets placement criteria for MATH 1050 (Math for Liberal Arts) or a higher-level math course.

• Corequisite: Students who do not meet math placement criteria will be required to take PHYS 0010 concurrently with PHYS 1000.

• MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

This course explores human growth and development from the prenatal through adult life stages, including aging and death.  Students will examine the interaction between genetics and environment on the individual’s physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development. In addition, family, culture and cohort influences will be explored.

MnTC (Goal 5/SS and Goal 9/EC); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is an introductory study of human biology. The scientific method, biological molecules, and cell biology will be studied as a foundation to learning human histology (the study of tissues) and organ systems. Each human organ system will be investigated to develop an understanding of its contribution to the human body. Current health and social issues, and other diseases related to human biology, will also be studied.

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

Riverland Community College is an approved Nursing Assistant training program through the Minnesota Department of Health. This 4-credit course provides students with the theory, laboratory, and clinical experience to meet state and federal criteria for employment as a nursing assistant in a nursing home or other long term care facility. Completion of this course enables the student to take the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. After successfully completing the competency evaluation, the student will be placed on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry.
(4 Cr – 2.75 lect, 1.25 lab, 0 other)

This course is an introductory study of the skeletal system. Students will be introduced to the terminology and anatomy related to the axial and appendicular skeletal system, bone features, bone development, bone classifications, associated fractures, and joints. This is a prerequisite course of the Radiography program, which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Prerequisites: Human Biology, BIOL1030.

(3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course focuses on communicating more effectively in personal, social, and professional environments and examining the practical and theoretical aspects of human communication. The course also addresses such topics as self-esteem, listening, effective language, nonverbal communication, perception, disclosure, conflict and cultural communication. Human diversity issues and cultural/intercultural factors and how they affect human communication are examined. Students will also reflect on the role interpersonal process plays in relationships and reflect on individual strengths and weaknesses with regard to personal interpersonal communication.

• MnTC (Goals 1/CM 7A/HD);
• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This is a one-semester survey course covering basic physics concepts and laws that govern everyday physical phenomena. This course is intended for students with no previous physics experience. Topics include mechanics, properties of matter, heat, waves, and electricity. Students will learn to apply basic physics principles through problem solving and laboratory experiments. The algebra skills required for this course are met by two years of high school algebra.

• Prerequisite: Student meets placement criteria for MATH 1050 (Math for Liberal Arts) or a higher-level math course.

• Corequisite: Students who do not meet math placement criteria will be required to take PHYS 0010 concurrently with PHYS 1000.

• MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

This course is an introductory study of human biology. The scientific method, biological molecules, and cell biology will be studied as a foundation to learning human histology (the study of tissues) and organ systems. Each human organ system will be investigated to develop an understanding of its contribution to the human body. Current health and social issues, and other diseases related to human biology, will also be studied.

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

This course will introduce the student to the profession of Radiologic Technology.  Students will learn about the organization of health-care facilities and in particular the radiology department.  Understanding role of the Radiologic Technologist in healthcare will be emphasized.  The professional obligations and behaviors of health-care workers will be discussed.  Radiography education programs, curriculum, and certification will also be discussed.  A goal of this course is to generate interest in becoming a radiologic technologist. 

 (1 Cr - 1 lect, 0 lab)

This course is an introductory study of the skeletal system. Students will be introduced to the terminology and anatomy related to the axial and appendicular skeletal system, bone features, bone development, bone classifications, associated fractures, and joints. This is a prerequisite course of the Radiography program, which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Prerequisites: Human Biology, BIOL1030.

(3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course introduces the student to the origins of medical terminology. A word building system is introduced and abbreviations and symbols are discussed. The course covers the concepts of disease and its effects on the human body. The pathophysiology and radiographic manifestations of common and unusual disorders for each of the body systems are discussed. An orientation to the understanding of radiographic orders and interpretation of diagnostic reports is discussed. This course provides the knowledge and skills to adjust technical factors for obtaining optimal quality images in patients with various underlying pathologic conditions. This is a prerequisite course of the Radiography program, which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). (2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

Riverland Community College is an approved Nursing Assistant training program through the Minnesota Department of Health. This 4-credit course provides students with the theory, laboratory, and clinical experience to meet state and federal criteria for employment as a nursing assistant in a nursing home or other long term care facility. Completion of this course enables the student to take the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. After successfully completing the competency evaluation, the student will be placed on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry.
(4 Cr – 2.75 lect, 1.25 lab, 0 other)

This course is an introduction to the profession of radiologic technology and has a major emphasis on patient care skills.  The student acquires appropriate knowledge and skills in radiography, ethical and legal issues, human diversity, and basic patient care.  Prerequisites:  Admission into the Radiography Program. Co-requisites: RADT 1225, 1231, 1260.  This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab) 

This course is the first of three radiographic procedures courses.  The student is introduced to the basic terminology for positioning, the radiographic equipment, and operations.  General anatomy is introduced, and specific positioning procedures of the chest, abdomen, upper limb, shoulder girdle, and lower limb. Considerations for the pediatric and geriatric patient are also covered. Mobile and surgical imaging is presented.  Radiation safety and protection for the technologist and patient are stressed.  Radiographs are evaluated for anatomy and positioning.   Prerequisites: Admission to the Radiography Program. Co-requisites: RADT 1210, 1225, 1260.  This course is part of the Radiography program, which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(4 Cr – 2 lect, 2 lab) 

This course covers radiographic procedures of the pelvic girdle, complete vertebral column, and bony thorax. Trauma guidelines, including pediatric and geriatric patient considerations, are presented.  Emphasis will be on anatomy, positioning, radiographic terms, manipulation of radiographic equipment and accessories, and related patient care considerations.  Radiographs are evaluated for anatomy and positioning.  Skills acquired in Procedures I are maintained.  Prerequisites: RADT 1281.  Co-requisite: RADT 2261. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(3 Cr – 1 lect, 2 lab) 

This course provides the student with the knowledge of factors that govern and influence image quality.  Topics include history of radiography, basic physics concepts, electromagnetic radiation, radiographic equipment, properties of x-rays, exposure factors, digital radiography, radiographic devices, and Automatic Exposure Control (AEC).  The application of radiographic calculations is applied during presentation of the course material.  Prerequisites:  Admission into the Radiography Program. Co-requisites: RADT 1210, 1225, 1231. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

      (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab) 

This course provides students with the knowledge needed to evaluate radiographic examinations and to identify and recognize diagnostic quality. Students will evaluate and critique case studies and complete critique projects while at practicum, using their own images, for positioning and technique. Images are evaluated for adequate technical preparation, proper use of equipment, careful radiography of the anatomical part, and the accept/reject analysis. Prerequisites: RADT 1235, 2261. Co-requisite: RADT 2283. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course provides the student with an overview of the principles of the interaction of radiation with the human body as well as the principles of radiation protection.  Radiation effects on biological molecules and organism, as well as factors affecting biological response, are explored.  Discussion includes both acute and chronic effects of radiation.  Radiation protection responsibilities of the radiographer for patients, personnel, and the public are presented.  Prerequisites: RADT 2215, 2283. Co-requisites: RADT 2239, 2240.  This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

      (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab) 

This final procedures course provides the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform radiographic examinations of the skull, facial bones, and paranasal sinuses. In addition, those systems needing oral or intravenous contrast agents, such as the digestive system and the urinary system, are covered, including not only the anatomy and positioning but also the examination protocols. Sectional anatomy of the head, thorax, and abdominopelvis are introduced, along with an introduction to the equipment, procedures, and technologies routinely used for specialized imaging procedures. Radiographs are evaluated for anatomy and positioning. There is a review of all anatomy and positioning previously studied, especially those areas identified by students as needing clarification. Prerequisites: RADT 2215, 2283. Co-requisites: RADT 2220, 2240. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

This course focuses on image quality by considering factors that affect brightness, contrast, recorded detail, and distortion. Digital image processing, image storage, and management are discussed, as well as x-ray interactions with matter are discussed. Mathematical problems that reflect the effect of change in exposure factors and radiographic devices on image quality will be calculated. Prerequisites: RADT 1281. Co-requisite: RADT 1235. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(4 Cr – 4 lect, 0 lab)

This course is a review of basic knowledge from previous courses to help the student prepare for the ARRT board examination. Topics include: image analysis, image production and evaluation; digital radiography; radiographic procedures; anatomy, pathology, and terminology; patient care. Also included in the course is resume building and interview skills. Developmental exams will be included throughout the course covering each of the categories included on the board exam. Prerequisites: RADT 2215, 2283. Co-requisites: RADT 2220, 2239. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is the first of three practicum education courses. The student is assigned to the practicum site for thirty-two hours per week. Under the supervision of a practicum instructor, the student gains competency in radiography of the chest, abdomen, upper limb, shoulder girdle, and lower limb, including for pediatric and geriatric patients. The student practices skills and demonstrates competency in radiographic processing, patient care, radiation protection, and general radiographic procedures and image critique. The student demonstrates professional interactions and work ethics in the practicum setting. The radiography program staff monitors progress and performance evaluations. The students will participate in on-line discussions to gain knowledge of the different practicum sites and experiences.  The student will maintain appropriate records: timekeeping, exam log, and evaluations.  Prerequisites: RADT 1210, 1225, 1231, 1260. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(12 Cr – 0 lecture, 12 off-campus lab)

This course is the second of three practicum education courses. The student is assigned to the practicum site for thirty-two hours per week for a variety of shifts including evenings and weekends. Under the supervision of a practicum instructor, the student achieves performance competency in radiography of the, pelvic girdle, complete vertebral column, and bony thorax. Experience with pediatric and trauma patients is required. The student continues to demonstrate competencies from Practicum I, as well as be evaluated for competency on any procedures still needed from that course. Participation in surgical, bedside and special procedures is monitored. The student improves skills in radiographic processing, patient care, radiation protection, and general radiographic procedures and image critique. The student demonstrates professional interactions and work ethics in the practicum setting. The radiography program staff monitors progress and performance evaluations. The student will maintain appropriate: timekeeping, exam log, and evaluations.  Prerequisite: RADT 1235, 2261. Co-requisite: RADT 2215. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(11 Cr – 0 lect, 11 off-campus lab)

This course is the final radiography practicum education course. The student is assigned to the practicum site for thirty two hours per week with varying rotations. The student demonstrates performance competency in radiographic examinations of the skull, facial bones, paranasal sinuses, upper and lower GI systems, gallbladder, urinary system, and basic CT skills. The student maintains competencies from both prior practicum education courses and performs competency evaluations on any procedures still needed from either course. Involvement in specialty areas is encouraged. The student demonstrates increased proficiency, accuracy, and speed in the radiographic procedures. Critical thinking and problem solving are expected. The student demonstrates professional interactions and work ethics in the practicum setting. The radiography program staff monitors progress and performance evaluations. Prerequisites: RADT 2220, 2239. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). (7 Cr – 0 lect, 0 lab, 7 off campus lab

This is an introductory college writing course designed to help students develop effective writing skills for college level work.  Students learn to generate ideas and organize them into unified, coherent essays.  Methods of instruction vary, but most sections combine individual conferences and peer review with regular class meetings.  Prerequisites:  A grade of C or higher in ENGL 0960 or appropriate placement score.

MnTC (Goals 1/CM and Goal 2/CT); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course provides an overview of central issues in medical ethics. Students investigate the nature of ethics and ethical theories and principles before moving on to examine such topics as medical research and technological developments in medicine. The course will provide both historical and contemporary background on a number of ethical issues in the health-care field and will consider proposed answers to what we should do about the questions they raise. Course delivery may include the presentation and discussion of various ethical and health-care perspectives. MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 9/EC); (3 credits - 3 lecture, 0 lab)

This course explores human growth and development from the prenatal through adult life stages, including aging and death.  Students will examine the interaction between genetics and environment on the individual’s physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development. In addition, family, culture and cohort influences will be explored.

MnTC (Goal 5/SS and Goal 9/EC); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course includes two distinct components of mammography education: clinical mammography and the physics of mammography. Anatomy and physiology of the breast, clinical positioning of the breast and the physical principles of mammography machine operation and exposure technique are included. Additional content on quality assurance in mammography and the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) are presented. Prerequisites: RADT 2215, 2283 or registered Radiologic Technologist. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). (2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

In this course the student is assigned to a practicum site for 40 hours to perform mammographic examination.  The student performs a minimum of 25 examinations under the direct supervision of an American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) registered technologist.  The student demonstrates competency in performing mammographic examinations in compliance with the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) requirements.  The student practices skills in patient preparation and education, quality control standards, and critiquing radiographic techniques.  Successful completion results in the student obtaining certification for the 40 hours of training required by MQSA regulations.  Prerequisites: RADT 2286.  This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(1 Cr – 0 lect, 1 off-campus lab) 

This course introduces the student to the cross-sectional anatomy of the body and its appearance on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This course begins with a review of cross-sectional imaging modalities and traditional anatomic positions and planes. Normal anatomic structures of the head, neck, thorax, vascular, abdomen, pelvis, spine and extremities are presented in multi-planar sections. The course enables the student to differentiate between normal and abnormal anatomical structures.  Prerequisites: RADT 1235, 2261 or registered Radiologic Technologist. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). 

(3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course introduces the student to the basic fundamentals of computed tomography (CT), physics, patient safety and procedures including sectional anatomy. The history of CT and image production will be included in the course. Students explore the function of the hardware components of the computed tomography computer system, equipment, instrumentation, data acquisition, image processing and reconstruction. The course covers the importance of legal and ethical responsibilities as an imaging professional. Patient care, assessment, communication and contrast administration are discussed. CT procedures including sectional anatomy of the head, neck, thorax and abdomen/pelvis, musculoskeletal, and vascular system are presented. Consideration is given to the production of digital images of optimal diagnostic quality with emphasis of radiation safety.  Prerequisites: RADT 2215, 2283 or registered Radiologic Technologist. This course is part of the Radiography program, which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

This course introduces the student to common magnetic resonance (MR) procedures, basic fundamentals of MR physics, and patient care and safety during magnetic resonance (MR) exams.  Specific positioning procedures of the following are covered: head, neck, spine, thorax, abdomen, pelvis, and musculoskeletal. Anatomical structures and pathology are discussed. The history of MR will be included in the course. The course will explore the function of the hardware components of the magnetic resonance computer system, equipment, instrumentation, sequence parameters and options, data acquisition and image processing. Screening measures are discussed for patients, equipment and the MR environment.  This course covers the importance of legal and ethical responsibilities as an imaging professional, patient right, patient and personnel education, interpersonal communications, and MRI screening and safety. Patient assessment, monitoring and management of medical emergencies are discussed. Venipuncture, contrast media, infection control, and informed consent are reviewed. Prerequisites: RADT 2215, 2283 or registered Radiologic Technologist. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

In this course the student is assigned to a practicum site for 40 hours to perform computed tomography (CT) examinations. The student performs examinations under the direct supervision of an American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) CT registered technologist. The student demonstrates competency in performing CT examinations in compliance with the ARRT requirements in at least three of the six following categories: Head, Spine Musculoskeletel; Neck and Chest; Abdomen and Pelvis; Additional Procedures; Image Display and Post Processing; and Quality Assurance. The student practices skills in patient preparation and education, quality control standards, and critiquing radiographic techniques. Prerequisite: RADT 2307. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(1 Cr – 0 lect, 1 off-campus lab)

This course the student is assigned to a practicum site for 40 hours to perform magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations. The student performs examinations under the direct supervision of an American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) MRI registered technologist. The student demonstrates competency in performing MRI examinations in compliance with the ARRT requirements in at least four of the seven following categories: Head and Neck; Spine; Thorax; Abdomen and Pelvis; Musculoskeletal; Special Imaging Procedures; and Quality Control. The student practices skills in patient preparation and education, quality control standards, and MRI safety practices. Prerequisites: RADT 2312. This course is part of the Radiography program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

(1 Cr – 0 lect, 1 off-campus lab)