Haverhill and Lawrence, MA (July 15, 2022) – For the second year in a row, all the Northern Essex Community College Radiologic Technology students passed their national licensure exam on the first try.

2022 Radiologic Technology students

“These students have accomplished so much starting in the middle of a pandemic: adapting to Zoom classes and clinical expectations. We are so proud of each student,” said Professor Angela Bowers, program coordinator of radiologic technology.

Graduate Heather Macleod of Groveland said, despite the challenges of online learning, she felt more than prepared for the exam. “The professors really assisted us along the way and were always available for one-on-one consultation when I hit roadblocks,” she said.  “The clinical preceptors were amazingly supportive too.”

Before 2021, the NECC pass rate on the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam was in the low-to mid-90 percentile, surpassing the national average of 83.6. The class of 2021 shattered that with 100% passing on the first try, and this year, the class of 2022 did it again.

“NECC has exceeded this national average every year, but this is the first time in the program’s history that we have had consecutive years of 100% first attempt pass,” said Professor Pat Willet. “We are very proud of the graduates.”

All 2021 and 2022 graduates also found employment as certified and licensed radiologic technologists. Macleod is working at Lowell General Hospital and plans to continue her education in mammography.  “Being a single mother of three, I could not have done it without NECC and the assistance offered in the community college environment,” she said.

A new class of 15 students will start on their Radiologic Technology associate degree this fall. While the program is full, interested students can contact Professor Angela Bowers abowers@necc.mass.edu for more information.

NECC’s accredited program covers all aspects of radiologic care, including safety procedures, proper patient positioning, and understanding of the technology used to create diagnostic images. Graduates will be prepared for entry-level technologist careers utilizing various x-ray equipment in hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices. NECC also has transfer agreements with many colleges and universities for students who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

Northern Essex Community College has campuses in both Haverhill and Lawrence. It offers approximately 60 associate degree and certificate programs and hundreds of noncredit courses designed for personal enrichment and career growth.  Each year, 6,000 students enroll in credit associate degree and certificate programs on the Haverhill and Lawrence campuses; another 2,000 take noncredit workforce development and community education classes on campus and at businesses and community sites across the Merrimack Valley.  For more information, visit the website at www.necc.mass.edu or call 978-556-3700.