John Patrick University Launches New Radiography Bridge Program to Help Address Growing Demand for Radiologic Technologists

New pathway allows qualified Limited Scope Radiographers to apply up to 21 credits toward an Associate of Science degree and potentially complete the program in as little as 16 months

SOUTH BEND, Ind., Sept. 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As urgent care centers and outpatient healthcare facilities expand their use of diagnostic imaging, the need for qualified radiologic technologists is growing. John Patrick University of Health and Applied Sciences (JPU) is responding with the launch of a new Limited Scope Radiography Bridge Program, providing qualified Limited Scope Radiographers with a streamlined pathway into JPU’s Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology program.

Designed specifically for graduates of approved Limited Scope Radiography programs, the new bridge recognizes the education, clinical experience, and skills students have already acquired, allowing them to build on that foundation rather than starting over. Qualified students may be eligible to bring in up to 21 credits, subject to JPU's admission, transfer-credit, and test-out policies and an individual evaluation, including up to 15 General Education transfer credits, with the opportunity to earn up to 6 additional credits through applicable test-out options.

“This bridge creates a new opportunity for Limited Scope Radiographers who are ready to advance their careers and take on a broader role in medical imaging,” said Brent Murphy, Founder and CEO at John Patrick University. “We’re recognizing the knowledge and experience these professionals already have while providing the additional education and clinical training required to become full-scope radiologic technologists.”

The need for that advancement is particularly relevant as urgent care continues to evolve. Many urgent care centers are adding or expanding X-ray and other diagnostic imaging services, creating greater demand for radiologic professionals with comprehensive training. For healthcare organizations, developing existing Limited Scope Radiographers into full-scope technologists can also provide a pathway for building a stronger imaging workforce while continuing to leverage Limited Scope Radiographers in appropriate roles.

The program is designed for working adults and combines flexible online didactic instruction with supervised clinical education. Students expand their expertise beyond limited radiographic procedures to include comprehensive positioning and imaging, advanced patient care, radiation protection, image evaluation, medical ethics, radiographic pathology, and clinical decision-making across major anatomical regions. The curriculum also provides extensive supervised clinical education to ensure students demonstrate the competencies required of entry-level radiographers.

Students may be able to complete the program in approximately 16 months, depending on transfer credits and individual circumstances. Upon successful completion, graduates earn an Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology from JPU and are academically prepared to apply for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Radiography Certification Examination, subject to ARRT eligibility requirements.

The new pathway can open opportunities in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, physician practices, orthopedic clinics, trauma centers, and other healthcare settings. It also establishes an educational foundation for pursuing advanced imaging specialties such as CT, MRI, Mammography, Interventional Radiology, and Bone Densitometry. Additional education, clinical experience, certification, and/or eligibility requirements may apply.

Scholarship opportunities of up to $10,000 may be available to qualifying students, subject to eligibility requirements, availability, and applicable terms.

For more information about the Limited Scope Radiography Bridge Program, visit https://jpu.edu/radiologic-technology-bridge-program/.

About John Patrick University of Health and Applied Sciences

John Patrick University of Health and Applied Sciences (JPU) was established to address critical training gaps in medical physics, dosimetry, and the radiologic sciences and has since expanded to offer programs across healthcare disciplines, including integrative and functional medicine.

JPU delivers hybrid and fully online programs designed for working professionals and new students, providing flexible, high-quality education aligned with industry needs. Guided by a commitment to “do the right thing,” JPU prepares graduates with the knowledge, skills, and compassion to deliver exceptional patient care. To learn more, visit jpu.edu.

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RAYNZ
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