The answer to the question, ‘Why study diagnostic imaging at Mohawk College?’ seems straightforward. Mohawk is a leader in diagnostic imaging education, known for using the latest technology, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections. The real question should be ‘How did we become leaders in diagnostic imaging, and why does that matter to students?’
Let's explore the journey of our diagnostic imaging programs and discover how this history in diagnostic and medical imaging benefits you, the student.
A history that spans decades
In the early 1970s our radiography (X-ray) program was launched followed by a sonography (ultrasound) program in the 1980s. In September 2004, a partnership was formed between Mohawk College and McMaster University to deliver a collaborative degree and advanced diploma program, Medical Radiation Sciences (729). In 2020, a new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Graduate Certificate was launched to meet the growing needs of our community.
“We’ve been in this field and supporting education since the early 70s, building our suite of imaging programs along the way,” says Laura Thomas, Associate Dean of Medical Imaging.
The ever-growing and evolving suite of programs we offer is a testament to our dedication to providing the education the industry needs.
With more than fifty years of experience building programs that prepare learners for these valuable careers, we have made more than a few industry connections along the way.
Industry connections with hospitals, clinics and imaging centres
Part of the success of our diagnostic imaging programs is our industry connections. Our clinical partners extend beyond Ontario into nearly all provinces, such as Alberta, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. These connections create more direct entries into the workforce through clinical placements.
Partnering with multiple organizations gives students greater flexibility to explore different environments during clinical placements, helping them gain a clearer understanding of various career paths within their field.
“We’ve been building a rapport with hospitals and clinics... Some of these are really good environments for early clinical placements, and others, like tertiary centers, are great for more advanced training," says Jenny DiNucci, program coordinator for the Magnetic Resonance Imaging program.
Students often have the opportunity to work in either a hospital or clinic setting during their placement. This helps them decide what pathway to take upon graduation.
A reputation of excellence amongst employers
Having such an extensive history of imaging programs has helped us build trust with our industry partners. They can be confident that a Mohawk College graduate is prepared to do the job on day one of their employment.
“What strikes me is they are very well prepared, and they have good hands-on experience before even coming because of their program. It is integrating the science and the knowledge aspect with the practical skills. They do placements, so they have exposure under supervision before even coming to us. They know the environment and are very professional and have great communication skills,” says Dr. Olfat Kamel Hasan, a nuclear medicine and molecular imaging physician at Hamilton Health Sciences.
A community approach to program design
Quality healthcare programs that stand the test of time cannot be designed in a vacuum. It takes tireless work of faculty and staff to ensure that we are meeting industry standards and teaching students the latest technology.
When asked how these programs are developed Laura Thomas responded “We have great colleagues, and we work together with other partners across the country to understand how they’re delivering their imaging programs. We work on national education committees. We work with our national and provincial governing bodies and industry partners. So, when we build a program, it isn’t in isolation. It’s with our colleagues across the country to make sure that it will meet the national standard and that it will be something that will prepare students, not just for our region, but wherever they want to go and practice.”
Working with the larger imaging community keeps our program of studies focused on what matters, giving students the skills to be successful in their career. All diagnostic imaging programs require students to pass national board exams. Our programs are designed to give students the knowledge and skills to pass these exams.
How taking a diagnostic imaging program at Mohawk College can benefit you
We have a long history in diagnostic imaging education, spanning over 50 years. During this time, we have made strong industry connections, resulting in a variety of clinical placements with hospitals and clinics across Canada.
Students benefit from the reputation of our graduates. Employers appreciate the theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience with the latest technology that our students acquire.
There is a commitment to academic excellence that ensures students are well prepared for their careers, including successfully passing national board exams on their first attempt.
Explore online diagnostic and medical imaging programs at Mohawk College.
Posted 28/01/2025
