October 15, 2009
Radiologic sciences program to hold open house
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The state’s only baccalaureate radiology program is showcasing its new digs at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and you’re invited.
The radiologic sciences program within the College of Applied Sciences and Arts is hosting an open house during Saluki Family Weekend, featuring tours of the facilities that recently underwent a $300,000 improvement project. The open house is 4-6 p.m. on Oct. 23. Visitors can go to room 14 at the Applied Sciences and Arts building and from there program faculty and students will conduct tours.
The tours will highlight the remodeled classrooms and new equipment. The transformation of rooms 11a, 11b, 11c, 12a and 14 is readily apparently. The improvements include fresh paint and new carpeting, comfortable seating, overhead projection, computer and Internet access, document cameras and DVD players. There are now two X-ray laboratories rather than one and each features the latest in diagnostic equipment. There are also three new medical ultrasound units.
“The open house will showcase not only the beautifully remodeled classrooms, newly energized X-ray laboratories and state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment, but also many of the outstanding students and faculty in the Radiologic Sciences program. We extend an open invitation to all who have an interest in our program,” said Steven C. Jensen, director and professor of radiologic sciences.
Jensen said the funding for the project came from the chancellor’s office and the College of Applied Sciences and Arts’ dean’s office. The SIUC radiologic sciences program began in 1979 as an associate degree program with 10 students and two faculty. Between 1998 and 2000 it became a bachelor of science degree program. Specializations offered include computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, diagnostic medical sonography and radiation therapy technology.
The program has been at its maximum student enrollment since 1980, turning away more than 150 each year because of hospital clinic space limitations and accreditation requirements, Jensen said. Today, eight faculty members teach more than 170 full-time students. In 2008, the program added a master of science degree program in medical dosimetry and this year the medical dosimetry program added a new online curriculum.
Along with tours of the classrooms and laboratories, there will be appetizers, soft drinks and coffee at the open house. Faculty and students will provide information about the program and career possibilities in radiologic sciences too.