Evaluating Current Tuition Trends in Radiography Programs.

Purpose: To identify current tuition trends among types of radiography programs; compare tuition rates; and provide prospective students, educators, and professionals with a comprehensive cost analysis for postsecondary education planning, recruitment, and retention.

Methods: Radiography program tuition data were collected from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) website. National tuition rates were obtained from the National Center for Education Statistics website. Tuition fees for JRCERT-accredited programs were sorted by degree level and state. The data were evaluated for each pathway to determine tuition range, median cost, cost effectiveness, and comparison with national rates.

Results: The range of annual tuition costs for JRCERT-accredited radiography programs was $750 to $51 769. Results were not normally distributed, and the median annual tuition rate for all programs was $5005. Broken down by program type, the median tuition rate was $4861 for a certificate, $4556 for an applied associate of science degree, $5959 for an associate of science degree, and $10 075 for a bachelor of science degree. The overall mean for radiography tuition was $7875, compared with the national average of $13 016 for all undergraduate institutions nationally.

Discussion: Radiography program tuition rates vary widely. Prospective students' use of research and financial strategies to determine the best value is recommended. The applied associate of science degree in radiography was found to be the most cost-effective type of program. Bachelor's degrees in radiography were the most expensive option, but according to the literature, a bachelor's degree could yield additional benefits such as increased employment, advanced career opportunities, and higher return on investment.

Conclusion: An education in radiography is a competitive option compared with the national average for undergraduate programs. To achieve a favorable outcome, prospective students should evaluate educational costs, educational value, and informed decision-making strategies when investing in their postsecondary education.