About the Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) Certificate

Medical Imaging Technology students with an interest and aptitude in computer science and professionals who are currently working with PACS have a unique opportunity at Oregon Tech. Networked digital imaging has created the need for technologists with specialized training. Career opportunities for managers of image networks are on the rise, but few working technologists have the training to prepare them for entering this field. With the availability of Computer Systems and Management Information Systems majors at Oregon Tech, a specialization in Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) is available for motivated students to pursue this opportunity.

PACS involves the acquisition, display, transmission and archiving of digital medical images. PACS handles images from all modalities, including ultrasonography, radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography and computed tomography. They replace traditional film archives and enable off-site viewing and diagnosis.

Oregon Tech's PACS certificate combines courses in computer and management information systems to provide specialized training in this booming new field. Since there are still very few trained PACS professionals, organizations are filling shortages by reassigning existing staff or hiring under-qualified managers — overlooking the lack of formal preparation out of necessity.

Our certificate gives you a competitive edge in a field that pays from 50% to 100% more than other medical imaging technologies. And our web-based classroom environment allows you to complete the training without giving up your current job.

Certificate Courses

For convenience, common terms are listed here. Summer term enrollment is also available.

CourseDescriptionCreditsTerm Offered
MIT 209PACS I: Introduction to PACS3Fall
MIT 219PACS II: PACS Communication and Administration3Fall
MIT 229PACS III: Technical Requirements and Image Quality3Winter
MIT 239PACS IV: Implementation and System Management3Winter
MIT 249PACS V: DICOM3Spring
MIT 259PACS VI: PACS Security3Spring

**Students must earn a "C" or better in all courses to be awarded the certificate.

How to Apply

Full admission to Oregon Tech is not required to complete the PACS certificate. Financial aid is not offered for this program but a payment plan is available. Follow the steps below to get started:

  1. Complete the Non-Degree Seeking Application. Select the PACS certificate as your program of study.
  2. Watch for an email from the Admissions office about registration.
  3. Register yourself for classes when registration opens.

Students using Veteran Affairs benefits should apply to Oregon Tech using the Online First-Year or Online Transfer application instead of the Non-Degree Seeking application.

Non-degree seeking students do not pay application feess since they are not attending a degree program, and are limited to 8 credits per term.

Once registered you are responsible for the tuition and fees. The payment and refund schedule, along with the payment plan application, is located on the Cashier's Office website. The Academic Calendar details important registration dates and withdraw deadlines.

Awarding the Certificate

Oregon Tech awards formal certificates upon completion of all requirements. The Registrar's Office advises soon-to-be graduates to submit the Application for Degree two terms before completing the certificate. A certificate cannot be awarded without the application found in TechWeb.

 

 

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