University seeks approval for nation’s first PhD in radiologic sciences
Midwestern State University (MSU Texas) is seeking approval to establish what would become the first discipline-specific doctoral degree in radiologic sciences in the United States, according to an announcement from the university.
The Texas Tech University System Board of Regents authorized the university to advance the proposal on the program during its Nov. 11 meeting. The program would create a new academic pathway for imaging professionals and address workforce needs across the field.
The proposed Doctor of Philosophy in Radiologic Sciences degree is designed to prepare professionals for careers in education, research, clinical leadership and innovation. The hybrid program is intended to be completed in three years, with a four-year option available when needed.
University officials said the degree would address a longstanding gap in academic opportunities for radiologic science professionals, many of whom pursue doctoral studies in related disciplines rather than their own field.
A 2024 survey conducted by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists identified the lack of a discipline-specific doctoral degree as a barrier to professional advancement. According to the university, some highly educated imaging professionals ultimately leave the field for positions more closely aligned with their doctoral credentials, reducing the pool of qualified practitioners, educators and researchers in imaging.
The workforce need is emphasized by a reported radiologic sciences vacancy rate of 18.1%, which is up from 6.2% three years ago. What's more, advances in artificial intelligence, informatics, simulation and imaging technologies are creating additional demand for professionals equipped to lead research and education through this period of rapid growth.
“This program will provide a new opportunity for professionals to earn a discipline-specific doctorate while addressing a critical workforce need within the profession,” MSU Texas Provost Marcy Brown Marsden said.
“Healthcare organizations across the country are facing shortages of radiologic sciences professionals at the same time technology is rapidly transforming the field,” added Jeff Killion, dean of the Robert D. & Carol Gunn College of Health Sciences & Human Services. “We are excited to lead a program that will prepare the educators, researchers, clinical leaders and innovators needed to advance patient care, strengthen workforce pipelines and lead the profession into the future.”
Now that the program concept has been approved by the Board of Regents, it will move on to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for approval and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges for acknowledgement.
In addition to her background in journalism, Hannah also has patient-facing experience in clinical settings, having spent more than 12 years working as a registered rad tech. She began covering the medical imaging industry for Innovate Healthcare in 2021.