bsrst DAO program description
The BSRST Degree Advancement Option (DAO) is a collaborative effort between the Office of Academic Records at UNMC and the Distance Education Office in the School of Allied Health Professions. Because this is a nontraditional educational program within the RSTE Division, students are not classified as regularly enrolled students. Potential students apply directly to the BSRST Degree Advancement Option, Distance Education Office, School of Allied Health Professions, UNMC.
Qualified candidates are interviewed and mentored by a faculty advisor who works with them to develop an Individual Plan of Study for degree completion. The Plan of Study includes a core of required allied health courses and a selection of radiation science courses that tailor the technologist’s clinical and educational background with their professional goals. Once the Individual Plan of Study has been determined, accepted students will be approved to enroll in the DAO and will register for classes and pay tuition and fees directly to the CCE.
A minimum of 20 semester hours of coursework from UNMC must be completed to qualify for degree completion. Students must be awarded a minimum of 120 total semester hours of college credit to be eligible to graduate from UNMC, therefore, additional coursework may be required. Students are allowed up to 5 years to complete the degree advancement option, however it is possible to complete the program in one year.
Courses are available through a variety of distance learning technologies (mostly online, CD ROMs, videotapes, independent reading, and projects). Students are required to write papers, complete projects, conduct research, communicate with professors and students online, work independently on assignments and with coworkers on group projects, do case presentations, take quizzes and exams, etc.
The BSRST Degree Advancement Option (DAO) has three objectives:
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To enable practicing radiation science professionals, currently registered and in good standing with the ARRT, ARDMS or CNMT, to earn a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Science Technology (BSRST) degree.
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To utilize distance learning technologies; providing access to education and the opportunity for technologists to continue to work in their profession while they complete their degree.
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To provide radiation science professionals the opportunity to advance professionally and personally, develop independent-thinking and critical-judgment skills, and to become more flexible and competitive in today’s healthcare environment.
The DAO is an integral part of the University of Nebraska Medical Center School of Allied Health Professions, which is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges, and Schools. The BSRST option is considered a degree completion program and does not include a professional clinical education component; therefore, it is not under the purview of the Joint Review Commission on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
