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 growing field, 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.
| Course | Description | Credits | Term Offered |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIT 209 | PACS I: Introduction to PACS | 3 | Fall |
| MIT 219 | PACS II: PACS Communication and Administration | 3 | Fall |
| MIT 229 | PACS III: Technical Requirements and Image Quality | 3 | Winter |
| MIT 239 | PACS IV: Implementation and System Management | 3 | Winter |
| MIT 249 | PACS V: DICOM | 3 | Spring |
| MIT 259 | PACS VI: PACS Security | 3 | Spring |
**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:
- Complete the Non-Degree Seeking Application.
- Watch for an email from the Admissions office about registration.
- Register yourself for classes when registration opens.
Non-degree seeking students do not pay application fees since they are not attending a degree program, and are limited to 8 credits per term.
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.
Accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Oregon Institute of Technology is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. NWCCU is an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education and/or the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.