5 Critical Steps To Get Accepted Into The City College Of San Francisco Diagnostic Medical Imaging Program (2026 Update)
The Diagnostic Medical Imaging (DMI) Program at City College of San Francisco (CCSF) remains one of the most highly sought-after pathways for aspiring Radiologic Technologists in Northern California. As of December 26, 2025, prospective students must be aware of the critical, updated deadlines and rigorous prerequisite requirements for the next application cycle, which is scheduled for Fall 2026 admission.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the competitive application process, the academic rigor of the Associate of Science (AS) degree, and the impressive career prospects that await graduates in the high-demand San Francisco Bay Area healthcare market. The DMI program is fully accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), ensuring a high standard of education.
Key Program Facts and Career Outlook for Radiologic Technologists
The CCSF Diagnostic Medical Imaging Program is a rigorous, full-time program designed to prepare students for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) national certification exam. Graduates earn an Associate of Science (AS) degree, which is the essential credential for entering the field.
The program is known for its long history, having been established in 1956, and for its strong clinical partnerships with major San Francisco hospitals.
Program and Career Snapshot
- Program Name: Diagnostic Medical Imaging (DMI) Program
- Degree Awarded: Associate of Science (AS)
- Accreditation: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
- Next Admission Cycle: Applications accepted for Fall 2026 admission.
- Application Window: Annually between July 10 and August 15.
- Career Role: Radiologic Technologist (Rad Tech)
- San Francisco Salary Outlook (Dec 2025): The average annual salary for a Radiologic Technologist in San Francisco, CA, ranges from approximately $77,001 to $112,157, reflecting a highly competitive and lucrative local market.
The 5-Step Admission Strategy: Mastering the Prerequisites
The CCSF DMI program is highly competitive, and admission is based on a point system derived from academic performance in prerequisite courses. A successful application hinges entirely on meticulous preparation and achieving high grades in these foundational classes.
Step 1: Complete All Core Science and Math Prerequisites
You must complete a minimum number of units in specific science and general education categories before applying. These courses are the foundation of the program and must be completed with a high GPA.
- Human Anatomy and Physiology (A&P): A minimum of eight-unit hours, including both lecture and lab components, is mandatory. This often includes courses like BIO 108 (General Human Anatomy) and its corresponding physiology course.
- General College Chemistry with Lab: A full course in general chemistry with a laboratory component is a required prerequisite.
- English Composition: A college-level English course is required to satisfy the communication competency needed for the program.
- Mathematics Requirement: Students must satisfy the CCSF Math Requirement, which typically entails 3–5 units of college-level math, often requiring placement testing or specific course completion.
Crucial Tip: All prerequisite courses must be completed before submitting your application. Consult a CCSF counselor early in your academic planning to ensure all courses transfer correctly and meet the specific unit requirements.
Step 2: Understand the Application Timeline (July 10 – August 15)
The DMI program has a strict, limited application window that runs for just over one month each year. Missing this deadline will delay your entry by a full year. The next confirmed admission intake is for Fall 2026.
- Pre-Application Phase: It is strongly recommended to meet with a CCSF counselor to review your transcripts and academic plan well in advance of the application window.
- Submission: The application packet, which includes all transcripts and documentation of prerequisite completion, must be submitted during the July 10 to August 15 window.
Step 3: Factor in Tuition and Fees (Non-Resident Update)
As a California Community College, CCSF offers a highly affordable education for residents. However, it is essential to budget for the total cost, especially if you are an out-of-state or international student.
- Non-Resident Tuition Fee Update: Effective Summer 2024, the tuition fee for non-California residents increased from $358 to $406 per unit.
- AS Degree Cost Estimate: The Associate of Science degree requires 60 degree-applicable units. For a non-resident, the tuition alone for these units would be approximately $24,360 (60 units x $406/unit), plus additional college and student fees.
- Resident Tuition: California residents pay a significantly lower per-unit fee, making the program an outstanding value.
Clinical Excellence and Advanced Modalities Training
A major strength of the CCSF DMI Program is its robust clinical education component. Students gain hands-on experience in real-world hospital radiology departments, which is crucial for professional competency and job placement.
Step 4: Leverage Strong Clinical Affiliates
The program maintains affiliations with some of the most prestigious healthcare institutions in the Bay Area. This exposure provides students with diverse experience and networking opportunities in a major metropolitan healthcare environment.
- California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC)
- UCSF Medical Center
- Veterans' Affairs Medical Center (VAMC)
Clinical experience covers a range of procedures and equipment, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for entry-level Radiologic Technologist positions. The curriculum includes specialized courses such as DMI 52 (Patient Care in Rad Tech), Radiologic Physics, and Fluoroscopy.
Step 5: Plan for Post-Graduate Specialization
While the DMI program prepares you for the ARRT certification in Radiography, the career path offers numerous opportunities for specialization, which often leads to higher salaries and greater professional flexibility.
Graduates of the CCSF program are well-positioned to pursue further certification in advanced imaging modalities, including:
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Ultrasound)
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Mammography
- Radiation Therapy Technology
By completing the foundational DMI degree at CCSF, you establish a powerful and accredited educational baseline that serves as a springboard into these specialized, high-demand areas of allied health.
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