The Texas Tech University System Board of Regents authorized Midwestern State University to move forward in seeking approval for a proposed Doctor of Philosophy in Radiologic Sciences during its regular meeting on Nov. 11.

The proposal will now be submitted for approval to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and for acknowledgement from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

If approved, the program would become the first discipline-specific doctoral degree in radiologic sciences in the United States, providing a unique pathway for imaging professionals seeking the highest level of academic and professional preparation within their field. The proposed degree represents the next step in the university’s long-standing leadership in radiologic sciences education.

“For more than 50 years, MSU Texas has helped shape the profession through pioneering academic programs,” said MSU Texas Provost Marcy Brown Marsden. “This program will provide a new opportunity for professionals to earn a discipline-specific doctorate while addressing a critical workforce need within the profession.”

Statistics from a 2024 survey, conducted by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, indicate the absence of a discipline-specific doctoral degree presents significant challenges for the profession. Many radiologic science professionals encounter barriers to career advancement because their doctoral studies are completed in related fields rather than radiologic sciences. In addition, some professionals leave the field altogether to pursue careers more closely aligned with their earned doctorate, reducing the number of highly educated practitioners, educators, and researchers available to support hospitals, clinics, and universities.

“Healthcare organizations across the country are facing shortages of radiologic sciences professionals at the same time technology is rapidly transforming the field,” said 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.”

The need is evident across the profession as the vacancy rate in radiologic sciences is 18.1%, up from 6.2% three years earlier. Those shortages, coupled with rapid advances in artificial intelligence, Informatics, simulation, and emerging imaging technologies, amplify the need for doctoral-level professionals equipped to lead the profession.

The program will also provide local opportunities for MSU Texas to collaborate with United Regional through research, clinical innovation, and workforce development that support healthcare delivery across the region.

“This proposed program reflects our longstanding leadership and commitment to advancing the field of radiologic sciences,” said MSU Texas President Stacia Haynie. “These are innovative, workforce-focused programs that define MSU Texas and create pathways for professional growth while helping meet the evolving needs of healthcare providers and patients across the country.”

The proposed degree will be delivered through a hybrid format designed for completion in three years, with a four-year option, if required.