Radiographic Testing (RT)
Study how X-ray and gamma radiation are used to examine the internal structure of materials and welded components. Radiographic testing plays an important role in quality control and safety across industries such as energy, aerospace, and manufacturing.
Why Take These Courses?
Nondestructive testing (NDT) training prepares technicians, inspectors, and engineers with the knowledge needed to inspect critical components without causing damage. These courses are designed to support career advancement across industries such as oil & gas, aerospace, manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure while helping students build the training hours required for employer-based certification programs.
Flexible
Study at your own pace with 24/7 access to course materials for four months. No travel expenses or time off work required—complete your training on your schedule, from anywhere.
Industry-Relevant Training
Our courses are designed for working professionals and may be used toward continuing education or recertification requirements. Training hours may qualify for recertification or professional development units through organizations such as API, AWS, and ASNT, depending on the certifying body’s requirements.
Learn From Experts
Professionally developed courses created and reviewed by field experts with decades of hands-on experience. Access instructor support whenever you need guidance throughout your training.
Level I: What You'll Learn
Our comprehensive 40-hour Level I program establishes foundational knowledge in radiographic principles, radiation safety, and imaging techniques. Progress through six essential modules designed to prepare you for safe and effective industrial radiography work.
- Introduction to Radiographic Testing – Understand RT’s role in NDT and fundamental imaging concepts
- Types and Sources of Radiation – Learn X-ray and gamma-ray production, isotope selection, and energy levels
- Radiation Safety – Master ALARA principles, dosimetry, shielding, and regulatory compliance
- Radiographic Testing Principles – Explore image formation, density, contrast, and geometric factors
- Radiographic Equipment – Operate X-ray machines, gamma-ray cameras, and exposure devices safely
- Radiographic Film and Processing – Handle film types, darkroom procedures, and quality control methods
Upon completion, you’ll understand radiation physics, safety protocols, and basic imaging techniques essential for entry-level radiographic testing positions across diverse industries.
Level II: What You'll Learn
Level II training elevates your capabilities from basic radiographic principles to advanced interpretation and technique optimization. You’ll master defect recognition, develop proficiency in digital imaging, and gain the expertise to evaluate radiographs against industry codes and standards:
- Radiographic Artifacts – Identify and troubleshoot image quality issues and false indications
- Radiographic Imaging and Viewing – Optimize image quality, density control, and viewing conditions
- Radiographic Exposures – Calculate exposure times, geometry factors, and technique parameters
- Radiographic Techniques – Apply single-wall, double-wall, and panoramic exposure methods
- Specialized Radiographic Techniques – Implement real-time, tangential, and offset radiography
- Standards, Codes, and Procedures for Radiography – Interpret ASME, ASTM, AWS, and API requirements
- Interpretation of Casting and Wrought Discontinuities – Recognize porosity, shrinkage, cracks, and inclusions
- Interpretation of Welding Discontinuities – Evaluate lack of fusion, undercut, slag, and weld defects
- Digital and Computed Radiography – Operate CR/DR systems and digital image processing
- Computed Tomography – Understand CT scanning principles and 3D volumetric imaging
Upon completing Level II certification, you’ll be qualified to set up radiographic exposures, interpret images, evaluate discontinuities against acceptance criteria, and make critical accept/reject decisions in accordance with industry specifications.
Required Textbook Purchase
To meet certification and regulatory requirements, all students are required to purchase the ASNT Radiographic Testing Classroom Training Book (Second Edition) directly from ASNT. This textbook is an essential resource and is necessary for successful completion of the course.
Students may choose between a physical copy or a digital edition, allowing them to begin their studies right away in whichever format best suits their needs.
Please note: due to ASNT’s copyright protections on digital materials, the National Inspection Academy cannot facilitate the purchase on your behalf. All orders must be made directly through ASNT.
Training Certificate
Upon successful completion of this course, students will receive a National Inspection Academy Certificate of Completion documenting the required training hours and successful examination in accordance with the guidelines outlined in ASNT SNT-TC-1A, CP-189, NAS-410, and the course outline requirements of ANSI/ASNT CP-105. This certificate verifies that the student has completed the educational portion of training and demonstrated proficiency through examination.
