What Schooling Is Needed to Be a Nuclear Medicine Technologist?

Nuclear medicine technologists perform different job activities, including providing treatment and using nuclear medicine to diagnose illnesses. To become a nuclear med tech, you need postsecondary schooling.

Time Frame

A program in nuclear medicine technology calls for 1 to 4 years of education. This results in a certificate, a 2-year degree or a 4-year degree.

Certificate or Licensure

Some states require nuclear medical technologists to complete the requirements of a professional licensure or certificate. Research licensing requirements for the state in which you will work.

Coursework

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the professional coursework will include, "physical sciences, biological effects of radiation exposure, radiation protection and procedures, the use of radiopharmaceuticals, imaging techniques, and computer applications."

Accreditation

Many professional training programs in nuclear med tech receive their accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology.

Professional Association

One professional association that offers more information about schooling for nuclear medical technologists is the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

References

• http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos104.htm
• http://www.arrt.org/