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Become a Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Discover nuclear medicine technology training and careers.

As a nuclear medicine technologist (NMT), you'll perform diagnostic tests on patients using imaging equipment such as gamma cameras.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Job Description

Working directly with patients and under the supervision of a physician, your typical duties as a nuclear medicine technologist will likely include the following:

  • Explaining procedures to patients
  • Administering radioactive substances to patients
  • Producing the images on a computer screen or on film for a physician to interpret
  • Taking precautions to limit radiation exposure to the patient and yourself

You might also document laboratory operations and participate in scheduling patient examinations.

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Nuclear Medicine Technologist Salary

According to the American Medical Association, salaries for nuclear medicine technologists range between $56,400 and $83,505 per year, with average annual pay coming in at $69,083.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Work Environment

Nuclear medicine technologists work in hospitals, physician's offices and clinics.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Education

In addition to having your GED or high school diploma, you'll need to complete an accredited NMT program, either a two-year associate program or a four-year bachelor's program. Certificate programs are offered for experienced technologists who wish to specialize in nuclear medicine. In the training programs, students receive a combination of classroom and clinical instruction. Coursework generally includes the following:

  • Nuclear physics
  • Statistics
  • Health physics
  • Anatomy
  • Biochemistry
  • Radiopharmacology
  • Radiation biology
  • Clinical nuclear medicine
  • Radionuclide therapy
  • Immunology

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Licensure

Regulations vary from state to state, but certification is highly recommended because most employers require it. Upon completion of an accredited program, you can receive your NMT certification by both the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board.

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Nuclear Medicine

Did You Know?

  • There are 10 to 12 million nuclear medicine imaging and therapeutic procedures performed in the US each year.
  • The first gamma camera was developed in 1957.

Spotlight Schools

Colorado Technical University Online

At Colorado Technical University, we understand the importance of your goals to pursue an industry-current, college degree. We offer access to skilled professors, small class size and flexible learning programs online and on campus.

American InterContinental University Online

AIU Online offers convenient, flexible alternatives that enable you to fit a career-focused education into your current lifestyle. This is the perfect format for students looking to pursue opportunities in a competitive job market.

Keiser University

Whether your goal is to improve your employability, develop leadership skills, enhance your education, improve your life, or simply study for the enjoyment of learning something new, Keiser University is designed around your needs.