FAQ
Nuclear Medicine Technologist FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a nuclear medicine technologist.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a nuclear medicine technologist: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about nuclear medicine technologists
Is nuclear medicine safe?
Yes, with strict radiation safety procedures.
Do technologists need a degree?
An associate degree is typical.
What’s the difference from radiology?
Nuclear medicine images function using tracers; radiology mostly images structure.
How much does a nuclear medicine technologist make?
The median annual wage for nuclear medicine technologists was $101,370 ($48.74 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $78,080 and the highest 10% earned more than $134,500.
How long does it take to become a nuclear medicine technologist?
Most people need about 2–4 years of training. An associate or bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine technology is typical, plus national certification.
Do you need a degree to be a nuclear medicine technologist?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
Is nuclear medicine technologist a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.4% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 800 openings each year. Upsides include high pay for a two-year degree; a common challenge is that radiation safety demands.
What skills does a nuclear medicine technologist need?
Key technical skills include radiopharmaceutical handling, gamma camera operation, pet/ct imaging, and radiation safety. Employers also value attention to detail, communication, and calm demeanor.
What certifications are available for nuclear medicine technologists?
Common credentials include CNMT (NMTCB), ARRT Nuclear Medicine, PET specialty certification, and State license. Many states license nuclear medicine technologists, usually based on national certification.
Still deciding?
Try the Nuclear Medicine Technologist fit quiz, compare with Radiologic Technologist, or explore Nuclear Medicine Technologist training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-2033 (Nuclear medicine technologists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Nuclear medicine technologists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.