Career roadmap
How to Become a Nuclear Medicine Technologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a nuclear medicine technologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a nuclear medicine technologist: (1) take science and math, (2) complete an accredited program, (3) complete clinical training, (4) earn certification, (5) specialize. Most people need about 2–4 years. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a nuclear medicine technologist
Take science and math
Chemistry and physics help.
Complete an accredited program
Associate or bachelor’s.
Complete clinical training
Supervised imaging.
Earn certification
CNMT or ARRT.
Specialize
PET or nuclear cardiology.
Education and training requirements
An associate or bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine technology is typical, plus national certification.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2–4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- CNMT (NMTCB): Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologist.
- ARRT Nuclear Medicine: Alternative credential.
- PET specialty certification: Advanced credential.
- State license: Required in many states.
Skills to build now
Start with radiopharmaceutical handling, gamma camera operation, and pet/ct imaging, and practice attention to detail and communication. Learning the nuclear medicine technologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Nuclear Medicine Technologist: Perform scans.
- PET Specialist: Advanced imaging.
- Lead Technologist: Lead the department.
- Imaging Manager: Manage services.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Nuclear Medicine Technologist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do technologists need a degree?
An associate degree is typical.
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.
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.
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.