Career roadmap
How to Become a Radiologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a radiologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a radiologist: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete medical school, (3) complete internship, (4) complete radiology residency, (5) complete a fellowship. Most people need about 13 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a radiologist
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Pre-med.
Complete medical school
Four years.
Complete internship
One year.
Complete radiology residency
Four years.
Complete a fellowship
Subspecialize.
Education and training requirements
Medical school, a one-year internship and a four-year radiology residency are required; most also complete a fellowship.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Internship/residency |
| Typical training time | 13 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- ABR board certification: American Board of Radiology.
- State medical license: Required, often in several states for teleradiology.
- Interventional radiology certification: Subspecialty.
- Mammography qualifications (MQSA): Required to read mammograms.
Skills to build now
Start with image interpretation, anatomy, and ct and mri physics, and practice attention to detail and communication. Learning the radiologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Radiology Resident: Train.
- Radiologist: Read studies.
- Subspecialist: Neuro, body or interventional.
- Department Chair: Lead imaging.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Radiologist 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
How long is training?
About 13 years after high school, plus fellowship.
How long does it take to become a radiologist?
Most people need about 13 years after high school of training. Medical school, a one-year internship and a four-year radiology residency are required; most also complete a fellowship.
Do you need a degree to be a radiologist?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
What certifications are available for radiologists?
Common credentials include ABR board certification, State medical license, Interventional radiology certification, and Mammography qualifications (MQSA). Physicians need a state medical license; teleradiologists often hold licenses in multiple states.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1224 (Radiologists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Radiologists (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.