Nuclear Medicine Technology Career Opportunities
Graduate Success
Employed: 95%
Continuing Education: 3%
Average Graduate Salary: $57,980
Career Opportunities
Employment of nuclear medicine technologists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2014. Technological innovations may increase the diagnostic uses of nuclear medicine. One example is the use of radiopharmaceuticals in combination with monoclonal antibodies to detect cancer at far earlier stages than is customary today and without resorting to surgery. Another is the use of radionuclides to examine the heart’s ability to pump blood. Nuclear medical imaging technologies, including positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), are expected to be used increasingly and to contribute further to employment growth. The wider use of nuclear medical imaging to observe metabolic and biochemical changes during neurology, cardiology, and oncology procedures also will
spur demand for nuclear medicine technologists (BLS, 2007).
Employment
NMTs are employed in hospitals, universities, medical clinics and research centers across the United States and abroad. There are more than 13,000 NMT positions throughout the country. After further study in nuclear medicine, you may advance to positions such as chief technologist, research technologist or educator (MC, 2003).
Earning Potential
Salaries vary depending on the employer and geographic location. According to a 2007 survey from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, the overall average salary is $69,083 (American Medical association, n.d.). According to a recent survey conducted by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board, annual salaries are between $45,000 and $60,000. Salaries depend on employer and location. Many survey respondents had more than 20 years of work experience, indicating significant job retention and satisfaction (MC. 2003). Oregon Tech graduates have an excellent record of employment after graduation and certification.