For those looking to go into the medical field, there’s a lot to consider. One of the questions that you might have involves which school to enroll in. At National Polytechnic College (NPCollege), we offer a Nuclear Medicine Technologist program that gives students the skills and knowledge they’ll need to have successful careers in this exciting field. Here, we’ll explore some questions you should ask when comparing nuclear medicine technologist schools.
What Is Nuclear Medicine?
Nuclear medicine is a medical specialty involving the use of particles called radiotracers (radiopharmaceuticals), which are administered either by injection, ingestion, or inhalation. Professionals called nuclear medicine technologists use these particles to help diagnose and treat a variety of diseases. They do so through special scans, with Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans being two of the most common. These scans offer detailed images of the targeted area, allowing doctors to look at areas that would otherwise require invasive procedures.
Benefits of a Nuclear Medicine Tech Career
Like other medical fields, a career in nuclear medicine is a great choice because it allows you to help patients stay healthy. Whether you’re helping to assure them that nothing is wrong or identifying a problem before it’s too late, the job is a satisfying one.
Aside from the rewarding feeling you’ll get from helping patients, nuclear medicine technology is a particularly smart choice for those who have an interest in science and technology. You’ll be working with specialized tools and equipment every day, providing an exciting experience that is ideal for those who love state-of-the-art technology but also want to care for patients.
Lastly, nuclear medicine technologists are well-paid. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the profession’s median annual wage as of May 2023 was $92,500, making it a lucrative career path.
Some Questions Prospective Students Should Consider
When looking to earn a degree in nuclear medicine, aspiring students shouldn’t choose just any program or school. Here are some questions to consider:
What degree will I earn?
Those looking to become a nuclear medicine technologist will need an associate’s degree. They’ll also need to have completed a program at a college that is approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Choosing a program like the one at National Polytechnic College qualifies you to take the ARRT exam, which gives you your license upon passing.
Is the program accredited?
This is something you absolutely need to ask if you’re interested in a nuclear medicine technologist program. This is because only accredited programs make you eligible for the ARRT certification exam. National Polytechnic College is proud to be an ARRT-accredited and approved school when it comes to nuclear medicine.
How long does the program take to complete?
There’s a lot to learn when it comes to nuclear medicine, however, you don’t want a program that forces you to stay in school longer than you need. Our program is designed to take between 20 and 24 months, depending on the total credits you need to complete.
What are the admission requirements?
Different schools may have different enrollment requirements, so it’s vital that you take the time to see if you meet them before attempting to enroll. Our program requires a basic General Education from an accredited and verifiable institution. You can either complete the number of credits you need to receive your high school diploma or opt to obtain your GED.
Can I transfer credits from another school?
Transferring credits helps the process go more quickly. Some schools, like National Polytechnic College, allow students to transfer units that meet GE requirements. Our program even allows students to challenge some of our introductory core classes, should they have field-related experience or have already completed similar courses at another school.
Do the instructors have real-world experience?
Instructors who have actual experience in the field can provide more than just textbook knowledge. Fortunately, the staff at NPCollege is made up of qualified individuals who have both a strong educational background and related work experience.
Do you offer online courses?
Many of today’s students lead busy lives, which means the traditional classroom setting may not always work. Our Nuclear Medicine Technologist program is a hybrid program that combines standard classroom lectures with online courses. Students will also get hands-on experience in our campus labs.
Do you offer financial aid?
Paying for school can be a challenge, so schools that offer financial aid should be at the top of your list. NPCollege’s financial aid department is happy to work with you, providing qualified students with grants and loans to make education more affordable.
Do you offer career services support?
Completing your education is one thing but finding a job can sometimes present its own challenges. Fortunately, our career services department is with you every step of the way, assisting with job searches, resume writing, and interview prep.
Choose NPCollege as Your Nuclear Medicine Technologist School
It’s easier to choose a nuclear medicine technologist school when you know what to ask. At National Polytechnic College in Lakewood, California, we offer a Nuclear Medicine Technologist program with dedicated instructors and a detailed curriculum, helping students achieve their dreams. Contact us today if you have any questions or are ready to enroll.