B.S.,
Nuclear Medicine Technology
College of Health and Human Services
What You'll Do
The nuclear medicine field combines chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer technology, and medicine. Nuclear medicine technology provides information about both the structure and function of major organ systems within the body. As a nuclear medicine technologist you will perform patient imaging procedures; provide images, data analysis, and patient information to the physician; and analyze biologic specimens in the laboratory.
At IUP, you’ll build a strong academic foundation in science by taking classes in Physics, Cell Biology, Human Anatomy, and Human Physiology. For the final year of your education, you’ll complete clinical studies and experiences through either the Nuclear Medicine Institute at the University of Findlay in Ohio or the Nuclear Medicine Technology program at the Community College of Allegheny County. Admission to the clinical programs is competitive, and students are encouraged to maintain strong grades.
What You'll Become
The Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear Medicine Technology prepares graduates to work in hospitals, outpatient imaging facilities, public health institutions, government and private research facilities, and other settings. Those with this degree can also pursue jobs in sales or training for medical equipment and radiopharmaceutical manufacturing firms or in radiation safety positions.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for nuclear medicine technologists are expected to increase 16 percent from 2008 to 2018. The report cautions that the number of job openings may be low, even with the anticipated growth, because there are few people in the occupation.