Nuclear Medicine Technology: Fees, Admission 2023, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Top Exam, Salary, Scholarship, Cutoff

Updated on Sep 19, 2023 04:13 IST
Parul Thapa

Parul ThapaSenior Executive Content

Nuclear Medicine Technology is a medical speciality that uses radioactive tracers to diagnose and treat diseases in a patient’s body. The Nuclear Medicine Technologist makes the patient inhale swallow or inject a radiopharmaceutical - radioactive material for treatment. 

To become a Nuclear Medicine Technologist, candidates must make sure to clear Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) subjects with 45% - 50%. Usually, the Nuclear Medicine Technology admission is based on the Class 12 scores but there are still some colleges which offer Nuclear Medicine Technology on the basis of entrance exam scores such as IIT JAM, NEET, NEET PG, etc. The average course fees to become a Nuclear Medicine Technologist range between INR 1,800 and INR 5.2 Lakh.

Table of Contents
  1. Nuclear Medicine Technology Highlights
  2. All About Nuclear Medicine Technology 
    • 2.1 Why Study Nuclear Medicine Technology?
  3. Nuclear Medicine Technology Eligibility Criteria 
  4. Nuclear Medicine Technology Entrance Exams
  5. Nuclear Medicine Technology Syllabus
    • 5.1 Nuclear Medicine Technology Specialisations
  6. Top Nuclear Medicine Technology Colleges
    • 6.1 Top Government Nuclear Medicine Technology Colleges
    • 6.2 Top Private Nuclear Medicine Technology Colleges
  7. Nuclear Medicine Technology Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
    • 7.1 Nuclear Medicine Technology Average Salary
    • 7.2 Nuclear Medicine Technology Top Recruiters
  8. Nuclear Medicine Technology FAQs

Nuclear Medicine Technology Highlights

Nuclear Medicine Technology is a study of Medicine dealing with the use of radioactive materials in order to diagnose and treat disease. Candidates can check the table below to learn more about the Nuclear Medicine Technology course details.

Particulars

Details

Course Level

UG, PG, Doctorate, Diploma

Course Duration

3 years

Course Fees

INR 1,800 - INR 5.2 Lakh

Entrance Exams

IIT JAM, NEET, NEET PG, etc.

Popular Colleges

Christian Medical College, JIPMER, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, etc.

Job Profiles

Radiologist, Research Assistant, Associate & Lab Leader, etc.

Average Salary

INR 2.4 LPA - INR 9 LPA

Top Recruiters

Narayana Health, Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, GE Healthcare Life Sciences, etc.

All About Nuclear Medicine Technology 

A Nuclear Medicine Technology course is an educational program designed to train individuals in the field of Nuclear Medicine Technology. Nuclear Medicine Technology is a specialised branch of medical imaging that uses small amounts of radioactive materials, known as radiopharmaceuticals, to diagnose and treat various medical conditions. 

Nuclear Medicine Technologists (NMTs) are healthcare professionals who work in this field and are responsible for operating imaging equipment, preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals to patients, and producing diagnostic images or scans.

Why Study Nuclear Medicine Technology?

  • Impactful Healthcare Contribution: Nuclear medicine technologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. 
  • Diverse Career Opportunities: A Nuclear Medicine Technologist can work in hospitals, clinics, imaging centres, research facilities, and academic institutions. 
  • Advancements in Medical Technology: Studying this field allows individuals to work with cutting-edge equipment and techniques, which can be intellectually stimulating and professionally rewarding.
  • Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: A Nuclear Medicine Technologist often encounters complex cases that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Job Security and Demand: The healthcare industry generally offers job stability, and nuclear medicine technology is no exception. 
  • Competitive Salary: A career in Nuclear Medicine Technology can provide a competitive salary, making it financially rewarding for those who invest in their education and training.

Nuclear Medicine Technology Eligibility Criteria 

A Nuclear Medicine Technologist is a highly specialised profession with a primary focus on how the body functions in order to help in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of diseases. 

The basic eligibility criteria to pursue Nuclear Medicine Technology are as follows:

Course Level

Eligibility Criteria

UG

  • Class 12 in PCB 
  • A minimum of 45% - 50%

PG

  • BSc degree in Nuclear Medicine or Physics/Chemistry/Mathematics/Radio-diagnosis/Radiotherapy/Life sciences with Physics as a subject from a recognized university/institute
Confused about which Course & Career to choose?
Take Shiksha Career Test and make the right Course & Career decision!
Get Unique Recommendations based on your Personality, Hidden Strengths and Natural Abilities

Nuclear Medicine Technology Entrance Exams

Entrance exams are often a requirement for admission into Nuclear Medicine Technology programs at colleges and universities. These exams help institutions assess the academic preparedness and qualifications of applicants. 

While specific entrance exams may vary from one institution to another, here are some common components and considerations:

Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Schedule

IIT JAM

11 Feb '24

IIT JAM Schedule

NEET

May ‘24

NEET Schedule

NEET PG

March ‘24

NEET PG Schedule

Note: The Exam Dates for 2024 are tentative.

Nuclear Medicine Technology Syllabus

The specific syllabus for Nuclear Medicine Technology can vary from one educational institution to another. Candidates must note that the Nuclear Medicine Technology syllabus may differ based on the institution's educational approach. 

However, here are some common subjects and topics that candidates can expect to find in a Nuclear Medicine Technology syllabus:

Semesters

Syllabus

Semester 1

  • Introduction to Nuclear Medicine
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Radiation Physics and Safety
  • Radiopharmacy and Radiochemistry

Semester 2

  • Nuclear Medicine Instrumentation
  • Radiobiology and Radiation Protection
  • Patient Care and Communication
  • Nuclear Cardiology

Semester 3

  • Radiopharmaceutical Preparation
  • Special Procedures in Nuclear Medicine
  • Radiation Safety Procedures
  • Clinical Practice II

Semester 4 

  • Clinical Correlations and Case Studies
  • Quality Control in Nuclear Medicine
  • Pediatric Nuclear Medicine
  • Professional Ethics and Legal Issues

Semester 5

  • Nuclear Medicine Management and Leadership
  • Emerging Technologies in Nuclear Medicine
  • Review for Certification Exam
  • Capstone Project

Click here to view the detailed Nuclear Medicine Technology syllabus.

Nuclear Medicine Technology Specialisations

The aspiring students can make their career in the following specialisations in the nuclear medicine field:

  • Nuclear Medicine Radiologist
  • Nuclear Pharmacist
  • Nuclear Medicine Physicist
  • Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Top Nuclear Medicine Technology Colleges

There are several well-known institutions that offer courses in Nuclear Medicine Technology in India. Candidates must note that admission to Nuclear Medicine Technology can be highly competitive, and eligibility criteria may vary. 

Here are some of the popular colleges in India that are known for offering Nuclear Medicine Technology courses.

Top Government Nuclear Medicine Technology Colleges

JIPMER Puducherry, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, AIIMS Rishikesh, and Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences are some popular government colleges that offer Nuclear Medicine Technology. Candidates can check the popular government colleges offering Nuclear Medicine Technology in the table below. 

College Name

Total Fees (in INR)

JIPMER Puducherry 

4,800 - 46,600

Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences

1.1 Lakh - 1.8 Lakh

AIIMS Rishikesh 

1.1 Lakh

Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences

1.2 Lakh

Top Private Nuclear Medicine Technology Colleges

Christian Medical College, Manipal College of Health Professions, VMU, and The Global Open University are some popular private colleges that offer Nuclear Medicine Technology. Candidates can check the popular private colleges offering Nuclear Medicine Technology in the table below. 

College Name

Total Fees (in INR)

Christian Medical College

1,800 - 2,400

Manipal College of Health Professions

3.3 Lakh - 5.2 Lakh

VMU

3.8 Lakh

The Global Open University

28,100

Nuclear Medicine Technology Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

Nuclear Medicine Technology offers a growing career scope in India. Nuclear Medicine Technology continues to be an integral part of the healthcare industry, contributing to both diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of patient care. 

The emergence of complex ailments worldwide has produced a huge demand for nuclear medicine professionals. This discipline has been considered one of the fastest-growing fields worldwide. However, if we talk about India, there are at present around 234 nuclear medicine centres and every year around 20-30 new nuclear facilities are added. 

Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of healthcare professionals, including those in diagnostic imaging, and may further emphasize the need for skilled professionals in the healthcare sector in India.

Nuclear Medicine Technology Average Salary

The scope of a graduate in nuclear medicine is huge and very promising. We have come up with a list of job opportunities along with their job description, responsibilities and average annual salary.       

Job Position

Job Description

Average Annual Salary

Radiologist

Radiologists perform image-guided procedures and medical doctors trained in executing and interpreting medical images like X-rays, CT scans & others

INR 330,000

Research Assistant

A research assistant is expected to contribute in many ways like carrying out a particular research agenda and typical responsibilities include conducting literature reviews.

INR 240,000

Associate & Lab Leader

The associate and lab Leader is responsible for scheduling lab or lab equipment for the utility of the staff and sometimes is also responsible for the purchase of lab equipment.

INR 500,000

Professor

They impart education in the mathematics department or conduct seminars in specific areas of mathematics.

INR 900,000

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

They operate equipment like X-rays, CT scans, etc. and also prepare radioactive drugs and administer the patients.

INR 700,000

Nuclear Medicine Technology Top Recruiters

The Indian radiology market is multi-segmented and caters to the demands of private imaging centres, large hospitals, small academic and diagnostic centres, and government health centres.  Here is the list of top Nuclear medicine companies worldwide that hire skilled graduates in the field of nuclear medicine:

  • Narayana Health 
  • Advanced Accelerator Applications 
  • Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge 
  • GE Healthcare Life Sciences
  • Nuclear Research and Consultancy Group

Nuclear Medicine Technology FAQs

Q. What is the Nuclear Medicine Technology?

A. Nuclear Medicine Technology courses in India are educational programs designed to train individuals in the field of nuclear medicine. Nuclear Medicine is a medical speciality that uses radioactive materials, called radiopharmaceuticals, to diagnose and treat various medical conditions. 

Nuclear Medicine Technologists play a crucial role in this field by operating imaging equipment, preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals, and assisting physicians in diagnosing and treating patients.

Q. What is the scope of BSc Nuclear Medicine Technology?

A. A BSc Nuclear Medicine Technology offers a promising career path in the field of nuclear medicine and healthcare. 

Graduates of this program can work as Nuclear Medicine Technologists. These professionals play a critical role in diagnostic imaging and patient care. They operate imaging equipment, prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals, and assist physicians in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions.

Candidates who have a BSc Nuclear Medicine Technology degree can opt for employment in Hospitals and Clinics, Diagnostic Imaging, Radiopharmacy, 

Q. Is Nuclear Medicine a good career?

A. Yes, Nuclear medicine can be a rewarding and fulfilling career for individuals who are interested in healthcare, medical imaging, and the use of radioactive materials for diagnosis and treatment. Whether it's a good career choice for one depends on their interests, strengths, and long-term career goals. If candidates have a genuine interest in healthcare and a desire to help diagnose and treat medical conditions, nuclear medicine can be a fulfilling career.

Ultimately, if candidates have a passion for healthcare, technology, and helping people, and they are willing to commit to the required education and training, nuclear medicine can be a good and meaningful career choice. 

Q. Is a Nuclear Medicine Technologist a doctor?

A. No, a Nuclear Medicine Technologist is not a doctor. A Nuclear Medicine Technologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the use of radioactive materials and imaging equipment to perform diagnostic tests and imaging procedures on patients. 

Their role is critical in assisting physicians and other healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions, but they do not hold a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathy (DO) degree.

Nuclear Medicine Technologists are vital members of the healthcare team, but they are not medical doctors. They play a crucial role in conducting diagnostic imaging tests and supporting the diagnostic process, but the interpretation of results and medical decision-making are typically the responsibilities of licensed physicians.

Q. Does Nuclear Medicine need NEET?

A. No, NEET is not needed for Nuclear Medicine Technology. It is typically associated with medical and dental undergraduate courses, including MBBS and BDS programs. NEET is not a standardized entrance exam for all healthcare-related courses. 

Nuclear Medicine Technology programs have their own entrance exams or admission criteria, which can include a combination of factors such as academic qualifications, entrance tests, and interviews, depending on the university or institution's policies.

Q. Which is better Nuclear Medicine Technology or Radiation Therapist?

A. Nuclear Medicine Technology primarily involves the use of radioactive materials (radiopharmaceuticals) to diagnose and treat medical conditions. It focuses on imaging techniques that show how organs and tissues function at a molecular level.

On the other hand, Radio Therapy is a branch of medical radiologic technology that focuses on the treatment of cancer and other medical conditions using high-energy radiation beams.

Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the two courses.

Parameters

Nuclear Medicine Technology 

Radiation Therapist

Course Level

UG, PG, Doctorate, Diploma

UG, PG and Diploma

Course Duration

3 years

2 years

Course Fees

INR 1,800 - INR 5.2 Lakh

INR 4,800 - INR 1.4 Crore

Entrance Exams

IIT JAM, NEET, NEET PG, INI CET, etc.

CUET, NEET PG, TJEE, NEET MDS, etc.

Popular Colleges

Christian Medical College, JIPMER, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, etc.

Christian Medical College, JIPMER Puducherry, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, etc.

Job Profiles

Radiologist, Research Assistant, Associate & Lab Leader, etc.

X-Ray Technician, Radiographer, Therapy Radiographer, etc.

Average Salary

INR 2.4 LPA - INR 9 LPA

INR 2 LPA - INR 7 LPA

Top Recruiters

Narayana Health, Cavendish Laboratory, GE Healthcare Life Sciences, etc.

AIIMS, Columbia Asia, Apollo Hospital, CMC, etc.

Popular Nuclear Medicine Technology Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Nuclear Medicine Technology Colleges in India. Learn more about these Nuclear Medicine Technology colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
1 Course
5.0
1.25 LPA

#1 NIRF

2 Courses
1.8 K - 2.4 K
6.41 LPA

#3 NIRF

2 Courses
4.8 K - 46.58 K
6 - 24 LPA

#5 NIRF

3 Courses
1.05 L - 1.75 L
26.5 LPA

#7 NIRF

1 Course
1.11 L

#22 NIRF

1 Course

#25 NIRF

Popular Private Nuclear Medicine Technology Colleges in India

3.3 L - 5.19 L
6.8 - 11.68 LPA

Top 25 in Karnataka

Nuclear Medicine Technology Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
5.0
1.25 LPA

#1 NIRF

2 Courses
1.8 K - 2.4 K
6.41 LPA

#3 NIRF

2 Courses
4.8 K - 46.58 K
6 - 24 LPA

#5 NIRF

3 Courses
1.05 L - 1.75 L
26.5 LPA

#7 NIRF

1 Course
1.11 L

#22 NIRF

Most Popular Courses

Following are the most popular Nuclear Medicine Technology courses, based on alumni reviews. Explore these reviews to choose the best course in Nuclear Medicine Technology.

Popular Nuclear Medicine Technology UG Courses in India

Following are the most popular Nuclear Medicine Technology UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Nuclear Medicine Technology PG Courses in India

Following are the most popular Nuclear Medicine Technology PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

We use cookies to improve your experience. By continuing to browse the site, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.