“What major in college do you choose for nuclear medicine?”

Almost any bachelor of science type of program is good but to my knowledge not an absolute requirement. Basic mathematics such as algebra (calculus is even better) and basic biology courses are very helpful. A nuclear medicine physician will need to go to medical school and obtain training in nuclear medicine as a residency thereafter. A nuclear technologist usually needs 2 years of college, such as an associates degree best in any science field, and then a nuclear technology training program which usually takes 1 to 2 years.

To be a nuclear medicine physician be sure to take at least introductory physics and chemistry, but get a liberal education, as you will be immersed in medicine intensely until your late 20's at least, and probably much longer.

For nuclear med. technology there are good programs, including mine at the University of Cincinnati. Check it out at cahs.uc.edu. You may be called on to perform ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging also, at many hospitals today, so be sure you learn how to do all these.

Sincerely,


Edward B. Silberstein, M.A., M.D.

Eugene L. and Sue R. Saenger Professor

of Radiological Health and Medicine, Emeritus

silbereb@uc.edu<mailto:silbereb@uc.edu>

(o) 513-584-2423

(c) 513-532-7367

Typically a pre/med or science based major. Courses that are helpful are mathematics, computer sciences, chemistry, biology and physics. If you would like to become a technologist, check with schools to learn requirements. If you are going into medicine, these subjects are required for medical school.