Choosing a healthcare career can be a major decision, especially for students interested in medical imaging, patient care, and advanced diagnostic technology. The Keiser University Nuclear Medicine Program offers an Associate of Science degree designed for students who want to enter the field of nuclear medicine technology.
Nuclear medicine technologists work with specialized imaging equipment and radioactive materials to help healthcare providers diagnose and treat medical conditions. Keiser University’s program combines classroom education with clinical training, giving students exposure to areas such as radiation safety, nuclear medicine procedures, PET/CT, radiopharmacy, physics, and patient care.
What Is the Keiser University Nuclear Medicine Program?
The Keiser University Nuclear Medicine Technology AS is an Associate of Science degree program focused on preparing students for entry-level work as nuclear medicine technologists.
The current program requires 93 credit hours and is listed by Keiser University as approximately 24 months, although completion time can vary depending on transfer credits and individual circumstances. The university currently lists the program as available on campus.
Students learn how radioactive materials and specialized imaging technologies can be used to visualize, diagnose, and help treat medical conditions. The curriculum also places significant attention on patient care and radiation safety.
What Do Students Learn?
The curriculum covers both scientific concepts and practical nuclear medicine procedures. Some of the major courses listed by Keiser University include:
- Nuclear Medicine Seminar
- Radiation Safety and Health Physics
- Nuclear Medicine Methodology
- Nuclear Medicine Instrumentation
- Nuclear Medicine Physics
- PET/CT Procedures and Radiopharmacy
- Clinical Rotations
- Methodology courses
- Nuclear Medicine Capstone Course
The program includes 63 credit hours of nuclear medicine major courses and 30 credit hours of general education coursework.
This combination can be useful for students who want a healthcare education that includes biology, chemistry, physics, medical technology, and direct patient interaction.
Keiser University Nuclear Medicine Program Requirements
Admission requirements for the major include several academic and screening requirements.
According to Keiser University, students must complete required general education courses with at least a C grade. Prerequisite coursework includes:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I
- Human Anatomy and Physiology II
- General Physics
- College Algebra
- General Chemistry with Laboratory
A 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale is also listed as a requirement before beginning the major courses. A background check and drug screening may also apply.
Because nuclear medicine involves radiation, specialized equipment, pharmaceuticals, and patient care, students should be prepared for a science-focused academic workload.
Clinical Training and Hands-On Education
One of the major components of a nuclear medicine technology degree is clinical education. Students need more than classroom knowledge because nuclear medicine technologists work directly with patients, imaging systems, radioactive materials, and healthcare teams.
Keiser University states that its program includes clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare facilities, including hospitals and imaging clinics. During clinical education, students can gain practical experience with patient procedures, imaging equipment, documentation, and other responsibilities performed by nuclear medicine professionals.
The program includes multiple clinical rotation courses, allowing students to build their technical skills progressively throughout the degree.
PET/CT and Radiopharmacy Training
PET/CT is an important area within modern nuclear medicine. Keiser University includes PET/CT Procedures & Radiopharmacy in the nuclear medicine curriculum.
Students studying this area learn concepts related to PET imaging, radiopharmaceuticals, imaging procedures, and the safe handling and application of radioactive materials.
This type of education can be valuable for students interested in specialized medical imaging careers because PET and hybrid imaging technologies are used in areas such as oncology, cardiology, and other diagnostic applications.
Nuclear Medicine Certification
Completing the degree is one step toward entering the profession. Professional certification can also be an important part of a nuclear medicine technologist’s career path.
Keiser University states that graduates are eligible to sit for national certification examinations administered by organizations including the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB).
Certification requirements can change, and eligibility does not automatically mean certification is guaranteed. Students should check the current requirements directly with the relevant credentialing organization before applying for an examination.
How Much Does the Keiser University Nuclear Medicine Program Cost?
The total cost of attending a nuclear medicine technology program depends on several factors, including tuition, fees, books, supplies, transportation, and other educational expenses.
Keiser University provides financial services information for eligible students and advises applicants to speak with a financial aid counselor about available funding options. The university notes that financial aid may be available to students who qualify.
Students should request a current tuition and fee estimate directly from the university before making an enrollment decision. Comparing the total program cost with potential career earnings, certification expenses, and other education costs can help students plan their budget.
Where Can Nuclear Medicine Technologists Work?
Graduates may pursue employment in several healthcare settings. Potential workplaces include:
- Hospitals
- Diagnostic imaging centers
- Medical imaging facilities
- Outpatient healthcare facilities
- Specialized diagnostic departments
- Other healthcare organizations offering nuclear medicine services
The daily responsibilities of a nuclear medicine technologist may include preparing patients, operating specialized imaging equipment, following radiation protection procedures, documenting procedures, and working with physicians and other healthcare professionals.
Is Keiser University Nuclear Medicine Program Worth Considering?
The program may be a strong option for students who enjoy science and technology and want a healthcare career involving medical imaging and patient care.
Its combination of classroom education, laboratory-related scientific subjects, clinical rotations, radiation safety, PET/CT, and radiopharmacy gives students exposure to several important areas of nuclear medicine technology.
The program is currently listed as accredited at Keiser University’s Lakeland campus by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT). Students should verify the current accreditation status of the specific campus and program before enrolling.
Final Thoughts
The Keiser University Nuclear Medicine Program provides a specialized pathway for students interested in medical imaging and healthcare technology. The Associate of Science program consists of 93 credit hours and combines general education, nuclear medicine coursework, clinical rotations, radiation safety, PET/CT education, and a capstone experience.
Before applying, prospective students should review the latest admission requirements, tuition and fees, campus availability, financial aid options, clinical requirements, accreditation information, and certification eligibility. Speaking with a Keiser University admissions or financial aid representative can also help applicants determine whether the program fits their academic and career plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Keiser University Nuclear Medicine Program?
Keiser University lists the Associate of Science Nuclear Medicine Technology program at approximately 24 months, with completion time varying based on transfer credits and individual circumstances.
How many credits are required?
The current program requires 93 credit hours, including 63 credits of nuclear medicine major courses and 30 credits of general education.
What GPA is required for the nuclear medicine major?
Keiser University lists a 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale among the requirements for entering the major courses.
Does the program include clinical training?
Yes. The program includes multiple clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare facilities, including hospitals and imaging clinics.
Can graduates take a nuclear medicine certification exam?
Keiser University states that graduates are eligible to sit for national certification examinations administered by ARRT and NMTCB, subject to the applicable certification requirements.