Overview
Advance your career in medical imaging with a career in nuclear medicine. With courses specialized in anatomy, physiology, radiopharmacy and patient care — along with imaging techniques and procedures — prepare for a career using high-tech instruments and radioactive drugs to help diagnose and treat disease.
Nuclear medicine technology uses radiopharmaceuticals (radioactive drugs) and specialized equipment to help diagnose and treat diseases. The Nuclear Medicine Technology (NMT) program is a two-year, full-time program where students are trained as nuclear medicine technologists, ready to work with patients and medical staff in clinical nuclear medicine settings.
In the first year of the Nuclear Medicine Technology program, students will complete studies in patient communication and management, professional practice, radiation physics, computed tomography, anatomy and physiology, radionuclide instrumentation, nuclear medicine procedures, radiopharmacy, quality control, clinical integration, phlebotomy and intravenous injections, and radiation safety.
The second year of the NMT program involves online courses focusing on instrumentation, dosimetry, pathology, advanced computers, research and clinical integration. Students will also concurrently complete three clinical practica where they rotate through all areas of nuclear medicine, applying what they have learned while in these clinical settings.
Interprovincial Health Training Agreements
SAIT offers reserved seats in nuclear medicine for Saskatchewan and Manitoba students. Limited space available, call 403.284.8500 to learn more.
Is this the right fit for me?
Basic to intermediate computer skills are necessary for this field. An acceptable computer skill level would include the ability to use word processing, spreadsheets and communication software. Educational interaction in this program depends on these computer skills. It is the student's responsibility to ensure the adequacy of these skills prior to the program admission. In addition, students are expected to spend approximately 20 hours per week outside of class studying.
Health care practitioners are detail-oriented in the care they provide, utilize critical thinking practice, are eager, persevere and enjoy working in a team environment.
Students who experience success in this program have the following characteristics:
- ability to handle unpleasant situations
- capable of lifting heavy objects and patients
- standing for extended periods of time
- working in difficult physical positions
- good hand and finger dexterity and stamina
- strong vision and hearing
Because of the nature of this work, students must be capable of lifting heavy patients, standing for long periods of time, and working in awkward physical positions
Individuals with previous chronic or repetitive strain injuries have experienced re-injury or aggravation of these conditions in this program and/or as a technologist.
Students who experience success in this program have effective communication skills in English and have achieved higher secondary or post-secondary marks in the past.
Accreditation
Graduates are eligible to challenge the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) certification exam which is a requirement for registration and employment for registered nuclear medicine technologists in Canada.
Graduates are also eligible to challenge the American Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board exam.
The Nuclear Medicine Technology program delivered by SAIT is accredited by Accreditation Canada. The program also works closely with our Diagnostic Imaging Advisory Committee to ensure that our curriculum continues to meet or exceed provincial and national accreditation standards.
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Nuclear Medicine Technology diploma.
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Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities in hospitals, community clinics, private laboratories, research and teaching institutions. Potential positions include:
- nuclear medicine technologist
- healthcare technologist
Related careers include:
- magnetic resonance technologist
- radiation therapist
Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $8,434
Year 2: $7,068
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and achieve at least 50% on the scoring rubric for the School of Health and Public Safety’s Entrance Testing Process. Admission is offered on a first-qualified, first offered basis, until the program is full.
When can you apply?
- Applications for fall 2022 will open Oct. 6, 2021, be accepted until March 1, 2022.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | June 23, 2023 |
Nuclear Medicine Technology
This diploma program teaches the medical radiologic technologist to be responsible for the safe and competent operation of a wide range of X-ray generating machines, film processing units and accessory equipment.
Admission requirements
Application dates
- Fall 2022 start: applications are accepted from Oct 6, 2021, to March 1, 2022.
- Please note: Access to the NMT Profession Specific Entrance Assessment will close end of day on March 18, 2022.
*This program does not accept international students.
Program requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- At least 60% in Math 30-1 or Pure Math 30, or at least 70% in Math 30-2,
- At least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1,
- At least 60% in Chemistry 30,
- At least 60% in either Biology 30 or Physics 30 or Math 31.
All applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.
Successful applicants must meet or exceed 50% on the scoring rubric for the School of Health and Public Safety’s Entrance Testing Process.
Admission is offered on a first-qualified, first-offered basis until the program is full.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission. If you don't meet the requirements, consider Academic Upgrading.
SAIT evaluates international documents for admissions. After you've applied, consider our international document assessment service if your education is from outside of Canada. SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions. Find more information here.
Direct entry: five-step process
Step 1: Read the program information to see the qualities needed for student success.
Step 2: Review the information related to the necessary components of the School of Health and Public Safety Entrance Testing Process
Step 3: Complete the School of Health and Public Safety Entrance Testing Process non-academic admission requirement. Ensure that you meet all of the academic admission requirements listed above.
Step 4: Apply to the Nuclear Medicine Technology program and submit your transcripts and/or anticipated final grades prior to the application close date.
Step 5: Log in to mySAIT.ca to check your admission status. Find out how to monitor your application status.
Failure to meet anticipated final grades will result in offers being rescinded.
Communication during admission
Email is the primary source of communication during the admission process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. We recommend you add diagnostic.imaging@sait.ca and the sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.
Practicum requirements
The School of Health and Public Safety has many practica partners located within Alberta and across Canada. Practicum placements in Calgary are limited and students may be required to relocate outside of Calgary for practicum.
Successful candidates will be informed of the allocation of their practicum placement by the program at a later date. There is no guarantee that students will be placed at their desired practicum location. Special considerations of personal circumstances will not be given in regards to assigning practicum placements. Students will be responsible for fees associated with practicum such as entrance requirements, relocation and travel costs.
In compliance with the practica agreements with our clinical partners, successful candidates will be requested to provide proof of the following requirements:
- Current Heart and Stroke Foundation Health Care Provider Level (C) CPR
- Updated immunization records
- Security clearance - Police Information Check including Vulnerable Sector Check
- N95 respiratory mask fitting
- Health and wellness status
Courses
Program Outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
First Year
Semester 1 - Fall
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANPH-215 | Anatomy and Physiology | 3.0 |
| NMED-210 | Professional Practice | 3.0 |
| NMED-220 | Quality Control I | 1.5 |
| PHAR-230 | Radiopharmacy I | 1.5 |
| PHYS-209 | Radiation Physics | 3.0 |
| RADP-210 | Radiation Protection | 3.0 |
| Semester 1 Total | 15.0 | |
Semester 2 - Winter
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| INFC-215 | Infection Prevention and Control | 1.5 |
| MRAD-251 | Computed Tomography Theory I | 3.0 |
| NMED-251 | Clinical Procedures I | 3.0 |
| NMED-260 | Instrumentation I | 1.5 |
| NMED-270 | Quality Control II | 3.0 |
| PHAR-262 | Radiopharmacy II | 3.0 |
| Semester 2 Total | 15.0 | |
Semester 3 - Spring/Summer
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| MRAD-281 | Computed Tomography Theory II | 1.5 |
| NMED-256 | Patient Care | 1.5 |
| NMED-275 | Clinical Integration I | 1.5 |
| NMED-291 | Clinical Procedures II | 3.0 |
| PHLB-236 | Phlebotomy and Intravenous Injections | 1.5 |
| Semester 3 Total | 9.0 | |
| First Year Total |
39.0 | |
Second Year
Semester 4 - Fall
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| NMED-310* | Instrumentation II | 1.5 |
| NMED-320* | Dosimetry | 1.5 |
| NMED-331* | Applied Clinical Procedures I | 3.0 |
| PRAC-309 | Practicum I | 6.0 |
| Semester 4 Total | 12.0 | |
Semester 5 - Winter
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| NMED-350* | Advanced Computers | 1.5 |
| NMED-381* | Applied Clinical Procedures II | 3.0 |
| PRAC-322 | Practicum II | 6.0 |
| Semester 5 Total | 10.5 | |
Semester 6 - Spring/Summer
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| NMED-360* | Research for Allied Health | 1.5 |
| NMED-390* | Clinical Integration II | 1.5 |
| PRAC-343 | Practicum III | 6.0 |
| Semester 6 Total | 9.0 | |
| Second Year Total | 31.5 | |
| Program Total | 70.5 | |
|
* Note: All theory courses for the second year of the Nuclear Medicine Technology program are delivered in a totally online format. The courses must be completed within the time frame shown in the program outline. Please contact the Academic Chair prior to enrolling in any online or correspondence courses. |
||
Progression
Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education through transfer in, within or on from SAIT is available. Visit transfer options to learn more.
Costs 2021/22
Domestic tuition and fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health and dental plan | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $7,101 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $8,434 |
| 2 | $5,735 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $7,068 |
*Fees and tuition are based on a two-semester full course load structure. There may be additional fees for practicums and terms held outside of this time frame.
SAIT fees
- Campus athletic and recreation fee: $183.20
- Universal transit pass (Upass): $310
- Student support fee: $150
- Student technology fee: $150
Health and dental fees
Domestic students
- Health plan: $122
- Dental plan: $130
Students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Please refer to Saitsa's website for information.
Books and supplies*
Books and supplies are approximately $2,600 in the first year and $1,200 in the second year.
There is a $75 CompTracker user fee per semester.
Students are responsible for any additional expenses related to their practica (i.e. relocation costs if placed outside of Calgary, food, housing, transportation, etc.).
Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) exam fees are approximately $175.
Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) certification exam fees are approx $840 with an additional $125 exam administration fee.
The student registration fee to the Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists (approx $100).
There is a fee associated with obtaining a police information check including a Vulnerable Sector Check, payable to the Police or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
Students must have their immunizations reviewed by the SAIT Health Clinic. There is a $75 charge to review vaccine history. Any vaccines to be administered will result in additional charges.
There is a fee, approximately $50-$100, associated with an Electronic Student Permit Checking submission which is required for clinical practicum placements, payable to Synergy Gateway through the Verified software platform.
For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a computer that meets the program's hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Costs 2022/23
Domestic tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $200
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | $7,800 | $1,214 | $698.50 | $9,712.50 |
| 2 | 3 | $6,300 | $1,214 | $698.50 | $8,212.50 |
*Maximum fee. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits a student takes per semester and whether they opt-out of health and dental benefits.
SAIT fees
- Campus athletic and recreation fee: $294
- Universal transit pass (Upass): $320
- Student support fee: $300
- Student technology fee: $300
Saitsa fees
Student Association fee
- Maximum: $436.50
This is the maximum amount the student will pay. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits the students take per semester.
Health and dental fees
- Health plan: $127
- Dental plan: $135
Students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Please refer to Saitsa's website for information.
Books and supplies*
Books and supplies are approximately $2,600 in the first year and $1,200 in the second year.
There is a $75 CompTracker user fee per semester.
Students are responsible for any additional expenses related to their practica (i.e. relocation costs if placed outside of Calgary, food, housing, transportation, etc.).
Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) exam fees are approximately $175.
Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) certification exam fees are approx $840 with an additional $125 exam administration fee.
The student registration fee to the Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists (approx $100).
There is a fee associated with obtaining a police information check including a Vulnerable Sector Check, payable to the Police or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
Students must have their immunizations reviewed by the SAIT Health Clinic. There is a $75 charge to review vaccine history. Any vaccines to be administered will result in additional charges.
There is a fee, approximately $50-$100, associated with an Electronic Student Permit Checking submission which is required for clinical practicum placements, payable to Synergy Gateway through the Verified software platform.
For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a computer that meets the program's hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Next steps for incoming students
Have you been accepted to this program? Here's what you'll need for your first day of classes.
✅ Plan ahead ❗️
You are required to complete several health, confidentiality and consent forms before starting your program. All completed and signed paperwork is needed on orientation day.
Ensure you complete all three steps below ahead of orientation.
Fall 2021
Orientation
Your program orientation will take place Sept 1 on campus (optional) and Sept. 2 online. Check your schedule in mySAIT for the time and location details.
Learn more about your orientation.
We are expecting to meet you at new student orientation. Important program information is discussed to ensure you are prepared to begin classes which start on day one. Orientation is a mandatory part of your learning experience to ensure student success.p
How to register for classes
You'll follow a fixed block registration process to enrol in your classes. Learn how to register on our registration and schedules page.
Computers and laptops
This is a bring your own device program with a standard hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Required equipment/tools
You will be evaluated on your level of competency performance during practicum which is logged using a tracking system called CompTracker . There is a required user license fee billed on a per semester basis. Each program will have a different student fee depending on how the system is used within the program. More information will be shared at orientation
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
The industry-approved PPE you'll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes.
Required uniform: In order to prepare for the classes that require the use of a uniform, please read the uniform requirements document.
Other requirements
- CPRS 001 BLS Provider (Level C) CPR course
- N95 respiratory mask fit-testing
- Police Information Clearance with Vulnerable Sector Check
- Immunization record
- Health and Wellness Status
Preparation courses
To support your success, you’ll be automatically registered in two short courses to prepare you for the academic year:
PERS 050: Student Rights and Responsibilities
This course is designed to introduce you to student rights and responsibilities at SAIT. You will learn about SAIT's rich and diverse community, become familiar with guidelines and procedures that create a safe, respectful learning experience for you, and gain practical tips for how you can engage in the SAIT community in a positive and responsible way. PRES-050 must be completed within 30 days from the start of the semester.
PREP 100: The SAIT Experience
Get tips and insider information on time management, exam preparation, effective notetaking and more through this free, online short course for new students. Plus, learn about discussion boards, online communication and submitting assignments online. Course completion is recommended by the end of your first semester.
Both courses can be accessed through Brightspace (D2L) before the first day of classes.
Required textbooks
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date.
Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you're in luck, no textbook purchase required this term.
Contact
Phone: 403.284.8481
Email: hps.info@sait.ca
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
Next steps for accepted students
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.
