Radiology is a field of medicine that deals with the use of imaging technology, like x-rays, CT scans and MRIs to treat and diagnose patients. Within this special field, there are several career paths medical professionals can choose to follow. Each of these varies in responsibility, salary, and training and education requirements.

The highest level of radiology professional is a radiologist, a specialized physician that is trained to take and interpret medical images. They are also tasked with matching the results of the medical imaging with results from other tests and examinations. Radiologists also treat illnesses with the use of radiation, like radiation oncology and nuclear medicine. Only 1.2 percent of physicians decide to specialize in this field. To become a radiologist, an individual must obtain a four year bachelor’s degree, earn an MD degree from an accredited medical school, become licensed to practice medicine and complete a required residency program. Following the completion of a residency, radiologists can participate in an extended fellowship program that will provide them will more training in a subspecialty of radiology, like breast imaging, cardiovascular radiology, chest radiology, emergency radiology, musculoskeletal radiology and more. A radiologist generally earns around $100,000 per year.

Radiologists are generally assisted by radiologic technologists. These professionals can earn a two or four year degree and must be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Technologists explain the procedure to the patient, put them into proper position, adjust the correct setting on the equipment and other general procedures. The average salary for a radiologic technologist is around $45,000 per year. A radiologic technologist can obtain advanced education and training in order to become a radiologist assistant (RA), who works very closely with the radiologist. RAs can be tasked with making initial evaluations of the images, managing patients and obtaining a high quality image. This position is relatively new to the field and there are a limited number of RA programs available across the country.

Radiologic nurses are registered nurses that specialize in providing well rounded care for patients undergoing radiological procedures. Their care can include providing emotional support, creating an overall care plan, and treatment education. They can also assist radiologist or other health care professionals with examinations, treatments and procedures. The average salary for an experienced radiology nurse is around $60,000 per year.

For those interested in a career in radiology, the field provides a wide variety of professional options. From radiologists to technologists to nurses, radiology is a growing field that is seeking trained medical professionals.