Nuclear Medicine Training

The Clinical Radiology Training Program is changing - click here to find out more

What is Nuclear Medicine?

Nuclear medicine is a subspecialty of radiology which involves the use of radioactive medication (radiopharmaceuticals) to diagnose and treat disease. These radioactive materials are usually injected into a vein, but are sometimes swallowed or inhaled.

A gamma camera tracks the movement of the radiopharmaceuticals from outside the body by detecting the gamma radiation emitted by the medication. Depending on the type of test, two or three dimensional images of the internal body can be created.

Radiopharmaceuticals can be used to treat hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, solid tumours and bone metastases.

Dual Clinical Radiology Training and Nuclear Medicine Training

Clinical radiology trainees are provided with an opportunity to undertake Nuclear Medicine Training while completing their clinical radiology training, thus completing a dual credential.

Nuclear medicine training is administered by the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) and supported by the College through a joint college training program made up of representatives of the RACP and The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR).

Eligibility

Clinical Radiology trainees can apply for Nuclear Medicine Training on completion of Phase 2 (end of year 4) of their training for commencement in Phase 3 (year 5 and year 6) following successful completion of Clinical Radiology Part 2 Examinations. 

Clinical Radiology trainees are also expected to fulfil the requirements of their Clinical Radiology Training including all assessments and research, prior to commencing nuclear medicine training. See Clinical Radiology Assessments page.

From 2022 onwards, trainees must submit a Certificate of Confirmation letter to the RACP confirming completion of their training requirements. If you are planning to start Nuclear Medicine Training, contact the College to discuss your transition arrangement and to obtain a confirmation letter via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Training Program

RANZCR trainees complete 24 months of full-time equivalent core training in a training position at an accredited training site, including work-based assessments, teaching and learning requirements and other requirements.

Successful RANZCR trainees are issued a letter confirming their satisfactory completion of the Nuclear Medicine Program with accreditation to practice as a Specialist in Nuclear Medicine in Australia or New Zealand.

Applications for Nuclear Medicine Training

Clinical radiology trainees must first gain a nuclear medicine training position and then apply through the RACP joint Nuclear Medicine training program. The RACP will register new trainees into the training program and will advise RANZCR of their registration.

The RACP will advise the College of a trainee’s completion of the Nuclear Medicine training program. The College is then able to verify confirmation of Nuclear Medicine Credentials.

For more information visit the RACP website

College Membership

The College recognises that those members enrolled in nuclear medicine training are still in training and offers discounted membership subscription fees (student rate) while enrolled in the Nuclear Medicine training program. Participants may be asked to verify enrolment in the nuclear medicine training program.

See our fees page