If you're a fresh graduate or young professional looking for an exciting career in the healthcare industry, radiology could be the perfect choice for you. In India, there is a growing demand for skilled radiologists, and with technological advancements in medical imaging, this trend is expected to continue.
In this article, we will explore the Top Radiologist courses and career paths available after completing Class 12. Whether you choose to pursue undergraduate degrees or diploma courses or opt for certification programmes to upskill yourself further, we have got you covered.
What is Radiology?
Radiology is a branch of medicine that uses medical imaging technologies such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds to diagnose and treat diseases. Radiologists play an important role in the healthcare industry by helping physicians detect and diagnose diseases accurately. They are highly skilled professionals who work with cutting-edge technology to produce high-quality images.
Branches of Radiology
There are two main categories of radiology: Diagnostic radiology and interventional radiology.
- Diagnostic radiology involves identifying diseases using imaging technologies such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, etc.
- Interventional radiology involves performing minimally invasive procedures, such as biopsies or angioplasties, guided by imaging technologies.
Both fields require specialised training and expertise.
If you have an interest in technology, medicine, and patient care, then pursuing a career in radiology may be a great option for you.
Top Radiology Courses After 12th: Degrees
If you're interested in pursuing a career in radiology after completing your 12th grade exams, there are several undergraduate degree courses available that can help you gain the necessary skills and knowledge required for this field.
To pursue an undergraduate degree in radiology, you must have completed grade 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology as compulsory subjects.
B.Sc. Radiology/Radiography, Radio Therapy
B.Sc. Radiography course teaches students how to operate equipment such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, MRIs, etc. to diagnose medical conditions using radiation technology.
- Duration: 3 years
- Fees: ₹50,000-₹2 lakhs per annum
- Expected job roles: Medical Imaging Technologist, Radiation Therapist, Radiographer, Radiation Technologist, etc.
- Expected salary: ₹4–6 lakhs per annum
B.Sc. Medical (Radio) Imaging Technology
Medical Imaging Technology is another popular course for students interested in pursuing a degree in this field after class 12. In this programme, students learn about various medical imaging technologies such as MRI, CT scans, X-rays, and nuclear medicine.
- Duration: 3 years
- Fees: ₹20,000-₹1.5 lakhs per annum
- Expected job roles: Radiology Technologist, Imaging Technologist, Radiographer, etc.
- Expected salary: ₹3–5 lakhs per annum
B.Sc. Medical Laboratory Technology
The B.Sc. Medical Laboratory Technology course focuses on laboratory techniques used in the diagnosis of diseases. This degree programme teaches students how to use laboratory equipment to perform tests on bodily fluids and tissues to diagnose various diseases.
- Duration: 3 years
- Fees: ₹50,000-₹2 lakhs per annum
- Expected job roles: Medical Lab Technologist, Laboratory Technologist, Quality Control Technician, etc.
- Expected salary: ₹3–5 lakhs per annum
Radiology Courses After 12th: Diplomas and Certificates
Diploma courses in radiology provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the subject in a shorter period of time than undergraduate degrees. They offer hands-on training and practical experience that can be beneficial for those looking for quick employment opportunities or seeking to upskill. The eligibility criteria vary between institutes, but most require class 12 completion in the Science stream (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology).
Diploma in Radiology/Radiography
A Diploma in Radiography offers practical experience using diagnostic imaging equipment such as X-ray machines and ultrasound machines.
- Duration: 2 years
- Fees: ₹50,000-₹1 lakh per annum
- Expected job roles: Diagnostic Radiographer, Radiographer, Medical Transcriptionist, etc.
- Expected salary: ₹2–4 lakhs per annum
Diploma in Medical Lab Technology
The Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology programme teaches students about laboratory techniques used in the diagnosis of diseases. It provides hands-on training on how to use diagnostic equipment like microscopes, sample analyzers, and other equipment.
- Duration: 2 years
- Fees: ₹50,000-₹1 lakh per annum
- Expected job roles: Medical Lab Technologist, Lab Technician, Clinical Research Associate, etc.
- Expected salary: ₹2–4 lakhs per annum
Upskilling Certifications in Radiology
Upskilling certifications are also available for professionals already working within the radiology industry seeking to improve their knowledge and employability.
Certificate courses such as Certificate in Radiography Diagnostic, Certificate in Radiology Assistant, and Certificate In Radiology provide specialisations within different domains of radiology technology, enhancing skills required for different job profiles.
The duration of these courses varies from 6 to 12 months, and the fees range from ₹10,000 to 30,000.
Specialisations in Radiology
Radiology specialisations allow individuals to focus on a particular area of diagnostic or interventional imaging using their unique skill set and training.
Here are some common specialisations within radiology:
- Diagnostic Radiology: This involves identifying diseases by interpreting medical images such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, etc.
- Interventional Radiology: This involves performing minimally invasive procedures using medical imaging techniques.
- Nuclear medicine: This involves diagnosing and treating diseases using radioactive materials.
- Mammography: This involves diagnosing breast cancer through mammography imaging.
- Ultrasound: This involves medical imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce diagnostically relevant images of internal organs.
Each sub-specialisation requires a specific set of knowledge and skills beyond what is taught during the undergraduate degree programme.
Career Opportunities in Radiology
The demand for radiologists in India is growing rapidly due to the increased prevalence of diseases and disorders that require medical imaging for diagnosis and treatment.
The top employers hiring radiologists include hospitals, diagnostic centres, private clinics, and government organisations.
Salaries of Radiologists
The salaries for radiologists in India vary based on their experience, specialisation, location, employer type, etc.
According to payscale.com, here are the average salaries for a few job roles:
- Radiographer: ₹2-4 lakhs per annum
- Medical Lab Technologist: ₹3.9 lakhs per annum
- Medical Transcriptionist: ₹3 lakhs per annum
- Radiology/Diagnostic Imaging Director: ₹16 lakhs per annum
- Interventional Radiologist: ₹23 lakhs per annum
- Radiologist: ₹30 lakhs per annum
Boost Your Radiology Career
As technology advances and healthcare becomes more crucial, the demand for skilled radiologists in India is only set to grow. Pursuing a degree, diploma, or certificate course in radiology can help you kickstart your career and give you an edge over others.
With WIZR, you can get valuable guidance on choosing the right course and specialisation that aligns with your aspirations and upskilling requirements.
FAQs
1. Do we need an MBBS to pursue radiology as a career?
No, MBBS is not mandatory for pursuing a career in radiology. However, candidates must have completed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects.
2. Are computer skills mandatory to pursue Radiologist Courses?
Basic knowledge of computers is essential, as most hospitals today rely on electronic health records (EHR) systems and imaging software.
3. Is NEET required to pursue Radiologist Courses?
Yes, NEET scores are mandatory for admission into medical colleges and universities offering undergraduate radiology courses.
4. Are there any free online courses or resources available on Radiologist Courses?
Several MOOC platforms offer free online courses on various aspects of Radiology. However, accredited Certification or Diploma programmes may require fees, depending on the course provider or institution offering them.
