How Do I Become a Radiological Engineer?

A radiological engineer is a person who works in a variety of settings concerning the use of nuclear materials and its impact on people, places, and things. In order to become a radiological engineer, you will first need to complete a high school education, taking special care to excel in math and science courses. You will then need to enroll in a college program that will prepare you to become a radiological engineer. While in school, it helps to develop a sense of your career path, as this may impact what level of education you will need to pursue.

Some engineers, for example, can find the work they want to pursue after earning a bachelor's degree. Others may only become a radiological engineer after earning a master's degree or PhD. You can earn a bachelor's degree and enter the field of radiological engineering, then choose to go back to school later if applicable. Some companies may even encourage you to continue your education by paying for coursework that will ultimately end in a master's degree or PhD. Some engineers, however, choose to simply earn a bachelor's degree and continue to work in the field without any further education.

Choose a college or university carefully. If you want to become a radiological engineer, you will need to have a competitive resumé, which means you will need to get a good education. Try to find an accredited institution with a reputable program, and find out if that school will help you secure an internship during your tenure as a student. Internships will give you on the job experience valued by potential employers, and they can help you develop contacts within the industry that may end up leading to a job after you graduate from the program. The school may also have career services that will help you find employment and even help you prepare a resumé.

Once you become a radiological engineer, you should expect to take part in professional development that keeps you abreast of new developments within the field. Some employers will require that you take part in job training throughout your career, which may involve simply taking courses or attending seminars, or it may involve enrolling in a degree program to attain higher qualifications such as a master's degree or PhD. Such education will make you a more valuable candidate for promotions or better jobs within the industry.