How to Become a Veterinary Radiologist

Veterinary radiologists contribute greatly to the health and wellness of animals. They are specialists in imaging techniques used to diagnose and treat innumerable diseases. The radiologists use machines such as X-rays, CT scans and ultrasounds. To become a veterinary radiologist, you must study for several years and apply that education in a practical setting.

1. Earn a high school diploma. Earn good grades throughout high school because this will help you create study habits that will be needed for a career as a veterinary radiologist. Those grades will also help you get into a good veterinary school.

2. Volunteer at an animal hospital or local animal shelter. You will be able to learn about animal medical practice while there. Volunteering will help you acquire a medical perspective of what the animals need.

3. Apply for and attend a college or university. Major in courses such as biology or other related sciences. The sciences will be greatly used in the field. You also want to earn good grades to be accepted into a good veterinary school.

4. Apply for and attend veterinary school. You may have to take exam, interview or submit a written application with high school and college scores. You should contact the school of your choice to find out about application requirements.

5. Take and pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam or NAVLE. You can find more information about the exam and application process on the website of the National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.

6. Apply for an internship or work in a private practice as a veterinarian. You can also contact some of the veterinary hospitals for work. Work for two years to gain the necessary experience so you can go back to veterinary school for study in radiology.

7. Go back to veterinary school to obtain advanced study for a career as a veterinary radiologist. You can go to the website of the American College of Veterinary Radiology or ACVR to find an accredited program. You will receive advanced training, which should last three to four years.

8. Take and pass the board certification exam. You can find information about the exam on the website of ACVR. You will become a Diplomate of the ACVR and can now denote DACVR after your name.