What does it take to be a radiologist?

Educational requirements

* Bachelor's degree (typically in a science-based field, such as biology, chemistry, or physics)

* Medical degree (M.D. or D.O.)

* Residency training in radiology (typically four years)

Licensing and board certification

* States typically require radiologists to be licensed.

* The American Board of Radiology (ABR) offers board certification in radiology. To become board-certified, radiologists must pass a written exam and an oral exam.

Skills and qualities

* Strong analytical skills

* Excellent communication skills

* Good hand-eye coordination

* Patience

* Attention to detail

* The ability to work independently and as part of a team

Career opportunities

Radiologists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice. Some radiologists specialize in a particular area of radiology, such as diagnostic imaging, interventional radiology, or radiation oncology.

The job outlook for radiologists is expected to be excellent in the coming years, due to the increasing demand for medical imaging services.