Nuclear and Industrial Radiologic Technologies at South Louisiana Community College
a compact campus enrolling 4,837 students in Lafayette, LA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $40,042/yr, roughly in line with the $44,012 national median for Nuclear and Industrial Radiologic Technologies. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 104.5x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Nuclear and Industrial Radiologic Technologies programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Nuclear and Industrial Radiologic Technologies's career paths, with 27% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 9% gap from the optimistic case.
With first-year pay of $40,042 far exceeding the $7,250 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
This program is one of 3 schools offering Nuclear and Industrial Radiologic Technologies in our dataset — a specialized trade with limited comparison points.
One registered apprenticeship pathway (Radiation Monitor with a median wage of $104,240/yr) connects to Nuclear and Industrial Radiologic Technologies careers, offering a paid training alternative to the classroom model.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Nuclear and Industrial Radiologic Technologies graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nuclear power reactor operators | $122,610 | -15.3% | 68% |
| Nuclear technicians | $104,240 | -7.7% | 77% |
About Nuclear and Industrial Radiologic Technologies Careers
Your career in nuclear technology places you at the heart of critical energy infrastructure. You could become a Nuclear Power Reactor Operator, stationed in a secure control room where you'll monitor complex panels to manage the reactor's power output and ensure safe operation. Or, as a Nuclear Technician, your work is more mobile. You’ll be in the plant or field, using dosimeters and specialized equipment to monitor radiation levels, collect environmental samples, and maintain safety protocols.
Read the full Nuclear and Industrial Radiologic Technologies career guide →