Radiation therapy is a procedure which entails the medical use of ionized radiation to shrink, control, or kill malignant cancer cells while leaving the healthy cells alone. Radiation therapy can be used externally or internally, depending on the location of the cancer. This form of treatment can be utilized in a wide variety of cancers and can be used alone or in conjunction with other cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. Radiation therapists are educated and trained professionals who operate the radiation machines and equipment, assess and interpret the radiation prescriptions, design radiation therapy treatment plans for various patients, and employ the treatment plans for cancer patients.
Students interested in pursuing a career as a radiation therapist should encompass a number of skills and qualities essential in this field...Read More
Since radiation therapists consistently interact with patients as well as radiologists and oncologists, they must have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. Radiation therapists must be knowledgeable in science and mathematics since much of their occupation requires the understanding of anatomy, physiology, and biology. Mechanical and technical skills are essential since radiation therapists use computers, technical equipment, and radiation machines every day. There will be times when radiation therapists must move patients in different positions or be on their feet for long periods of time therefore they must be physically fit and have the stamina to endure these tasks. Radiation Therapy Degree Levels Available
Associate´s Degree in Radiation Therapy
The associate´s degree program in radiation therapy provides students with a broad introduction to this discipline's concepts and practices and prepares students for entry-level positions in the radiation therapy field. This two-year program includes courses in areas such as oncology, radiation physics, anatomy, biology, physiology, radiographic equipment operation, and radiobiology. Students who graduate from this program may gain employment as a radiation therapist. In most cases, an associate´s degree in radiation therapy is sufficient enough to gain professional employment as a radiation therapist however, some employers require applicants to have a bachelor´s degree in radiation therapy.
Bachelor´s Degree in Radiation Therapy
The bachelor´s degree program in radiation therapy offers students a more in-depth knowledge of radiation therapy and its practices. This four-year program includes courses in areas such as clinical oncology, applied radiation therapy, radiation therapy physics, patient care management, and advanced radiation biology.
Admission Requirements
Although various colleges and universities may vary slightly, students can expect fairly standard admission requirements when applying to obtain an associate´s or a bachelor´s degree in radiation therapy. Successful completion of high school or an academic equivalent (such as a GED) is required along with high school transcripts displaying grades obtained in completed courses. SAT or ACT test scores are almost always required as well. If a student fulfills all of these requirements, then an application form from the college or university the student wishes to attend must be completed and submitted along with an application fee, which of course varies depending on the institution.
Tuition and Accreditation
Tuition fees for an associate´s degree in radiation therapy may vary from $ 8,085 to $ 23,871. Tuition fees for a bachelor´s degree in radiation therapy may vary from $ 15,918 to $ 32,617. These figures are only estimates; college and university tuition fees may vary drastically from one institution to another since there are a number of factors which affect tuition such as public versus private institutions, online degrees, federal student assistance programs, etc. (Source: the U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics)
Colleges and universities which offer an associate´s degree or a bachelor´s degree in radiation therapy must be aligned with ACR (the American College of Radiology) standards. Within ACR, there is a Radiation Oncology Practice Accreditation (ROPA) program which colleges and universities must apply for to obtain accreditation. Most employers only hire students who graduated from an ACR-accredited institution.
Average Annual Salary Range for Radiation Therapists
A radiation therapist´s salary is based on various factors which include (but are not limited to) their level of education, the extent of their experience, and who they are employed by. Earnings may vary drastically from person to person. However, $ 70,410 to $ 90,410 is the average range of annual earnings for radiation therapists (according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
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