Radiation Therapist Career & Jobs: Training, Salary & Certification Requirements

Delivering the news that a patient has tested positive for cancer is one of the hardest things that any doctor will ever have to do. However, thanks to advances in medical technologies and alternatives treatment options, this news does not have to mean that a patient has no hope for survival. The most common treatment for slowing the growth of cancer in the human body is the use of ionizing radiation, and the professionals that usually assist the oncologist with the application of radioactive materials are known as radiation therapists. These therapists are responsible for educating the patients about what they can expect to feel during the therapy, instructing them as to how to assume the correct position for receiving the therapy, and communicating any concerns or abnormalities to the doctors.

Salary Outlook

Average Annual Salary
$56,500
Salary Range
$44,600 - $73,900

Work Environment

It is possible for radiation therapists to be employed at any type of medical facility that provides radiation treatment to patients that are suffering from cancer. These work environments commonly include hospitals, research laboratories, cancer treatment centers, government facilities and research universities. These therapists are required to work around potentially hazardous materials and highly complex equipment.

High School Preparation

Those individuals that think they would enjoy the responsibilities of a radiation therapist are encouraged to spend their high school career advancing their knowledge of biology, chemistry and medical treatments for cancer. Supporting courses for this line of work include anatomy and physiology, physics, computer skills, and history.

Requirements

After receiving their high school diploma or the approved equivalent, those individuals who are interested in pursuing the career of a radiation therapist are required to seek admission into an accredited program to receive the necessary training. It is possible to achieve certification, an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy and the level of education that is pursued usually has a direct effect on the positions and salaries that are available. Following completion of the formal education and training, students are encouraged to seek certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.  

Career Outlook

Compared to the predicted national average for all other occupations, the opportunities for well trained radiation therapists is expected to grow quite quickly over the next few years. Many people are concerned about developing cancer, and thanks to the lingering effects of smoking and asbestos on many of the elderly population, there will be a growing need to administer effective radiation therapies in the coming years. Although radiation therapy is important to helping people overcome cancer, not all medical facilities will be able to afford the equipment, so jobs at hospitals and cancer treatment centers will continue to be the most competitive.

Professional Organizations

American Society of Radiologic Technologists
15000 Central Avenue, SE
Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: (505) 298-5063
www.asrt.org