What Degree Do You Need to Become a Radiation Therapist

Is an X-Ray Technician a Good Career?

Radiation therapy is a challenging and rewarding career choice that allows you to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Not only can you earn a comfortable living, but you can do so while making a real difference to real people. The path to becoming a radiation therapist starts with the right education.

Become a Radiation Therapist With an Associate’s Degree

Employers expect radiation therapy job candidates to have an Associate’s degree or higher. The Associate’s degree program at Cambridge includes courses in a wide variety of relevant subjects, including:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Health science
  • Medical terminology
  • Radiation therapy
  • Patient care
  • Treatment planning
  • Imaging principles

In addition to classroom study, Cambridge students obtain real-world training through a clinical externship at local healthcare facilities. This hands-on training allows students to see what life is like as a radiation therapist and give them experiences to discuss with potential employers during job interviews. 

Certifications and Licenses

After obtaining your Associate’s degree, you will need to become certified with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The ARRT exam itself is only a single day, but students must prepare well in advance, usually at least a few months ahead of time. Once you earn your degree, you then have three years to apply for ARRT certification. You can attempt the exam three times within three years. 

In addition to ARRT certification, you may need to obtain a license from the state where you live to work as a radiation therapist. These state licenses are different from the ARRT certification itself. ARRT estimates that 75% of states currently require state licenses. And, most of those states require that you get your ARRT certification before applying for the state license. 

Renewing Certification

Once you’ve begun your radiation therapy career, you will need to renew your certification periodically. You will need to complete continuing education (CE) requirements to recertify. Many employers cover the cost of CE for their radiation therapists.

Learn More About Cambridge’s Radiation Therapy Program

With a combination of classroom learning, hands-on experience and exam preparation, Cambridge’s Associate’s degree in radiation therapy program offers a comprehensive education for anyone interested in R.T. as a career. 

Our advisors are ready to speak with you about your education and career goals and help you decide if our R.T. program is a good fit. Call us at 877-206-4279 or send us a message for more information.

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