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Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology offers students a flexible education and training experience for those interested in a career in Radiation Therapy. The two-year Associate’s degree program is offered both online and, in the classroom, preparing students for taking and passing the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Registry exam.
What Does a Radiation Therapist Do?
Radiation Therapists dedicate their time to working with cancer patients in hospitals and medical clinics under Radiation Oncologists. They prepare and sterilize radiation therapy rooms, monitor and document radiation treatments, position patients for treatment and support patient throughout the delivery of care.
Where Do Radiation Therapists Work?
There is flexibility when it comes to employment options for Radiation Therapists. Most therapists work in hospitals, physician offices, clinics and outpatient centers. Some therapists choose to specialize and work in children’s hospitals while others choose to treat patients of all ages in various locations.
How Do You Become a Radiation Therapist?
Students interested in becoming a Radiation Therapist must complete at least a two-year Associates degree program such as the one offered by Cambridge. After your education is complete, you are required to take and pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Registry exam for licensing. After a successful exam, you are ready for entry-level employment as a Radiation Therapist.
During your education, you’ll take classes such as Anatomy and Physiology, Radiation Therapy Patient Care, Treatment Planning and more.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Radiation Therapist?
Most programs take approximately two years to complete at a minimum through an accredited program. However, after the end of your education, you will be required to take and pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Registry exam for licensing. Depending on the results of your exam, licensing could take time.
Is It Hard to Become a Radiation Therapist?
Cambridge’s mission is to help students like you succeed in their studies, pass their exam and be eligible for employment. Although the curriculum can be challenging, students are provided with the education, material and training to help them succeed in the program, regardless of difficulty.
Is Being a Radiation Therapist Dangerous?
Although Radiation Therapists follow safety procedures, they do face some risk of exposure to radiation or radioactive material due to the nature of the career. However, proper safety measures prevent overexposure in the field. Radiation Therapists must work diligently to administer the correct radiation treatment to their patients, free of errors. An education through Cambridge gives students the knowledge they need to be safe and successful.
How Much Does a Radiation Therapist Make?
According to PayScale, the average hourly rate for a radiation therapist is $36.67. The average total pay is $92,945.00 a year depending on location and experience.
What Type of Machine Does a Radiation Therapist Use?
Most commonly, a Radiation Therapist will use a LINAC or a linear accelerator to deliver external beam radiation treatments to patients with cancer. This machine is used to treat each area of the body and deliver high-energy electrons to the region of the tumor. However, some cancer patients are treated using internal radiation therapy where a source of radiation is placed in the body in solid or liquid form.
Is Radiation Therapy a Good Job? Is It Worth It?
As a Radiation Therapist, you will work closely with patients living with cancer, aiding them in becoming well again through radiation therapy. The career is challenging yet rewarding for those looking to make a positive impact on their patients. Plus, radiation therapists bring home a great salary and often have flexibility in where or how they work.
Ready to Learn More?
Does Radiation Therapy sound like the perfect career for you? Reach out to Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology to get started today by calling 877-206-4279.