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Career Information
Radiation Therapists use high energy ionizing radiation to deliver a prescribed course of radiation to treat disease. The Radiation Therapist monitors the patient during treatment and provides emotional support. The Therapist’s responsibilities include accurately interpreting, verifying, administering and recording the treatment prescribed by a Radiation Oncologist.
The Department of Medical Laboratory, Imaging, and Radiologic Sciences offers a bachelor of science in radiologic sciences with a major in radiation therapy. Students must transfer 60 semester hours of liberal arts courses (junior transfer).
Following is information for junior transfer students. For further information, contact the Office of Academic Admissions.
Professional Tasks and Working Environment
The Radiation Therapist is a member of the radiation oncology team who is responsible for delivering a prescribed dose of radiation to treat cancer and some benign diseases. Radiation Therapists have continual contact with patients for the course of their treatment, educating them about treatment, simulation procedures, and potential radiation side effects. Monitoring and observing each patient’s clinical progress and emotional needs are also part of the Therapist’s daily routine. The Therapist, as a member of the healthcare team, refers patients to physicians, nurses or social service professionals when necessary.
Certification
Program graduates may be eligible for the national certification exam in radiation therapy administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. (www.arrt.org).
Skills and Interests Suited to a Career in Radiation Therapy Technology
A person entering this field should have technical and math/science proficiency, computer literacy, self-motivation, empathy, emotional stability, people skills and a strong work ethic. Graduates work directly with patients to obtain information for treatment planning and to deliver the course of treatment prescribed.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities for Radiation Therapists are diverse. Jobs may be available in all areas of the country. Radiation Therapists can be employed by hospitals, universities, clinics or vendors who market and sell radiation oncology equipment.
Salary Information
The earning potential for Radiation Therapists is excellent. Salaries vary depending on geographic location, education, and experience.
Technical Standards
In addition to demonstrating personal characteristics appropriate for a health professions career, students must satisfy general and specific technical standards. Visit http://www.gru.edu/alliedhealth/mlirs/rt/standards.html to review these requirements.
Financial Aid
GRU participates in all federal student aid programs as well as state and private programs. GRU helps students fund their education through grants or scholarships, loans, a service commitment program and/or employment.
Accreditation/Review
Radiation Therapy
Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
20 N.Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
312-704-5300
www.jrcert.org
Admission Requirements
Please see the Office of Academic Admissions website for specific admissions information:
www.gru.edu/admissions/hs-programs/radiation-therapy.php
Courses to Take the First Two Years
Please see the Office of Academic Admissions website for specific prerequisite information:
gru.edu/admissions/hs-programs/prerequisites/rad.php
Estimated Full-Time Academic Expenses
For estimated tuition and fees, please see the Financial Information section of this catalog.
