In addition, radiation therapists must not be convicted of any crime or commit any other ethical violations while working in the field. While an individual who meets these standards is not guaranteed a position as a radiation therapist, fulfilling these requirements is necessary in order to obtain certification.
The amount of time needed to become a certified radiation therapist varies according to the educational pathway taken. Aspiring radiation therapists could be ready to work in less than three years if pursuing an associate degree and certification while working in a support role, which is why many see this as a compelling option. In general, the path to becoming a radiation therapist will look fairly similar from person to person, with minor differences at specific points in time depending on the individual.
Consider going through the following steps if you are planning to pursue a career in this field:. To begin, aspiring radiation therapists need to complete high school or obtain a GED. This is a requirement for virtually all two- or four-year colleges or universities.
Furthermore, high school students interested in radiation therapy should take classes in biology, physics, chemistry, and mathematics, not only to learn the material but also to become comfortable managing a significant course load. Such students may also consider volunteering in a hospital radiation therapy department as observation hours may be required for admission to undergraduate programs in the field. After high school, enroll in an undergraduate degree program in radiation therapy or a closely related major.
The minimum requirement to become a certified, registered radiation therapist is an associate degree; however many radiation therapy professionals pursue a four-year undergraduate degree.
The ARRT provides a list of ARRT-recognized educational programs from which a student can obtain a relevant and recognized degree necessary for certification in the future.
During the course of a radiation therapy program, students will be required to complete certain clinical requirements in order to obtain a diploma. This may include 15 or more credit-hours working with a registered radiation therapist in a clinical setting. In addition to this, however, students should also make sure to secure employment related to radiation therapy, which will provide a greater knowledge base and opportunities to develop the skill set needed to qualify for employment opportunities down the road.
Upon graduation, an individual is then able to register with ARRT to complete an examination, the passing of which is a prerequisite to becoming a certified radiation therapist. The exam only requires a single day; however, students must submit an application and fee and prepare accordingly, a process that could take months.
Candidates have three years upon completion of educational requirements to apply for ARRT certification and may attempt the exam three times within three years. Some states require radiation therapists to earn a state license in place of or in addition to ARRT certification. Finally, once candidates with at least an associate degree become certified, they are eligible for employment as radiation therapists or with advanced training, as dosimetrists. Settings that employ the services of radiation professionals include hospitals, cancer centers, and educational institutions.
As a general term, radiation can be described as high-energy waves. Scientists have been able to apply these waves to help treat cancer by directing them at a tumor to target and destroy cancer cells. When used as a medical treatment, it is typically called radiation therapy or radiotherapy.
These factors are determined by a medical doctor called a radiation oncologist, who specializes in this type of treatment. Radiology is a field in which a medical doctor called a radiologist specializes in using medical imaging to help diagnose and treat various conditions. Common imaging techniques used in radiology include:.
Radiology can be used to diagnose a wide range of conditions and illnesses, including many types of cancer. For example, one or more imaging scans may be used to confirm a cancer diagnosis or identify the precise location of a tumor to help determine the appropriate treatment. At Moffitt Cancer Center, our multispecialty team includes subspecialized radiologists, radiation oncologists and many other physicians and medical professionals. Our cancer experts collaborate as a tumor board to develop individualized treatment plans, ensuring our patients receive the best possible outcome and quality of life.
Radiologic techs are more numerous than radiation therapists. Radiologic techs are more likely to work evening or night shifts, weekends, and holidays or to take calls. Although both occupations are expected to experience job growth between and , radiologic tech employment is expected to grow at 9 percent, compared to 14 percent for radiation therapists, reports the BLS.
When it comes to choosing between the two professions, radiologic techs have more opportunity to specialize, and there will be more job opportunities for this occupation.
Those who prefer regular shifts or working as a member of a therapy team may prefer radiation therapy. Radiation therapy is also an occupation that offers a chance to build relationships with patients, many of whom need multiple treatments.
Beth Greenwood is an RN and has been a writer since She specializes in medical and health topics, as well as career articles about health care professions.
Greenwood holds an Associate of Science in nursing from Shasta College. Radiologic Technology Vs.
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