What does a nuclear radiation therapist do?

Radiation oncology employs ionizing radiation to destroy cancerous tumors while sparing surrounding tissue. The radiation therapist administers the radiation to the patient.

What might a nuclear medicine radiation therapist do in a workday?

  • assist in localizing tumors.
  • participate in treatment and planning.
  • deliver high doses of ionizing radiation as prescribed by the radiation oncologist.
  • serve as the primary liaison between patients and other members of the radiation oncology team.
  • must maintain a high degree of accuracy and awareness of safety issues.

How much does a radiation therapist make?

  • $70,000 - $80,000

How do I become a radiation therapist?

Students intending to pursue a career as a radiation therapist should prepare by taking the most challenging high school courses available in science, math and English.

High school graduation (or a GED) is required for entry into a two-year or four-year radiation therapy program. A one-year program is available for individuals who have graduated from an accredited radiography program. Many employers also require certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

Where else can I learn about becoming a radiation therapist?

Virginia Society of Radiologic Technologists
P.O Box 1114 / Salem, VA 24153
tel:  (540) 355-6778 / web:  www.vsrt.org

American Society of Radiologic Technologists
15000 Central Avenue. S.E.. / Albuquerque, NM 87123-3909
tel:  (505) 298-4500 or (800) 444-2778 / web:  www.asrt.org

American Society for Radiation Oncology
8280 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Suite 500 / Fairfax, VA 22031
tel:  (703) 502-1550 / web:  www.astro.org

American College of Radiation Oncology
5272 River Road, Suite 630 / Bethesda, MD 20816
tel:  (301) 718-6515 / web:  www.acro.org

State Licensure Requirements for Radiation Therapists:

A license is required to practice as a radiation therapist in the state of Virginia. For more information on licensure, applications and forms, visit www.dhp.virginia.gov/medicine.

Virginia Board of Medicine
Perimeter Center
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300 / Henrico, VA 23233
Phone: (804) 786-0370 / Email: medbd@dhp.virginia.gov

Educational Institutions in Virginia for Radiation Therapists: