Career Opportunities

Build a Radiation Therapy Career

Radiation therapists treat tumors with high-energy radiation beams. They require not only great technical and scientific expertise, but also the ability to treat cancer patients with great compassion and empathy. All of these skills are addressed in Baptist University’s well-rounded radiation therapy program. You’ll develop the scientific knowledge, habits, demeanor, and commitment that distinguish standout radiation therapists. Build the foundation for a long-term radiation therapy career.

Duties

• Radiation therapists routinely perform the following:
• Administer daily delivery of therapeutic radiation according to the radiation oncologist’s prescription specific to each patient
• Act as an integral member of the healthcare team within the radiation oncology department
• Communicate vital treatment information to the patient
• Consistently assess patients for response to treatment
• Maintain detailed records of treatment
• Perform quality control measures relating to treatment plans and equipment
• Verify exact treatment location by utilizing sophisticated imaging techniques

 

Job Market/Outlook

• Most therapists work in radiation oncology departments within hospitals, cancer centers, free-standing clinics, sales, management, and education.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics a prediction of 18-20% growth in employment, which is faster than the average for all occupations. 
• Salary
  • $79,000-$84,000 starting average salary throughout U.S.
  • $71,000 starting average salary in TN.
  • $80,000 starting average salary in MS.

For More Information

For more career information about radiation therapists, visit:

• The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (https://www.arrt.org/)
• The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (https://www.asrt.org)
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (http://www.bls.gov/ooh/)