What Do They Do?
What Do They Do?
Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to cancer patients and those with other diseases, collaborating with radiation oncologists and physicists to develop treatment plans. They prepare patients, operate and monitor machinery, and keep detailed records. They also assist with patient care, including lifting disabled patients and providing nutritional advice. Radiation therapists work 40 hours a week, typically during the day.
Where Do They Work?
Where Do They Work?
Most radiation therapists work in hospitals or cancer treatment centers. Some also work in physician’s offices and laboratories.
How Much Do They Earn?
How Much Do They Earn?
Annual median salary: $122, 596
Entry-level salary: $92,643
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Searchable Wage Database: https://dol.ny.gov/occupational-wages-0
Supply and Demand
Supply and Demand
Radiation therapists are expected to grow statewide by 28% between 2022 and 2032, with slightly over 100 average annual openings.
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Employment Projections: https://dol.ny.gov/employment-projections
Educational Requirements
Educational Requirements
While some employers will accept applicants with an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy is often preferred. Some radiation therapists complete either an associate or bachelor’s degree program in radiography (which concentrates on radiological imaging), and then they complete a radiation therapy program.
For More Information:
New York State Department of Health: https://www.health.ny.gov/professionals/doctors/radiological/schlist2.htm
Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology: https://www.jrcert.org/find-a-program/
Licensure Requirements
Licensure Requirements
Radiation therapists are license by the New York State Department of Health and are classified as a subset of radiologic technologists. To obtain a license, radiation therapists must graduate from an accredited radiation therapy program and pass the certification examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
For More Information
New State Department of Health: https://www.health.ny.gov/professionals/doctors/radiological/
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists: https://www.arrt.org/pages/earn-arrt-credentials/requirements
Financial Support
Financial Support
Students seeking an education in radiation therapy should contact their college financial aid office to learn about funding and scholarship opportunities. Students may also apply for financial aid through a number of state and federal aid programs.
For More Information
American Society of Radiologic Technologists Foundation: https://foundation.asrt.org/what-we-do/scholarships
Education Programs
Education Programs
| Institution | Degree | City/Town | Region | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Upstate Medical University SUNY | BS | Syracuse | Central NY | Visit |
Stony Brook University SUNY | BS | Stony Brook | Long Island | Visit |
Nassau Community College | AAS | Garden City | Long Island | Visit |
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center | Certificate | New York City | New York City | Visit |
Manhattan College | BS | Riverdale | New York City | Visit |
Erie Community College | Certificate | Buffalo | Western NY | Visit |
Center for Allied Health Education | Certificate | Brooklyn | New York City | Visit |