Radiation therapists
SOC Code: 29-1124Also known as:
Computed Tomography Simulation Therapist (CT Simulation Therapist), Dosimetrist, Radiation Oncology Registered Nurse (Radiation Oncology RN), Radiation Therapist (RT), Radiation Therapy Technician
Median Annual Salary
$101,990
+1.9% growth (2024-2034)
900
Openings/Year
19K
Current Jobs
What Radiation therapists Do
Provide radiation therapy to patients as prescribed by a radiation oncologist according to established practices and standards. Duties may include reviewing prescription and diagnosis; acting as liaison with physician and supportive care personnel; preparing equipment, such as immobilization, treatment, and protection devices; and maintaining records, reports, and files. May assist in dosimetry procedures and tumor localization.
💰 Salary
$101,990
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+1.9%
As fast as average
🎓 Education
Associate's degree
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
900
Projected average per year
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
19,200
Projected Employment (2034)
19,600
Related Careers
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$89,340 •
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Radiologic technologists and technicians
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+4.3% growth
Top Skills Required
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Social Perceptiveness
Operations Monitoring
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Position patients for treatment with accuracy, according to prescription.
- Administer prescribed doses of radiation to specific body parts, using radiation therapy equipment according to established practices and standards.
- Follow principles of radiation protection for patient, self, and others.
- Review prescription, diagnosis, patient chart, and identification.
- Conduct most treatment sessions independently, in accordance with the long-term treatment plan and under the general direction of the patient's physician.
- Enter data into computer and set controls to operate or adjust equipment or regulate dosage.
- Check radiation therapy equipment to ensure proper operation.
- Observe and reassure patients during treatment and report unusual reactions to physician or turn equipment off if unexpected adverse reactions occur.
- Educate, prepare, and reassure patients and their families by answering questions, providing physical assistance, and reinforcing physicians' advice regarding treatment reactions or post-treatment care.
- Maintain records, reports, or files as required, including such information as radiation dosages, equipment settings, or patients' reactions.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
Associate's degree
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Associate's Degree
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Radiation therapists
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a radiation therapists:
Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist
4,111 degrees awarded •
215 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Radiation therapists
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become radiation therapists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do radiation therapists make?
The median annual salary for radiation therapists is $101,990.
What education do radiation therapists need?
Most radiation therapists positions require a associate's degree.
Common degree programs include Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist.
Is becoming radiation therapists a good career choice?
Radiation therapists is projected to see +1.9% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 900 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for radiation therapists?
Top colleges for aspiring radiation therapists include
Ohio State University-Main Campus, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Washburn University, Arkansas State University.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to radiation therapists?
Radiation therapists may also be known as: Computed Tomography Simulation Therapist (CT Simulation Therapist), Dosimetrist, Radiation Oncology Registered Nurse (Radiation Oncology RN), Radiation Therapist (RT), Radiation Therapy Technician, Radiation Therapy Technologist (RTT), Radiologic Therapist, Radiology Therapist, Registered Radiation Therapist, Staff Radiation Therapist.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.