During radiation therapy, the radiation therapist operates a treatment machine called a linear accelerator. The linear accelerator projects high beam radiation at tumors in an effort to either kill the cancerous cells, control the spreading of the disease, and/or to alleviate pain. When the radiation hits the patient?s tissue, it produces ions that attack the tumor cells. The radiation therapist will position the patient under the linear accelerator, set the treatment machine up, and shoot the beam of radiation. Radiation therapists must be perfectionists during the entire treatment process to minimize the amount of damage to healthy tissues near a tumor.

Radiation therapists work in a variety of settings to include hospitals and cancer treatment centers.

Educational Requirements and Resources
In terms of education, this position requires an individual to complete an accredited educational program in the field of radiation therapy. There are three options to choose from including certificate programs (approximately one to two years in length), associate degree programs (approximately two years in length) and bachelor degree programs (approximately four years in length). An individual should attend an educational program that is accredited by an appropriate agency such as the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.

After the education process is complete, an individual may become a registered radiation therapist by passing a national examination given by a nationally recognized organization such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Employers often require this certification in order to become employed. In the state of Ohio, radiation therapists must also be licensed by the Ohio Department of Health. For additional information on radiation therapy as a career, please visit The American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Please use the links provided below to learn more about specific educational programs pertaining to this field.