The radiation therapist is an integral member of a team of specialists that are primarily concerned with the treatment of malignant disease (cancer) through the use of ionizing radiation. The radiation therapist is responsible for implementing the treatment plan prescribed by the radiation oncologist (a physician specializing in the therapeutic use of x-rays and radioactive materials) and for providing patient care and comfort essential to radiation therapy procedures.

The demand for skilled radiation therapists is creating employment possibilities throughout the United States. According to the U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 edition:  “ Employment of radiation therapists is projected to grow by 27% between 2008 and 2018, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The growing elderly population is expected to cause an increase in the number of people needing treatment. In addition, as radiation technology becomes safer and more effective, it will be prescribed more often, leading to an increased demand for radiation therapists. Growth is likely to be rapid across all practice settings, including hospitals, physicians’ offices, and outpatient centers.”  Furthermore:  “Job prospects are expected to be good. Job openings will result from employment growth and from the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation for other reasons. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree and related work experience may have the best opportunities.” 

If you are a registered Radiographer or Nuclear Medicine Technologist seeking to advance your career in the Radiation Sciences, and if you enjoy working with cancer patients and highly sophisticated technology, the Radiation Therapy Program at the University of Virginia Health System invites you to apply.

This 15-month, hospital-based, certificate program has a long history of excellence in teaching the radiation therapy community. Between 1969 and 1996, 140 students graduated from the program. Following temporary closure due to changes in the health care environment, the program reopened in October 2003. Since that time, 21 students have graduated from the Program.  Graduates of our program have a 100% pass rate on the ARRT Board Exam in Radiation Therapy, with an average grade above the national average.  19 out of 21 graduates have passed on their 1^st attempt, and all but one was employed in Radiation Therapy within 6 months of graduating.

The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology and graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Radiation Therapy Examination for certification and recognition.

Questions concerning accreditation may be directed to:

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology

20 N. Wacker Dr., Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182

Tel: (312) 704-5300  Fax: (312) 704-5304

E-mail: mail@jrcert.org

Web Site: http://www.jrcert.org