Become a Radiation Therapist

What you'll do: You'll work in coordination with radiologists to implement therapeutic treatment plans for patients. Radiation therapists administer radiation therapy to patients under the instruction of oncologists and radiologists, and locate tumors, measure the amount of radiation given and update treatment reports. Most importantly, you'll follow regulations to protect both patients and practitioners from high doses of radiation.

Where you'll work: Hospitals, physician's office, cancer hospitals, outpatient care centers, colleges and universities

Degree you'll need: Associate's degree or certificate in radiation therapy to start

Median annual salary: $74,980

Cities with highest employment level: Phoenix, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Philadelphia, Boston, Oakland, Washington DC, Jacksonville, Tampa

Radiation therapist programs can range from 1-to-2 years. One-year programs result in a certificate or diploma, while students in 2-year programs will earn associate's degrees.

One-year programs emphasize supervised clinical education in training facilities like hospitals. The associate's degree provides in-depth training that focuses both on theoretical knowledge (in the classroom) and hands-on experiences.

There are no certification requirements, but employers often prefer Certified Radiation Therapists, who have passed national examinations that verify their professional skills and knowledge.

The most widely recognized certifying body is the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Certified radiation therapists must meet education and clinical competency standards set by the ARRT.

Radiation therapists can take the national exam after completing an accredited training program, or after working full-time for two years. Radiation therapists who pass this exam become Certified Radiation Therapists and can renew their certification annually.