Radiation Therapy
Radiation Therapy is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Lakeland, FL. The program takes 24 months to complete.
Program Overview
Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Radiation Therapy provides comprehensive education in administering therapeutic doses of ionizing radiation for treating malignant diseases and other conditions. Our radiation therapy courses cover essential topics including radiation physics, treatment planning and dosimetry, radiobiology and pathology, patient care procedures, and quality management in radiation therapy. Students complete extensive clinical rotations at affiliated clinical sites, gaining hands-on experience with advanced technology and developing effective communication skills for working with patients, families, and members of the healthcare team.
The program prepares radiation therapy students to demonstrate knowledge of radiation safety, operate treatment equipment safely, and provide compassionate patient care throughout the treatment process. Graduates become eligible to take the national certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and apply for state licensing examination in Florida.
The Radiation Therapy program is committed to fostering a learning environment that empowers students to acquire the practical and clinical skills necessary to excel as competent radiation therapists.
Program GoalsThe radiation therapy program prepares students to achieve the following goals:
- Students will apply critical thinking skills to analyze complex problems and make well-informed decisions in clinical environments.
- Students will demonstrate excellence in clinical performance.
- Students will develop and demonstrate effective communication skills within the healthcare environment
- The radiation therapy program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience through six clinical education courses, allowing radiation therapy students to apply classroom knowledge at clinical sites throughout their training.
- Students learn from experienced program directors and clinical instructors who bring real-world expertise in radiation oncology. The curriculum follows the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology standards and prepares graduates to demonstrate professionalism, clinical competence, and effective patient care skills.
- Each course in the radiation therapy major serves as a prerequisite for the subsequent course.
Students entering the radiation therapy program must meet the following requirements:
- Background check and drug screening when applicable.
- Completion of all general education coursework with a minimum grade of “C” for each course.
- Successful completion of the following prerequisite courses: Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Intermediate Algebra and General Physics.
- Cumulative grade average of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0.
Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.
State Licensure DisclosureCareer Outcomes
Graduates of Keiser University’s radiation therapy degree program are prepared to pursue entry-level positions as certified radiation therapists in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, outpatient clinics, and private radiation oncology practices. This associate degree program prepares students to sit for the national certification examination through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and pursue state licensing as a radiation therapist. Our radiation therapy students develop the clinical skills, critical thinking abilities, and professional conduct needed to deliver quality patient care across various healthcare settings.
Career Pathways in Radiation TherapyRadiation therapists play vital roles in cancer treatment teams, working in:
- Hospital radiation oncology departments
- Cancer treatment centers and comprehensive care facilities
- Outpatient radiation therapy clinics
- Academic medical centers
- Research facilities studying radiation therapy applications
- Private radiation oncology practices
- Veterans Affairs medical centers
- Pediatric oncology programs
- Mobile radiation therapy services
Why Choose Keiser University
- Clinical skills in operating linear accelerators and treatment delivery systems
- Critical thinking abilities for treatment planning and problem solving
- Communication skills for patient education and team collaboration
- Knowledge of radiation safety and quality assurance protocols
- Patient care techniques for positioning, immobilization, and monitoring
- Documentation and record-keeping for treatment verification
- Understanding of radiobiology, pathology, and radiation physics
- Technical expertise in dosimetry, treatment simulation, and imaging
Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all educational levels.
Request More InfoFrequently Asked Questions
What is radiation therapy and what do radiation therapists do?
Radiation therapists are healthcare professionals who administer radiation therapy treatments to patients, primarily those battling cancer and other malignant diseases. Working under physician supervision, radiation therapists operate sophisticated equipment to deliver precise doses of ionizing radiation to targeted treatment areas. They position patients accurately, monitor treatments, maintain detailed records, and provide emotional support throughout the treatment process
How long does it take to complete the radiation therapy program?
The Associate of Science in Radiation Therapy program takes approximately 24 months to complete when attending full-time. The exact completion time varies based on your course load, any transfer credits, and your individual academic progress.
What certification and licensing do I need after graduation?
After successful completion of the program, graduates become eligible to take the national certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Passing this credentialing examination leads to the Registered Radiation Therapist (RTT) credential. Florida also requires state licensing to practice radiation therapy. Graduates must pass both the national certification examination and the state licensing examination to work as radiation therapists in Florida.
Where do clinical rotations take place?
Students complete clinical education at affiliated hospitals, cancer centers, and radiation oncology clinics throughout Florida. These clinical sites provide hands-on training with modern radiation therapy equipment and expose students to diverse patient populations and treatment protocols. The program director works with clinical sites to ensure students receive comprehensive clinical training across various settings.
What are the prerequisites for the radiation therapy program?
Students must complete general education courses with a minimum 3.0 GPA before beginning radiation therapy courses. Specific prerequisites include Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Intermediate Algebra, and General Physics each requiring a minimum grade of “C.” Students must also pass a background check and drug screening before entering clinical rotations.
Can I work while attending the radiation therapy program?
The radiation therapy program requires significant time commitment for both classroom learning and clinical education. Clinical rotations demand full-time participation during daytime hours at healthcare facilities. Students should carefully consider their work schedules and personal obligations before entering the program. Contact the admissions office to discuss scheduling and time management strategies.
What is the job outlook for radiation therapists?
The demand for radiation therapists continues growing as cancer treatment advances and the population ages. Graduates find employment opportunities in hospitals, dedicated cancer treatment centers, outpatient clinics, and academic medical centers. Many graduates actively seek employment in radiation therapy immediately after passing their certification examination, with strong job placement rates for those seeking positions in the field.
How much does the radiation therapy program cost?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.
What skills will I develop in this program?
Students develop both clinical skills and critical thinking abilities essential for radiation therapy practice. The curriculum covers radiation physics, treatment planning and dosimetry, patient care procedures, quality management, and professional conduct. Clinical rotations build hands-on competencies in operating treatment equipment, positioning patients, implementing safety protocols, and communicating with healthcare teams. Graduates leave prepared to provide compassionate, competent patient care in radiation oncology settings.
How does radiation therapy compare to other radiologic sciences programs?
Radiation therapy focuses specifically on treating disease, primarily cancer, using therapeutic doses of radiation. This differs from diagnostic radiologic technology, which creates images for diagnosis, or nuclear medicine technology, which uses radioactive materials for imaging and treatment. Each radiologic science specialty requires different training and leads to distinct career paths, though all share common foundations in radiation safety and patient care.
What happens after I complete the program?
Upon successful completion, graduates receive an Associate of Science degree in Radiation Therapy from Keiser University. They become eligible to sit for the ARRT certification examination and apply for Florida state licensure. Many programs offer review courses or exam preparation resources to help graduates succeed on their credentialing examinations. Once certified and licensed, graduates can begin working as radiation therapists at healthcare facilities.
Can I advance to a bachelor's degree after completing the associate degree?
Yes, many registered respiratory therapists pursue bachelor’s degree programs in respiratory care, healthcare management, or related fields after completing their associate degree and gaining professional experience. A bachelor’s degree can open opportunities for advanced practice, management positions, or specialized roles within the respiratory care profession. Keiser University offers various bachelor’s degree programs that may accept transfer credits from the associate degree program.
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Location
Accreditation
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. The SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of degrees for graduate programs and employers. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.
Career outlook
Government figures for Radiation Therapists · typical entry education: Associate's degree. These describe the occupation, not this school's graduates.
Advance your career
Related job titles
- 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
Titles reported for this occupation by O*NET. Not a list of jobs this program guarantees.
Required Courses
| Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Radiation Therapy Major Courses (67.0 credit hours total) | |
| Introduction to Radiation Therapy | 5 |
| Patient Care for the Radiation Therapist | 5 |
| Principles and Practice of Radiation Therapy I | 5 |
| Radiation Therapy Physics I | 5 |
| Treatment Planning and Dosimetry | 5 |
| Radiation Therapy Clinical Education I | 3 |
| Radiation Therapy Clinical Education II | 3 |
| Radiobiology and Pathology | 5 |
| Principles & Practice of Radiation Therapy II | 5 |
| Radiation Therapy Clinical Education III | 3 |
| Radiation Therapy Clinical Education IV | 3 |
| Radiation Therapy Physics II | 5 |
| Quality Management | 5 |
| Radiation Therapy Clinical Education V | 3 |
| Radiation Therapy Clinical Education VI | 3 |
| Radiation Therapy Seminar | 4 |
| Subtotal | 67 |
| General Education Courses (26.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| Sociology | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Computers (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Computers | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| English (6.0 credit hours) | |
| English Composition I | 3 |
| English Composition II | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours) | |
| American Literature | 3 |
| English Literature | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Mathematics (6.0 credit hours) | |
| Intermediate Algebra | 3 |
| General Physics | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Natural Science (6.0 credit hours) | |
| Human Anatomy /Physiology I | 4 |
| Human Anatomy /Physiology II | 4 |
| Subtotal | 8 |
| Program Total | 102 |
