Keiser University

Radiation Therapy

Lakeland Campus
Associate Degree
Radiation Therapy
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Keiser University offers this program on campus.
$12,908 per semester. This program spans 6 semesters at full-time enrollment.
To receive an Associate of Science degree in Radiation Therapy, students must complete 93 credit hours as described below. The length of this program is approximately 24 months (this will vary if a student transfers in credits).
A one-time $55 application fee applies on enrollment (subject to annual review).
Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid, including grants and federal student loans.

Radiation Therapy is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Lakeland, FL. The program takes 24 months to complete, with tuition of $12,908 per semester.

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.

Program Mission

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 Goals

The radiation therapy program prepares students to achieve the following goals:

  1. Students will apply critical thinking skills to analyze complex problems and make well-informed decisions in clinical environments.
  2. Students will demonstrate excellence in clinical performance.
  3. Students will develop and demonstrate effective communication skills within the healthcare environment

Program Highlights

  • 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.

What sets this Program apart

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Radiation Therapy Career

  • 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.

Admission Requirements and Process

Applicants desiring to enter Keiser University must submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. This permits proper scheduling and assures availability of classroom space. Applications for winter, spring or fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.

For students enrolling at Keiser University, credit for courses or degrees completed at another institution is subject to approval by the Dean of Academic Affairs. These courses or degrees must be similar in content and duration to those offered in the program for which an applicant has applied. The Dean of Academic Affairs makes the final decision of accepted transfer credits from the received transcript. However, only courses listed on official transcripts receive permanent official transfer credit. (To grant such credit, Keiser University must receive official transcripts--- those mailed directly to Keiser University by the previous institution---by the end of a student’s first semester.) Keiser University requires that, at a minimum, a student complete the final 25% of a program through the University. Active duty, reservists, and National Guard service members who are students can complete at a minimum 25% of a program at any time through the University and graduate. Transfer students are informed in writing of any credits accepted as transferable. Preliminary notification is presented, in most cases, prior to enrollment but in no case later than the end of a transfer student's first semester. Students are responsible for having official transcripts sent to Keiser University from their former institution(s). It may be necessary for students to forfeit some previously earned credit in the transfer process since college philosophies, objectives and programs may vary and change from year to year. Therefore, Keiser University makes no blanket statement or promise of acceptance of credits from any other institution.

Keiser University accepts transfer credits applicable to an applicant's program of study from other institutions recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE). Keiser University accepts transfer of associate degrees that, upon evaluation, include the appropriate major course distribution without time limitations.

Transfer credits are granted only for courses in which a grade of "C" or higher was earned (2.0 on a 4.0 scale).

Additionally, students who completed Anatomy and Physiology I and/or II at another institution may elect to transfer in these courses provided the courses (1) meet all institutional transfer of credit requirements and (2) were completed within five years of the date of enrollment. For courses taken over three years prior to the date of enrollment, the University reserves the right to administer a competency-based assessment with a minimum grade threshold as part of the transfer of credit process for these courses.

General Requirements

  • High School Diploma
    Verification of high school graduation with a standard diploma (transcript, diploma, etc.) or
  • GED Completion
    Verification of GED completion (GED scores or GED diploma) or
  • Foreign Secondary Credential
    Proof of graduation from a foreign institution that is comparable to a United States secondary school, as determined by a member agency of the National Association of Credential…
  • Earned Degree in Lieu of Diploma
    Applicants will not be required to provide proof of high school graduation when they provide the following: Verification of an earned degree from an institution recognized by the…
  • Home-Schooled Applicants
    Home-schooled applicants who have a high school diploma are considered for admission.
  • Entrance Examination
    An applicant must make arrangements to take Keiser University’s entrance examination (administered at the University) or provide results of his/her Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT),…
  • Entrance Test Exemption
    Candidates seeking general admission to the University are not required to take the general admission test upon providing written proof of an associate or higher degree earned…
  • Allied Health Program Requirements
    All candidates must achieve the required entrance examinations scores and all other requirements for admission to specific bachelor and associate degree allied health programs.
  • Allied Health Test Exemption
    Candidates providing proof of an associate or higher degree with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher from an accredited college seeking entry into the University’s…
  • Licensure Program Admission
    Keiser University programs that require licensure exams, including students who enroll in General Studies or Interdisciplinary Studies program with a track towards a licensure…
  • Background Check and Drug Screening
    Background check and drug screening when applicable
  • Prerequisite Courses
    Minimum grade of “C” for general education courses. Successful completion of the following prerequisite courses: BSC2085C, BSC2086C, MAT1033 and PHY2001.
  • Cumulative 3.0 Grade Average
    Cumulative grade average of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact an Admissions Counselor
    Contact one of Keiser University’s admissions counselors to talk through the program and your options.
  2. 2
    Attend an Open House or Campus Visit
    Attend an open house or plan a campus visit. Applicants are encouraged to visit the University in person.
  3. 3
    Meet With Your Admissions Counselor
    Schedule a convenient time to meet with your admissions counselor to determine if Keiser University is right for you.
  4. 4
    Submit an Application
    Submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. Applications for winter, spring or fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.
    Apply Now

Program Schedule

Due to the flexibility of Keiser University term lengths (4-week, 8-week, and 16-week terms), and the one-course-at-a-time scheduling system for many program offerings, class meeting times for face-to-face instruction can vary by program.
New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • November 23rd, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • February 08th, 2027
  • March 08th, 2027
  • April 05th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • June 07th, 2027
  • July 05th, 2027
  • August 02nd, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Per Semester Tuition
≈ $12,908
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Keiser University charges tuition per 16-week semester according to the number of credit hours scheduled, not per program. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

Semester credit loadTuition per semester
Full time (12 to 17.99 credits)$12,908.00
Three-quarter time (9 to 11.99 credits)$9,681.00
Half time (6 to 8.99 credits)$6,454.00
Less than half time (0 to 5.99 credits)$3,227.00
Full time + (18 to 24 credits, approval required)$16,135.00

Required fees

  • Application fee — $55.00, one time on enrollment
  • Registration fee — $145.00, one time on enrollment
  • Education fee — $980.00 per semester, for programmatic participation and facilities resources
  • Annual health insurance plan — $2,169.00 where applicable to allied health programs, waived with proof of coverage by a qualified plan

Other fees are charged per occurrence: withdrawal $100.00, re-entry $150.00, transcript $5.00, student ID replacement $15.00, returned check $35.00, late payment $10.00 and library late fee $10.00. Clinical, licensure, professional skill development and technical fees vary by program.

Financial aid

Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Students seeking aid complete the FAFSA using the university’s federal school code, 015159.

Estimated Student Costs

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 school’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.

Curriculum

To receive an Associate of Science degree in Radiation Therapy, students must complete 93 credit hours as described below. The length of this program is approximately 24 months (this will vary if a student transfers in credits). Each major course is a prerequisite for the subsequent course and therefore must be completed with a minimum grade of “C” and a minimum cumulative core GPA of 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale) or higher in order to proceed successfully through the program.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
RAT1001Introduction to Radiation Therapy5
RAT1123Patient Care in Radiation Therapist5
RAT2021Principles and Practice of Radiation Therapy I5
RAT2617Radiation Therapy Physics I5
RAT2652Treatment Planning and Dosimetry5
RAT1804Radiation Therapy Clinical Education I3
RAT1814Radiation Therapy Clinical Education II3
RAT2241Radiobiology and Pathology5
RAT2022Principles and Practice of Radiation Therapy II5
RAT2805Radiation Therapy Clinical Education III3
RAT2814Radiation Therapy Clinical Education IV3
RAT2618Radiation Therapy Physics II5
RAT2657Quality Management5
RAT2824Radiation Therapy Clinical Education V3
RAT2834Radiation Therapy Clinical Education VI3
RAT2061Radiation Therapy Seminar4
PSY1012Introduction to Psychology3
CGS1000CIntroduction to Computers3
ENC1101English Composition I3
ENC2102English Composition II3
AML1000American Literature3
ENL1000English Literature3
MAT1033Intermediate Algebra3
PHY2001General Physics3
BSC2085CHuman Anatomy and Physiology I4
BSC2086CHuman Anatomy and Physiology II4

Career 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 Therapy

Radiation 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

Placement Rate

Keiser University publishes the following in its 2025 Undergraduate Placement Rates report for AS Radiation Therapy.

EligiblePlacedIn FieldRelated Field%Placed%IF/RF
2121201100%100%

Keiser University’s notes on this report: “Does not include international campuses.” “Report as of April 2026, 16.43% has been verified through 3rd party.”

Although Keiser University provides employment placement assistance, it cannot promise or guarantee employment.

What to expect as a Keiser University student

Keiser University’s radiation therapy program prepares graduates to enter a rewarding career delivering cancer treatments and supporting patients through their healthcare journey. Our associate degree program combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical training, preparing you to become a certified radiation therapist who makes a real difference in patients’ lives every day.

Campus Address

Lakeland Campus
2400 Interstate Drive
Lakeland, FL 33805

Why Accreditation Is Important

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, educational specialist, and doctorate degrees.

  • Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid
  • Credits earned toward a respected credential

Images

Radiation Therapy, AS
Radiation Therapy, AS
Radiation Therapy, AS

Top Questions About Earning a Radiation Therapy Degree

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.
Ready to get started?
Apply to Radiation Therapy at Lakeland Campus.
Radiation Therapy