Radiation Therapy

Student talks about becoming a Radiation Therapist through Labouré College

Labouré College is happy to announce that its Radiation Therapy program has received 8 years accreditation by JRCERT.

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What does a Radiation Therapist do?

Radiation therapists help one patient at a time fight cancer. They do this by administering radiation treatments using machines called linear accelerators. These machines direct high-energy x-rays at specific cancer cells in a patient’s body, shrinking or removing them.

Part of the oncology team, radiation therapists must master a high level of technical knowledge and must also be able to work well with critically ill patients, understanding their needs, fears, and concerns.

Treating and caring for cancer patients is a challenge that demands both skill and compassion.

Want to make a difference in the world? According to Payscale.com, Radiation Therapy is ranked as one of the most meaningful jobs in America.

“A cancer diagnosis is one of the most frightening and uncertain events in a patient’s life and radiation therapists are deeply involved in their treatment. Patients rely on radiation therapists’ expertise in radiation delivery, along with emotional and spiritual support to get them through this tough time in their lives.”

- Pauline E. Clancy, MS, RT(T), CAGS, Chairperson, Radiation Therapy

Student talks about becoming a Radiation Therapist through Labouré College

Assistant Chairperson of Radiation Therapy explains the program and what it takes to become a radiation therapist

Labouré's Radiation Therapy Associate Degree program

This is an equally challenging and rewarding program that requires classroom learning as well as considerable travel to clinical locations in Massachusetts. The program is run by experienced faculty who are dedicated to their students and who will help you become a skilled, confident radiation therapist.

Hear what our students are saying

The starting point for a very fulfilling career in radiation oncology.

"The most important aspect of my education at Labouré College was the personal attention, support, and encouragement I received every step of the way. With a combination of high-quality theoretical classes and hands-on clinical experience, the Radiation Therapy program at Labouré allowed me to learn and grow at such a level that I began working in the field less than a year into training and became the Chief Technologist at one of Boston's finest hospitals just four years after graduation. I am very grateful for my experience at Labouré."

Natalie Campbell '10
Manager, Alliance Oncology

A rewarding career in just 3 years.

"I chose radiation therapy because I would be able to care for patients and have a rewarding career in just 3 years. I was originally planning on returning to my goal of going to medical school but I enjoy every minute of what I do now and couldn’t imagine doing anything different."

Lauren Cooper '07
Chief Radiation Therapist, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth, MA

A fulfilling and rewarding career in helping others.

"The nature of the profession of radiation therapy demands a continual evolution of knowledge and learning - which is exciting. But most importantly (for me), what I’ve learned about resiliency of the human spirit and faith has made me a better person and very fulfilled in my career.”

Deirdre Clancy Hammel, RT(T)
Assistant Chairperson, Radiation Therapy

Radiation Therapy Mission Statement

The mission of the Radiation Therapy Program is to educate students to become competent entry-level radiation therapists. The education provided both clinically and didactically, will prepare students to deliver quality care in a variety of healthcare settings and incorporate an understanding and appreciation for the professions diverse patient population.

The program strives to build upon sound principles in general education by preparing students to communicate effectively, develop critical thinking skills and apply ethical standards and values to the practice of radiation therapy.

Frequently asked questions about the Radiation Therapy program:

Why will I have clinical rotations in multiple hospitals?

Labouré’s program is unique because it has several clinical affiliates, spread across a variety of locations allowing students to work in many hospitals, with different equipment and patients. Students will gain valuable experience in a variety of facilities, and will learn all aspects of conventional treatment, along with innovative techniques such as stereotactic radiation therapy procedures and the use of CT scanning in treatment planning.

What is the salary expectation?

The average mean salary in Massachusetts, in 2013 was $79,130.

Is this career in high demand?

Employment of radiation therapists is projected to grow 24 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. - BLS.gov

Is this program accredited?

The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Graduates are eligible for examination by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) to earn the designation of RT. Massachusetts radiation therapists are licensed by the Massachusetts state licensing board (mass.gov). The Massachusetts Department of Public Health Radiation Control Program will only grant a license to individuals who have graduated from a JRCERT accredited program.

The JRCERT may be contacted at:
JRCERT

20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
Phone: 312-704-5300
Fax: 312-704-5304

Will I be eligible for certification?

Candidates for certification as a radiation therapist must comply with the rules of ethics contained in the ARRT standards of ethics. One issue addressed by the rules of ethics is the conviction of a crime, including a felony, a gross misdemeanor, or a misdemeanor with the sole exception of speeding and parking violations.

Individuals who have violated the rules of ethics may request a pre-application review of the violation in order to obtain a ruling of the impact on their eligibility for ARRT examination. Individuals are advised to submit this pre-application form before entry into a radiation therapy program. Applicants with a previous court record should make an appointment with the director of admissions and/or the chairperson of radiation therapy to review current information on ARRT requirements.

How long is the program?

This program is about 2 years full-time. This program is not well-suited for students looking to take courses part-time. RTT education requires hands-on learning. All professional courses are on-site at the College or on clinical locations. Most of our general education courses are offered partially or fully online.

What schedules do radiation therapists work?

Radiation therapists work Monday through Friday, normal business hours and are exposed to a continuum of learning providing an exciting and challenging profession.

What are the application requirements?

For a list of application requirements for the Associate in Science in Radiation Therapy please click here: http://www.laboure.edu/application-requirements-radiation-therapy

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Launch a rewarding career as a Radiation Therapist with Labouré College.