A radiation therapist is a healthcare professional who delivers radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases. Working as part of an oncology care team, radiation therapists administer prescribed treatments while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and accuracy throughout the process.

What does a radiation therapist do? 

Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments and support patient care throughout the treatment process. 
 
Typical responsibilities include: 

• Administering radiation treatments as prescribed by radiation oncologists 
• Positioning patients accurately for treatment sessions 
• Operating radiation therapy equipment 
• Monitoring patients during treatment for reactions or complications 
• Maintaining detailed treatment records and documentation 
• Ensuring radiation safety protocols are followed 
• Calibrating and maintaining radiation therapy equipment 
• Collaborating with oncologists and other healthcare professionals 

A day-in-the-life of a radiation therapist 

A typical day may include preparing patients for treatment, administering radiation therapy, and monitoring patient responses. Radiation therapists often work in structured clinical settings and spend much of their day on their feet. While most work standard weekday hours, some may be required to respond to urgent care needs or work outside typical schedules. 

What education is required to become a radiation therapist? 

Radiation therapists typically complete formal education and clinical training in radiation therapy before entering the profession. Because requirements can vary by employer and state regulations, there are multiple pathways into the profession. However, a typical pathway includes:

1. Complete an associate or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy or a related field.
2. Graduate from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
3. Many radiation therapists obtain certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). 

How long does it take to become a radiation therapist? 

The time required depends on the educational pathway a student chooses. Typical timeline:

• Education: 2–4 years (associate or bachelor’s degree)
• Clinical training: Included in accredited programs
• Total typical time: Approximately 2-4 years 

What skills are important for a radiation therapist? 

Radiation therapists need strong technical knowledge, precision, and interpersonal skills to safely deliver treatment and support patients. 

Technical skills 

• Operating radiation therapy equipment
• Understanding oncology treatment protocols
• Patient positioning and treatment accuracy
• Radiation safety and protection procedures
• Monitoring and documenting treatment responses

Interpersonal skills 

• Patient communication and education
• Compassion and empathy for patients undergoing treatment
• Emotional resilience
• Attention to detail
• Ability to work as part of a healthcare team 

Where do radiation therapists work? 

• Hospitals 
• Cancer treatment centers 
• Outpatient clinics 
• Academic medical centers 
• Physician offices 
• Specialty oncology centers 

Radiation therapist programs at Mayo Clinic 

Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences offers a Radiation Therapy Program that prepares students to deliver radiation treatments through classroom instruction and clinical training.

• Program name: Radiation Therapy Program
• Location: Rochester, Minnesota
• Length: 12 months
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
• Clinical exposure: Students gain hands-on experience delivering radiation therapy and working with oncology teams in clinical settings

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