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Students in the Radiation Therapy Bachelor of Science program learn to perform radiation therapy simulation and deliver radiation therapy treatments.

Radiation Therapy (Bachelor of Science)

The Radiation Therapy program at Indiana University School of Medicine is a four-year baccalaureate degree program and has two tracks: one for the non-radiographer and one for the radiographer.

For the nonradiographer, the program is composed of 48 credit hours of prerequisites and general-education requirements and a 22-month professional core in the junior and senior years. For the radiographer, the program includes general-education requirements and a 20-month professional core.

Working as a Radiation Therapist

Radiation therapy involves the use of different forms of ionizing radiation for the treatment of benign and malignant tumors. Radiation therapists administer the prescribed dose of ionizing radiation to specific sites of the patient’s body as directed by the physician. They operate varied types of equipment, including high-energy linear accelerators, and work with radioactive materials. In addition, radiation therapists observe the clinical progress of the patient undergoing radiation therapy, observe the first signs of any complication, and determine when treatment should be withheld until a physician may be consulted.

Admissions Details

Students interested in the Radiation Therapy program at IU School of Medicine can find details about the admissions process, including requirements and deadlines, on the program admissions page.

Program Admissions

Faculty and Staff Spotlight

9985-Walker, Maria

Maria C. Walker, MA

Director, Radiation Therapy Program

Read Bio Maria C. Walker, MA

portrait of morgan rowe

Morgan Rowe

Clinical Education Coordinator

Email Morgan

59849-Knight, Megan

Megan R. Knight, MA

Assistant Clinical Coordinator of Radiation Therapy Technology

Read Bio Megan R. Knight, MA

Program Details

  • Accreditation

    The IU School of Medicine Radiation Therapy, BS Program at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis is accredited through the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. In 2017, The JRCERT awarded the program accreditation for a period of 8 years which is the maximum duration that may be awarded.
    JRCERT
    20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
    Chicago, IL 60606-3182
    https://www.jrcert.org/

  • Mission Statement

    The Indiana University School of Medicine Radiation Therapy Program provides an exceptional education to students from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about becoming licensed radiation therapists. The program places a strong emphasis on the personal and professional growth of its students, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary skills to excel in their careers. In addition, the program promotes diversity, equity, and inclusiveness by supporting underrepresented populations, including first-generation students. The program’s overarching goal is to prepare graduates to become leaders in the field of radiation therapy, with a focus on defining excellence in the health and welfare of patients through treatment of disease. 

  • Program Goals
    1. Students will be clinically competent radiation therapists.

    2. Students will communicate effectively.

    3. Students will think critically and apply problem-solving skills in the healthcare environment.

    4. Students/graduates will have knowledge of the value of professional development and growth.

    5. Graduates will be successful at performing tasks/duties as entry-level radiation therapists.

  • Program Learning Outcomes

    Goal 1 Outcomes

    • Students will demonstrate knowledge of radiation therapy procedures
    • Students will apply principles of radiation protection for patient, self, and others
    • Students will perform radiation therapy simulation procedures
    • Students will deliver radiation therapy treatments as prescribed by a radiation oncologist
    • Students will perform basic radiation therapy dose calculations and access treatment plans

    Goal 2 Outcomes

    • Students will demonstrate effective communication skills (oral)
    • Students will demonstrate effective communication skills (written)

    Goal 3 Outcomes

    • Students will evaluate patients for effects, reactions, and therapeutic responses
    • Students will apply basic research methods

    Goal 4 Outcomes

    • Students will participate in professional development and service-learning activities
    • Students will formulate methods for the pursuit of lifelong learning
    • Students/Graduates will become members of a professional organization

    Goal 5 Outcomes

    • Graduates will pass the ARRT national certification exam on the first attempt
    • Graduates will be employed within 12 months postgraduation, if pursuing employment
    • Graduates will successfully complete the program within 20 months for radiographers and 22 months for nonradiographers
    • Graduates will be satisfied with their education
    • Employers will be satisfied with the graduate’s performance

Program Facilities

The Radiation Therapy Program offices are located on the IU School of Medicine Indianapolis campus. Classrooms and laboratories are located in radiation oncology departments of area hospitals and in other buildings in Indianapolis.

Clinical Training

The clinical practicums are provided at a variety of clinical sites located within a 75-mile radius of Indianapolis.