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

Undergraduate students at Indiana University interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Radiation Therapy are encouraged to apply.

Admissions

Faculty and Staff Spotlight

Maria C. Walker, MA

Director, Radiation Therapy Program

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Morgan Rowe

Clinical Education Coordinator

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Megan R. Knight, MA

Assistant Professor of Clinical Radiation Oncology

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Program Details

The Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Radiation Oncology Radiation Therapy Program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.

20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
312-704-5300
Email: mail@jrcert.org

The program’s current accreditation award is eight years. Review the general program accreditation information and current accreditation award letter.

The Radiation Therapy program at Indiana University School of Medicine offers an unparalleled educational experience for aspiring radiation therapists hailing from varied backgrounds. Our program prioritizes the comprehensive development of each student, empowering them with the essential skills to thrive professionally and personally.

The program champions diversity, equity and inclusion, actively advocating for underrepresented populations, including first generation students. By fostering an environment of acceptance and support, we aim to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed and contribute to our collective learning community.

Our overarching objective is to cultivate leaders in the field of radiation therapy who are dedicated to advancing the well-being of patients. Through a focus on excellence in treatment methodologies, we prepare graduates to redefine standards of care and make a lasting impact on the health outcomes of those they serve.

Students will be clinically competent radiation therapists.
Students will communicate effectively.
Students will think critically and apply problem-solving skills in the healthcare environment.
Students/graduates will have knowledge of the value of professional development and growth.
Graduates will be successful at performing tasks/duties as entry-level radiation therapists.

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 Data, Pre-requisite Checklists and Costs

Program Requirements (General Education Core completed)

Program Requirements (General Education Core not completed)

Equivalency Grid

Program Effectiveness Data

Estimated Cost

Student Handbook

IU Indianapolis Campus Bulletin

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.

Radiation Therapy (Bachelor of Science)

Working as a Radiation Therapist

Admissions Details