FAQ
Radiation Therapist FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a radiation therapist.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a radiation therapist: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about radiation therapists
Do radiation therapists need a degree?
An associate degree is the typical minimum.
Is the pay good?
Yes, among the highest for associate degree jobs.
Is radiation therapy safe for staff?
Yes, with shielding and safety procedures.
How much does a radiation therapist make?
The median annual wage for radiation therapists was $105,310 ($50.63 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $80,560 and the highest 10% earned more than $156,710.
How long does it take to become a radiation therapist?
Most people need about 2–4 years of training. An associate or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy is typical, plus ARRT certification.
Do you need a degree to be a radiation therapist?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
Is radiation therapist a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +2.8% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 700 openings each year. Upsides include high pay for a two-year degree; a common challenge is that emotional patient situations.
What skills does a radiation therapist need?
Key technical skills include patient positioning, linear accelerator operation, image guidance, and radiation safety. Employers also value compassion, attention to detail, and communication.
What certifications are available for radiation therapists?
Common credentials include ARRT Radiation Therapy certification, State license, BLS CPR, and Medical dosimetry certification. Most states license radiation therapists, usually based on ARRT certification.
Still deciding?
Try the Radiation Therapist fit quiz, compare with Medical Dosimetrist, or explore Radiation Therapist training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1124 (Radiation therapists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Radiation therapists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.