Career roadmap
How to Become a Radiation Therapist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a radiation therapist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a radiation therapist: (1) take science courses, (2) complete a radiation therapy program, (3) complete clinical training, (4) pass the ARRT exam, (5) advance. Most people need about 2–4 years. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a radiation therapist
Take science courses
Math and physics help.
Complete a radiation therapy program
Associate or bachelor’s.
Complete clinical training
Supervised treatments.
Pass the ARRT exam
Get licensed.
Advance
Dosimetry or management.
Education and training requirements
An associate or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy is typical, plus ARRT certification.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2–4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- ARRT Radiation Therapy certification: National credential.
- State license: Required in most states.
- BLS CPR: Basic life support.
- Medical dosimetry certification: Advancement path.
Skills to build now
Start with patient positioning, linear accelerator operation, and image guidance, and practice compassion and attention to detail. Learning the radiation therapist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Radiation Therapist: Treat patients.
- Senior Therapist: Lead treatments.
- Medical Dosimetrist: Plan doses.
- Chief Therapist or Manager: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Radiation Therapist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do radiation therapists need a degree?
An associate degree is the typical minimum.
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.
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.
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.