Radiation Therapy Programs in Maine

How to Become a Radiation Therapist in Maine and Radiation Therapy Programs in Maine

Radiation therapy is an essential part of treating cancer in the modern medical world. Those that know how to apply radiation therapy will find work easy to come by. They know how to use special equipment to focus radiation onto cancerous growths and preventing damage to surrounding tissues when possible. Those interested in this field need to take training in how to perform this form of therapy. Working with radiation can be a challenging task, but those who enter the profession find a great deal of satisfaction in the work they perform. With over a million cases of cancer diagnosed each year, they play a critical role in getting people better. This is the beginning of how to become a radiation therapist in Maine.

The state of Maine requires those working in the area of radiation therapy to hold a state license. To qualify for licensing, candidates must hold national certification and have completed an accredited course in radiation therapy. They must also pass certain background checks. In the state of Maine, several community colleges offer Associate degree programs in Radiation Therapy. These programs meet the accrediting criteria of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. This certification means that students completing the education programs are qualified to take the certification exam of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. That exam is necessary for Maine state licensing. There is still more on how to become a radiation therapist in Maine.

What can you expect from radiation therapy programs in Maine? A typical radiation therapy program will lead to an Associate’s degree. That means a student takes some basic general curriculum courses while also studying specific classes in radiation therapy. The radiation therapy classes include medical terminology, radiographic anatomy, principles of radiation therapy, radiation physics, treatment planning, radiation cell biology, and quality assurance. In addition to taking classes, students must complete a certain number of clinical hours to achieve their degree.

Besides an Associate degree, there are Bachelor and Master degree programs in Radiation Therapy available for students in various colleges and universities in the state of Maine. Graduates of any degree program in radiation therapy, who pass certification and licensure requirements, will find employment offers come mainly from hospital and cancer treatment centers. This area of medical treatment continues to evolve with more technologies available for radiation treatment. Ongoing education is necessary. Most radiation therapists take continuing education credits to maintain their licensing and certification.

Radiation Therapy Schools Near You & Online in Maine

Southern Maine Community College

  • 2 Fort Road South Portland, ME 04106
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, RN
    (207) 741-5500