Radiation Therapy Programs in Missouri

Becoming a Radiation Therapist in Missouri

Why Become a Radiation Therapist in Missouri

Missouri, known as the “Show-Me State,” offers a blend of urban excitement and rural tranquility. With landmarks like the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the Ozark Mountains, Missouri provides a diverse living environment. The average salary for a radiation therapist in Missouri is competitive, and the job outlook is promising with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2021 to 2031. For more details on job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Radiation Therapy Programs in Missouri

If you’re considering a career as a radiation therapist in Missouri, several educational institutions offer accredited programs:

1. St. Louis Community College – Located in the Forest Park neighborhood of St. Louis, this college offers an Associate of Applied Science in Radiation Therapy. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. St. Louis Community College Radiation Therapy Program

2. University of Missouri – Situated in Columbia, this university offers a Bachelor of Health Science in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences with an emphasis in Radiation Therapy. The program combines academic coursework with clinical rotations. University of Missouri Radiation Therapy Program

3. State Fair Community College – Located in Sedalia, this college provides a Certificate in Radiation Therapy for those who already hold an associate degree in radiologic technology. The program includes a nine-month clinical internship. State Fair Community College Radiation Therapy Program

Typical Program Curriculum

Radiation therapy programs typically cover a range of subjects, including:

• Radiation Physics: Understanding the principles of radiation and its interaction with matter.
• Radiobiology: Studying the effects of radiation on living tissues.
• Treatment Planning: Learning how to develop and implement radiation treatment plans.
• Clinical Practicum: Gaining hands-on experience in a clinical setting.
• Patient Care: Focusing on patient management and safety.

Programs usually last between 18 to 24 months, depending on whether you pursue an associate degree, certificate, or bachelor’s degree.

Radiation Therapist Employment Opportunities in Missouri

Several major healthcare facilities and cancer treatment centers in Missouri offer employment opportunities for radiation therapists:

1. Barnes-Jewish Hospital – Located in the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis, this hospital is part of the BJC HealthCare system and offers comprehensive cancer treatment services. Barnes-Jewish Hospital Careers

2. Siteman Cancer Center – Also in St. Louis, this center is affiliated with Washington University and provides advanced cancer treatment options. Siteman Cancer Center Careers

3. University of Missouri Health Care – Based in Columbia, this healthcare system includes Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, which offers state-of-the-art radiation therapy services. University of Missouri Health Care Careers

Radiation Therapist Certification Requirements in Missouri

To become a licensed radiation therapist in Missouri, you must meet several requirements:

Education and Training

• Associate Degree or Certificate Program: Complete an Associate of Science in Radiation Therapy or a certificate program if you already have an associate degree in a related field.
• Bachelor’s Degree: Some programs offer a bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy.
• Clinical Internship: Complete a clinical internship, typically lasting around nine months.

Certifications

• ARRT Certification: Obtain certification and registration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) by passing the ARRT’s radiation therapy exam.
• Continuing Education: Complete continuing education requirements every two years to maintain ARRT certification.

Licensing

• State Licensure: Missouri requires licensure to practice as a radiation therapist. The Missouri Radiologic Imaging and Radiation Therapy Advisory Committee guides the board in establishing scopes of practice and licensure requirements.
• Board Requirements: The board may issue licenses based on ARRT certification and registration, and may also require additional state-specific requirements.

Additional Requirements

• Age Requirement: Be at least eighteen years of age to apply for licensure.
• Supervision: Perform radiologic imaging or radiation therapy procedures under the supervision of a licensed practitioner or a person holding a nuclear medicine technologist, radiation therapist, radiographer, or radiologist assistant license.

For more information, refer to the Missouri Senate Bill 926 and ARRT Certification and Registration.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a radiation therapist in Missouri is a rewarding and impactful choice. With a variety of educational programs and promising job opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and start your journey towards becoming a radiation therapist.