A radiation therapist uses machines to deliver cancer treatment to patients. It is precise, patient-focused work that requires an associate degree. Here is what the job involves, the skills it takes, and how to get in.
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Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases. You operate specialized equipment, position patients carefully, and monitor their responses during treatment. The work requires you to document patient information, inspect equipment to ensure it functions properly, and communicate clearly with patients about their care. You work directly with patients, often during vulnerable moments, so active listening and compassion are essential. You also collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to deliver precise, individualized treatment plans.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Radiation Therapists earn a median of $105,310 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is modest. Employment is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, little or no change for all occupations, with about 900 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most radiation therapist positions require an associate degree from an accredited program. These programs combine classroom instruction in physics, anatomy, and patient care with hands-on clinical training. You will study mathematics and physics to understand how radiation works, along with medical knowledge and customer service skills. The typical path takes two years of full-time study. After completing your degree, you will need to meet certification requirements in your state before you can practice independently.
The main route into this field is an associate degree program, which typically takes two years. If you are exploring whether this timeline and educational path fit your goals, Pathly can map the radiation therapist path that fits you and work through it with your school counselor to build a realistic plan.
Many radiation therapists must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You are drawn to hands-on, technical work where precision matters. You enjoy working with people and solving practical problems using equipment and systems.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).