Radiation Therapy Programs in Nebraska

Becoming a Radiation Therapist in Nebraska

Why Become a Radiation Therapist in Nebraska

Nebraska, known for its vast prairies and vibrant cities, offers a promising career path for aspiring radiation therapists. With a growing healthcare sector, Nebraska provides numerous opportunities for those interested in radiation therapy. The average salary for a radiation therapist in Nebraska is competitive, and the job outlook is positive, with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2021 to 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Radiation Therapy Programs in Nebraska

If you’re considering a career as a radiation therapist in Nebraska, several local schools offer accredited programs:

1. University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC)
   • Location: Omaha, NE
   • Program: The Radiation Therapy program at UNMC offers a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Science Technology. The program includes comprehensive coursework and clinical training.
   • UNMC Radiation Therapy Program
2. Nebraska Methodist College
   • Location: Omaha, NE
   • Program: Nebraska Methodist College offers a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Science Technology. The program focuses on both theoretical and practical aspects of radiation therapy.
   • Nebraska Methodist College Radiation Therapy Program
3. Bryan College of Health Sciences
   • Location: Lincoln, NE
   • Program: Bryan College offers an Associate of Science in Radiation Therapy. The program includes hands-on clinical experience and prepares students for the ARRT certification exam.
   • Bryan College Radiation Therapy Program

Typical Program Curriculum

Radiation therapy programs typically include a mix of general education courses and specialized radiation therapy courses. Common courses include:

• Medical Terminology
• Cancer Pathology
• Radiation Therapy Physics
• Radiobiology
• Clinical Internships

Programs usually take about two to four years to complete, depending on whether you pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Some programs may offer specializations or concentrations in areas such as dosimetry or advanced radiotherapy techniques.

Radiation Therapist Employment Opportunities in Nebraska

Nebraska boasts several major healthcare facilities and cancer treatment centers where radiation therapists can find employment:

1. Nebraska Medicine
   • Location: Omaha, NE
   • Description: Nebraska Medicine is a leading healthcare provider offering comprehensive cancer treatment services. They frequently have openings for radiation therapists.
   • Nebraska Medicine Careers
2. CHI Health
   • Location: Various locations across Nebraska
   • Description: CHI Health operates multiple hospitals and cancer treatment centers throughout Nebraska, providing numerous employment opportunities for radiation therapists.
   • CHI Health Careers
3. Bryan Health
   • Location: Lincoln, NE
   • Description: Bryan Health is a well-respected healthcare system in Lincoln, offering advanced cancer treatment services and employing skilled radiation therapists.
   • Bryan Health Careers

Radiation Therapist Certification Requirements in Nebraska

Education

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree: Radiation therapists typically need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy.
• Accredited Programs: The degree must be from an accredited radiation therapy program.
• Coursework: The program should include general education courses and specific courses related to radiation therapy, such as medical terminology, cancer pathology, radiation therapy physics, and clinical internships.

Certifications

• ARRT Certification: Passing the national certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is crucial for certification.
• ARRT Registry Exam: Completing an ARRT-approved radiation therapy program allows you to sit for the ARRT registry exam for radiation therapy.

Licensing

• State Licensure: Most states, including Nebraska, require radiation therapists to be licensed or certified.
• State-Specific Requirements: Each state has unique criteria for licensure, which may include additional exams or credentials.

Continuing Education

• Continuing Education Hours: Twenty-four hours of acceptable continuing education are required every 24 months for license renewal.
• Documentation: Documentation of continuing education activities must be retained for at least four years.

Additional Requirements

• Clinical Experience: Practical experience in the field is often required and must be submitted as proof when applying for licensure.
• Background Check: Some programs may require a criminal background check as part of the admission process.

For detailed information on specific requirements and regulations, please refer to the following resources:
– Medical Radiography – DHHS – Nebraska.gov

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a radiation therapist in Nebraska is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With the right education and certification, you can make a significant impact in the lives of cancer patients. Contact a local school today to learn more about their radiation therapy programs and take the first step towards your new career. Start your journey now and become a vital part of Nebraska’s healthcare community.