Radiation Therapy

This course provides a foundation for the technology of radiologic sciences. Topics discussed include atomic structure and mechanics the nature of electricity and magnetism, and the electromagnetic spectrum. Also included are topics dealing with basic circuits and circuit theory, x-ray tube design and operation, digital imaging, x-ray production and interactions, as well as the technology fundamental to its effective usage and control. Operator and equipment safety will be emphasized throughout the course.

This course provides an overview of general principles of quality management, continuous improvement, and safety standards in radiation therapy. Topics include the validity of quality assurance checks and how quality assurance applies clinically, testing performed on simulators and linear accelerators, brachytherapy source inventory checks and safety concerns. Major historic radiation safety events are also discussed.

This course is designed to focus on the operational issues a radiation therapist will encounter within the profession. Topics will include applicable human resource regulations, billing and reimbursement, professional and community commitment and professional development. Health IT specific to the radiation oncology environment and healthcare trends that impact the radiation therapist will also be discussed.

This course will introduce the student to the various imaging modalities within a contemporary medical imaging department. These areas include cardiovascular imaging to include cardiac catheterization, CT scanning, MRI scanning, radionuclide imaging, ultrasonography, breast imaging, DXA scanning and radiation oncology. Additionally, the special studies of arthrography and myelography will be covered from a radiography perspective. Cross-sectional anatomy will be presented as it relates to ultrasound, CT, and MRI imaging.

This course provides the fundamentals of patient care skills needed for radiation therapists. Content includes essential patient care concepts including medical assessment, physical assessment, physical assistance, patient education, infection control and aseptic technique, physiologic monitoring, venipuncture, drug administration, patient special needs, psychosocial considerations, and medical emergencies.

This course is designed to provide an overview of cancer the specialty of radiation therapy. Treatment options beyond external beam radiation are discussed, such as brachytherapy and particle therapy. Overall cancer management is discussed, along with the roles and responsibilities of the radiation therapist, the treatment prescription, and treatment delivery.

This course is designed to examine the multidisciplinary approaches in cancer treatment. It consists of advanced topics in radiation therapy such as chemotherapy, surgical intervention, immunotherapy, combined modalities, benign conditions, and managing side effects. Metastatic and palliative treatments and radiation therapy emergencies are also covered in this course.

This course will address the radiobiological/biophysical events at the cellular and subcellular levels. Analysis of factors influencing radiation response of cells and tissues will be covered. Discussions will cover topics including medical aspects of radiobiology, including systemic and total body response time, dose fractionation, and volume and site as they apply to both normal and tumor biology. Students will learn about radiobiological data on graphs, charts, and survival curves.

This course will discuss the concepts of dose distribution in tissue, patient treatment approaches, and planning techniques. Topics include dosimetric considerations and calculations for photon, electron, and brachytherapy treatments. Clinical applications of treatment beams, accessories, and compensators are also discussed.

Clinical Radiation Therapy I provides the student with opportunities to apply learned skills in the practice of radiation therapy. Students will progress from observation to participation in simulation, treatment planning and treatment delivery methods within radiation therapy.

Clinical Radiation Therapy II progresses student skills in the practice of radiation therapy.  Content is designed to provide sequential development, application and integration of concepts and theories as a practicing therapist.

Clinical Radiation Therapy III will progress the students’ clinical education experience.  This course is a continuation of Clinical Practicum II with emphasis on critical thinking and problem solving as the student builds on previous knowledge.

Clinical Radiation Therapy IV will complete the students’ clinical education experience.  This course is a continuation of Clinical Practicum III with more emphasis on critical thinking, problem solving, and completing all necessary competencies.

This course will enhance the transition of students into professional radiation therapy practice. It will provide an overall understanding of the knowledge and skills needed to be a successful, competent radiation therapist. Students will build a resume and practice interview skills. A cumulative review of the content categories of theory and clinical concepts in radiation therapy will prepare students for the national certification exam.