How to become radiation therapistseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$105,310
25th–75th pct. $92,060–$126,340
Top pay (est.)
$203,700
Top 10% $156,710
Pay in 5 years
$122,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$142,100est.
$122,200–$165,000
Outlook score
53/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
36%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
+2.8%
700 openings / yr
How to become radiation therapists
Typical education
Associate's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Radiation Therapists
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Controlling Machines and ProcessesAssisting and Caring for OthersUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsPerforming for or Working Directly with the PublicIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
Important abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningProblem SensitivityInformation Ordering
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as radiation therapists
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.