About Radiation Oncologist Training

A radiation oncologist is a doctor that specializes in the treatment of cancer through radiation therapy. This type of doctor is a very important part of a person's cancer treatment. Becoming a radiation oncologist requires many years of education and training.

Education

A person pursuing a career as a radiation oncologist must first earn a four-year degree. As an undergraduate, they take numerous classes in biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology and physics. Most students planning to attend medical school graduate with a Bachelor's of Science degree in one of the above mentioned disciplines. Following his undergraduate education a prospective radiation oncologist must attend four years of medical school. During medical school he receives a broad education an all aspects of medicine, but he may also take elective classes that teach him about types of cancer and the treatment of cancer. Upon graduation from medical school he is awarded a medical degree.

Residency

One does not become a practicing radiation oncologist straight out of medical school. Following graduation she must apply for a residency program with an accredited hospital in order to receive hands on training in the field of radiation oncology. As a resident she will work under a licensed and board certified radiation oncologist.  A residency program lasts four years, and during that time the resident will rotate through different units in the cancer ward, learning about using radiation for different types of cancers on all ages and types of patients. After successfully completing her residency, a doctor can take an exam to become certified by the American Board of Radiology.