What Is the Radiotherapy Program?
Radiotherapy is a treatment modality used in approximately three out of every four cancer patients. Within the framework of modern multidisciplinary cancer treatment, it may be administered as a curative treatment on its own, before or after surgery, or in combination with chemotherapy or other systemic therapies. It is also used as a supportive treatment to relieve symptoms caused by the disease and improve patients' quality of life.
The Program Aims to Train Allied Healthcare Professionals in Oncology
The Radiotherapy Program aims to educate qualified healthcare professionals who will assist radiation oncologists in the treatment of cancer patients.
A Radiation Oncology Technician is a healthcare professional who has completed a two-year associate degree in radiotherapy. These professionals assist radiation oncologists and are responsible for operating advanced radiotherapy equipment.
Graduates of the Radiotherapy Program are awarded the title of Radiation Oncology Technician. They assist physicians in treatment planning, treatment delivery, and scientific research by performing computed tomography (CT) simulations and participating in various stages of radiation therapy in oncology departments.
What Courses Are Offered in the Radiotherapy Program?
In the first semester of the Radiotherapy Program at Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services, students take courses including Basic Anatomy and Physiology, Radiation Physics, Basic Mathematics, and Introduction to Radiotherapy, in addition to Positive Psychology and Communication Skills and University Culture.
During the second semester, students study core professional courses such as Imaging Techniques in Radiotherapy, Biological Effects of Radiation, and Radiotherapy Equipment, along with vocational electives including Research Methods and Project Preparation and Social Responsibility Project.
The third and fourth semesters focus primarily on professional courses and clinical practice. In the third semester, students take courses such as Radiotherapy Treatment Procedures, Radiotherapy Applications, Clinical Radiation Oncology I, Nuclear Medicine, and Radiological Anatomy. They also participate in Clinical Field Practice, where they gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings throughout the semester.
In the fourth semester, students continue their clinical training while taking courses including Clinical Radiation Oncology II, Quality Assurance and Quality Control in Radiotherapy, Patient Care Methods, and Health Law.
What Are the Responsibilities of Radiation Oncology Technicians?
Graduates are qualified to perform the following responsibilities under the supervision of radiation oncologists:
- Preparing patient immobilization devices (e.g., thermoplastic masks)
- Fabricating individualized shielding blocks manually or using automated systems
- Performing treatment simulation procedures
- Positioning patients accurately for treatment (patient set-up)
- Processing simulation and portal films in darkrooms (where applicable)
- Maintaining darkroom equipment and replacing processing solutions
- Operating automatic film processing systems
- Operating and using various radiotherapy equipment
- Maintaining patient records and treatment documentation
- Preparing all necessary treatment accessories and supportive materials
- Delivering radiotherapy treatments and monitoring patients during treatment sessions
- Performing routine maintenance and minor troubleshooting of radiotherapy equipment
Double Major Programs
Students enrolled in the Radiotherapy Program may have the opportunity to pursue a double major in the following associate degree programs, subject to the University's academic regulations and quota requirements:
- Nuclear Technology and Radiation Safety
- Medical Imaging Techniques
- Biomedical Device Technology
- Electroneurophysiology
Vertical Transfer Examination (DGS)
Graduates of the Radiotherapy Program may continue their education by transferring to bachelor's degree programs through the Vertical Transfer Examination (DGS). Eligible undergraduate programs include:
- Emergency Aid and Disaster Management
- Nursing
- Health Management
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Cancer remains one of the major public health challenges in Türkiye, and radiotherapy is one of the most important treatment modalities in cancer care. Considering the country's population, the current number of radiotherapy devices and treatment facilities is still insufficient. National healthcare policies aim to increase the number of high-technology radiotherapy systems in the coming years.
Rapid technological advancements in radiotherapy have significantly increased the demand for well-trained healthcare professionals capable of operating these sophisticated treatment systems.
Graduates of the Radiotherapy Program, who earn the title of Radiation Oncology Technician, have employment opportunities in hospital oncology departments, private oncology clinics, and private diagnostic and treatment centers.
