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overview
The treatment of cancer involves three main modalities: surgery, chemotherapy (drugs) and radiation therapy. Radiation therapy may be used alone or in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy, often curing the patient or offering an increased quality of life. The radiation therapist (RT) is a health-care professional responsible for delivering a therapeutic dose of ionizing radiation in the treatment of malignant disease. As an RT you will work within a team of other health-care professionals including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, nurses, nutritionists, and many other allied health professionals.
The field of radiation therapy is exciting and challenging, and one that is changing dramatically. As an RT you will be involved in using advanced computer software for treatment planning in 3 dimensions, CT scanners and MRI for identifying critical structures and tumour volumes, and state-of-the-art linear accelerator equipment to deliver treatment.
Suitable candidates for the program will be those individuals who are committed to delivering the highest standard of patient care, have a strong aptitude for physics and math, and a desire for a challenging and rewarding career.
The Program
The Radiation Therapy Technology program is comprised of a required academic portion of courses delivered at BCIT and clinical experience scheduled at BC Cancer Agency treatment centres.
program entry
Entrance requirements
- Biology 12 (C)*
- Physics 12*
- One year of university level academics (30 credits) including a minimum grade of 60% in the following:
- 6 credits math (preferably calculus-based)
- 6 credits physics
- 6 credits English
- Biology credits are an asset but not required
- Letter of intent (cover letter) and resume
- Two letters of professional reference
- Letter supporting volunteer service**
- Basic keyboarding and computer skills
* Or equivalent post-secondary upgrade course
** Candidates must show a commitment to patient care by completing a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer work in a hospital or care facility -or- have previous work experience in healthcare or other equivalent experience.
Entrance requirements must have been completed within the last five years -or- candidates must have kept their skills current through work tasks or furthering education.
Please ensure that you submit the following documents to support your application:
- High school transcript
- Official post-secondary transcripts
- Proof of registration for any courses in progress
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to complete a screening interview and basic physics test. Successful candidates will be notified after the interview and asked to attend an information session.
Applicants accepted into the program are required to:
- Submit completed health forms. Applicants must undergo a medical examination by their own physician and have a complete updating of immunizations.
- Agree to undertake a criminal record search.
- Sign a consent form for full participation in labs held at BCIT and clinical experience at affiliated clinical sites.
BC provincial exams
For programs beginning in August 2007 or later which require Grade 12 Math and Science courses, BCIT will not require the applicant to write the provincial exam. Provincial exam marks will still be required for English 12, Communications 12, and Technical and Professional Communications 12.
Scheduled intakes
September each year
Application processing
October 1 to May 29. Applications are considered for a specific intake.
Application Deadline
Deadline for submission of completed applications is May 29th for the following September intake. All program requirements must be completed and documentation received by Admissions prior to the final selection confirmation. We recommend that you submit interim marks and updates for any courses that are in progress.
Selection Process
The selection process is competitive. Based on the documentation submitted, selected applicants will be invited for an interview conducted by members of the Radiation Therapy program to assess the applicant's suitability for the field and communication skills. Not all qualified applicants will be offered a seat as capacity for each intake is 22 students.
Out-of-province and international applicants should review BCIT's applicant priority information.
costs & supplies
Books and supplies
Level 5: $968
Level 6: $485
Level 8: $400
Level 9: $548
(general estimated cost, and subject to change)
BCIT requires students to pay for transportation and parking costs during clinical experience scheduled at the Vancouver, Fraser Valley (Surrey) or Abbotsford Cancer Centres. Students may also be required to obtain clinical experience in Victoria or Kelowna at the student's own expense. Students are required to have valid CPR and basic life support training (level C) before writing the final certification exams. This may be done during the program and the cost is approximately $75 (subject to change).
In order to become a registered radiation therapist in Canada, students are required to write the certification exams after successfully graduating.
Cost to write the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) certification exams is CAD $800 (subject to change).
courses
Program matrix
| Level 5 (15 weeks) |
Credits |
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BHSC 5101 |
Anatomy and Physiology 1
This first of two consecutive courses provides a comprehensive review of human anatomy and physiology of relevance to radiation therapy practice. Introductory sections on cytology and histology are followed by overviews of the skeletal system and muscular systems. Includes detailed discussions of cardiovascular, lymphatic, and respiratory systems. Supplements typical considerations of structure and function with explorations of relational and sectional anatomy.
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5.5 |
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COMM 5105 |
Communication 1 for Radiation Therapy
This course introduces communication needs in the practice of radiation therapy and the health care environment. It enables students to participate in assignments and presentations and to develop communication skills required to communicate effectively with supervisors, colleagues, and patients. Students also develop methods of organizing and providing information, delivering oral and written instructions, and researching and summarizing technical information.
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2.0 |
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LIBS 7001 |
Critical Reading and Writing
Develops advanced skills in critical analysis, close reading and composition through lectures, discussion and group activities in which students analyse and evaluate materials from various disciplines. Readings might come from professional journals, reports, newspapers, magazines and literature. Multimedia such as video, music and the Internet may also be included. Prerequisite: equivalent of three credits of university/college composition or six credits BCIT Communication.
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3.0 |
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NURS 5102 |
Patient Care
Provides a solid theory base for the delivery of safe patient care in potentially unstable or unpredictable situations. Includes an introduction to the hospital environment, health problems of the patient, and the basic safety and comfort aspects to be considered when working with patients, carrying out a variety of procedures and working with equipment in the patient's environment, plus content on legal and ethical issues in health care. Covers common emergencies, laboratory tests and pharmaceuticals specific to the Radiation Therapy department, as well as an overview of pediatric growth and development. Provides practice in a variety of patient care skills and procedures in the context of their use within the Radiation Therapy department, and reinforce it through a variety of teaching and learning techniques.
|
3.5 |
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PHYS 5103 |
Physics for Radiation Therapy 1
Introduces fundamental physics and mathematical concepts important to the therapeutic use of ionizing radiation. Begins with a review of some basic physics concepts and expands into a discussion of topics specific to radioactivity, production of x-rays and their interactions in different media. Identifies applications of physics theory to radiation therapy treatment. Provides problem based laboratory work, and reinforces lecture topics with numerical examples requiring solution of numerical problems where appropriate.
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4.5 |
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RADT 5001 |
Clinical Orientation
A week of clinical orientation introduces treatment and planning procedures in the radiation therapy department. Schedules students to planning and treatment units to observe procedures and to interact with patients. Reviews BC Cancer Agency and Clinical Program policies and procedures for performing in a safe and professional manner.
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1.5 |
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RADT 5104 |
Radiation Therapy 1
Provides for the definition and application of medical terminology to the discipline of oncology. Critically examines the public's perceptions of cancer through personal misconceptions about the disease and the media's portrayal of cancer, its causes and treatment. Also examines the distinguishing biological characteristics of benign and malignant neoplasms, the natural history of solid and systematic malignancies including tumour progression, the metastatic cascade and methods of tumour spread, as well as the epidemiology and etiology of cancer. Studies public education through cancer prevention and cancer screening programs through group presentations.
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3.5 |
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RADT 5105 |
Treatment Planning 1
Introduction to the examination of the concepts and principles of treatment planning for radiation therapy treatment delivery, and the roles and responsibilities of the different members of the treatment planning team. Provides familiarity with treatment planning terminology, patient contouring and immobilization, and treatment field blocking methods, as well as simulator and CT simulator technology. Requires construction of a customized immobilization device using accepted procedure.
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3.0 |
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| Level 6 (16 weeks) |
Credits |
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BHSC 5102 |
Applied Social Science 1
Explores psychological and sociological concepts, research and application of relevance to the clinical practice of radiation therapy. Topics to assist students to develop the communication and coping skills required of a health care professional include critical skills for effective, professional communications, challenges and opportunities presented by cultural and other diversity in the workplace, developmental differences, work teams, conflict resolution, harassment and discrimination, abuse and ethics.
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3.0 |
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BHSC 6101 |
Anatomy and Physiology 2
The second of two courses that cover human anatomy and physiology of relevance to the study and practice of radiation therapy. Considers the nervous system (including organs of special sense), endocrine, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Concepts and applications, sectional and relational anatomy complement a traditional systems approach to prepare for the diverse imaging modalities encountered in the clinical area. Prerequisites: 60% in BHSC 5101
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4.0 |
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BHSC 6103 |
Pathology
An examination of the principles of pathology and fundamental disease processes at the cellular level, local and systemic levels. Topics covered include cellular injury and death, tissue necrosis; tissue injury and healing including inflammation, regeneration and repair; neoplastic diseases including genetic disorders, immunologic suppression, and viral causes; as well, disorders of body systems will be examined concentrating on neoplastic disease and its consequences. Students are expected to select a relevant topic, research the topic and present their findings to the class. Prerequisites: 60% in BHSC 5101
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3.0 |
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HMGT 7180 |
Canadian Health System
Examines current issues in the delivery of health care in Canada's Health System with some reference to other health care systems in the world. Critical thinking and evaluative skills applied to investigation, analysis and discussion of various issues.
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3.0 |
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MATH 6105 |
Statistics for Radiation Therapy
Emphasizes statistical data treatment and decision making with illustrative cancer therapy applications. Topics include modeling with probability distributions (Poisson, Normal), statistical inference (estimation and hypothesis testing, p-values), regression and correlation. Applications include descriptive presentations, survival rates and experimental design.
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3.0 |
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PHYS 6104 |
Physics for Radiation Therapy 2
The second in a series of courses examining the fundamentals of radiation physics and the principles and concepts of dosimetry in the application of beam data to obtain the optimal treatment plan for each patient. Examines the physical applications and concepts relevant to teletherapy and brachytherapy equipment, photon and electron interactions, and beam data collection. Laboratory work is problem based. Lectures are reinforced with numerical examples and students solve numerical problems where appropriate. Prerequisites: 60% in PHYS 5103
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5.5 |
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RADT 6104 |
Radiation Therapy 2
Examines the characteristics of a healthcare professional and how to incorporate these characteristics into clinical performance. Also examines the legal-ethical issues of informed consent to medical procedures and apply this knowledge into practice. Relates the natural history of malignancy to the application of different treatment modalities to provide patients with the best possible treatment outcomes. Studies the role of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy as primary treatment modalities and as adjuvant therapies. Prerequisites: 60% in RADT 5104
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3.0 |
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RADT 6105 |
Treatment Planning 2
Examines quality assurance concepts and applications to treatment planning and delivery in radiation therapy. Examines in detail the guiding principles for a quality assurance program as stated by the ICRU and the implementation in the radiation therapy department, including the importance of quality control checks for all planning and treatment ancillary equipment. Examines basic radiation therapy techniques in preparation of obtaining competency in clinical practice. Also examines the advantages and disadvantages of other imaging modalities and image quality used in the treatment planning process. Prerequisites: 60% in RADT 5105
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3.0 |
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| Summer (8 weeks) |
Credits |
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RADT 6001 |
Clinical Experience 1*
An eight-week clinical practicum providing continued experience in the treatment and planning procedures of the radiation therapy department. Enables participation in technical and patient care activities conducive to the level of experience and under supervision from radiation therapists. Requires completion of rotations on a variety of planning and treatment units, and attendance at oncology rounds/inservices where indicated. Prerequisites: RADT 5001
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12.0 |
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| Level 7 (16 weeks) |
Credits |
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RADT 7001 |
Clinical Experience 2*
Provides for continued development and practice of patient care and technical skills under the supervision of radiation therapists. This 16-week cinical practicum schedules students to treatment and planning units to obtain different experiences in the radiation therapy department. Enables practice and performance of basic radiation therapy techniques, specifically single field and parallel opposed pair techniques for evaluation of competency. Prerequisites: RADT 6001
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24.0 |
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| Level 8 (16 weeks) |
Credits |
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BHSC 6102 |
Applied Social Science 2
Continues the exploration of the psychological and sociological issues that may influence a cancer patient's ability to cope and recover from treatment. Examines concepts from research and application to clinical practice. Includes a review of communication and interaction skills; managing stress and negative emotions in clients and in self depression; burnout; anxiety; claustrophobia; psychological aspects of pain and its treatment; psychological impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment; needs of family members; making appropriate referrals; dealing with clients who have disabilities; life threatening illness; death and dealing with dying patients; and medico-legal implications of practice. Prerequisites: 60% in BHSC 5102
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4.0 |
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BUSA 7250 |
Management Skills and Applications
The course provides an overview of the basic skills of a manager and applies these skills through a series of projects and case studies. It examines the evolution of management and the organizational culture and environment. It also teaches the decision-making skills and the skills involved in planning, organizing, leading and controlling, including planning and facilitating change, teamwork, applying motivational techniques and effective communication.
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3.0 |
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RADT 6106 |
Clinical Techniques
Examines in detail the technical and patient related factors that can contribute to daily variation in clinical technique set ups. Discusses the factors related to variation and corrective action that can be taken to ensure accuracy and precision of treatment. Examines departmental and professional practice guidelines as part of the rationale for daily variations. Relates stage and tumour location to techniques commonly used in clinical practice. Prerequisites: 60% in RADT 6107
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3.0 |
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RADT 6109 |
Project Research 1
This first of two research courses guides through the initial steps of developing a suitable research project relevant to the practice of radiation therapy. Provides for the formulation of a reseach topic or question, review and critique of relevant literature, definition of research methodology, and obtaining approval from project advisor(s) before commencing research methodology. Requires preparation of an independent proposal based on the research question. Examines the principles of clinical trials as a method to advance medical practice and other forms of experimental design commonly found in medical research, and the importance of research in professional development. Prerequisites: 60% in COMM 5104 and 60% in MATH 6105 and 60% in RADT 6108
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4.0 |
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RADT 7103 |
Radiation Biology and Safety
Provides an in-depth examination of the effects of ionizing radiation on living cells at low doses and at therapeutic levels. Describes and relates concepts of fractionation, optimal dose for tumour control and therapeutic ratio to radiation therapy clinical practice. Examines radiation safety for both the general public and for occupationally exposed personnel. Studies the application of the ALARA principle for radiation safety and recommendations of the ICRP. Examines legislation by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) and compliance with these regulations within the practice of radiation therapy. Prerequisites: 60% in PHYS 6103
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4.0 |
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RADT 7104 |
Clinical Oncology 1
Provides a foundation of knowledge regarding the diagnosis, staging and treatment of malignancies of the female reproductive and urinary systems, as well as lymphoma, leukemia and other non-solitary malignancies. Also examines the malignant tumours of skin, muscle and bone. The lab portion provides an on-line environment to discuss patient case studies, view diagnostic and planning images, and present findings in a discussion module. Prerequisites: 60% in BHSC 5102 and 60% in NURS 5104 and 60% in RADT 6104
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5.5 |
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RADT 7105 |
Treatment Planning 3
Delivers the clinical application of dosimetry and treatment planning concepts in order to obtain optimal beam arrangements. Examines the application of dosimetric principles in teletherapy and brachytherapy and relates them to clinical practice. Provides practical dosimetry skills through completion of mathematical problem sets for teletherapy and brachytherapy techniques. Prerequisites: 60% in PHYS 6104 and 60% in RADT 6105
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5.5 |
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| Summer (8 weeks) |
Credits |
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RADT 8001 |
Clinical Experience 3*
Continues the development and practice of patient care and technical skills under the supervision of radiation therapists. This 8-week clinical practicum schedules students into a variety of treatment and planning units in the radiation therapy department to practise and perform multi-field and brachtherapy techniques for evaluation of competency. Prerequisites: 60% in BHSC 6102 and RADT 7001 and 60% in RADT 6106 and 60% in RADT 7103 and 60% in RADT 7105
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12.0 |
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| Level 9 (15 Weeks) |
Credits |
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COMM 6105 |
Communication 2 for Radiation Therapy
This course builds on COMM 5105 to develop skills necessary to write a research paper. Students also apply written communication skills to complete job application letters and resumes. They also further develop oral communication skills through group-report collaboration, meeting participation, and interview preparation and assessment. Prerequisites: 60% in COMM 5105
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2.0 |
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LIBS 7002 |
Applied Ethics
Fosters abilities and values required for ethical decision making at work. Develops skills in logical analysis, a working knowledge of moral principles and theories, and the ability to diagnose and resolve moral disagreements commonly found at work. Examines and applies moral principles to historically famous cases in manufacturing, human resources, management, engineering, health care, and computing. Prerequisite: Equivalent of three credits of university/college composition or six credits of BCIT Communication.
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3.0 |
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MIMG 6106 |
Imaging Technology CT/MR
Explores the fundamental physical principles of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology and their application within Radiation Therapy. Outlines the principles of radiographic imaging and its limitations, followed by a description of the history and baisc physics of CT, including a discussion of data acquisition, image reconstruction, instrumentation, image quality, and radiation done in CT. In addition, outlines MRI basic physics and instrumentation, image production, biological effects and safety considerations. Concludes with an outline of the major components of a PACS and its application in Radiation Therapy. Prerequisites: 60% in PHYS 6103
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2.0 |
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RADT 7109 |
Research Project 2
Continues from RADT 6109, enables completion of research under guidance from committee of advisors. Students submit for evaluation a research paper on the analysis of the results, findings and conclusions. The oral presentation consists of an overview of the final research results. Prerequisites: 60% in RADT 6109
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3.0 |
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RADT 8103 |
Care of the Oncology Patient
Examines a holistic model of care for the cancer patient that includes an integrated approach to healing and providing optimal outcomes for oncology patients. Develops care plans for patients based on the acute and long term effects of radiation therapy treatment while considering the patient's cultural, physical and emotional needs. Also examines issues surrounding patient education, post-treatment quality of life, care in the community, palliative and hospice care. Prerequisites: 60% in NURS 5102 and 60% in RADT 7103
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3.0 |
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RADT 8104 |
Clinical Oncology 2
Provides a foundation of knowledge regarding the diagnosis, staging and treatment of childhood cancers, head and neck tumours, lung, gastro-intestinal and tumours of the male reproductive system. Also provides modules to examine the treatment of CNS primaries and metastases as well as radiation therapy emergencies. The lab portion provides an on-line environment to analyze and discuss patient case studies. Assignments linked to the case studies examine the treatment decision making process while considering the physical and psycho-emotional status of the patient. Prerequisites: 60% in BHSC 6102 and 60% in RADT 6106 and 60% in RADT 7105 and 60% in RADT 7104
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5.0 |
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RADT 8105 |
Treatment Planning 4
Provides lab experience to develop competency in clinical treatment planning. Performs manual methods to produce composite isodose distributions and examine the management of digital information that has evolved as a result of increased computerization in clinical practice. Using a variety of patient images, employs 3-D software to outline planning tumour volumes and critical structures, and design optimal treatment plans. Prerequisites: 60% in RADT 6106 and 60% in RADT 7105
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6.0 |
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RADT 8250 |
Total Quality Management
Provides a foundation of study in the theory and practice of quality management in health care through an examination of the literature and case study reviews. Applies relevant and current TQM theory to the cancer health care environment with an assignment to design a survey tool used to measure outcomes of care. Examines improvement strategies and implementation for attaining quality processes in the context of health care. Prerequisites: 60% in BUSA 7250
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3.0 |
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| Level 10 (17 weeks) |
Credits |
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RADT 8002 |
Clinical Experience 4*
In the last term of the program, completes the clinical education component through competent performance of all techniques and procedures outlined in the CAMRT Summary of Clinical Competence. Students perform as an effective team member in the radiation therapy department to provide patients with optimal treatment and care. Completion of clinical assignments is mandatory for graduation and for eligibility to sit the CAMRT certification exams. Prerequisites: RADT 8001 Clinical Experience 3, completion of all core technical, core interpersonal and RADT courses.
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25.5 |
| *BCIT may require students to be assigned to any of the available clinical sites to gain the required competencies and experience. |
Liberal Studies Electives: In addition to LIBS 7001 and LIBS 7002 all students will be required to achieve an additional 6.0 credits of Liberal Studies in accordance with the BCIT policy on Liberal Studies course requirements. Information regarding topic areas and/or eligibility for transfer credits may be obtained from the Advanced Placement and Degree Programs office at 604-432-8230. |
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| Total Credits: |
189.5 |
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if
they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's
Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
program details
Program length
33 months, full-time
Vacation breaks include approximately:
- 2–3 weeks in December/January for Christmas and New Years
- 8 weeks in May/June (1st year students)
- 8 weeks in July/August (2nd year students)
Grading
All didactic courses have a pass mark of 60%. All clinical experience has satisfactory/unsatisfactory
grading.
Accreditation
The program is accredited by the Canadian Medical Association Conjoint Committee for accreditation.
graduating & jobs
Job Opportunities
Currently there is a national shortage of radiation therapists. Many of the provinces have plans to expand the number of cancer treatment units or facilities and so future demand remains optimistic. In BC, there are five radiation therapy departments located in Abbotsford, Vancouver, Surrey, Kelowna, and Victoria. A new treatment facility is scheduled to open in Prince George (Centre of the North, BCCA) in 2012. Once registered as a radiation therapist, you are eligible to work anywhere in Canada. Many graduate therapists have been employed in the United States or overseas in such places as New Zealand, Australia and United Kingdom.
Professional associations
Graduates of the BCIT program are awarded a Bachelor of Technology in Radiation Therapy and are eligible to take the National certification examinations set by the CAMRT. Successful candidates may use the designation Registered Technologist Radiation Therapy (RTT) and work as registered radiation therapists anywhere in Canada and in many other parts of the world.
faculty, advisors & staff
Clinical Educators (BCCA)
- Neil McParland
- Luminita Nica
- Jenny Soo (Vancouver)
- Sarah Kristensen
- Tara Volpatti (Fraser Valley)
- Gillian Long
- Del Leibel (Abbotsford)
- Veronica Patenaude (Victoria)
- Student clinical education is supported by preceptors, radiation therapists, medical physicists, physics assistants, radiation oncologists and other healthcare professionals.
Faculty (BCIT)
- Lorraine Clarke Roe, AC(T), M.Ed: Program Head
- Laura Bushell, RN, AC(T), M.Ed, Clinical coordinator
- Maryna von Aulock, ND (THER)
As BCIT strives to keep our programs current, programs and courses are subject to change without notice.
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Testimonial

Radiation therapy is a fast paced challenging environment. It is an area that is constantly changing and evolving as technology and treatment techniques improve year after year...It's a pursuit where you can feel every day that you made a difference in someone's life, helping them through a difficult time, giving them the hope of beating [cancer].
> Mike Johnston, radiation therapist, Vancouver
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