Anatomy and pathology necessary for the technologist to perform effectively in CT and MRI imaging modalities. Anatomic structures of the head, neck, spine, thorax, abdomen, pelvis and extremities are taught in cross-sectional axial, sagittal and coronal orientations. The pathologies commonly seen in these same anatomic areas are explored to the degree a technologist would require within their scope of practice.

This course is an exploration of the foundation of radiation therapy practices and the variety of roles for the professional in the delivery of health care. Principles of practice, professional responsibilities, medical law and ethics will be addressed along with program expectations.

This course will focus on the role of the radiation therapist in overall disease management. It will prepare students to work directly with patients in a health care setting and covers assessment, examination and monitoring of patients, symptom management and the management of oncologic emergencies. Patient issues such as pain control, nutritional counseling, patient education, death and dying will be explored. Chemotherapeutic drugs will be introduced and discussed.

This course applies the concepts of radiation oncology physics as it is practiced in the clinic. Interactions of ionizing radiation, measurement of ionizing radiation, nuclear transformation and the quality of X-ray beams are discussed. This course provides the student with an understanding of the different types of radiation treatment units and their operating principles. This course contains a review of mathematics, basic principles of physics, atomic structure, electro-magnetic and particulate radiation.

This course will explore cancer: its detection, diagnosis and prognosis. The management of neoplastic disease and its mechanism of spreading through a multidisciplinary approach will be discussed. Rationale for treatment techniques such as beam type, dose fractionation, volume, simulation, beam modification devices, field arrangements, dose limiting critical structures as well as surgical and chemotherapeutic considerations are presented.

This course introduces simulation equipment and techniques. Topics include patient immobilization, localization, simulation, documentation, patient positioning, treatment delivery parameters, prescriptions, and patient care. Imaging techniques specific to radiation therapy will also be discussed. A lab component is included in this course.

This course meets CDC, OSHA and NFPA guidelines for basic life support. It focuses on immediate life-threatening situations, demonstrates quick, effective responses and presents perspectives on how frequently these situations occur. It is ideal for professionals such as firefighters, police, paramedics, lifeguards, athletic trainers, medical assistants and other medical professionals. Topics covered include the professional rescuer’s role in emergencies; victim’s condition assessment; basic life support; rescue breathing; cardiac emergencies; airway obstructions; AED use; and resuscitation in special situations. This class is offered for credit as a Pass/No Pass course.

This online course covers the biological effects of ionizing radiation in living tissue, including specific cell and tissue radiosensitivity, radiation syndromes and related effects, as well as basic biological mechanisms that bring about somatic and genetic effects. Prerequisites: All previous technical courses.

This online course is designed to explore various radiation therapy topics. Topics included in the course are quality control programs and protocols for the radiation therapy department, various radiation therapy operational issues and CQI project development, basic concepts of radiation safety and protection and, billing and reimbursement. Specific focus is placed on various image guided radiation therapy and image guided adaptive radiation therapy strategies. In addition, infection control and pharmacology will be reviewed.

(35 hours clinical experience per week for entire semester) - The clinical practicum serves as an orientation to radiation therapy where students are given an opportunity to develop technical and patient care skills and knowledge through structured rotations and assignments in the radiation therapy department. Treatment competencies and related objectives will be used to measure clinical outcomes. Prerequisite: All technical courses.

This course is designed to prepare students for the required national certification exam. Mock board exams will be given along with various assignments geared to reinforcement of previously discussed concepts. Prerequisite: All technical courses.

This course is designed to discuss the emerging technologies taking place in the world of radiation therapy. The student will be expected to write a scientific paper and prepare an oral presentation.

This online course, a continuation of RTH 212, is designed to prepare students for the required national certification exam. Mock board exams will be given along with various assignments geared to reinforce previously discussed concepts.