Join the frontline of cancer treatment, using cutting-edge technology to save lives and offer hope.
As global cancer rates rise, radiation therapists are in high demand worldwide. Master advanced imaging techniques, treatment planning, and patient care. Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Learn to operate state-of-the-art equipment like linear accelerators and CT scanners.
Radiation therapy is a field where compassion meets innovation, allowing you to make a profound impact on patient lives.
With the global need for cancer care growing, your expertise will be valued across cultures, connecting you to a worldwide community of healers.
The Bachelor of Medical Radiation (Honours) majoring in Radiation Therapy at Adelaide University prepares you for a rewarding career in cancer treatment using advanced radiation techniques.
You’ll gain over 1,400 hours of practical experience through work placements and learn from experienced professionals and clinical specialists. Our cutting-edge Virtual Environment Radiotherapy Training (VERT) suite allows you to practice treating virtual patients with real-world equipment.
In your final year, you’ll complete an independent research project and thesis, setting you apart with honours credentials. Graduates are in high demand across Australia and internationally, with career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and research centres. You’ll also be eligible to register with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA) as a Radiation Therapist.
Further study can lead to specialisations in MRI technology, brachytherapy or sonography, opening doors in this growing field.
Earn a higher-level qualification than a bachelor’s degree, preparing you for future leadership roles. Gain over 1,400 hours of hands-on clinical experience. Work with industry-standard equipment including our Virtual Environment Radiotherapy Training (VERT) suite and treatment planning software. Complete an honours project with expert supervision, reporting through a thesis and presentation. Take part in pre-clinical workshops to enhance your practical skills. Learn to use cutting-edge equipment to treat diseases, and work with other healthcare professionals.The Bachelor of Medical Radiation (Honours) majoring in Radiation Therapy at Adelaide University is a four-year program designed to prepare you for a career in cancer treatment using advanced radiation techniques.
In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in subjects like human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and radiation physics with an introduction to medical radiation practice. Gain essential knowledge about the human body, health systems, and the physics behind medical radiation.
In the second year, you’ll explore radiation therapy studies. Learn about the preparation and delivery of radiation treatment, alongside clinical practice. Study advanced medical physics and evidence-based practice, ensuring you have the research skills to succeed.
In the third year, gain hands-on experience through clinical placements and explore Computed Tomography (CT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging. This practical learning is supported by specialised courses like radiation therapy studies and health science honours preparation.
Your final year focuses on intensive clinical practice and the completion of an honour’s thesis. Work alongside industry professionals and complete over 1,400 hours of hands-on training in real-world environments. Develop and present a significant research project to gain the skills you need to succeed in the field.
Assessments include group assignments, presentations, exams, practical competency tests, as well as your final thesis. This comprehensive approach ensures you graduate with industry connections, practical skills, and the research experience needed to pursue leadership roles or further specialisation.
Graduates can pursue careers as radiation therapists or continue into research and specialised areas like MRI technology and brachytherapy.
The Bachelor of Medical Radiation (Honours) is also available with majors in the following:
Complete 192 units comprising:
Complete 108 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Course name
Human Anatomy 100
|
Course code
BIOL1006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Physiology 100
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Course code
BIOL1018
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Physiology 101
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Course code
BIOL1019
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Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Medical Radiation Human Anatomy
|
Course code
HLTH1006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Evidence Based Practice and Research in Health Sciences
|
Course code
HLTH1016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal Health: Culture, Community and Country
|
Course code
HLTH1017
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics for Medical Radiation 100
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Course code
PHYS1008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applied Psychology
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Course code
PSYC1010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Medical Radiation Practice
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Course code
RADI1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Pathology for Medical Radiation
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Course code
DENT2008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Anatomy 201 (Gross and Sectional)
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Course code
RADI2005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics for Medical Radiation 200
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Course code
DENT3002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics for Medical Radiation 300
|
Course code
DENT3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
CT and PET Imaging
|
Course code
RADI3011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Science Honours Preparation
|
Course code
REHB3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Specialised Medical Radiation
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Course code
RADI4002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Science Honours Thesis
|
Course code
REHB4005
|
Units
12
|
Complete 78 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Studies 1
|
Course code
RADI2002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Clinical Practice 1
|
Course code
RADI2009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Studies 2
|
Course code
RADI3008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Studies 3
|
Course code
RADI3009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Studies 4
|
Course code
RADI3010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Clinical Practice 2
|
Course code
RADI3014
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Clinical Practice 3
|
Course code
RADI4011
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Honours Clinical Practice 4
|
Course code
RADI4012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Honours Professional Entry Practice 1
|
Course code
RADI4013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Therapy Professional Entry Practice 2
|
Course code
RADI4014
|
Units
12
|
Want to make a real impact in cancer care? With a degree in radiation therapy, you’ll enter a high-demand field, both in Australia and internationally.
Work with advanced technology to deliver life-saving treatments, primarily for cancer patients. You might collaborate with radiation oncologists and medical physicists to plan and deliver precise radiation therapies. Perhaps you’ll pursue a research-focused role and conduct clinical trials on new radiation therapy techniques. Or you could move into an educational role and train new radiation therapy students or provide continuing education for practicing therapists.
Your career could lead you to other specialised roles like:
Work with the latest technology, be an essential part of a dynamic team, and make a meaningful impact on patient lives. Graduates are eligible for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
Radiation therapy will remain vital in cancer care, evolving with new technologies. The global radiation therapy market, valued at $7.47 billion in 2023, is expected to reach $16.30 billion by 2033, growing at an annual rate of 8.58% (Precedence Research, Radiation Therapy Market).
Additional factors driving growth in this profession include an ageing population, rising cancer numbers, an increased need for radiation therapy and the rapid technological advancements (including Artificial Intelligence) creating new treatment methods. Personalised approaches to medicine are also driving innovation in the field, as researchers look to identify and perfect more precise, individualised approaches to treatment to improve patient outcomes.
With a degree in radiation therapy, you’ll be at the forefront of research and development, shaping future treatment techniques.
Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
