Medical Dosimetry

Medical Dosimetry is part of radiation oncology. Under the direction of a medical physicist, Medical Dosimetrists utilize dedicated computers to design and calculate radiation plans for the treatment of cancer. A CT scan of the patient generates data which will be used in the treatment planning process. The dosimetrists work closely with the physician, physicist and radiation therapist.  People in this profession typically work nine hour workdays, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., mainly working at a console, with a highly specialized computer. 

Medical Dosimetrists work directly with critically ill inpatients and outpatients of all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. In addition to the actual treatment planning, the dosimetrists may assist in the fabrication of beam modifying and immobilization devices individualized for each patient.

According to Mark Reid, past president of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists (AAMD), the demand for medical dosimetrists grows every time a new cancer center opens, making dosimetry a stable, well-compensated career.

The Mission of the Department of Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences and the Medical Dosimetry Program is to provide a comprehensive education preparing students for entry-level practice into medical dosimetry, as competent, caring professionals, cultivating professionalism and life-long learning. 

Dual-Concentration students cannot take Medical Dosimetry in their first year. Interested Dual-Concentration students must take Radiation Therapy their first year, as a prerequisite to Medical Dosimetry.

Students must consult an admissions counselor or a Medical Imaing and Radiation Sciences faculty member when choosing concentrations, to help make sure that the combination you choose is the best option for your future career. Acceptance into your second year concentration of Medical Dosimetry is not guaranteed. It is strongly recommended those interested in this concentration visit the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists (AAMD) webpage.

Students will acquire the knowledge, insight and skills necessary to perform competently as entry level dosimetrists.

Student Learning Outcomes

1A - Demonstrate the ability to develop precise 3D treatment plans

1B - Demonstrate the ability to develop precise IMRT plans

1C – Demonstrate the ability to develop deliverable SBRT Plans

Students will apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in making decisions about treatment planning/calculations for the care of the radiation oncology patients.

Student Learning Outcomes

2A – Students will accurately critique their treatment plans and modify/develop it into an optimal treatment plan

2B – Comparison of  different modalities/techniques

Students will communicate effectively when interacting with patients and members of the radiation oncology team.

Student Learning Outcomes

3A – Students will demonstrate effective written communication skills

3B – Students will use effective oral communication skills

Students will demonstrate professional growth and development.

Student Learning Outcomes

4A – The students will attend a meeting with the Radiation Oncology Medical (staff and residents) Physicists and Dosimetrists

4B – The students will demonstrate ethical and professional behavior in a clinical setting

4C – After graduation, the alumni will continue to exhibit ethical and professional manners after graduation

All BS graduates are eligible to take the associated certification examinations of the organizations that oversee their concentration of study. Students who pass these examinations receive national certification. Dual-Concentration students may not be able to take board exams until they receive their BS.

More information on the Medical Dosimetrist Certification Board (MDCB)

Pass rates are on FIRST attempt ONLY within ONE year post graduation.

Job Placement rates are within ONE year post graduation.

*Data from Program Director (updated annually). Data collected August 2018.

The JRCERT has defined “not actively seeking employment” as:

1.  graduate fails to communicate with program officials regarding employment status after multiple attempts OR
2. graduate is unwilling to seek employment that requires relocation OR
3. graduate is unwilling to accept employment due to salary or hours OR
4. graduate is on active military duty OR
5. graduate is continuing education.

The Medical Dosimetry Program is accredited by the:

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182

Phone: 312-704-5300
Fax: 312-704-5304
E-mail: mail@jrcert.org