Do you have to have a radiation therapy degree or background to apply at the University of Miami?
No, our program does not require a radiation therapy background or experience. Our program historically admits more students without radiotherapy experience than those who have such experience. Prior radiotherapy study or experience is not a particular advantage to candidates.
Is there an advantage to completing the Masters track over the Certificate track? What should be the deciding factor between them besides the cost?
a. Both programs share the same admission and graduation requirements, with the exception that students in the certificate track do not complete the three-semester research seminar and final project. Instead, certificate students spend that time gaining additional clinical experience.
b. A certificate program is a practical option for individuals who already hold a master’s degree or come from a radiation therapy background. It provides a focused path to becoming a medical dosimetrist without redundant coursework.
c. Earning a master’s degree can significantly enhance your career advancement potential. It may open doors to leadership positions such as Chief Dosimetrist, Clinical Supervisor, or roles in research and education.
d. The master’s program includes more in-depth coursework, particularly in research methods, and allows you to explore a specialized topic in dosimetry through a capstone research project.
e. While both the certificate and the master’s degree qualify you to sit for the CMD (Certified Medical Dosimetrist) exam, a master’s degree may offer a competitive edge in job markets where employers are seeking advanced qualifications.
f. A master’s degree also carries a higher level of professional recognition, especially in academic medical centers or large healthcare institutions.
If not accepted, is it encouraged to reapply in subsequent years?
Yes, it is generally encouraged to reapply in subsequent years if you’re not accepted initially—provided you use the time to strengthen your application. This could include gaining more relevant experience, improving your academic record, or enhancing your personal statement and letters of recommendation.
What makes someone competitive?
a. Excellent academic record, UM requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be accepted to the university.
b. Strong letters of recommendation, especially those that highlight your academic strengths, are important.
c. We require sixteen hours of shadowing with a Certified Medical Dosimetrist; however, completing additional hours can strengthen your application.
d. Motivation to pursue a career in Medical Radiation Dosimetry.
e. A high level of college math and science coursework will make you more competitive, especially if you have completed two semesters of college physics and two semesters of college calculus.
What type of degrees do you accept?
a. We accept a wide range of academic degrees, provided they are conferred by an accredited college or university.
b. Strong applicants will have degrees with sufficient undergraduate coursework in the areas of science, engineering, mathematics, or radiation science or technology.
c. A radiation therapy degree or background is not required for our program.
d. Below lists the academic degrees previously held by our alumni and current students.
B.A. in English- 1 Student
B.S. in Physics- 2 Students
B.S. in Imaging Sciences- 2 Students
B.S. in General Sciences- 1 Student
B.S. in Biomedical Physics- 1 Student
B.S. in Biological Sciences- 1 Student
B.S. in Health Science- 1 Student
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering- 1 Student
B.S. in Civil Engineering- 1 Student
B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology- 1 Student
B.S. in Biology- 1 Student
B.S. in Molecular and Microbiology- 1 Student
B.S. in Biomedical Sciences- 1 Student
B.S. in Nursing- 1 Student
B.S. in Medical Radiation Science- 1 Student
Application Process and Timelines
What is the timeline for the next steps after the application is submitted? Timeframe for interview scheduling and timeline to hear back regarding whether accepted or not.
Applications are reviewed throughout January and interviews will be conducted in February or March with decisions being made by the end of April.
Can I apply for the program before the prerequisite courses are completed or before I graduate with my degree?
Yes, you can still apply, you would need to provide transcripts that show the course is in progress and then verify the grades as soon as you can.
How many shadowing hours are recommended if there is no prior experience in the field?
The program requires a minimum of sixteen hours of shadowing a certified medical dosimetrist. For applicants without prior experience in the field, undertaking additional shadowing hours is highly recommended, as it enhances comprehension of the profession and reflects a more thorough understanding of dosimetry.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
What financial aid is available?
a. Graduate students are to apply for both federal and private loans.
c. Although privately funded and managed, private educational loans are considered financial aid because cost of attendance and enrollment are certified by the school to the lender, and the loans must be considered as a resource in determining eligibility for other aid. The Private Education Loan Applicant Self Certification form must be completed and submitted to the lender you select. You can perform a web search to help you find a private education loan lender. Carefully, consider all your options and review terms and conditions before applying. Borrow only what is necessary to pay for your educational expenses (tuition, fees, supplies, room, board) and be sure to first apply for all federal (including federal loans), state, and institutional aid that you may qualify for through the FAFSA.
Are there scholarships or assistantships available?
a. The program does not offer scholarships, assistantships, or other forms of support.
Clinical Experience and Shadowing
Are the UM clinics available for shadowing?
a. Because of the high volume of cases our dosimetrists handle on a daily basis and their work with our own graduates and residents, we do not allow shadowing at UM clinics unless you are a UM student or employee.
What is the clinical schedule for students in the program?
a. We require all students to be in-person at UM from 8AM-5PM, Monday through Friday. We go follow the academic calendar, when the university is closed, no clinic time is required.
b. Students will average 24-26 hours per week in the clinic; the remaining time is spent in class.
Relocation and Transportation
Do I have to move to Miami to attend the program at the University of Miami?
Yes, our program is 100% in-person. Both clinical training and didactic courses are taken here at the University of Miami in Miami, FL.
If relocating from another state/city, is there access to public transportation? Is a car required?
a. Miami’s public transportation includes the Metrorail—an elevated train system that runs north to south through the greater Miami area. There is a station located directly in front of both University of Miami campuses. If you live near a Metrorail station, a car is generally not necessary.
Is a tour of the facility available to applicants?
Yes, if you live in the area or plan to visit, you may contact the program manager, Alecia Chapin at amc911@miami.edu, to arrange a tour and a meeting with the program manager or director.
Is it recommended to review any concepts or materials prior to starting in the fall?
a. If you are unfamiliar with the field, you may consider reading Treatment Planning in Radiation Oncology by Faiz M. Khan, The Physics of Radiation Therapy by Faiz M. Khan, or Technical Basis of Radiation Therapy: Practical Clinical Applications by Seymour H. Levitt et al.
b. You can also read the Medical Dosimetry Journal to learn more about the field.
Prerequisites
What courses are required?
a. Human Anatomy and Physiology is a required course, if you have not taken this, you do not qualify for the program.
b. Two semesters of college Physics and two semesters of college Calculus are not required but highly recommended to make you a competitive applicant.
Which physics course is recommended: algebra-based or calculus-based?
The Physics courses you choose to take can be either algebra-based or calculus-based, these types of courses are the foundational undergraduate physics courses for students pursuing science, engineering, and technical degrees.
Where can I take the prerequisite courses so that they will count toward the program’s requirements?
You may take courses from any accredited college or university. We accept coursework from community colleges, 4-year colleges, and universities equally, as long as the institution is accredited.
Do you accept online courses to fulfill the prerequisite requirements?
Yes, as long as the online course was taken through an accredited college or university. If you are unsure of whether or not we will accept the credits, please feel free to reach out to the program manager and ask.
