Oncology degrees aren't available entirely online; however, some courses can be taken over the Internet. Find out the kinds of programs that offer these courses and what careers are available related to oncology.
Can I Earn My Oncology Degree Online?
You can't earn your oncology degree entirely on the Web, but you can complete some course requirements online. A few online courses may be part of a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy or a Master of Science in Nursing in Oncology (Advanced Practice Nursing).
You can complete a certificate program in oncology entirely online. This shorter, more focused curriculum is designed for nurse practitioners or other advanced practice nurses who want to enhance their knowledge of oncology. There may be no clinical or other on-campus requirements for this type of certificate program.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td> Some courses available online; certificate programs may be available fully online</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Prerequisites</b></td><td> Bachelor's: High school diploma or GED; accelerated programs require completion of an associate's degree in nursing <br clear="all"/> Master's degree: Undergraduate degree in nursing; statistics coursework; nursing work experience <br clear="all"/> Certificate: Must be a nurse practitioner, advanced practice nurse, or registered nurse with a B.S. in Nursing with oncology experience</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Epidemiology, pathophysiology, radiologic physics, patient care, medical terminology</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Certification Options</b></td><td> Must be certified to practice nursing</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)*</b></td><td> 7% (for radiation therapists)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)*</b></td><td> $86,850 (for radiation therapists)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatDoINeedToEnroll">What Do I Need to Enroll?</h3><p>There are no academic requirements aside from a GED or high school diploma for a Bachelor of Science program. Some students choose to enroll in a Bachelor of Science program after earning their associate's degree in nursing. Those with a 2-year degree from a nursing program can earn their Bachelor of Science within two years.
</p><p>For acceptance to a Master of Science in Nursing program in oncology, you'll typically need an undergraduate degree in nursing and previous statistics coursework. If you don't have an oncology background, you'll need to complete continuing education coursework in oncology nursing. You'll need prior nursing experience before you complete clinical requirements in a Master of Science program.
</p><p>An oncology nursing graduate certificate program is meant for nurse practitioners and advanced practice nurses. Registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing who work in oncology wards may also be admitted.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatWillTheCoursesCover">What Will the Courses Cover?</h3><p>During a bachelor's degree program in radiation therapy, you can expect to learn medical terminology, sectional anatomy and different methods of patient care. Radiologic physics, radiographic procedures and therapeutic radiobiology are also covered. You will also explore oncology through a variety of courses.
</p><p>A Master of Science program will delve into such areas as epidemiology and cancer genomics. You will take advanced courses in physiology and pathophysiology. You'll also learn how to provide supportive and palliative care to cancer patients as well as manage their symptoms.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithThisDegree">What Can I Do With This Degree?</h3><p>A Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy degree prepares you to care for cancer patients by administering radiation therapy and providing emotional support. To practice, you must meet the licensing requirements of your state and the certification requirements of your employer.
</p><p>Earning your Master of Science degree qualifies you for advanced nursing practice and supervisory positions. Online certificate programs are designed to expand the professional knowledge base of licensed nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.</p>
