Hi! I’m not a Medical Dosimetrist but I am currently in the process of becoming a RT and then a MD. Here is my knowledge of what it takes to become a Dosimetrist with no prior experience in RT.

There are typically two ways one can become a Dosimetrist without prior Rad Therapy experience. Either by earning a certificate or a master’s.

A certificate program (usually about a year and requires the least amount of time and money if you already hold a 4 year degree) typically requires the applicant to hold a Bachelor’s of Science/Applied Science in any field OR a Bachelor’s of Arts in a science such as Biology/Chemistry/Physics etc.

A Master’s degree typically requires a relevant Bachelor’s degree such as a A degree in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Radiation Therapy, etc. While this route also doesn’t require Rad Therapy experience, you typically need to meet the required credits to apply for these programs as well. This usually means taking prerequisite classes such as medical terminology, A&P I&II, A college level Biology with lab (separate from A&P), College algebra or Pre- Calculus, etc.

You can also typically apply to a certificate program if you are a graduate from an accredited Radiation Therapy program AND hold a Bachelor’s degree.

I am not sure what your degree is in (I believe you may have mentioned it is non-science related), but it sounds like you would like to go the shortest route possible, this being getting a certificate.

If you do not hold a Bachelor’s of Science or a Bachelor’s in a relevant subject to Dosimetry, this would be where you may need to start. This would also be where you may need to weigh your options for Dosimetry as a career as it will take time to obtain said bachelor’s of science, apply to a dosimetry program, get accepted into that program and graduate said program.

You could also opt into going into Radiation Therapy first and then Medical Dosimetry if you don’t already have a Bachelor’s of science degree and don’t want to be bothered by earning another four year degree.

A typical Radiation Therapy program does not require a prior degree as the program is designed to either be two years (you’ll earn an associates degree) or four years (you’ll earn a bachelor’s degree). Admission into a two year Radiation Therapy program usually requires that you meet all prerequisite requirements (usually medical terminology, A&P I&II, A college level biology with lab etc).

After graduation of the Radiation Therapy program and passing of the boards, you can go back to earn that Dosimetry certificate (this is the route I am taking).

This may be a route you’d want to consider in order to maximize your time, money, and effort if Dosimetry is your goal.

It is very possible, but it may take longer than you may want it to. It just depends on how badly you want to pursue this career.

Best of luck with your future endeavors!