Oncologist
Investigate, diagnose and treat patients with cancer using chemotherapy and biological therapy.
Oncologist
Oncologist
Roles and responsibilities
To qualify as an oncologist:
Step 1
Complete any undergraduate bachelor’s course {Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Design, Bachelor of Science or the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)} as your first degree.
Step 2
Complete the postgraduate Doctor of Medicine to qualify as a doctor.
Refer to the Study Pathways to the right for more information.
Specialists with a primary medical interest in cancer are called oncologists. They are broadly trained in all aspects of oncology, specialising in one of three main disciplines:
- surgical oncology – cancer surgery
- radiation oncology – radiation therapy
- medical oncology – chemotherapy/hormone therapy
Oncology specialists often sub-specialise in organ groups or regions (eg. colorectal, gynaecologic, head and neck) or in specific types of cancer (eg. breast, lung, leukaemia).
Undergraduate Courses To Become
Oncologist
Recommended major/s to pursue this career
Relevant majors include:
Postgraduate Courses To Become
After completion of the Doctor of Medicine and working in the public hospital system for two years (internship and residency), doctors interested in becoming an Oncologist can apply to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists to undertake further training and ultimately receive Fellowship which normally takes at least six years of study while working as a doctor.
Oncologist
Coursework courses to pursue this career
Professional trainingAfter completion of the Doctor of Medicine and working in the public hospital system for two years (internship and residency), doctors interested in becoming an Oncologist can apply to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists to undertake further training and ultimately receive Fellowship which normally takes at least six years of study while working as a doctor.
The University of Western Australia