Online Oncology Degrees: Summary of Options

Since it is necessary to complete clinical training components in person, oncology degrees are not available online. However, there are online certificate programs in oncology designed for those who already work in healthcare but want to advance their knowledge of cancer and oncology patient care.

Overview of an Online Certificate in Oncology Program

Physicians who want to become oncologists need to complete a residency program in person. However, there are certificate programs in oncology that are offered as online and hybrid programs designed for practicing nurses, physicians and other healthcare providers who work with oncology patients. Certificate programs cover the biology of cancer, patient assessments, treatment goals and psychological issues, among other topics.

Information About the Program and Its Requirements

Online certificate programs in oncology can typically be completed in a year and may be completed entirely or partially online, depending on the program. Students who plan on enrolling in an online program need access to a computer that connects to the Internet and meets technical specifications, such as having newer operating systems and specific software installed. Students may also be required to purchase textbooks in order to complete required readings.

Common Certificate-Level Courses

Coursework provides students with the skills they need to work with oncology patients, ranging from understanding the development of cancer to dealing with the psychological issues that are handled by cancer patients. Topics cover cancer prevention, screening methods, therapies, symptom management and treatment.
Students can access coursework, including lectures, readings and study guides through interfaces such as Blackboard or WebCT. They can also interact with instructors by using e-mail and the telephone.

Pharmacology Course

This class covers the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of the drugs used to manage various health states. Students also learn about the ethics and legal regulations involved in prescription medicine.

Patient Assessment Course

Participants learn how to perform a clinical assessment of patients. They practice different techniques for taking patient histories and providing physical exams.

Biology of Cancer Course

Students learn the developmental stages of cancer from the cellular level and study environmental influences. They also examine diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Pathophysiology Course

This course covers how and why different disease symptoms appear. Lessons cover physiological responses, treatment methods, current research and developmental physiology.

Continuing Education Information

Individuals who complete a certificate in oncology may choose to pursue additional education depending on their healthcare background. Certificate and degree programs are also available in radiation therapy for those who want to want to learn more about the related field of diagnostic imaging, although most states require individuals to become licensed in order to work as a radiology technician.

Career Information

Overall, the nursing field is expected to grow quickly at a rate of 22% between 2008 and 2018, although employment opportunities for nurses vary by field and location. The most opportunities are open to those working in physicians' offices and home healthcare settings, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). As of 2010, the median annual salary for an oncology nurse was $16,168, according to Payscale.com.