Board approves Washburn’s online master’s in medical dosimetry to address statewide shortage

The Board of Regents’ BASC voted to approve Washburn University’s proposal to offer a Master of Science in medical dosimetry, a four‑semester, fully online program intended to prepare graduates for licensure and to address a reported shortage of medical dosimetrists.

Washburn presenters, including Dr. Beth O’Neil and Dr. Mark Coles, told the committee the program would provide the training needed for dosimetrists—specialists on the radiation oncology team who design radiation treatment plans for cancer patients. "Medical dosimetry... they’re a member of the radiation oncology team, who design radiation treatment plans for cancer patients," Dr. Coles said during the presentation.

The presenters said the program creates a natural pathway from Washburn’s existing radiation therapy and medical imaging offerings and that the accrediting body (noted in the presentation as JCERT) had encouraged development of a graduate program. They described the program as four semesters delivered fully online to broaden access. Presenters also said there is currently no comparable program in Kansas or nearby states, and that market analysis and conversations with faculty and practicing dosimetrists supported the master’s format.

Regent Alicia Johnston asked whether the master’s would be required for certification; presenters replied that students typically hold a bachelor’s degree or certificate and that certification pathways vary, with the master’s intended to position graduates for licensure rather than serve as the only route to certification.

After questions, the committee moved to approve the proposal. A member recorded "I approve," members voted "Aye," and the motion passed. The presenters thanked the committee; next procedural steps for program implementation were not specified in the record.