Radiation Oncology training at McMaster University is a 5-year program starting in PGY1 and takes place largely at the Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre (JCC) in Hamilton. Clinical experiences also occur at the Hamilton General Hospital, McMaster Children’s Hospital, and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton. Training includes general medical and surgical oncology training, training in diagnostic imaging, pathology, palliative medicine, and emergency medicine, as well as extensive training in the evaluation and management of cancers in all body sites and specific radiation treatments related to those cancers. Training includes experience in both adult and paediatric oncology.

Radiation Oncology is a rewarding clinical specialty that includes both hands-on, multidisciplinary clinical care of cancer patients, as well as mastery over sophisticated radiation treatment technology. It combines patient-oriented clinical skills with knowledge of the fascinating, ever-changing field of cancer biology, anatomy-based three-dimensional imaging competence, and physics-based technical radiation treatment planning skills. It demands the development of competence in general medicine and palliative care, and specifically in evidenced-based clinical oncology, requires a commitment to excellent communication and collaboration skills, and provides a supportive, inspiring, multidisciplinary practice environment. It allows for a career focusing primarily on clinical practice, or for a highly academic career combining practice with education, research, and/or cancer control administration.