Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
Visit the Cancer Registry Management Admissions page.
How many applicants will be accepted?
Up to 29 students will be accepted into the program each semester. Due to the enrollment limitation, not all qualified applicants may be offered a seat in the program.
How and when will I be notified of my admission status into the Cancer Registry Management program?
The College will contact the applicant regarding his or her admission status approximately one month after the application deadline.
Will my prerequisite courses from other colleges transfer?
Possibly. Once RCTC receives official transcripts from other colleges, a transfer evaluation will be completed. You will set up an appointment with the program advisor to evaluate transcripts and complete course registration. The advisor will share details about the courses and answer any questions.
What will my schedule be like?
All classes including the clinical practicum are offered online. Classwork is completed every week. Online courses require self-direction and discipline with good time management and organizational skills. For an online class, the recommended hours a student should spend is 3-4 hours a week per credit, so if you are taking a three-credit course you should expect to spend 9-12 hours a week.
How often is each course offered?
At this time, courses are offered fall and spring semesters. Only HIMC 2140 Professional Clinical Practicum is offered in the summer.
What is the suggested course load guidelines?
Students who work full time with family/personal commitments are suggested enrollment of two classes per semester. Students who work 20 hours with family/personal commitments are suggested enrollment of three classes per semester.
Will I have to complete the clinical practicum in Rochester or in my local area?
Clinical practicums are completed in cancer registries across the nation. Students will be offered assistance in locating a registry site. There are three ways to complete a practicum: in-person or virtual with an on-site registry, virtual, or hybrid (both). An in-person practicum is the most valuable way for a student to gain experience, but we realize this is not always possible and that is why we offer three ways to complete the practicum. All students must pass five online assessments through National Cancer Registrars Association.
How much time is required to complete the clinical practicum?
The practicum is roughly 100 to 160 hours of clinical practicum work.
Is a criminal background check required to complete the program?
No, however, most on-site practicums will require a national criminal background check to ensure a safe environment for both students and the public and to meet the contractual requirements of healthcare facilities. The background check is paid by the student and is currently $55.00. In the workforce, most hospitals and consultant companies require a background check.
What is the typical salary?
For job prospects and salary information, review https://www.ncra-usa.org/About/Become-a-Cancer-Registrar/Job-Prospects-Salary.