Careers

How to train as an Oncology Specialist

Training positions are offered in both Medical Oncology and Radiation Oncology. Positions are also available for Registrars with an interest in Oncology to gain 6 or 12 months experience in Oncology prior to making a formal commitment to a training programme or for an elective period as part of other specialty training programmes.

A comprehensive training scheme is offered in Radiation Oncology and the department is fully accredited so that candidates can meet the full requirements for obtaining the FRANZCR in Radiation Oncology. There is a tutorial program for the Part 1 FRANZCR examination in Radiation Oncology to prepare candidates for the three subjects of Radiation Biology, Radio therapeutic Physics and Anatomy. A formal regular teaching programme is offered for Physics and Radiobiology. Anatomy is undertaken on a self-teaching basis but tutorials can be provided as required.

A tutorial programme is held for the Part 2 FRANZCR examination that covers the areas of Tumour Pathology, Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy. Support is also provided for a statistics assignment that has to be undertaken between the Part 1 and 2 examinations. Registrars are encouraged to attend centralised training sessions that are held in Australia and New Zealand. Registrars are required to undertake clinical audit or other clinical research studies during the course of their training.

In Medical Oncology the department is accredited to provide advanced training for the FRACP in Medical Oncology or for Medical Oncology as a component of other advanced training programmes. There are weekly departmental seminars and systematic Oncology teaching sessions (in both Medical and Radiation Oncology) for all Registrars in training. There are a variety of multi-disciplinary meetings and clinics that provide a useful learning experience. Registrars (in addition to general reading) are encouraged to involve themselves in research and clinical projects.