💵 Salary Range in the USA (2025)
According to recent sources:
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Minimum (Entry-Level): ~$153,000 - $240,000/year
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Median: ~$345,000 - $352,000/year
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Maximum / Top Earners: $525,000 - $580,000+ for experienced or specialized oncologists
Subspecialty breakdown:
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Radiation Oncology: Up to ~$472,000/year
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Surgical Oncology: $225k - $500k
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Hematologist–Oncologist: Median ~$516,000; can reach $640,000+ in rural areas
🔬 What They Do
Oncologists are physicians who diagnose and treat cancer using various methods and collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams. Key responsibilities include:
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Ordering tests (biopsies, imaging, blood work) to diagnose cancer and stage tumors
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Developing and managing treatment plans using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, or surgery
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Monitoring patient response and managing side effects
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Overseeing survivorship and palliative care
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Subspecialties include:
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Medical Oncology – focuses on drug-based therapies
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Radiation Oncology – uses targeted radiation treatments
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Surgical Oncology – performs tumor-removal surgeries
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🎓 Education & Training Path
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Bachelor’s degree (~4 years, pre-med focus)
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Medical school (MD or DO; ~4 years)
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Residency in Internal Medicine (~3 years)
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Fellowship in Oncology (~2–4 years depending on subspecialty)
🕰️ Total training duration: ~13–14 years post-high school
📜 Certification
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Medical Oncologists & Hematologist–Oncologists: Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM)
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Radiation Oncologists: Certified through the American Board of Radiology (ABR)
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Surgical Oncologists: Certified via the American Board of Surgery (ABS)
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Maintenance of Certification (MOC) requires continuing education and periodic exams
Board certification is not legally required—but is essential for hospital privileges, insurance credentialing, and professional credibility.
🏛️ Licensing
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Medical license required in all 50 states—granted via USMLE (MD) or COMLEX (DO) Steps 1–3
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Board certification enables hospital privileges and specialist practice
📈 Career Outlook & Work-Life
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Strong demand due to rising cancer incidence and evolving therapies
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Locum tenens opportunities offer flexibility and pay up to $250/hour
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Work intensity varies; private practice vs hospital settings, rural roles often offer higher pay and better hours
✅ Final Takeaway
Oncology offers a deeply impactful medical career:
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Salary: $153k - $240k entry; typical $345k - $352k; top earners $525k+
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Training: ~13–14 years (college → med school → residency → fellowship)
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Certification: ABIM, ABR, or ABS board certification + MOC
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Licensing: USMLE/COMLEX + state medical license
If you're dedicated to advancing cancer care, oncology provides both emotional fulfillment and strong professional rewards.