CSM to Launch Two New Healthcare Associate Degree Programs

The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Board of Trustees approved new associate degree programs in radiation therapy and healthcare administration, creating new opportunities for students to serve critical roles in healthcare.

According to a report by the Comptroller of Maryland, the healthcare industry is the state’s largest and fastest growing sector, with more jobs added than any other industry in seven of the last 10 years. CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson said the new degree programs address this growth in Southern Maryland while opening doors for students to step into high-earning, in-demand positions.

“Our goal at CSM is to make sure our students have a path to reach their goals while developing the talent our region needs,” Wilson said. “The radiation therapy and healthcare administration programs will help to expand access to healthcare education while creating pathways to mobility for students and strengthen the local workforce.”

The radiation therapy associate degree program will train students to play an important role in the healthcare team caring for patients battling cancer. The comprehensive program will cover anatomy and physiology, oncology principles, radiation safety, and patient treatment and communication to equip students with the skills to provide radiation therapy.

Health Program Chair Candi Hume said this new program will help strengthen cancer care in Southern Maryland and help patients get the care they need.

“Many people in the region have to travel a long way to receive cancer care, which can add stress to an already difficult time,” Hume said. “This program will help bring high-quality radiation therapy closer to home while creating opportunities for students’ economic mobility through high-paying positions.”

The healthcare administration program will offer another way for students to enter the growing healthcare workforce, preparing them for important roles behind the scenes.

The program covers medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, health records, medical law, and ethics. Students who complete the program are eligible to take the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) Exam.

Health Professor Dr. Christopher Gransberry said the program creates a talent pipeline for students in the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant Continuing Education course to seamlessly transfer into the program, and upon completion, continue into a bachelor’s degree program or enter the workforce.

“Students can complete this program career, credential, and transfer ready,” Gransberry said. “As administrative positions continue to grow alongside clinical roles, this program gives students the skills to step into those opportunities and build toward the next stage of their careers.”

The radiation therapy and healthcare administration programs still need approval from the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), but both are expected to welcome the first cohort of students in fall 2027.