San Jacinto College expands nationally recognized cancer data management program nationwide
PASADENA, Texas – San Jacinto College will extend its cancer data management program to students nationwide beginning June 2025. This expansion is in response to the critical demand for oncology data specialists at a time when cancer cases are reaching record highs across the United States.
Cancer registrars are data specialists who document the full history, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of U.S. cancer patients. Their work advances research and treatment, and improves cancer prevention and screening. With demand for registrars on the rise, programs like San Jac’s cancer data management program are essential to building a robust and knowledgeable workforce.
The extension is the result of the National Cancer Registrars Association’s specific request that San Jacinto College broaden access to its curriculum. “The San Jacinto program has always been an NCRA favorite, being the first NCRA-accredited CDM program,” wrote Mary Maul, NCRA manager of education programs.
San Jacinto College's Cancer Data Management program stands as Texas's only NCRA-accredited program and was the first in the nation to receive this distinction. The program maintains a pass rate above the national certification exam average.
“San Jacinto College’s CDM program produces graduates who are skilled, confident, and ready to contribute,” said Maria Hoang Tran, director of system cancer registry, Memorial Hermann Health System. “At Memorial Hermann, we’ve hired many of their students because they impressed us during practicums and came prepared with a solid foundation. Programs like this are vital—they offer a great career path without the time and cost of a four-year degree.”
“Oncology data specialists fight cancer with data,” said Carla Ruffins, program director, health information management and cancer data management. “We're proud to expand our program nationally to prepare more students for this meaningful career path.”
Career prospects are particularly strong in this field, with the opportunity to work in hospital, state health departments and even the prospect of remote work. Average salaries start at $57,000, with mid-managers earning $68,000 and directors receiving $81,000 annually.
With its 100% online format, experienced ODS-certified faculty, and flexible scheduling for working professionals, this program will be easily accessible to students across the country who seek to make a meaningful contribution to cancer research and treatment.
Learn more about the Cancer Data Management program
About San Jacinto College
Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris County, Texas, since 1961. The College is ranked second in the nation among more than 1,100 community colleges, as designated by the Aspen Institute and was named an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction in 2020. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution that spans five campuses, plus an online college, San Jacinto College serves approximately 45,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding bond ratings of AA+ by Standard & Poor’s and Aa2 by Moody’s.
