Research

Medical Physics

Medical Physics LabMaster's Degree Program

The program in medical physics leads to a master of science degree and is offered in collaboration with faculty from the College of Physicians and Surgeons and the Mailman School of Public Health. The curriculum is designed to educate students for professional careers in the field of medical physics by developing skills
and training appropriate for health care providers. The 35-point program consists of a core curriculum of courses in health physics, radiation physics and medical technology, laboratory courses, and two or more practica. Some opportunity for specialization exists. The program provides preparation toward certification by the American Board of Medical Physics. Course descriptions and additional information are available from the Department office. During the spring term, practicing professionals and faculty in medical physics present weekly seminars.

 

Admission Requirements

B.S. degree or B.A. degree in engineering or one of the physical sciences, physics training at least equivalent to a minor, and general GRE exam scores are required. Proficiency at written and spoken English and a working knowledge of computer programming and probability and statistics are also required. Applicants may be given up to five points of advanced standing for prior equivalent academic work.

 

Application

Applications are only available online, at the School of Engineering and Applied Science Web site.

The priority deadline for applications for full-time study is February 15. Applications received by July 15 will be considered on a space-available basis.


Financial aid

As a rule, assistantships, grants, scholarships, and fellowships are not available to students in master's degree programs, including the medical physics program. U.S. citizens and permanent residents may be eligible for education loans and Federal College Work Study funding.


Doctoral Degree Program

Students who want to pursue doctoral research in medical physics must apply for admission to the doctoral program in applied physics (option in medical physics), which requires course work beyond the 35-point program described above, and they must pass the applied physics doctoral qualifying examination. There are research opportunities in medical physics at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, as well as at other associated medical institutes. Research is focused on developing advanced methods for the diagnosis and treatment of human disease. Current emphasis is placed on developing advanced radiation transport methods for tomographic diagnosis, treatment facility calibration, and treatment planning. Other areas of specialty include imaging and tomography.


Program information