Medical Jobs for BS in Physics?

In summary, with a BS in physics, someone could potentially take on positions such as an administrative assistant, pallet mover, janitor, salesperson for medical equipment, or technician with additional training and certifications. They could also consider applying to medical school if they are interested in becoming a doctor. Additionally, there are various medical jobs that may be available with minimal training, such as a medical physics assistant, technical sales for medical devices, or radiation safety positions. However, in a competitive job market, additional training and certifications may be necessary to secure certain positions. Other options with around 2 years of specific training include becoming an x-ray technician, phlebotomist, or emergency medical technician.
  • #1
Geremia
151
0
What are some medical jobs that someone with a BS in physics could take?
thanks
 
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  • #2
Administrative assistant? Pallet mover? Janitor?

Maybe someone else can think of something better, I believe just about any medical job will require additional training, likely extensive.

What about sales of medical equipment? If you consider that a medical job, a BS in physics might qualify for a few (but not most) of such jobs.
 
  • #3
Locrian said:
Administrative assistant? Pallet mover? Janitor?

Maybe someone else can think of something better, I believe just about any medical job will require additional training, likely extensive.

What about sales of medical equipment? If you consider that a medical job, a BS in physics might qualify for a few (but not most) of such jobs.

I think they could also apply to anything that ends with the word technician. You'll probably need to look into certifications for things like lab tech and what not.

Most of the certs wouldn't be too difficult for a physics major to accomplish.

Why not apply to med school?
 
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  • #4
Student100 said:
I think they could also apply to anything that ends with the word technician. You'll probably need to look into certifications for things like lab tech and what not.

Most of the certs wouldn't be too difficult for a physics major to accomplish.

Why not apply to med school?

This isn't a bad idea if they really want to be a doctor. Also, everyone I know that went to med school had to take a year each of biology, general chem., and organic chem. Many took biochemistry, genetics, and perhaps other classes as well. So there could be classes to make up if the OP didn't already take all of these.
 
  • #5
Most medical-type jobs have some sort of competency or certification process, so if you're graduating with a BSc in physics and want something specific, there's a good chance that you'll have some retraining to do. That said, the physics education you have can help you immensely once you get in.

Positions you might be able to apply for without further training...
- medical physics assistant
- technical sales of medical devices (CT, MRI, linear accelerators etc.)
- technical support for medical devices or medical software
- radiation safety positions
- positions with consulting groups that work on efficiency of processes, streamlining workflow, error reduction (FMEA), data mining and analysis, etc.
- project manager
(Keep in mind these are *possible* to get. It may be likely that even though in the past many people have been hired out of the BSc and trained on the job, in today's competitive marketplace additional training may be what gets you into a competitive position)

Positions that you could apply for with ~ 2 years or less specific training...
- x-ray technician
- radiation therapist
- nuclear medicine technician
- there are 2 year BSc of Nursing programs for people who already have an undergraduate degree
- phlebotomist
- medical devices service specialist (either within the hospital or with the company)
- ultrasonographer
- MRI technician
- emergency medical technician

Hopefully that can at least serve as fuel to get your own ideas rolling.
 

1. What types of medical jobs can I get with a BS in Physics?

With a BS in Physics, you can pursue a variety of medical jobs in fields such as medical physics, biophysics, radiation therapy, medical imaging, and health physics. These jobs involve using physics principles to solve problems in the medical field, such as developing new medical technologies or ensuring the safe use of radiation in medical treatments.

2. Can I work in healthcare without a degree in medicine or biology?

Yes, a BS in Physics can lead to a career in healthcare without having a degree in medicine or biology. Many medical jobs for physics majors involve working with medical professionals to provide technical support and expertise in areas such as radiation safety, imaging technology, and medical equipment maintenance.

3. What skills are important for a career in medical physics?

Some important skills for a career in medical physics include strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well with others. Knowledge of advanced mathematics, computer programming, and laboratory techniques is also beneficial for this field.

4. Do I need to obtain additional certifications or licenses for medical jobs in physics?

It depends on the specific job and state requirements. Some medical physics jobs may require additional certifications or licenses, such as the American Board of Radiology certification for medical physicists. It is important to research the specific requirements for the job and state in which you plan to work.

5. What career advancement opportunities are available for medical jobs in physics?

With experience and further education, there are many opportunities for career advancement in medical jobs for physics majors. This can include moving into management or leadership roles, pursuing a higher degree such as a master's or PhD in medical physics, or specializing in a specific area of medical physics, such as radiation therapy or diagnostic imaging.

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