Biomedical engineering to medical physics

[bo1229]

Hi medical physics gurus,

I am a first-year master student in biomedical engineering. I have done lots of work in MRI post processing and learned about medical physics from my friends. I really want to transfer from engineering to medical physics in my PhD but have no substantial physics background (only took 2 Newtonian physics courses in my sophomore year)... please comment on my profile and my odd to get into a medical physics PhD program... I'd also appreciate some advice to make my application stronger!

Thanks!

 

[Choppy]

Hi Bo1229,

I suppose the first thing to point out is that MRI is a crossover field that is its own specialty within medical physics. At least, that's how it is in Canada - the CCPM has a specailty for MRI. Although lots of biomedical engineers go on into careers in MRI without certification at the present time.

I know at least one student who went from a master's degree in BME into a PhD in medical physics in the radiation oncology specialty, so it is possible.

As far as qualifying for the program, that will be specific to the schools that you apply to. Generally speaking, to get in, you need a physics degree "or equivalent" and what exactly "or equivalent" means is defined by each program individually. I know in the programs that I've been involved with over the years, a BME background would generally be considered acceptable. Other programs may have specific undergraduate course reqirements though.

 

[bo1229]

Thanks Choppy!

Yeah most schools requires at least 2 modern physics courses plus one electricity and one magnetism course. I am thinking of getting in first and then fulfill the requirement...not sure if it is acceptable... still in talk with different schools.

btw, is the career path of medical physicist in Canada the same as in the states?

Thanks!

 

[Choppy]

btw, is the career path of medical physicist in Canada the same as in the states?

Generally, yes. Although there seems to be more emphasis on research in Canada and we have our own certification body (which is generally accepted as equivalent to ABR certification).

 

[Thermalne]

Medical Physics is a option for radiological focused Nuclear Engineering majors. I believe the requirement is you need a minor in physics if you receive a degree in Nuclear Engineering.