Interested in a career in Medical Physics

[gatech2012]

Hi, I just got accepted to Ga Tech and I applied for the BS in Mechanical Engineering.
I was wondering if anyone knows if I can pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering and get a MS in medical physics? if not , should I just go into nuclear and radiological engineering or biomedical engineering? I don’t really care to be wealthy. I just want to have a stable career and being able to help people.

 

[lsaldana]

Might want to have a look at this thread about medical physics:

http://www.physicsgre.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=2466

 

[gatech2012]

Thanks, I think the nuclear engineering may be the best route...

 

[gatech2012]

Is Ga tech a great school for nuclear engineering or am I wasting money there when i can go to a smaller and better school?

 

[Matrix0]

Congratulations on your acceptance to Ga Tech and your interest in pursuing a career in medical physics! As a scientist in this field, I can provide some insights and advice for your career path.

Firstly, it is definitely possible to pursue a MS in medical physics with a BS in mechanical engineering. Many medical physicists come from a variety of backgrounds, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and physics. In fact, having a strong background in mechanical engineering can be advantageous in medical physics as it involves understanding and designing complex systems and equipment used in medical imaging and radiation therapy.

That being said, it is important to note that a MS in medical physics typically requires a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and biology. If you do choose to pursue a MS in medical physics with a BS in mechanical engineering, you may need to take some additional courses in these subjects to fulfill the requirements for the program. It may also be helpful to gain some experience in a medical physics laboratory or conduct research in a related field during your undergraduate studies.

Alternatively, you may want to consider a degree in nuclear and radiological engineering or biomedical engineering, as these fields have more direct connections to medical physics. However, it ultimately depends on your interests and strengths. If you have a passion for mechanical engineering and are willing to put in the extra effort to fulfill the requirements for a MS in medical physics, then I would encourage you to pursue that path.

In terms of your goal of wanting to help people and have a stable career, medical physics is a great field to achieve both. Medical physicists play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other diseases, making a significant impact on patients' lives. The demand for medical physicists is also expected to increase in the coming years, providing stable job opportunities.

In summary, with a BS in mechanical engineering, you can definitely pursue a MS in medical physics and have a fulfilling and stable career in this field. I wish you all the best in your academic journey and future career in medical physics!