To become a medical physicist, you typically need a graduate degree in medical physics or a related field such as physics or engineering. Many employers also require certification by the American Board of Radiology in therapeutic radiologic physics, diagnostic radiologic physics, or nuclear medical physics.
Some important skills for a medical physicist include strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, excellent communication and teamwork skills, and proficiency in computer programming and data analysis.
Medical physicists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, research laboratories, and academic institutions. They may also work for government agencies, medical device companies, or radiation therapy equipment manufacturers.
The job outlook for medical physicists is positive, with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2019-2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is faster than the average for all occupations, due to the increasing use of radiation therapy and medical imaging in healthcare.
Many medical physicists advance in their careers by obtaining additional certifications, such as becoming a certified medical physicist or a board-certified specialist in a specific area. They may also take on leadership roles, such as managing a team of medical physicists or overseeing a department or research project.