- #1
Adesina Stephen
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Is medical physics as informative as normal physics in terms of the courses I'll do in the University and can it be used as a pathway into medicine and surgery?
Medical physics vs theoretical physics
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In summary, medical physics is a branch of applied physics that focuses on the application of physics in medicine. Graduate programs in medical physics are geared towards preparing students for a career in the field, while undergraduate programs vary in their level of specialization. It is recommended for students to avoid being too specific in their undergraduate studies and to focus on gaining a broad foundation in physics. Medical physics can be used as a pathway into medicine and surgery, but it is important for students to gain experience working with patients before committing to this career path. Alternatively, students can pursue research as an MD or MD/PhD, which may require more work but offers access to both biology and medical research grants.
- #2
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Medical physics itself is a branch of applied physics. Graduate programs tend to be professionally oriented, meaning that they're set up for students to enter the profession of medical physics. You can learn more about the specifics of that here:
https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/become-medical-physicist-3653-easy-steps/.
I suspect you're talking about undergraduate programs though. In that case, a lot depends on the specifics of the program. Some programs are essentially the same as a typical honours physics degree with a few extra courses in subjects like imaging physics, radiation physics, anatomy and physiology, etc. Other programs may "water down" the core physics components - for example requiring fewer courses in mathematics, QM, relativity, etc. and replacing them with courses such as above and throwing in more biology, chemistry, etc.
As a general rule, I recommend that students avoid getting too specific as an undergraduate. You specialize in graduate school. All medical physics graduate programs will accepts students who have done honours physics degrees. Some will not take students where the core physics material is missing.
As far as getting into medical school goes - you can get their either way. Medical schools tend to have a specific set of undergraduate coursework that students are required to take - typically first year sciences. You should be able to pick these courses up through electives in any program including medical physics and other physics programs.
https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/become-medical-physicist-3653-easy-steps/.
I suspect you're talking about undergraduate programs though. In that case, a lot depends on the specifics of the program. Some programs are essentially the same as a typical honours physics degree with a few extra courses in subjects like imaging physics, radiation physics, anatomy and physiology, etc. Other programs may "water down" the core physics components - for example requiring fewer courses in mathematics, QM, relativity, etc. and replacing them with courses such as above and throwing in more biology, chemistry, etc.
As a general rule, I recommend that students avoid getting too specific as an undergraduate. You specialize in graduate school. All medical physics graduate programs will accepts students who have done honours physics degrees. Some will not take students where the core physics material is missing.
As far as getting into medical school goes - you can get their either way. Medical schools tend to have a specific set of undergraduate coursework that students are required to take - typically first year sciences. You should be able to pick these courses up through electives in any program including medical physics and other physics programs.
- #3
berkeman
Mentor
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Welcome to the PF. 
Best of luck in whatever you choose!
That's great that you are considering medical school. Have you had the opportunity to make any patient contacts so far? Have you done any volunteer work at a medical facility or in the First Aid booth at events? I've found it to be very important that folks who are considering a career in the medical fields get some experience working with patients, before committing to the long educational path involved in medicine. After all, you would not want to invest all of those years in the medical school path only to discover that you really don't enjoy working with patients.Adesina Stephen said:
Best of luck in whatever you choose!
- #4
BillTre
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berkeman said:
An alternative path (which would have appealed to me if I had gone into a medical field rather than biology) would have been doing research as an MD or MD/PhD.
This may require more work, but does have the benefits of lees or no contact with patients (depending on things) and access to the normal research grant for biologists, but also additional grants for MDs or MD/PhDs.
1. What is the main difference between medical physics and theoretical physics?
The main difference between medical physics and theoretical physics is the application of their studies. Medical physics focuses on the use of physics principles and techniques in the field of medicine, such as in diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine. On the other hand, theoretical physics is more concerned with developing and testing theories and models to explain the fundamental laws of nature and the behavior of matter and energy.
2. Can someone with a background in medical physics switch to theoretical physics?
Yes, it is possible for someone with a background in medical physics to switch to theoretical physics. However, it may require additional education and training in theoretical physics concepts and mathematical techniques. It may also be helpful to gain research experience in theoretical physics through internships or graduate studies.
3. What are the career opportunities for medical physicists and theoretical physicists?
Medical physicists can work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, research laboratories, and government agencies. They can also pursue careers in industry, developing new medical technologies and equipment. Theoretical physicists, on the other hand, can work in academic institutions, research laboratories, and government agencies. They can also find opportunities in industries such as aerospace, telecommunications, and computer technology.
4. How do the educational requirements differ for medical physics and theoretical physics?
The educational requirements for medical physics and theoretical physics differ in terms of focus and coursework. Medical physics typically requires a graduate degree in medical physics or a related field, as well as clinical training and certification. Theoretical physics, on the other hand, requires a strong foundation in mathematics and physics, and a graduate degree in theoretical physics or a related field.
5. What are the current challenges in medical physics and theoretical physics?
One of the current challenges in medical physics is keeping up with technological advancements and incorporating them into patient care. This requires continuous education and training for medical physicists. Theoretical physics faces challenges in understanding and explaining complex phenomena, such as dark matter and dark energy, and finding ways to test and validate theoretical models. It also faces challenges in obtaining funding for research and maintaining academic positions.
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