Health Physics: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Health Physics is a specialized field dedicated to the protection of people and the environment from the potential risks of ionizing radiation. This program integrates principles from physics, nuclear science, and engineering to address critical challenges in medical applications, radiation safety, and public health. Graduates are equipped to assess, manage, and mitigate radiation hazards across diverse settings.

• Radiation Biophysics: Explores how ionizing radiation interacts with biological systems at the cellular and molecular levels, forming the foundation for understanding radiation effects on living organisms.
• Biophysics: Applies physical principles to analyze biological processes, particularly those related to radiation exposure and its measurable impacts on human physiology.
• Health Effects of Natural and Artificial Radiation: Investigates the biological consequences of exposure to both naturally occurring sources (like radon or cosmic rays) and man-made sources (such as medical imaging and nuclear facilities).
• Hazard Evaluation: Focuses on identifying, analyzing, and quantifying radiation risks in occupational, medical, and environmental contexts to inform safety protocols.
• Environmental Radioactivity: Studies the presence, behavior, and monitoring of radioactive substances in ecosystems, including their transport and long-term impact on natural systems.
• Nuclear Physics: Provides a deep understanding of atomic nuclei, radioactive decay, and nuclear reactions that underpin radiation detection and control technologies.
• Engineering Physics: Applies physical laws and engineering methodologies to design radiation detection systems, shielding solutions, and safety instrumentation.
• Radio-Biology: Examines the biological responses to radiation, including cellular damage, DNA repair mechanisms, and long-term health outcomes such as cancer risk.
• Medical Radiology: Covers the safe and effective use of radiation in diagnostic imaging and therapeutic treatments, emphasizing patient and operator protection.
• Calibration and Dosage Theory: Teaches the precise measurement and standardization of radiation exposure to ensure accuracy and consistency in medical and industrial applications.
• Computer Applications and Medical Informatics: Integrates data management, simulation tools, and digital systems to support radiation safety monitoring, dose tracking, and clinical decision-making.
• Research Problem Solving: Develops advanced analytical and investigative skills to address complex, real-world challenges in radiation protection and health physics innovation.