Physics with Medical Physics
Physics with Medical Physics is a programme that combines the rigorous mathematical and conceptual foundations of physics with a focused application to one of the most important areas in which physical science makes a direct difference to human health. Medical physics applies the principles of physics, including radiation physics, nuclear physics, optics, acoustics, and electromagnetism, to the diagnosis and treatment of disease. It underpins medical imaging technologies such as X-ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound, as well as radiation therapies for cancer, and its practitioners work at the boundary between physics, engineering, and clinical medicine.
University College London's three-year full-time Physics with Medical Physics programme develops a thorough grounding in core physics alongside specialist content in medical applications. You will study classical and modern physics in depth, covering mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and optics, building the mathematical and physical intuition that is the foundation of all applied work. The medical physics component introduces the physics of radiation and its interaction with tissue, the principles of medical imaging, radiation dosimetry, and the use of radioactive materials in nuclear medicine.
UCL's strong links with University College Hospital and its position within a major biomedical research environment in London provide context and opportunity for engagement with clinical physics as it is actually practised.
A typical entry tariff of 152 points reflects the programme's expectation of strong prior mathematics and physics.
Graduates pursue careers as medical physicists within the NHS (typically following clinical training), in biomedical research, in medical device companies, in radiation protection, and in the broader technology and defence sectors. Many also proceed to postgraduate study in medical physics, biophysics, or related clinical sciences. Registration as a clinical scientist is a career path for those who wish to practise within healthcare.