Medical Physics

Medical Physics is the branch of Physics that applies the concepts and principles of physics to the diagnosis and treatment of human disease. The Graduate Diploma in Medical Physics is designed for students with a PhD in Physics, or who are undertaking a PhD in Physics, who wish to pursue a career in Medical Physics, either in a clinical environment or in research.



The programme, which is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programmes (CAMPEP), provides a strong foundation in diagnostic imaging physics, nuclear medicine, radiation oncology physics and radiation protection, as well as the essential anatomy and physiology knowledge required to understand a patient’s anatomical structure and physiological processes.



The programme provides a strong foundation in diagnostic imaging physics, nuclear medicine, radiation oncology physics and radiation protection, as well as the essential anatomy and physiology knowledge required to understand a patient’s anatomical structure and physiological processes.

Stage 1 Core Modules

ANAT20090 Med. Sciences for Biomed.Engin Autumn 5

PHYC40980 Radiological Physics Autumn 5

PHYC40990 Detectors and Dosimetry Autumn 5

PHYC41000 Medical Imaging Physics I Autumn 5

PHYC41010 Radiation Oncology Physics I Autumn 5

PHYC41080 Physics Data Analysis (Python) Autumn 5

COMP47670 Data Science in Python (MD) Autumn and Spring (separate) 5

PHYC41020 Radiation Protection & Safety Spring 5

PHYC41030 Medical Imaging Physics II Spring 5

PHYC41040 Radiation Oncology Physics II Spring 5

PHYC41050 Radiobiology & Ethics Spring 5

RDGY41720 Advanced Cross Sectional Anatomy Spring 5

Places will be offered to candidates with a strong foundation in basic physics, as demonstrated by the achievement of an undergraduate or graduate degree in Physics or a degree in an Engineering discipline with a coursework component equivalent to a minor in physics. A minimum of an upper second-class honours or equivalent will be normally required for entry, although students with a strong physics background and lower second class honours degree may be accepted. Further, candidates must also be enrolled in or have completed a PhD in Physics.



Students who do not have English as their first language should meet UCD requirements for English Language.



You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax

1 Year full-time (T344), 2 Years part-time (T345).

Next Intake: September 2025.

Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

The programme provides an accepted route to enter a career in Medical Physics. CAMPEP accreditation allows graduates to apply for CAMPEP residency programmes in Ireland and internationally. Prospective employers include Medical Physics Departments in hospitals and clinicals across Ireland and abroad, medical device manufacturers and regulatory bodies.