MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Oxford

Program Overview

The MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology at Oxford brings together radiation physics and biological science to help you understand how modern medical technologies diagnose and treat disease. It’s an excellent choice if you want to work at the intersection of physics, medicine, and cancer research — whether in clinical environments or advanced research roles.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Master’s Year):
Across the year, you’ll study a focused set of compulsory modules that build a strong foundation in both physics and biology. You’ll explore how ionising radiation interacts with matter, how cells and tissues respond to radiation damage, and how these principles are applied in diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy. Core teaching also covers radiation safety, non-ionising medical technologies, and research methods, ensuring you understand both the science and its clinical application.

Focus areas (in a string):

Radiation physics, radiobiology, radiotherapy physics, medical imaging, radiation protection

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Apply radiation physics in clinical contexts, understand biological responses to radiation, evaluate imaging and therapy technologies, interpret radiation safety principles, communicate scientific findings effectively

Professional alignment (accreditation):

The programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM), aligning your degree with recognised professional standards in medical physics.

Reputation (employability & research strength):

Delivered within Oxford’s Department of Oncology, the course benefits from the university’s global academic reputation and close links to leading hospitals and research centres, giving graduates strong credibility in both clinical and research career pathways.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Oxford, experiential learning on the MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology is closely tied to real clinical and biomedical research practice. You won’t just study how radiation works in theory — you’ll see how it’s used, measured, and controlled in medical and research settings, learning directly from academics and clinicians who work at the forefront of cancer treatment and imaging science. Teaching is grounded in real case studies, laboratory demonstrations, and exposure to the tools used in hospitals and research institutes, helping you understand how physics and biology translate into patient care.

This practical experience is built through access to Oxford’s specialist facilities and research environment:

Radiation physics and radiobiology laboratories, where you explore radiation interactions, dose measurement, and biological response using equipment and techniques relevant to clinical practice
Clinical-context teaching delivered by experts working in radiotherapy, imaging, and radiation protection, giving you insight into real hospital workflows and decision-making
Hands-on exposure to medical imaging and therapy technologies, including principles behind radiotherapy planning, diagnostic imaging systems, and non-ionising medical devices
Research training and project work, where you develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific reporting, preparing you for research-led careers or doctoral study
Academic seminars and interdisciplinary discussions within the Department of Oncology, helping you engage with current research in cancer science, medical physics, and translational medicine
Extensive library and digital resources, supporting independent learning and evidence-based research throughout the year

By the end of the programme, you won’t just understand medical physics and radiobiology — you’ll have experienced how these disciplines operate in real clinical and research environments, giving you a strong foundation for clinical training pathways, research roles, or further academic study.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology from the University of Oxford are well prepared for careers where physics directly improves patient outcomes and advances medical science. Alumni typically progress into roles such as Clinical Medical Physicist, Radiobiology Research Scientist, Diagnostic Imaging Physicist, or Radiation Protection Specialist, applying their specialist knowledge in hospitals, research institutes, and healthcare technology organisations.

Oxford strengthens these outcomes through its academic standing and professional alignment:

Strong pathway into NHS clinical training: The programme provides an excellent academic foundation for entry into the NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP) in Medical Physics, a common next step for students aiming for clinical roles.
Research-led employability: Training within Oxford’s Department of Oncology places you in an environment closely connected to active clinical and translational research, valued by employers in healthcare, biotech, and medical technology sectors.
Highly transferable skill set: Graduates leave with expertise in radiation physics, radiobiology, data analysis, and scientific communication — skills sought after in healthcare, research, and regulatory environments.
Professional recognition: Accreditation by the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM) adds long-term professional value and supports progression toward chartered status.
Global reputation advantage: An Oxford postgraduate degree carries significant international recognition, enhancing employability across the UK and abroad.

Further Academic Progression:
Many graduates choose to continue into doctoral study (DPhil/PhD) in medical physics, radiobiology, oncology, or related biomedical sciences. The research-intensive nature of the programme, combined with close interaction with leading researchers and clinicians, provides a strong platform for pursuing academic careers or advanced research roles in healthcare and life sciences.