Academic Strengths Students pursuing a career in medical physics should have a strong aptitude for math and science since they will obtain a bachelor’s degree in physics. It is important for students to be dedicated to their studies because the medical physics program involves full semester schedules.

Personal Qualities To succeed in this career, an individual should have a strong work ethic, self-motivation, and an interest in science and medicine. Individuals in this field also usually enjoy at least one of the following areas of work: clinical work, research, or teaching.

This can be a very rewarding career for those who are compassionate and wish to help others. Clinical work, especially, provides the opportunity to treat patients with cancer and other pathological illnesses, as well as develop and research new methods to combat illness.

There is both reward and responsibility when working with patients in need. The American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) has taken great care to outline a code of ethics by which all medical physicists should practice. Those interested in medical physics should be dedicated to such a code of ethics.

Job Market It is expected that the demand for medical physicists will rise in the future. Therefore, a career in this field can be promising for individuals who are dedicated to it. Medical physicists can find employment in hospitals, clinics, private practices, universities, and training programs.

For more information about job opportunities, go to the Careers Tab.