Medical physicist : Entry requirements

A degree in physics is the preferred entry qualification but an electrical/electronic or computing engineering degree may also be accepted.

Candidates with the relevant degree can then enter the medical physicist role by carrying out the Part I training accredited by the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM) . This usually takes two years and involves hospital-based training. An MSc in Medical Physics accredited by the IPEM is also studied for alongside this training and can be completed on a full-time, block or day-release basis.

Those who already have an accredited MSc may complete a shortened period of hospital-based training which lasts 15 months.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• an interest in healthcare and the functions of the human body;
• strong communication skills;
• the ability to work independently;
• meticulous attention to detail;
• a self-motivated and confident approach, to gain the most from training placements in busy hospital departments;
• a willingness to keep up to date with the latest scientific and medical research in this field;
• the ability to solve problems and research alternative solutions.

Work experience within a hospital medical physics department is advisable. This will help you decide on a specialist area, as well as strengthen applications for training schemes, for which entry is competitive and there are many more applicants than places. Arrange a visit to a department in a local hospital to find out more about the role.

As of 2011, in England and Wales, a new graduate entry Scientist Training Programme (STP) replaced the previous Clinical Scientist Training Scheme. The recruitment for the healthcare scientist training positions takes place early in the year for the September intake. Recruitment usually begins in February, with a closing date in mid-March.

NHS Trusts will offer 200 training posts in life sciences, physics and engineering and physiological sciences. Successful candidates will join a three-year training programme of workplace-based learning and a Masters degree in their specialist subject.

There is a single timetable for recruitment as well as national guidelines and assessment centres to ensure that all candidates are treated fairly and equally. Candidates can apply for the training posts at the NHS Jobs website while the selection process is organised by local trusts.

Details of all training posts are available on NHS Jobs  and will be advertised in the New Scientist . Further details of the scheme and a list of all the job roles are available on the NHS Healthcare Scientist Training Programme (STP)  page on the NHS Careers  website.

Scotland is also adopting the new training programme but will still be recruiting by specialist subject, rather than on a national basis for the time being. Training will be provided by individual NHS boards. Details of each training scheme can be found at Clinical Scientist Pre-Registration Training Schemes Scotland  and can also be found in the New Scientist .

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.