Radiation protection practitioner : Entry requirements

Relevant degree subjects include physical/mathematical/applied science, life and medical science, and engineering. In particular the following subjects may increase your chances:

• physics/applied physics;
• biology/biomedical science/biochemistry;
• environmental science (biological);
• chemical and physical sciences;
• environmental health;
• nuclear engineering;
• medical laboratory science;
• physiology;
• radiography.

For entry to a professional radiation protection role, a good honours degree is essential together with A-level maths and physics.

Direct entry without a degree, or with an HND only, is not possible, although entry into a technician-level position can sometimes lead to the post with a few years of further study and experience.

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification in a related area can improve your prospects. The Society for Radiological Protection (SRP)  recognises certain Masters level courses from the Universities of Birmingham and Surrey. See the SRP website for further details. Student bursary and scholarship schemes are available to support MSc study from the SRP. In addition, some employers will also provide sponsorship.

Although not essential, part-time or vacation work in a related field can help with contacts and improve your chances. For example, the University of Strathclyde stipulates previous work experience as one of the entrance requirements to its distance learning course in Professional Development in Radiation Protection. Some postgraduate courses, for example, the Radioactive Waste Management and Decommissioning course at the University of Birmingham, include a work-based project.

Potential candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• a practical approach to work;
• good attention to detail;
• the ability to apply scientific theory to day-to-day problem-solving;
• good numeracy skills;
• excellent communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with plant managers, designers, engineers, laboratory staff, academics, accountants and other health and safety professionals;
• the ability to think clearly in an emergency;
• good teamworking skills;
• the ability to negotiate with tact and diplomacy;
• management skills, as you rise to more senior positions, particularly in industry.

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