Medical Physics University of Windsor

Program Description

The study of physics allows us to understand how the universe works—from the fundamental forces of nature to their effects on matter and the environment around us. This knowledge enables the development of future technologies and provides a deeper insight into nature. The reasoning, mathematical, experimental and computer skills acquired while earning a physics degree empower our graduates to pursue careers far outside the traditional boundaries of physics—or even science—including medicine, dentistry, business and law. Typically, physics students enjoy scientific experiments, computation and mathematics, as well as solving complex problems and developing new, innovative ideas. All physics streams are flexible enough to cover the requirements for admission into professional schools in Canada and the United States. While the study of physics allows us to understand how the universe works, medical physics emphasizes the application of physics ideas and technology to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in the human body, particularly cancer. Medical physics students are thoroughly prepared with the same courses and skills in scientific experiments, computation, and mathematics as other physics students, but, in addition, they specialize in the core areas of medical imaging (MRI, ultrasound, CT, nuclear medicine) and radiotherapy (the treatment of cancer with external beam radiation or implanted, radioactive sources). Laboratory classes are taught in part at the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre and in the Baker Laboratory for Medical Physics Education.

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