How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- a trainee scheme
University
To become a medical physicist, you'll need a degree that includes a high level of physics, for example:
- applied physics
- physics and mathematics
- astrophysics
- physics with nuclear technology
You would then move on to the the 3-year NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP).
You'll need a first or upper second class honours degree to apply for the STP, or a postgraduate master's qualification in a relevant subject like theoretical physics.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You can train for this job by applying for a place on a Healthcare Science Practitioner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
This combines work-based learning with study at university.
The first 2 years cover broad based science. In your third year you can specialise in medical physics.
Entry requirements
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
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Work
You might be able to start work as a healthcare science assistant or associate and with experience, move on to a degree apprenticeship.
Other Routes
You could apply for a place on the NHS Practitioner Training Programme without a degree.
You would study for a degree in healthcare science, which includes work-based training. You could then go on to specialise in medical physics.
To apply, you'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English, maths and a science
- at least 2 A levels including maths or a science
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine, for professional development and training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about careers and training in medical physics through the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine and Health Careers.