Master of Science in Radiological Health Sciences, Plan B, Health Physics Specialization

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Radiological Health Sciences, Health Physics Specialization provides comprehensive training in radiation safety principles and practices. Students gain a solid foundation in physics, biology, and instrumentation, preparing them for careers in medical, industrial, and environmental settings. Through core courses and elective options, students develop expertise in radiation dosimetry, public health, environmental modeling, and toxicology. Graduates are well-equipped for roles as health physicists, radiation safety officers, environmental consultants, research scientists, and government regulators, ensuring the safe use of radiation and protection of the public from radiation hazards.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Science in Radiological Health Sciences, Plan B, Health Physics Specialization is a graduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of health physics. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in various fields related to radiation safety, including medical, industrial, and environmental settings. The program emphasizes the application of scientific principles and practical knowledge to ensure the safe and beneficial use of radiation. Students gain a strong foundation in physics, biology, and instrumentation, enabling them to understand and manage radiation risks effectively.

Outline:

The program curriculum is structured to provide a solid foundation in the core principles of health physics. Students are required to complete a set of core courses covering topics such as:

• Nuclear Instruments and Measurements: This course focuses on the principles and applications of various instruments used in radiation detection and measurement.
• Principles of Radiation Biology: This course explores the biological effects of radiation on living organisms, including the mechanisms of radiation damage and the principles of radiation protection.
• Radiation Public Health: This course examines the public health implications of radiation exposure, including radiation risk assessment, radiation epidemiology, and radiation emergency preparedness.
• Environmental Contaminant Modeling I: This course introduces students to the principles and techniques of modeling the transport and fate of environmental contaminants, including radioactive materials.
• Radiochemistry: This course covers the chemistry of radioactive materials, including their properties, reactions, and applications.
• Research Seminar: Health Physics: This seminar provides students with an opportunity to present and discuss current research in health physics.
• Practicum: This practical experience allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting, working under the supervision of experienced health physicists.
In addition to the core courses, students can choose from a variety of elective courses to specialize in areas of interest. These electives may include:
• Biostatistical Methods for Quantitative Data: This course focuses on the application of statistical methods to analyze data in health physics research.
• Quantitative Methods for Radiation Safety: This course explores the use of quantitative methods to assess and manage radiation risks.
• Environmental Toxicology: This course examines the toxic effects of environmental contaminants, including radioactive materials.
• Non-Ionizing Radiation Safety: This course focuses on the safety aspects of non-ionizing radiation, such as radiofrequency and microwave radiation.
• Environmental and Occupational Health Issues: This course explores the health risks associated with environmental and occupational exposures.
• Industrial Hygiene: This course covers the principles and practices of industrial hygiene, including the identification, evaluation, and control of workplace hazards.
• Industrial Hygiene Laboratory: This course provides hands-on experience in conducting industrial hygiene laboratory analyses.
• Chemical and Biological Warfare Agents: This course examines the properties, effects, and detection of chemical and biological warfare agents.
• Radioecology: This course explores the interactions of radioactive materials with the environment.
• Aerosols and Environmental Health: This course focuses on the health effects of aerosols, including radioactive aerosols.
• Statistics for Environmental Monitoring: This course covers the statistical methods used in environmental monitoring.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Assignments: Students complete various assignments, such as problem sets, research papers, and presentations, to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
• Laboratory Reports: Students are required to write detailed reports on their laboratory experiments, showcasing their experimental skills and data analysis abilities.
• Practicum Reports: Students submit reports on their practicum experiences, documenting their practical skills and professional development.
• Thesis/Dissertation: Students may be required to complete a thesis or dissertation, depending on the specific program requirements.
This involves conducting independent research and writing a comprehensive document that presents their findings.
• Oral Examinations: Students may be required to defend their thesis or dissertation in an oral examination, demonstrating their understanding of their research and their ability to communicate their findings effectively.

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods to engage students and facilitate learning, including:

• Lectures: Traditional lectures are used to convey core concepts and principles.
• Discussions: Class discussions provide students with an opportunity to engage with the material, share their perspectives, and learn from their peers.
• Laboratory Experiments: Hands-on laboratory experiments allow students to apply theoretical concepts and develop practical skills.
• Field Trips: Field trips provide students with the opportunity to observe real-world applications of health physics principles.
• Guest Speakers: The program invites guest speakers from industry and academia to share their expertise and insights.

Careers:

Graduates of the Master of Science in Radiological Health Sciences, Plan B, Health Physics Specialization program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the field of radiation safety, including:

• Health Physicist: Health physicists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nuclear power plants, research laboratories, and regulatory agencies, to ensure the safe use of radiation.
• Radiation Safety Officer: Radiation safety officers are responsible for developing and implementing radiation safety programs in various industries.
• Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants specialize in assessing and managing environmental risks, including those associated with radiation.
• Research Scientist: Research scientists conduct research on the effects of radiation and develop new technologies for radiation protection.
• Government Regulator: Government regulators work to ensure the safe use of radiation and to protect the public from radiation hazards.

Other:

The program is accredited by the Applied Sciences Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring that it meets high standards of quality and rigor. The program is also supported by a strong faculty with expertise in various areas of health physics. The program provides students with a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of health physics, preparing them for successful careers in this important field.