Program Overview

Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Medical Physics)

The Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Medical Physics) is a 96-credit point program designed to equip students with a robust foundation in medical imaging, radiation sciences, and health systems management.

Course Overview

The course is structured to build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills progressively, preparing students for impactful roles in the healthcare and applied science sectors.

Core Units

The core units of the course include:

• Health Statistics: Develops statistical literacy for interpreting health data and evidence-based decision-making.
• Radiation Physics: Lays the groundwork for imaging and therapy applications, covering radioactivity and the interaction of ionising radiation with matter; applied radiation counting techniques; radiation detectors; radiation dosimetry.
• Physics of Medical Imaging: Covers the three important imaging modalities of x-ray, MRI, and ultrasound with an emphasis on physics and technology, as well as the role of the clinical medical physicist.
• Medical Imaging Science: Explores nuclear medicine, radioactive decay, radionuclide production, imaging systems and internal dosimetry.
• Radiotherapy: Covers the application of physics to radiotherapy, including theoretical and practical aspects of the significant topics in radiotherapy physics.
• Radiation Protection: Explores sources of radiation, effects of ionising radiation on the human body, radiation protection in diagnostic radiology, and laser safety.
• Advancing Anatomy and Physiology: Strengthens the ability to apply anatomical language in diverse contexts and to demonstrate specialist knowledge of the structural and functional organisation of cells, tissues and each of the major organ systems of the human body.

Complementary Studies

To round out their expertise, students will choose from a diverse range of electives that enhance their professional versatility, including:

• Population Health
• Contemporary Health Management
• Quality Management in Health
• Project Management Principles
• Introduction to Programming
• Object-Oriented Programming
• Developing Entrepreneurial Mindsets
• Total Quality Management

Careers and Outcomes

Graduates can seek employment in hospitals, health departments, tertiary institutions, and medical instrumentation companies. Depending on the field of employment, graduates may be known as a medical physicist, health physicist, or bio-engineer. Professional medical/health physicists apply electronic tools and medical software, ultrasonics, radiation, and computers to clinical and environmental problems, monitor the environment to maintain acceptable standards in the workplace and the community, apply fundamental physical research in development programs, and are responsible for calibration, care, and maintenance of instruments and apparatus.

Professional Recognition

The course is accredited by the Australasian College of Physical Sciences and Engineers in Medicine.

Possible Careers

• Health Physicist
• Medical Equipment Sales
• Medical Physicist

Details and Units

Course Code

PH71

CRICOS Code

D

Delivery

Gardens Point

Duration

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Entry

February and July

Entry Requirements

Students must have a recognised bachelor degree (or higher qualification) in one of the following fields:

• Biomedical, medical, medical electronics, etc., engineering
• Biophysics
• Electrical, avionics, etc., engineering
• Geophysics
• Mechanical engineering
• Medical physics
• Physics The following degrees (or higher qualification) are not acceptable:
• Biomedical science
• Laboratory science
• Medical science

Minimum English Language Requirements

Select the country where you completed your studies to see a guide on meeting QUT's English language requirements. Approved English-speaking countries are Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, United States of America, and Wales.

Fees

Your actual fees may vary depending on which units you choose. We review fees annually, and they may be subject to increases.

• 2026 fees: CSP $9,900 per year full-time (96 credit points), $50,000 per year full-time (96 credit points)
• 2025 fees: CSP $9,200 per year full-time (96 credit points), $45,900 per year full-time (96 credit points)

Scholarships

You can apply for scholarships to help you with study and living costs. Browse all scholarships for more information.

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