The Department of Health Physics and Diagnostic Sciences in the School of Integrated Health Sciences provides a high-quality educational experience for undergraduate and graduate students in the areas of:
About Health Physics and Medical Physics
Health physics focuses on protecting individuals and the environment from the potentially harmful effects of radiation. Course work incorporates the principles and technical skills from physics, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, mathematics, ecology, toxicology, and industrial hygiene.
Undergraduate Degrees Available:
Minor in Health Physics
Bachelor of Science in Health Physics
Medical physics is the application of physics to the practice of medicine, primarily in the fields of radiation oncology and diagnostic imaging. Course work focuses on the basic principles of radiation interactions, radiobiology, and detection. Clinical experiences are provided at local radiation oncology and imaging facilities.
Undergraduate Degrees Available:
Bachelor of Science in Comprehensive Medical Imaging
Available Options
- CT/MRI Track
- Radiography Track
- Ultrasound Track
Accreditation
The master’s of health physics program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Educational Programs and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. The Radiology program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.
Career Possibilities
Health physicists work in a variety of disciplines, including:
- Research
- Industry
- Education
- Environmental protection
- Enforcement of government regulations
Although the health physicist usually concentrates in one of these disciplines, a professional health physicist typically performs duties in several areas.
Medical physicists work primarily in hospitals, academic medical centers, radiation oncology facilities, and diagnostic imaging centers. Duties of a medical physicist include treatment planning, quality assurance, research and development, and teaching.
The employment outlook in comprehensive medical imaging is excellent. Radiology administrators and physicians in hospitals and outpatient clinics have responded to the concerns of cost containment and competition by seeking prospective employees who can demonstrate competency in a variety of imaging areas. The comprehensive imaging program at UNLV provides an opportunity for students to become competent professionals in multiple diagnostic modalities (computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound) within the framework of a strong baccalaureate program.
Job opportunities for graduates may be found in:
- Major medical centers
- Smaller hospitals
- Independent imaging centers
Opportunities are also available for obtaining positions in clinical research and administration.
Careers in the radiography field are found in a variety of settings, from small rural centers to large urban hospitals and clinics, and even in some foreign countries where shortages in technologists are evident. Radiography is a field of its own, with advancements possible with additional education and training.
Graduates can enter the field as staff radiographers and, with additional certifications, education, and training, may move on to advanced scanning, supervisory, and administrative positions or into the field of education. Other opportunities may include positions with suppliers of radiographic equipment, film, and diagnostic pharmaceuticals.