Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering

The MSc in Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering at University College London (UCL) offers a comprehensive and innovative curriculum designed to prepare students for a career at the forefront of healthcare technology and medical research. This programme combines rigorous scientific training with practical applications in diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, medical instrumentation, and biomedical signal processing. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of the physical principles underlying medical technologies and develop essential skills in the design, evaluation, and clinical implementation of biomedical devices. The programme is suitable for graduates with backgrounds in physics, engineering, or related disciplines who wish to specialize in medical physics and biomedical engineering fields. Throughout the course, students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, clinical environments, and collaboration opportunities with leading healthcare institutions. Modules include topics such as medical imaging techniques, radiotherapy physics, nanomedicine, bioinformatics, and regulatory issues in medical device development. The programme emphasizes research excellence, with opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge projects and internships that bridge academic concepts with real-world healthcare challenges. Graduates will be well-prepared to work in hospitals, medical device industries, research institutes, or continue their studies at the doctoral level. UCL's reputable faculty, combined with its strategic location in London, provides an ideal environment for interdisciplinary learning, professional development, and networking within the global biomedical community. This MSc aims to equip students with both theoretical expertise and practical skills necessary to contribute effectively to advancements in medical technology, improve patient outcomes, and explore innovative solutions in healthcare.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

In the first and second years of the programme you will cover a balanced selection of modules in both UCL Mathematics and UCL Physics & Astronomy. You will take a selection of designated modules in the third year and undertake a major project in your fourth year, which will include a substantial piece of written work and a presentation. Students taking this programme do not have to do any practical work, although this is possible if so desired.

This programme is offered as a three-year BSc or a four-year MSci degree. The first two years of the programme are identical, and students are advised to apply for the MSci degree in the first instance, as it is possible to transfer to the BSc during the first three years.

A levels

Grades

A*A*A, or A*AA and a 1 in any STEP paper or distinction in Mathematics AEA

Subjects

Mathematics and Further Mathematics required at A*, or one of Mathematics or Further Mathematics at A* if STEP or AEA offered. Physics also required.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

39-40

Subjects

A score of 20 points in three higher level subjects including 7 in Mathematics and at least 6 in Physics, or 19 points in three higher level subjects including 7 in Mathematics and at least 6 in Physics and a 1 in any STEP paper or a distinction in Mathematics AEA, with no score below 5.

The MSc in Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering at University College London offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Full-time students are encouraged to explore both internally available funding sources and external scholarships to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. UCL provides several scholarships specifically designed for postgraduate students, including the UCL Graduate Support Scheme, which offers partial fee waivers and living cost support based on financial need and academic merit. Additionally, students can apply for government loans such as the UK postgraduate student loan, which offer flexible repayment options and competitive interest rates. International students are eligible for various international scholarships and tuition fee reduction programs, although they are encouraged to check specific eligibility criteria. External funding opportunities are also abundant; students may seek scholarships from medical physics and biomedical engineering professional associations, charitable foundations, or industry-sponsored grants aimed at fostering innovation in healthcare technology. UCL's Financial Support and Advice Office provides comprehensive guidance on application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility requirements, ensuring students are informed of all possible avenues for funding. Moreover, part-time work opportunities may be available on campus or through nearby employment agencies, offering additional financial support while accommodating the demands of the academic schedule. Prospective students are advised to start their funding applications early, as many scholarships and grants have specific closing dates and limited availability. The overall aim of these financing options is to make the MSc program accessible to talented students from diverse financial backgrounds, promoting a rich and inclusive learning environment. Besides external and internal funding, students are encouraged to explore personal savings, family support, or sponsorship from employers interested in workforce development in medical physics and biomedical engineering sectors. Securing adequate financial support can significantly enhance the educational experience, allowing students to focus fully on their studies and research activities, and prepare effectively for careers in healthcare technology, medical imaging, and biomedical instrument development. By leveraging these various sources of funding, students can minimize financial stress and maximize their academic potential during their time at University College London.

The MSc in Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering at University College London is a comprehensive and multidisciplinary program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in the fields of medical physics and biomedical engineering. This program combines fundamental principles of physics, engineering, and medicine to prepare graduates for careers in healthcare technology, medical imaging, radiation physics, and biomedical device development. Students will explore various topics, including medical imaging techniques such as MRI, CT, and ultrasound, as well as radiation safety and radiotherapy physics. The coursework emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, often involving laboratory work, project design, and analysis of real-world clinical problems.

The program typically attracts applicants with backgrounds in physics, engineering, or related sciences, aiming to develop professionals who can contribute to the innovation, implementation, and management of medical technology. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to undertake research projects, often collaborating with clinical practitioners and industry partners, fostering an environment of applied learning and technological advancement in medicine. The program's structure usually includes core modules, optional units, and a substantial dissertation component, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals.

Graduates of the MSc in Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering are well-positioned to pursue careers in hospitals as medical physicists, work in medical device companies, or continue with research at doctoral levels. The program's affiliation with UCL’s renowned research centers ensures access to cutting-edge facilities and expertise, nurturing innovation and professional development. In addition to academic excellence, students benefit from UCL’s strong links with healthcare providers and industry, providing opportunities for internships and collaborative projects.

Overall, this master's program aims to produce highly skilled professionals who can advance medical science and healthcare technology, improve patient outcomes, and contribute to the evolving landscape of biomedical engineering. The program duration is typically one year full-time or two years part-time, and it offers a diverse, international community of students and faculty dedicated to excellence in education and research in the biomedical sciences.