MSc in Physics & Engineering in Medicine
MSc Campus Tutor: Dr Martin Fry
MSc by Distance Learning Tutor: Billy Dennis

The purpose of our MSc programme is to provide a theoretical and practical knowledge base for those with an interest in developing an interdisciplinary approach to science and engineering applied to healthcare, with particular emphasis on those seeking careers as medical physicists or biomedical engineers in hospitals, industry or universities.
Masters students can tailor their studies to one of three specialised streams:
- Radiation Physics (RP)*
- Biomedical Engineering and Medical Imaging (BEMI)
- Medical Image Computing (MIC)
*Accredited by the UK Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM). Available for both campus and distance-learning deliveries.
Why study with us?
The MSc Research Project provides an opportunity to conduct research supervised by the department’s world leading academics. The Research Excellence Framework in 2014 rated the department’s research as 95% 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’) and UCL was the top-rated university in the UK for research strength. Students will be joining the largest group of biomedical engineers in the UK.
Learn more about the scope of the department's research, and browse case studies, here.
Programme Structure
Masters students can tailor their studies to one of three specialised streams. Module selection depends on the stream being studied and the desired career path.
Radiation Physics (IPEM Accredited)
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Biomedical Engineering & Medical Imaging
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Medical Image Computing
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x2 Options
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x1 Option
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- History
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This MSc has its origins going back to 1958, where it was founded by two University of London Professors, John Eric Roberts and the Nobel laureate Sir Joseph Rotblat. Students study the physics theory and practice that underpins modern medicine, and learn to apply their knowledge to established and emerging technologies in medical science. The programme covers the applications of both ionising and non-ionising radiation to the diagnosis and treatment of human disease and disorder, and includes research project, workplace skills development and computational skills needed to apply this theory into practice.
Learn more about the history of the department here.
- What our students say...
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Rosie
Rosie completed the MSc on campus as a part-time student over two years (2013-15) while also in full time employment, attending lectures through day release.
"Definitely my research project! I used programming and image-processing to investigate MRI artefacts in mouse models and, by working closely with my supervisor, I produced results which will help improve understanding in this field (shown below). Following the end of my MSc, I had the opportunity to present my work as a poster at a national MRI meeting. I am currently working with my supervisor to submit my findings for publication."
Oskar
Oskar graduated in physics in 2014 before specializing in medical physics through the UCL MSc in Physics and Engineering in Medicine, attending as a campus student from 2014-15.
"The most enjoyable part of the degree was definitely the project work. Joining a world leading research group and interacting with the people at the cutting edge of science was very inspirational and motivating."
Full testimonials from Rosie and Oskar can be found here.
- Admissions
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Admissions Tutor: Dr Martin Fry
Fees can be found on the course listing page.
We generally require an Upper Second Class Honours (2:1) in a relevant undergraduate
degree such as physics or an engineering discipline for entry. We do
accept applicants with a 2:2 degree, or with considerable workplace or
related healthcare qualifications, but we may ask such applicants to
meet online with the admissions tutor or a member of the course team for
guidance on preparation for studying on our MSc once they have applied.
When we assess your application we would like to learn:
- why you want to study Radiation Physics at graduate level
- why you want to study this programme at UCL
- whether you have relevant industrial or workplace experience
- how your academic and professional background meets the demands of this challenging programme
- where you would like to go professionally after your degree
If you are unsure about the relevance of your qualifications or experience please contact us at pg-medphys@ucl.ac.uk.
MSc programmes start at the end of September and the
deadline for applications for 2017/18 is midnight on 28th July 2017. We
recommend overseas students apply no later than the end of June.
- Fees & Funding
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Fees
Information on our fees for each of courses can be found below.
Funding
- Taster Lectures
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Electrical Muscle Stimulation
Dr Martin Fry demonstrates how paralysed muscles can be stimulated by
electricity and tells the story of how useful this can be!
- Virtual Open Day April 2017
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Click here to watch our MSc Virtual Open Day from April 2017
- Further Information
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Assessment:
The MSc course consists of 7 taught modules and a comprehensive module (inclulding viva and group task), each worth 15 credits plus a research project worth 60 credits. This forms a total of 180 credit units. The Diploma does not include the research project. The pass mark for all elements (taught modules or research project) is 50%. For any element only two attempts are allowed.
Teaching:
The MSc course comprises modules assessed by examination, coursework, or a mixture of both. A key component of many modules is a research-led approach to teaching that enables students to learn from world-leading innovators and practitioners who relate theoretical aspects of the syllabus to emerging developments in the field. To augment this approach, students are required to complete a significant research project under supervision, working within one of our research groups or within a local hospital department or industrial environment.
Studying at UCL:
London is one of the world's great cities: exciting, vibrant, and with much to offer the student experience, including an unrivalled choice of cultural and social experiences and events through its world famous museums, landmarks and fabulous West End theatres. UCL is located in Bloomsbury, in the central academic quarter of the city alongside the British Museum, yet only a short walk from many of the famous tourist, shopping and recreational attractions of the city. London routinely hosts internationally renowned sporting and cultural events such as the 2012 Olympics, the annual London Film Festival, the world famous BBC Proms and multi-cultural festival, the Notting Hill Carnival.
UCL Statement on Brexit:
In light of the UK’s vote to leave the European Union, UCL President & Provost Professor Michael Arthur assures UCL students and staff from EU countries that they will continue to be as valued and as welcome as before.
The full statement can be viewed here.