Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Medical Physics)

The Graduate Diploma in Applied Science is a 96-credit point program designed to equip you with a robust foundation in medical imaging, radiation sciences, and health systems management. The course is structured to build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills progressively, preparing you for impactful roles in the healthcare and applied science sectors.

Core Units (84 credit points)

You'll begin your studies by exploring the fundamental scientific principles that underpin medical imaging and radiation science. Building on foundational knowledge, you then delve into specialised areas of medical imaging and radiation therapy.

• 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 your 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 (12 credit points)

To round out your expertise, you will choose from a diverse range of electives that enhance your professional versatility:

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

This flexible elective structure allows you to tailor your learning toward leadership, innovation, or technical proficiency, depending on your career goals.

Students who have completed the Graduate Diploma may enter Stage 2 of the Master of Applied Science, where they undertake a program of supervised research and investigation that can be completed at QUT, or in a suitable external institution.

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
• 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.