Program Description The study of physics allows us to understand how the universe works—from the fundamental forces of nature to their effects on matter and the environment around us. This knowledge enables the development of future technologies and provides a deeper insight into nature. The reasoning, mathematical, experimental and computer skills acquired while earning a physics degree empower our graduates to pursue careers far outside the traditional boundaries of physics—or even science—including medicine, dentistry, business and law. Typically, physics students enjoy scientific experiments, computation and mathematics, as well as solving complex problems and developing new, innovative ideas.
All physics streams are flexible enough to cover the requirements for admission into professional schools in Canada and the United States.
While the study of physics allows us to understand how the universe works, medical physics emphasizes the application of physics ideas and technology to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in the human body, particularly cancer.
Medical physics students are thoroughly prepared with the same courses and skills in scientific experiments, computation, and mathematics as other physics students, but, in addition, they specialize in the core areas of medical imaging (MRI, ultrasound, CT, nuclear medicine) and radiotherapy (the treatment of cancer with external beam radiation or implanted, radioactive sources). Laboratory classes are taught in part at the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre and in the Baker Laboratory for Medical Physics Education.
Our Honours Medical Physics program is designed to prepare you for graduate studies in medical physics, which will eventually lead to a career as a certified medical physicist. Graduates of the program have also gone on to medical school and other careers in physics.
The Honours Medical Physics stream fits naturally into our internationally renowned physics department. We collaborate closely with such local health-care institutions as the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre, the Henry Ford Hospital, and the University of Windsor Institute for Diagnostic Imaging Research to deliver a practical, highly up-to-date, and relevant curriculum.
The program of study is carefully crafted to retain all of the physics and mathematics contained in a traditional physics degree (allowing maximum career flexibility), while, at the same time, introducing new content in biology, biochemistry, and specialized areas of medical physics, including radiological physics, medical imaging, and radiobiology. Both thesis and co-op options are offered.
