Biological and Medical Physics degree

Biological and Medical Physics is a uniquely interdisciplinary degree, which gives you a great deal of flexibility depending on which electives you choose. You could pursue professional programs such as medicine or optometry or work in fields such as radiation oncology and medical imaging. You could specialize as a health physics technician in industries, or as a medical physicist or medical imaging technician in hospitals. You could also go on to do research related to biology, physics, or both.

The careers listed below are examples of what you might be able to pursue. Through the courses you take, specializations you choose, extracurriculars, and any work experience you gain, you'll graduate with a degree that's uniquely you and be ready to pursue a career that's right for you!

Medical imaging technologist

Support professionals who use imaging tools like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to examine the body. Prepare patients and ensure equipment is working properly. It’s a great fit if you’re interested in how physics is used in healthcare.

Radiation therapy specialist

Assist to deliver radiation treatments to patients, often those with cancer. Assist with equipment setup and patient care while following precise safety procedures. This is a meaningful career where physics directly supports life-saving treatments.

Biomedical equipment technician

Work with essential medical devices like heart monitors and imaging machines to keep them running smoothly. You’ll test, repair, and troubleshoot equipment to make sure healthcare teams can rely on accurate results. Each day brings new challenges where your problem-solving skills help to support patient care through advanced technology.

Medical physics technician

Apply physics principles in healthcare settings by calibrating and testing equipment used for diagnosis and treatment. Work with radiation-based technologies, ensuring everything operates safely and precisely. Your attention to detail will play a crucial role in delivering accurate treatments and protecting patient safety.

Radiation safety officer

Monitor how radiation is used in hospitals or laboratories. Check safety procedures, track exposure levels, and help ensure all guidelines are followed. You’ll actively protect both people and the environment while supporting safe medical practices.

Biophysics researcher

Study how physical principles apply to biological systems, such as how cells respond to forces or energy. Your daily tasks may include running experiments and analyzing data. It’s a good fit if you enjoy combining physics and biology in a lab setting.

Medical device designer

Support the development of new medical technologies like imaging systems or diagnostic tools. This could involve testing prototypes and analyzing performance. It’s an exciting path if you’re interested in innovation and engineering in healthcare.

Healthcare data specialist

Analyze data from complex medical equipment to improve performance and patient outcomes, including studying imaging results or system efficiency. This is a great role if you enjoy data, technology, and healthcare.

Nuclear medicine technologist consultant

Assist in procedures that use small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose or treat diseases, prepare equipment, and support patient care. It’s a unique career where physics meets medicine in a very direct way.

Quality assurance specialist (medical equipment)

Test and monitor medical devices to ensure they meet strict safety and performance standards, involving detailed inspections and reporting results. You’ll be in a structured role that plays an important part in patient safety.

Clinical engineering technician

Work alongside healthcare teams to manage and maintain medical technologies used in hospitals. This includes troubleshooting equipment and supporting upgrades. It’s a dynamic role that combines engineering, physics, and healthcare.

Laser technology specialist (medical applications)

Work with lasers that are used in medical treatments or procedures, such as eye surgery or dermatology. This could involve maintaining equipment or assisting with procedures. This is a specialized career that highlights the practical use of physics.

Forensic technology technician (biophysics focus)

Apply physics and biology to analyze evidence, such as imaging or trace materials. Your work helps uncover key details in investigations. It’s a fascinating field where science supports the justice system.

Technical sales representative (medical technology)

Use your knowledge of physics and medical systems to explain advanced equipment to healthcare professionals. Your role involves both communication and technical understanding. It’s a great option if you enjoy working with people and technology.

Imaging systems support specialist

You’ll help install, maintain, and troubleshoot imaging systems used in hospitals or clinics. This could include working directly with clients to solve technical issues.  You would be in a hands-on career that keeps essential healthcare technology running smoothly.

You can learn more about medical physics and career options on the Canadian Organization of Medical Physicists website.