Physics, PhD | Medical Physics Emphasis
Physics
The Ph.D. in Physics with a Medical Physics Emphasis is a doctoral, dissertation-focused program that prepares students for advanced careers at the intersection of physics, medicine, and technology through rigorous coursework, clinical rotations, and hands-on research. Designed to develop deep scientific expertise and professional readiness, the program cultivates the analytical, technical, and research skills needed to investigate complex problems in medically related physics applications.
What can you do with this degree?
- Pursue advanced research careers in medical physics, biomedical imaging, radiation-related science, or clinically relevant physics applications (often alongside additional professional training where required).
- Compete for positions in research laboratories, medical centers, or government/industry R&D teams developing and evaluating healthcare technologies.
- Prepare for academic pathways as a faculty member, research professor, or principal investigator leading interdisciplinary research at the intersection of physics and medicine.
- Build expertise for roles in technology development, instrumentation, quality assurance, and computational modeling supporting clinical and translational science initiatives.
Course Curriculum
| Courses | Credits | |
| Core * | ||
| Physics 601 | Mathematical Physics I | 3 |
| Physics 605 | Theoretical Mechanics | 3 |
| Physics 607-608 | Electromagnetic Theory I – II | 6 |
| Physics 611 | Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics | 3 |
| Physics 613-614 | Quantum Theory I – II | 6 |
| Physics 703 | Ph.D. Qualifying Examination | 1 |
| Other Required | ||
| Physics 624 | Physics of Medicine | 3 |
| Physics 625 | Diagnostic Imaging | 3 |
| Physics 626 | Nuclear Medicine | 3 |
| Physics 627 | Radiation Therapy Physics and Dosimetry | 3 |
| Physics 628 | Health Physics Radiation Protection | 3 |
| Physics 629 | Radiation Biology | 3 |
| Physics 630 – 633 | Clinical Rotation I – II – III – IV | 16 |
| Physics 707 | Advanced Nuclear Physics I | 3 |
| Physics 714 | Radiation and Detectors | 3 |
| Physics Elective | Advanced Physics Elective chosen from PHY 719, 735, 736, or 743 | 3 |
| Physics 791 | Dissertation Research | 10 – 15 |
| Physics 798 | Final Comprehensive Examination | 1 |
| Total | 76 | |
| * Note that a grade of “B” or better is required in each core course. ** PHY 602 is not required in the Core for the Medical Physics Emphasis. |
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How to Apply
Prospective students can apply through the university’s admissions portal using the button below. The application process will require applicants to:
- Submit official high school transcripts or equivalent documentation.
- Provide standardized test scores if required.
- Submit additional materials such as recommendations or personal statements if requested.
- Monitor application status for updates and follow‑up steps.
The information contained on this webpage is for informational purposes only. The Hampton University Academic Catalog represents the official repository for academic program requirements. Documentation can be found at https://home.hamptonu.edu/academics/academic-catalog/.