This course is a core component of the Master of Medical Physics and Master of Applied Science in Medical and Health Physics. It will provide students with an opportunity to study a variety of issues and develop a range of skills relevant to Medical and Health Physics. The course is also relevant to the conduct of a successful research project within the context of the RMIT higher degrees program.

It specifically provides students with a knowledge and appreciation of a range of phenomena involving interactions between high energy photons, electrons and atomic matter, and develops familiarity with the ways in which these phenomena are used in modern devices and instrumentation, particularly in hospitals and medical use.

It introduces the student to radioactivity and instrumentation for radiation detection and dosimetry, giving the student an appreciation of how these can be used in modern radiation and health sciences.

It will also introduce to the student the physical basis, philosophy and practice of radiation protection and radiation health as well as how to apply the techniques in practical situations.

Radiation Protection will be considered for occupationally and medically exposed individuals as well as the general public. Contexts will include specific radiation exposure environments such as diagnostic imaging facilities, mining and industry, radiotherapy and natural radiation exposure. A range of radiation sources and exposure pathways will be studied.