Who is the Distance Learning Programme Medical Physics (M.Sc.) Suitable For?

The part-time distance learning programme Medical Physics at the Rhineland-Palatinate Technical University Kaiserslautern-Landau is aimed at graduates of technical and scientific degree programmes who have already gained practical experience in specialist areas such as medical physics, medical engineering or related fields. It is particularly addressed to individuals interested in demanding tasks in the field of medical care institutions, for example in the operation, testing or development of medical devices and procedures. The programme also appeals to professionals seeking qualification as medical physicists or wishing to expand their expertise in radiation physics, medical imaging and laser safety.

Admission Requirements

• A first professional qualifying university degree (Bachelor or equivalent) of at least six semesters in an engineering or scientific field.
• Following the initial degree: At least one year of relevant and qualified professional experience in a field related to medical physics, medical engineering or related technical-scientific areas.
• Proof of professional experience must be formally provided; details and especially recognised professional fields can be found in the university's information on professional activity.
• The complete application must be submitted between mid-May and 15 July.
• German language skills are required as the programme is conducted in German.

The legally binding admission requirements are stipulated in the university’s examination regulations.

Personal Requirements and Suitable Profiles

• Interest in the connection between physics, technology and medical application.
• Willingness to work independently and to acquire new theoretical and practical knowledge through distance learning.
• Analytical skills and an understanding of physical, technical and mathematical contexts.
• Experience in handling complex equipment or processes in a medical or technical environment is an advantage.
• Time management: An average of 14 hours of study time per week is to be planned – studying alongside work requires organisational skills.
• Motivation for continuous advanced training and further education to stay up to date with current technology and medical procedures.

What does the distance learning course in Medical Physics teach?

The part-time distance learning course "Medical Physics" at the Rhineland-Palatinate Technical University Kaiserslautern-Landau (RPTU) leads to the degree Master of Science (M.Sc.). The aim is scientific qualification for activities as a medical physicist. The course content is based on the guidelines of the German Society for Medical Physics (DGMP) as well as the current regulations for the training of medical physics experts.

• The focus is on medical radiation physics, laser physics, and medical imaging as well as image processing.
• Students acquire basic knowledge in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, biophysics, radiation protection, and medical technology.
• Content in biomathematics and computer science complement the scientific profile.
• Legal and organisational framework conditions for professional practice are covered as well as content on clinical studies and medical technology management.
• The course includes integrated courses in radiation protection (basic and specialised courses for medical physics experts) as well as training programmes for laser protection officer qualification.
• The master's thesis can also be completed externally, for example at the workplace, upon application.

How is the course structured in the distance learning programme?

The distance learning course is organised part-time and is designed for 6 semesters. The language of instruction is German.

• Workload: The average workload is approximately 14 hours per week.
• Self-study with attendance phases: Extensive, didactically prepared self-learning materials are provided. The content is specifically designed for independent study.
• Attendance phases: A total of 5 short attendance phases (mostly at weekends) deepen scientific and practice-oriented content. The attendance locations are usually Kaiserslautern, partly Feldkirch or Homburg/Saar.
• Online campus: An interactive learning platform enables continuous exchange with lecturers and fellow students.
• Course start: The course starts each winter semester (October).

Which occupational fields does the Master in Medical Physics open up?

Graduates of the course are in demand in various areas of medical care and technical development.

• Medical care facilities: Activities as a medical physicist, especially in handling medical technology high-tech devices and in radiation therapy.
• Research and development: Employment in companies and institutions that develop, test, and optimise medical physics devices or procedures.
• Testing and quality assurance: Collaboration in testing laboratories, control and maintenance, as well as in radiation protection and laser protection.
• Sales and training: Professional advice and training of users in the context of medical technology.
• Clinical research: Participation in clinical studies and implementation of new therapy and diagnostic procedures.

What are the costs for the distance learning course and what financing options are available?

• Tuition fee: 1,250 Euro per semester
• Social contribution: 140 Euro per semester
• Fee for the master's thesis: 720 Euro (one-off)
• Total costs (standard period of study): approx. 8,160 Euro plus master's thesis fee and social contribution
• Extension of studies: In the 7th semester the tuition fee is waived. From the 8th semester it is reduced to 30% of the normal rate.
• Study materials: Included in the costs; travel, accommodation and subsistence costs during attendance phases may be added if applicable.
• Instalment payment: Upon application, the tuition fee can be paid in instalments. The costs are exempt from VAT and possibly tax-deductible.