Master's Degree in Radiation Science
Who is this program for?
The Medical Physics Master's degree in the Radiation Science division is ideal for individuals interested in the safe and effective use of radiation in medicine and industry. Graduates can pursue clinically oriented careers in medical imaging, radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine working in hospitals, research labs, government agencies, or regulatory bodies to ensure the safe application of radiation technologies.
Program Overview
The Medical Physics Master’s in Radiation Sciences program at the University of Kentucky is designed to advance students’ expertise in the medical uses of radiation and imaging technologies. With a curriculum that blends advanced scientific knowledge, research, and clinical applications, the program prepares graduates for clinical support roles in medical imaging, radiation therapy, and radiological physics education. Students gain a deeper understanding of radiation biology, safety, technology, and patient care, while also having opportunities to engage in meaningful research alongside experienced faculty. Ideal for STEM graduates in Physics or Engineering wishing to pursue a career in applied sciences aiding in the clinical implementation of Radiation Therapy, Diagnostic imaging, or Nuclear Medicine technologies.
Our Accreditation
Our program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Educational Programs (CAMPEP) and is one of the premier clinical medical physics programs in North America.
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What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
A BS or MS in Physics is desirable, but students possessing related physical science backgrounds are eligible and qualified. At a minimum, candidates must show the equivalence of a minor in physics in all undergraduate work, as defined by the American Board of Radiology and CAMPEP. To meet the admission criteria of having a Minor in Physics, candidates must have completed the following:
1) Calculus through Ordinary Differential Equations;
2) The Calculus based introductory General Physics sequence with labs (2 semesters); and
3) Three upper division Physics electives (junior level or above). Other program requirements are courses in Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Computer Science, and Scientific Statistics. The latter requirements, if missing, may be incorporated into the graduate program at the discretion of the Director of Graduate Studies.
An undergraduate GPA of 3.50 is highly desirable and the General GRE exam is required. While there are no absolute minimum scores required, scores on the Verbal section at or above the 60th percentile and a score on the Quantitative section at or above the 70th percentile are desirable.
An interview is required of all applicants being considered for admission. In addition, observation or job shadowing experience with a certified clinical Medical Physicist is very important when considering applicants for admission. Three Letters of Recommendation and a personal statement are also required.
It is recommended that applications be submitted by January 31 to assure full consideration, however applications received after January 31st may be reviewed depending on the progress of student recruitment.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students
-
Fall
- 04/30/2025
International Students
-
Fall
- 04/15/2025

Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Tuition Rate
For residents of the states listed below, this program qualifies you to receive the University of Kentucky's in-state tuition rate through the Academic Common Marketplace.
Alabama
Arkansas
Delaware
Louisiana
Missouri
South Carolina
Tennessee
Virginia
West Virginia

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