General information
The four-year Honours Bachelor of Science in Health Physics and Radiation Science program provides an advanced science curriculum with a strong emphasis on safety aspects of ionizing radiations.
The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of advanced science for radiation protection of humans and the environment, as well as the application of radiation technologies in health care and industry. The first two years establish the fundamentals in mathematics, physical and biological sciences and technology. In Year 3, students learn the fundamentals of radiation detection and measurement, imaging, radiation biophysics and how radiation is produced and used in a wide range of applications. Fourth year allows for specialization and includes two thesis projects.
Students in the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Health Physics and Radiation Science receive specialized education in health physics. Health physics is a well-recognized branch of radiation science with a wide range of applications in many industries, such as nuclear power, non-destructive examinations, health care, agriculture, research, education, environmental protection, and the enforcement of government regulations.
Graduates from this program will be well positioned to meet a significant workforce demand. Learning takes place in a variety of settings including lectures, tutorials, field visits, and laboratories. These programs include mandatory liberal arts electives and business courses designed to develop students’ interpersonal, problem solving, and holistic thinking skills.
Admission requirements
Admission is competitive. The specific average or standing required for admission varies from year to year. Students are selected by taking into consideration a wide range of criteria including school marks, distribution of subjects taken, and performance in subjects relevant to the academic program. Possession of the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Preference will be given to applicants with the best qualifications.
Current Ontario secondary school students must complete the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with six 4U or 4M credits including English (ENG4U) with a minimum average of 60 per cent, Advanced Functions (MHF4U), Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), and Physics (SPH4U). In addition, a combined minimum 70 per cent average in math and science courses is required, with no grade below 60 per cent. All other applicants should refer to admissions .
Work placement/internship opportunities
The university’s proximity to the Pickering and Darlington nuclear power plants and a large number of diverse nuclear service companies provide many opportunities for work placements. Work terms will be facilitated with interested companies working in fields that are relevant to the student’s career. In addition, a 12- to 16-month optional internship program is available for students completing the third year of the program. Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.3 to be eligible.
Program details and degree requirements
To be eligible for an honours Bachelor of Science degree in Health Physics and Radiation Science, students must successfully complete 123 credit hours including all courses outlined in the following program map.
Although reasonable efforts will be made to adhere to the following program map, course requirements and term offerings may change. For the most up-to-date list of course offerings, please visit the faculty website at nuclear.ontariotechu.ca.
*Electives
Engineering Science or Science electives
Engineering Science or Science electives and senior engineering science or senior science electives must be approved by the dean of the Faculty of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science or a designate. Please visit nuclear.ontariotechu.ca to view the list of approved electives.
Complementary Studies elective
The dean of the faculty or a designate must approve course selected for the Complementary Studies elective. Courses in the arts and humanities or business typically are allowable as a complementary elective. Please visit nuclear.ontariotechu.ca to view the list of approved electives.
Liberal Studies electives
The dean of the Faculty of Energy Systems Engineering and Nuclear Science or a designate must approve courses selected for the Liberal Studies electives. Please visit nuclear.ontariotechu.ca to view the list of approved electives.