STP entry requirements for medical physics

Is your degree relevant?

For medical physics, the National School of Healthcare Science (NSHCS) looks for a degree with a high level of physics. Its list of commonly accepted courses includes physics, some engineering courses, mathematics and other related subjects.

Course content matters as well as the title. Compare your modules, project work and level of study with the entry guidance and the description of your chosen specialism. If you studied chemistry, physical chemistry or another related subject, look carefully at how much relevant physics your course covered.

Qualifications are assessed during shortlisting. The NSHCS recruitment team cannot confirm an individual degree’s eligibility before you apply.

What if you have a 2:2?

You need a relevant higher degree as well as your 2:2 honours degree. The higher degree must be successfully awarded by the start of the programme. Postgraduate certificates and diplomas are not accepted as higher degrees for this requirement.

Before choosing a further course, check the full entry guidance and whether its subject is relevant to the specialism you want to study.

Can you apply in your final year?

Yes. You can apply with a predicted result that meets the entry requirements. If you receive an offer, you will need to provide proof of your final result by the deadline the recruitment team gives you.

How much maths will you use?

You will use maths to answer practical scientific questions: working with units, graphs, data, uncertainty and calculations. You will also need to explain your reasoning and check whether a result makes sense.

The balance varies by specialism. Look at its curriculum and think about where you have used these skills in your studies or work.

Do you need hospital work experience?

Work experience is not an essential requirement for direct entry. Hospital shadowing can help you learn about the job, but projects, employment, volunteering and research can also give you useful examples of your skills.

Is there an age limit?

There is no age limit for applying to the STP. Applicants can bring experience from recent study, previous jobs or a career change.

What if you already have a master’s degree?

You still need to complete both the workplace training and the master’s degree that form part of the STP.

Qualifications from outside the UK

The NSHCS has guidance on overseas qualifications and other requirements for international applicants. Read this alongside the academic requirements and the information for your chosen post.