Your medical physics career: from study to specialist work

Build your scientific skills

A relevant degree helps you develop the physics, maths and research skills used in clinical work. If you want to apply for England’s STP, compare your qualifications with the published entry requirements.

Choose a clinical training route

The STP combines workplace training with a master’s degree. Recruitment differs across the UK, so start with the programme or employer in the country where you want to train.

If you already have substantial relevant training and experience, explore the guided training and equivalence schemes listed in our UK training guide.

Register as a Clinical Scientist

Successful STP completion makes you eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Once your application is accepted, you can use the protected title Clinical Scientist.

Develop your specialism

As you gain experience, you may take on more complex work, lead a team or develop expertise in a particular technique. Some specialist roles have additional recognition requirements.

Medical Physics Expert (MPE) and Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) are examples. Each has its own criteria, separate from initial Clinical Scientist registration.

Moving from another role

Experience as an assistant, technologist, researcher or industry scientist may help you develop relevant skills. To move into a registered Clinical Scientist role, check how your training and experience match the requirements of an approved route.