The radiological health sciences major is designed for students interested in protecting populations from potential radiation hazards and studying the benefits and uses of radiation, such as generating power or treating cancer. There are two available concentrations in the major: radiological health sciences health physics and radiological health sciences pre-medical physics.

Career Opportunities

  • Health physicist
  • Medical physicist
  • Radiation safety officer
  • Radiation safety specialist
  • Imaging scientist
  • Radiation scientist

Potential Areas of Advanced Study

Learning Experiences

  • Participate in a simulated emergency drill involving radioactive materials in HSCI 31200 (Radiation Science Fundamentals) or at the Purdue research reactor.
  • Learn from real-world experience at prominent industrial, academic and medical institutions.
  • Work with faculty on independent research projects to apply radiation fundamentals.
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Concentrations

Radiological Health Sciences Physics Concentration

The health physics profession is devoted to protecting people and their environment from potential radiation hazards while also making it possible to enjoy the beneficial uses of radiation. Health physics involves many disciplines such as physics, biology, biophysics, engineering, chemistry, genetics, ecology, environmental sciences, metallurgy, meteorology, hydrology, medicine, physiology, toxicology and industrial hygiene. As a health physicist, you’ll evaluate the radiation environment using instruments and calculations and work with regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with radiation exposure standards.

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Radiological Health Sciences Pre-Medical Physics Concentration

Medical physics is associated with the application of radiation physics in medicine at a clinic, hospital, private practice or university. It includes the fields of diagnostic radiological physics, medical health physics, medical nuclear radiological physics and therapeutic radiological physics. Medical physicists must have a graduate degree from an accredited program. Purdue’s program is CAMPEP accredited and has had excellent success in placing graduates into well-paying jobs and residencies.

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