Medical physicist

Medical physicists are specialists in healthcare science - they develop the systems that help investigate the condition of patients, and ensure that the medical equipment is accurate and safe. They may be training hospital staff, or planning treatment programmes for patients, so it's essential for them to have excellent communication skills. They may also be using computer simulations and mathematical modelling to aid with research and development work. To become a medical physicist, you'll need a 1st class of 2:1 physics based degree such as applied physics, physics and mathematics or astrophysics. This would need to be followed by the 3-year NHS Scientist Training Programme. Alternatively, you could apply for a place on the NHS Practitioner Training Programme. This involves studying for a degree in healthcare science and work-based training. You could then specialise in medical physics from here. To get on to this course, you usually need at least 2 A Levels including maths or a science. Medical physicists can earn £25,000 up to £99,500 once experienced.