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Professional Science Master's Program

Master of Health Physics

Radiation and radioactive materials, when used properly, greatly benefit our society; but to ensure that these materials are used safely, health physicists are vital. Health physicists plan radiation safety programs, measure internal and external dosages of radiation, and protect human health from the biological effects of ionizing radiation. Research conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the number of job openings in health physics significantly exceeds the number of new health physics graduates, especially those with a master's degree, and that faster than average employment growth in this field is expected. Additionally, according to the Health Physics Society, a health physicist with a master's degree has the potential to earn a salary of around $125,000. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that "Health physicists should…have strong analytical and communication skills," indicating that a student who earns a professional master's degree in health physics that combines a rigorous physics curriculum with business and communication skills should have enhanced career opportunities after graduation.

The Professional Master's in Health Physics at IIT, which provides in-depth knowledge of radiation protection and detection, incorporates these skills. The program is designed primarily, but not exclusively, for people already engaged in the practice of health physics, such as mid-career professionals who want to improve and document their knowledge of radiation safety and protection, or professionals who need or would like a deeper understanding of the scientific basis of their profession while seeking career advancement. This is a non-thesis degree that can be completed in less than three years of online, part-time study, in addition to one exciting on-site instrumentation course that provides valuable hands-on experience in radiation detection. You may also attend classes on campus.

If your career goals do not require a full master's degree, we offer a Certificate in Radiological Physics. Additionally, you can take courses to earn continuing education credits for such certifications as the American Board of Health Physics and the American Board of Radiology. You also may choose to do a co-terminal BS/MS program, allowing you to earn both a bachelor of science in physics and a master of health physics in just five years.