James C. H. Chu, PhD
Rush University Medical Center
Chicago, IL 60612
Medical physics is the branch of physical sciences that deals with the application of radiation in medicine. Historically, medical physicists were trained to work in both diagnostic radiation imaging and radiation therapy; medical physics was almost synonymous with radiological physics. With the technologies in imaging and therapy becoming more sophisticated, it is increasingly difficult for a physicist to master the skills in both areas. Consequently, diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy physics have evolved into two separate disciplines over the past two decades. A radiation oncology physicist¡¦s need to acquire knowledge in imaging technology, however, is increasing in recent years, largely due to the advances in imaging guided radiation therapy, such as radiosurgery and intensity modulated radiation therapy. The structure of an education program for radiation oncology physics, therefore, must include core material that constitutes the basis for both imaging and therapy, practical knowledge in imaging science, and detailed curriculum in therapy. A recent American Association of Physicists in Medicine report, ¡§Academic program recommendations for graduate degrees in medical physics¡¨, provides useful materials for inclusion in a medical physics education program.