Career in Medical Physics: Salary, Education, and Job Outlook

To practice clinically, you must earn a Master's or PhD degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs (CAMPEP) and complete a 2-year clinical residency. Currently, there are about 60 CAMPEP-accredited graduate programs in North America.

According to the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) 2022 survey, the median salary for a board-certified medical physicist is approximately $210,000 per year, while entry-level physicists completing residency can expect to earn between $120,000 and $150,000.

Medical physicists ensure the safety and effectiveness of radiation treatments and imaging. Approximately 75% work in radiation oncology, where they calibrate linear accelerators and design complex treatment plans for cancer patients to ensure high-dose radiation hits tumors accurately while sparing healthy tissue.

Yes, the job market is projected to grow by approximately 7% to 9% through 2030. This demand is driven by an aging global population and the increasing use of advanced technologies, such as proton therapy and PET/MRI imaging, which require specialized physics oversight.

In the United States, medical physicists must be certified by the American Board of Radiology (ABR). This involves a multi-year process including Part 1 (written general and clinical physics), Part 2 (specialized written exam), and Part 3 (an intensive oral examination) following the completion of a residency.