ObjectivesThe Biomedical Physics Undergraduate Program at Fresno State:
* Aims to serve as a feeder program for graduate instruction in medical physics/neurosciences by providing a solid foundation in physics, biology, and mathematics so that students can handle the challenges of an interdisciplinary program.
* Strongly focuses on “hands-on” instruction on scanners at local area medical centers with summer internship opportunities at UCLA and other institutions.
* A personal and interactive approach with a highly committed faculty and a small number of students. An on-going dialogue between faculty, staff, and students makes for a rich and rewarding experience.
Course descriptionAn applied branch of physics concerned with the application of the concepts and methods of physics to the diagnosis, management, and treatment of human disease. It is allied with medical electronics, bioengineering, and health physics. The main areas of application are treatment of cancer by ionizing radiation ( radiation oncology ), imaging with x-rays, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance ( diagnostic radiology ), imaging and treatment with radioisotopes ( nuclear medicine ), and protection of occupational workers in radiation related industries ( health physics ). Other areas of study include electroencephalography, electrocardiography, thermography, hyperthermia, optical imaging, and RF and laser surgery.
The B.S. in Biomedical Physics is an interdisciplinary program developed with the assistance of the National Institute of Mental Health and the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering to motivate students pursuing careers in applications of physics in medicine. The curriculum provides fundamental groundwork in physics, mathematics, and biology.