Course Overview
The second in a series of courses examining the fundamentals of radiation physics and the principles and concepts of dosimetry in the application of beam data to obtain the optimal treatment plan for each patient. Examines the physical applications and concepts relevant to teletherapy and brachytherapy equipment, photon and electron interactions, and beam data collection. Lectures are reinforced with numerical examples and students solve numerical problems where appropriate.
Prerequisite(s)
Credits
5.5
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Describe the production of x-rays including the processes of bremsstrahlung and characteristic radiation.
- Explain how x-rays interact with matter across different energy ranges relating interaction type to photon energy and material composition.
- Explain key dosimetry concepts including kerma and absorbed dose.
- Differentiate among clinical radiation generators and accelerators, outlining their components, functions, and applications.
- Describe the principles and medical applications of different types of particle accelerators.
- Demonstrate understanding of radiation safety standards and their application to room design, shielding, and safe clinical practice.
- Identify common dosimetry and detection systems and discuss their calibration, accuracy and clinical use.
- Analyze photon and electric beam characteristics, including percent-depth-dose curves, profiles, and isodose distributions.
- Calculate dose to a point using depth dose (PDD) data and relevant beam parameters.
Effective as of Spring/Summer 2026
Related Programs
Physics for Radiation Therapy 2 (RADT 6114) is offered as a part of the following programs:
School of Health Sciences
- Radiation Therapy
Bachelor of Science Full-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.