MPY8005 : Radiotherapy Physics 1
MPY8005 : Radiotherapy Physics 1
- Offered for Year: 2024/25
- Module Leader(s): Dr Judith Mott
- Lecturer: Miss Karen Hawthorn, Dr Sam Warren, Ms Elizabeth Jefferson, Mr Jim Daniel, Mr David Morgan, Mr Josh Kirby, Dr John Byrne, Mr Nick West, Ms Rachel Brooks
- Deputy Module Leader: Mr JJ Wyatt
- Owning School: School of Medical Education
- Teaching Location: Mixed Location
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
N/A
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
N/A
Aims
This module provides the student with the knowledge that underpins the radiotherapy physics specialism in the second year of the Scientist Training Programme (STP), whilst developing critical appraisal skills.
Outline Of Syllabus
Interactions
Equipment and treatment beams
Radiation detectors and calibration chains
Treatment planning
Brachytherapy and unsealed sources
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
On completion of the module students should be able to:
1. Explain the physical principles of dose deposition and measurement, including the differences between interaction processes and their relative importance for radiotherapy treatment and imaging.
2. Apply integrative knowledge of the fundamental theory and principles, of reference dosimetry, including selection of appropriate dosimetry equipment and the calibration chain.
3. Describe the function and operation of radiotherapy equipment and technology, including linear accelerators, superficial and orthovoltage machines, imaging systems and associated dosimetry equipment.
4. Justify the commissioning and quality assurance processes for radiotherapy equipment.
Intended Skill Outcomes
On completion of the module students should be able to:
1. Critically evaluate dose calculation algorithms, considering their limitations and uncertainties, the commissioning data required, and the appropriate check procedures.
2. Critically appraise different treatment planning techniques, plan evaluation methodologies, and independent check philosophies.
3. Critically appraise brachytherapy delivery techniques and treatment planning and explain the associated dosimetry systems.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 1:30 | 1:30 | 90 minute closed book exam |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 7 | 1:00 | 7:00 | Formative assessment practice |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 34 | 1:00 | 34:00 | Present in person: Lectures/demonstrations/visits |
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 1 | 1:30 | 1:30 | Non-synchronous online: eg ReCap/voice over PPT, student tasks |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 30:00 | 30:00 | Written exercise - 2,300 words |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 7 | 1:00 | 7:00 | Present in person: Practicals and results analysis |
| Guided Independent Study | Directed research and reading | 20 | 1:00 | 20:00 | Independent and self-directed research eg module reading list |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 4 | 1:00 | 4:00 | Present in person: Tutorial/debates/problem based learning/scenario practice/student led learning |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 95 | 1:00 | 95:00 | N/A |
| Total | 200:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The underpinning knowledge of the scientific and technical principles of radiotherapy and of the range of therapeutic techniques utilising radiation will be taught by in person lectures with limited non-synchronous lecture materials, supported by experiential learning through practicals and further supported through additional activities on the VLE.
Small group teaching will be used to explore complex topics, supported by student problem based learning and group discussions.
Small group teaching and coursework will further develop critical understanding and appraisal and analysis skills, particularly in regard to the processes required to ensure the safe delivery of radiation within a therapeutic environment.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 90 | 1 | A | 50 | Unseen written (closed book) PIP exam. To pass this module students must achieve at least 50% in the exam. |
Exam Pairings
| Module Code | Module Title | Semester | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiation Safety and Diagnostic Radiology 1 | 1 | N/A | |
| Nuclear Medicine 1 | 1 | N/A | |
| Imaging with Non Ionising Radiation 1 | 1 | N/A |
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written exercise | 2 | M | 50 | 2,300 word essay |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The written exercise and closed book examination assess the students' critical understanding of the key scientific principles of radiotherapy treatment and their analytical skills.
In order to pass this module candidates must achieve a mark of at least 50% in the examination.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- MPY8005's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- MPY8005's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
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The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2024 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2025/26 entry will be published here in early-April 2025. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.