Doctoral programs in radiology are usually designed for medical students or established radiology professionals. You can apply to a doctoral PhD program if you have already earned your medical degree (MD) or if you have an undergraduate degree in a related field, like physics. You may alternatively choose to enroll in a dual degree program. In this type of program, admitted students simultaneously work toward an MD and a PhD degree. A ... dual degree program allows you to complete your credentials in less time than it would take to earn each degree separately
As a doctoral student in a radiologic science department, you can usually narrow your studies to a specific track. Some schools offer PhDs in areas like medical physics or radiation biology. Other options include human imaging and radiation therapy programs. If you follow the human imaging or diagnostic track, you will likely engage in advanced study of MRI, CT, and PET procedures. For the radiation therapy track, you will likely study topics such as radiobiologic modeling, proton therapy, intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT).
PhD-level studies include courses on very specific procedures and subspecialties. Depending on your area of concentration, you might take classes such as radiation detection and measurement, introduction to radiation biology and chemistry, clinical and radiation anatomy, decision and theory in radiological sciences, pattern recognition and image processing, radiological physics of magnetic resonance, radiation oncology, diagnostic radiology, production and absorption of ionizing radiation, principles of nuclear medicine, ultrasound, and radiological physics. You will also need to conduct original, independent research. Your research must be compiled into a doctoral dissertation — a formal academic paper that is required in order for you to receive your PhD.
As you apply to schools, keep in mind that doctoral programs in radiology can be very selective. You may need to pass a qualifying examination or complete prerequisite coursework before you are accepted. You will definitely need to demonstrate academic and professional success in a science or healthcare-related area.
After earning your PhD, you may be qualified for advanced positions in the field of radiology. Some graduates work in specialty areas such as diagnostic radiological imaging, radiation oncology, or nuclear medicine. Career paths may include opportunities to work in medical facilities, private group practices, or academic and research organizations. Many doctoral program graduates concentrate on research. There is a continual need for innovative thinkers in the field, who can help improve upon current technology and procedures.
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