Course description
MSc/PGDip in Radiation and Environmental Protection Module overview
The MSc in Radiation and Environmental Protection comprises nine separate elements, each of which is mandatory.
Autumn Semester
Radiation Physics
This module provides a general overview of atomic and nuclear physics and the interaction of radiation with matter. It provides the student with an understanding of the structure of matter, radioactivity, types of radiation and the mechanisms by which radiation interacts with matter.
Radiation Measurement
This module will give the student an understanding of the physical/chemical principles underlying the operation of a wide range of techniques for detection/dosimetry of ionising radiation, enabling the student to make appropriate choices of instrumentation in practical situations.
Nuclear and Non-ionising Radiation
This module describes the physical propagation of electromagnetic radiation, its interaction and effect in biological tissue, and methods for calculating dosimetry of non-ionising radiation. Students develop an understanding of the biological effects of time varying electromagnetic fields and radiation on humans, animals and isolated cell preparations. Following an introduction to neutron interactions and the underlying concepts in reactor physics, this module also describes reactor operation, control and changes in fuel composition and concludes with an overview of reactor decommissioning, fuel storage and disposal.
Laboratories
The laboratory module is designed to provide the student with practical experience in handling radioactive substances. Initially laboratory work comprises scripted experiments, but subsequently students are asked to design their own experiment. The practical work is backed up by taught material in the form of brief lectures on statistics, computing and laboratory techniques.
Spring Semester
Radiation Protection
International legislative frameworks of radiation protection are discussed at the beginning of this module. From this starting point the module covers population and personal exposures to radiation, the principles of dose calculations, and example procedures for implementing radiation protection programmes.
Radiation Biology
This module begins with an overview of human biology, followed by a discussion of the nature of the interaction of ionising radiation with biological systems. The module emphasises the effects at the cellular level and the impact that this has on the individual and across the population. The effects of ingested radionuclides are also covered.
Environmental Physics and Environmental Protection
This module describes the legislative framework of environmental protection, describing the major concepts in the field. It reviews the establishment and verification of systems for environmental protection, considering both legal and economic aspects. The module concludes with a practical review of environmental protection as applied in the nuclear and related industries.
Spring Project
A five-week intensive research project is carried out at the beginning of the Spring semester.
Summer Dissertation Project
An eleven-week, extensive dissertation project is carried out during the summer.
Programme length
12 months full-time; 24 months part-time
