The radiation science program is designed for those students interested in biology, health science, and clinical radiation therapy. We also offer the radiation therapy major, to which students may apply in their sophomore year.
The radiation science program is a collaboration between the Physics Department and our world-class clinical sites: Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Major Requirements
Clinical training is not required to obtain a degree in radiation science.
4.00
This course will introduce the students to the top ten U.S. adult cancers, as well as the most common pediatric cancers. Topics to be covered include cancer causes, detection, and prevention. Psychosocial aspects of being diagnosed with cancer and the role nutrition plays for cancer patients will be described. The course will also discuss the major treatment modalities for each cancer including radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, and bone marrow transplants. The goals and objectives of the course will be met through the use of various teaching tools including but not limited to: PowerPoint presentations, videos, guest lectures, and a poster project with a presentation component. Cognitive assessment of the students will be accomplished through homework, quizzes, exams, and a group poster and oral presentation. Students with any type of academic background are welcome.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ
Must take BIO L111 concurrently
3.00
Explanation of key biological structures and reactions of the cell. This is an introductory course required of all biology majors and minors, and some non-biology science majors. This course is not recommended for the non-science student. Fall Offering: Science Majors ONLY; Spring Offering: Biology Majors ONLY.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Concurrently with BIO 111
1.00
Sessions are designed to familiarize the student with biological molecules, and the techniques used in their study. The techniques covered include basic solution preparation, separation and quantification of molecules, enzyme catalysis, and cell isolation. Fall Offerings: Science Majors Only; Spring Offerings: Biology Majors Only.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
MATH 104, MATH 121 or appropriate math placement score.
4.00
A one-semester introduction to differential and integral calculus. Theory is presented informally and topics and techniques are limited to polynomials, rational functions, logarithmic and exponential functions. Topics include a review of precalculus, linear regression, limits and continuity, derivatives, differentiation rules, implicit differentiation, related rates, applications of derivatives to graphing, minima/maxima, applications of the derivative, marginal analysis, differential equations of growth and decay, anti-derivatives, the definite integral, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, area measurements. This course cannot be used to satisfy core or complementary requirements by students majoring in chemistry, computer science, engineering, mathematics, or physics. Several sections offered each semester. *This course cannot be applied toward a departmental concentration in Mathematics by Sawyer Business School students.
Take MATH-121 or MATH-134 or permission of Physics department chair;PHYS L111 taken concurrently
3.00
Introduction to the fundamental principles of physics. Study of vectors, Newtons laws, rotations, rigid body statics and dynamics, simple harmonic motion, heat and thermodynamics, kinetic theory. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 concurrently
1.00
Introduction to the fundamental principles of physics. Study of vectors, Newtons laws, rotations, rigid body statics and dynamics, simple harmonic motion, heat and thermodynamics, kinetic theory. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks and formal reports required.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 and Concurrently with PHYS L112
3.00
Continuation of the fundamental principles of physics. Study of electric forces and fields, electric potential, DC circuits, electromagnetic induction, magnetic fields, AC circuits, introduction to optics, introduction to atomic, nuclear and particle physics.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 and PHYS L111; PHYS 112 must be taken concurrently
1.00
Continuation of the fundamental principles of physics. Study of electric forces and fields, electric potential, DC circuits, electromagnetic induction, magnetic fields, AC circuits, introduction to optics, introduction to atomic, nuclear and particle physics. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks, and formal reports required.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
BIO L203 MUST BE TAKEN CONCURRENTLY BIO 111, BIO L111.
3.00
First part of a systematic survey of the structure and functional inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course includes histology and discussion of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Fall Term
Must take BIO-203 concurrently
1.00
A study of the human skeletal system and a comparative look at other organ systems involving observation of anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes computer simulations of physiological processes.
Offered Fall Term
BIO 203, BIO L203, BIO L204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
3.00
Conclusion of the survey of the structure and function of inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course investigates the endocrine,circulatory, respiratory,immunity, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Spring Term
BIO 203/L203 and BIO 204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
1.00
A study of the human viscera using anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes microscopy of tissues.
Offered Spring Term
Placement at MATH 104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH 104 must take MATH 104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-L111.
3.00
Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Topics include introductions to atomic structure, stoichiometry, periodic table, gas laws, nature of chemical bonds, and thermochemistry. 3 lecture hours. Normally offered Fall/Summer I. This course is recommended for science and engineering majors or those considering careers in the heath sciences. Students seeking to satisfy the core science requirement may wish to consider enrolling in CHEM 101/L101.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 111.
1.00
Exploration of basic principles of chemistry discovery through laboratory investigation, including recognition of the major reaction types, stoichiometry, and qualitative analysis. Additionally, students will be introduced to good laboratory practices and experimental techniques. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered Fall/Summer I.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
CHEM 111/L111;Take MATHT-MPEL0 MATHT-MPEL1 MATHT-MPEL2 or MATHT-MPEL3; CHEM-L112 must be taken concurrently.
3.00
Continuation of the discussion of the fundamental principles of chemistry. Topics include introductions to solutions, kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base systems, thermodynamics and electrochemistry. Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of CHEM 111 and CHEM L111. 3 hours of lecture 1 term - 3 credits. Normally offered Spring/Summer II.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
CHEM 112 must be taken concurrently; Take MATHT-MPEL0 MATHT-MPEL1 MATHT-MPEL2 or MATHT-MPEL3;
1.00
Laboratory investigation in discovery format of topics from CHEM 112, including introduction to instrumental analysis and acid-base chemistry. Quantitative analysis, particularly volumetric analysis, is emphasized. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered Spring/Summer II.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS L315 concurrently; Radiation Biology, Radiation Science, Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate), or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
3.00
Content is designed to establish a thorough knowledge of the radiation physics used in radiation therapy treatments. Topics to be covered in this course include a review of basic physics (energy, mass, matter, SI units), structure of matter, types of radiations, nuclear transformations, radioactive decay, the fundamentals of x-ray generators and x-ray production, interactions of x and gamma rays with matter, absorbed dose, measurements of dose, principles of and practical use of ionization chambers and electrometers, Geiger counters and other survey meters, principles and practical use of TLDs, film, calorimetry, scintillation detectors, radiation protection and quality assurance.
Offered Fall Term
PHYS 315 concurrently
1.00
This lab will cover a broad range of experiments associated with the Department of Radiation Oncology at Massachusetts General Hospital. Topics include: Quality assurance measurements for radiation therapy, calibration of radiation teletherapy unit using ionization chambers, measurements of dose distribution via film, measurements of dose in a phantom via TLDs, radiation protection survey of therapy installation and brachytherapy sources, and radiation biology.
Offered Fall Term
Expanded Classroom Requirement
MS 315
4.00
This course is intended to expand on the concepts and theories presented in Radiation Physics I. It will provide a detailed analysis of the treatment units used in external beam radiation therapy, their beam geometry, basic dose calculations and dose distributions. This course will also cover the principles, theories, and uses of brachytherapy. This course was previously MS 412
Offered Spring Term
CHEM 112
3.00
Basic theories of structure, bonding, and chemical reactivity as specifically applied to modern organic chemistry. Topics include functional groups, acid/base chemistry, nomenclature, resonance, spectroscopy, and stereochemistry. Significant emphasis placed on the use of the arrow formalism to indicate the location and movement of electrons; serves as a basic introduction to organic mechanisms. Prerequisite: CHEM 112, L112 Concurrent enrollment in CHEM L211 required unless L211 has been previously completed. Concurrent enrollment in CHEM L211 required. 3 hours lecture. 1 term - 3 credits. Normally offered Fall, days/Summer I, evenings.
Offered Fall Term
Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 211.
1.00
Laboratory exercises providing an introduction to synthetic organic chemistry techniques, including melting point determination, distillation, crystallization, extraction, chromatographic separations, and infrared spectroscopy. A component of this laboratory course incorporates discussions of experimental design within the context of environmentally benign (green) organic chemistry. Reports are prepared in professional style. Prerequisite: CHEM 112, L112. Concurrent enrollment in 211 required. 4-hour laboratory. 1 term - 1 credit. Normally offered Fall/Summer, days and evenings.
Offered Fall Term
CHEM 211 CHEM L211
3.00
Builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry I, includes detailed discussions of organic mechanisms of substitution, elimination, and addition reactions. Significant emphasis is placed on organic synthesis, structure determination, and spectroscopy. Prerequisite: CHEM 211, L211. Concurrent enrollment in CHEM L212 required. 3 hours lecture. 1 term - 3 credits. Normally offered Spring, days/Summer II, evenings.
Offered Spring Term
CHEM 211/L211
1.00
Builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry Laboratory I. Significant emphasis is placed on the characterization of organic molecules via nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. A component of this laboratory course incorporates discussions of experimental design within the context of environmentally benign (green) organic chemistry. Reports are prepared in professional style. Concurrent enrollment in CHEM 212 required. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered Spring/Summer II, days and evenings.
Offered Spring Term
Take BIO 403, MS 315 and MS L315.
4.00
Topics covered include: physio-chemical aspects of energy absorption, the sequence of events after irradiation occurring on the molecular, cellular and organized tissue levels, radiation response and repair of eukaryotic cells, effects of radiation quality, dose rate, environmental conditions, cell cycle kinetics, tumor and normal cell population dynamics, radiation-induced carcinogenesis and mutagenesis, tumor pathophysiology and radiobiology, and recent advances in experimental radiation oncology.
Offered Spring Term
These are the required courses for the major in radiation therapy. Students must apply to this selective program in their sophomore year.
Must take BIO L111 concurrently
3.00
Explanation of key biological structures and reactions of the cell. This is an introductory course required of all biology majors and minors, and some non-biology science majors. This course is not recommended for the non-science student. Fall Offering: Science Majors ONLY; Spring Offering: Biology Majors ONLY.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Concurrently with BIO 111
1.00
Sessions are designed to familiarize the student with biological molecules, and the techniques used in their study. The techniques covered include basic solution preparation, separation and quantification of molecules, enzyme catalysis, and cell isolation. Fall Offerings: Science Majors Only; Spring Offerings: Biology Majors Only.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Radiation Biology major only or permission of instructor.
4.00
This course will introduce the students to the twelve major cancers. Topics to be covered for each cancer include etiology, epidemiology, detection, diagnosis, and prevention as well as the psychosocial aspects of being diagnosed with cancer. The course will also discuss the major treatment modalities for each cancer including radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, bone marrow transplants, and the use of clinical trials. The goals and objectives of the course will be met through the use of various teaching tools including but not limited to: models, videos, guest lectures, radiation therapy departmental tour, and a poster project with a presentation component. Cognitive assessment of the students will be accomplished through quizzes, exams and an oral presentation.
Offered Fall Term
MATH 104, MATH 121 or appropriate math placement score.
4.00
A one-semester introduction to differential and integral calculus. Theory is presented informally and topics and techniques are limited to polynomials, rational functions, logarithmic and exponential functions. Topics include a review of precalculus, linear regression, limits and continuity, derivatives, differentiation rules, implicit differentiation, related rates, applications of derivatives to graphing, minima/maxima, applications of the derivative, marginal analysis, differential equations of growth and decay, anti-derivatives, the definite integral, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, area measurements. This course cannot be used to satisfy core or complementary requirements by students majoring in chemistry, computer science, engineering, mathematics, or physics. Several sections offered each semester. *This course cannot be applied toward a departmental concentration in Mathematics by Sawyer Business School students.
Take MATH-121 or MATH-134 or permission of Physics department chair;PHYS L111 taken concurrently
3.00
Introduction to the fundamental principles of physics. Study of vectors, Newtons laws, rotations, rigid body statics and dynamics, simple harmonic motion, heat and thermodynamics, kinetic theory. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 concurrently
1.00
Introduction to the fundamental principles of physics. Study of vectors, Newtons laws, rotations, rigid body statics and dynamics, simple harmonic motion, heat and thermodynamics, kinetic theory. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks and formal reports required.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 and Concurrently with PHYS L112
3.00
Continuation of the fundamental principles of physics. Study of electric forces and fields, electric potential, DC circuits, electromagnetic induction, magnetic fields, AC circuits, introduction to optics, introduction to atomic, nuclear and particle physics.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 and PHYS L111; PHYS 112 must be taken concurrently
1.00
Continuation of the fundamental principles of physics. Study of electric forces and fields, electric potential, DC circuits, electromagnetic induction, magnetic fields, AC circuits, introduction to optics, introduction to atomic, nuclear and particle physics. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks, and formal reports required.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
BIO L203 MUST BE TAKEN CONCURRENTLY BIO 111, BIO L111.
3.00
First part of a systematic survey of the structure and functional inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course includes histology and discussion of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Fall Term
Must take BIO-203 concurrently
1.00
A study of the human skeletal system and a comparative look at other organ systems involving observation of anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes computer simulations of physiological processes.
Offered Fall Term
BIO 203, BIO L203, BIO L204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
3.00
Conclusion of the survey of the structure and function of inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course investigates the endocrine,circulatory, respiratory,immunity, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Spring Term
BIO 203/L203 and BIO 204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
1.00
A study of the human viscera using anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes microscopy of tissues.
Offered Spring Term
Placement at MATH 104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH 104 must take MATH 104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-L111.
3.00
Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Topics include introductions to atomic structure, stoichiometry, periodic table, gas laws, nature of chemical bonds, and thermochemistry. 3 lecture hours. Normally offered Fall/Summer I. This course is recommended for science and engineering majors or those considering careers in the heath sciences. Students seeking to satisfy the core science requirement may wish to consider enrolling in CHEM 101/L101.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 111.
1.00
Exploration of basic principles of chemistry discovery through laboratory investigation, including recognition of the major reaction types, stoichiometry, and qualitative analysis. Additionally, students will be introduced to good laboratory practices and experimental techniques. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered Fall/Summer I.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
CHEM 111/L111;Take MATHT-MPEL0 MATHT-MPEL1 MATHT-MPEL2 or MATHT-MPEL3; CHEM-L112 must be taken concurrently.
3.00
Continuation of the discussion of the fundamental principles of chemistry. Topics include introductions to solutions, kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base systems, thermodynamics and electrochemistry. Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of CHEM 111 and CHEM L111. 3 hours of lecture 1 term - 3 credits. Normally offered Spring/Summer II.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
CHEM 112 must be taken concurrently; Take MATHT-MPEL0 MATHT-MPEL1 MATHT-MPEL2 or MATHT-MPEL3;
1.00
Laboratory investigation in discovery format of topics from CHEM 112, including introduction to instrumental analysis and acid-base chemistry. Quantitative analysis, particularly volumetric analysis, is emphasized. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered Spring/Summer II.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS L315 concurrently; Radiation Biology, Radiation Science, Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate), or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
3.00
Content is designed to establish a thorough knowledge of the radiation physics used in radiation therapy treatments. Topics to be covered in this course include a review of basic physics (energy, mass, matter, SI units), structure of matter, types of radiations, nuclear transformations, radioactive decay, the fundamentals of x-ray generators and x-ray production, interactions of x and gamma rays with matter, absorbed dose, measurements of dose, principles of and practical use of ionization chambers and electrometers, Geiger counters and other survey meters, principles and practical use of TLDs, film, calorimetry, scintillation detectors, radiation protection and quality assurance.
Offered Fall Term
PHYS 315 concurrently
1.00
This lab will cover a broad range of experiments associated with the Department of Radiation Oncology at Massachusetts General Hospital. Topics include: Quality assurance measurements for radiation therapy, calibration of radiation teletherapy unit using ionization chambers, measurements of dose distribution via film, measurements of dose in a phantom via TLDs, radiation protection survey of therapy installation and brachytherapy sources, and radiation biology.
Offered Fall Term
Expanded Classroom Requirement
BIO 204 and MS 200
3.00
Through a systems-based approach, this course will review anatomy and physiology while teaching medical terminology. This course will also discuss the major cancers associated with each anatomical system and introduce the student to radiation therapy treatment techniques and procedures.
Offered Spring Term
MS 301 concurrently
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Spring Term
MS 315
4.00
This course is intended to expand on the concepts and theories presented in Radiation Physics I. It will provide a detailed analysis of the treatment units used in external beam radiation therapy, their beam geometry, basic dose calculations and dose distributions. This course will also cover the principles, theories, and uses of brachytherapy. This course was previously MS 412
Offered Spring Term
Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate) or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
3.00
This course is a continuation of MS 301. Through the same didactic approach, the course will cover all of the anatomical systems and their related medical terminology NOT covered in MS 301.
Offered Fall Term
Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate) Students Only
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Fall Term
MS 301 concurrently
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Spring Term
Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate) or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
4.00
This course, taught by Massachusetts General Hospital physicians will review cancer epidemiology, etiology, detection, diagnosis and prevention, lymphatic drainage, and treatment. The pathology(s) of each cancer will be presented in detail including the rationale for each preferred modality of treatment.
Offered Fall Term
Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate) or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
4.00
This course will begin with an introduction to radiology, reviewing x-ray production and discussing basic radiation physics, image formation (Kv, mA) and distortion (blur, magnification), conventional processing and digital imaging. The above-mentioned radiographic imaging concepts will be presented with conventional lectures as well as with several imaging laboratories. In addition, the basic principles of each imaging modality, including mammography, CT, MRI, Nuc Med, and Ultra Sound, will be presented. With the use of departmental tours and guest lecturers, the use, benefits and limitations of each will be discussed. Building upon the information previously presented, radiographic anatomy will also be covered with an emphasis on cross sectional anatomy. Students will review basic anatomy viewed in sectional planes (axial/transverse) of the body. Using CT and MRI images, the topographic relationship between internal organs and surface anatomy will be interpreted and discussed.
Offered Fall Term
MS 315;MSL415 concurrently
3.00
This course will discuss the factors that influence treatment planning and govern the clinical aspects of patient treatment. Topics to be covered include treatment planning with 3-D CT and MRI beams, isodose plan descriptions, clinical applications of treatment beams and advanced dosimetric calculations. This course will also contrast new emerging technologies with conventional radiation therapy techniques (SRT, SRS, IMRT, Image Guided Therapy, Respiratory Gating).
Offered Spring Term
MS 315, MS L315, MS 415 concurrently
1.00
This lab will provide the student with the opportunity to apply clinical dosimetry principles and theories learned in the classroom to actual treatment planning situations within the clinic. Through hands-on lab exercises the student will demonstrate the use of the treatment planning instruments and interpret information they compute.
Offered Spring Term
MS 303 concurrent
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Spring Term
Take BIO 403, MS 315 and MS L315.
4.00
Topics covered include: physio-chemical aspects of energy absorption, the sequence of events after irradiation occurring on the molecular, cellular and organized tissue levels, radiation response and repair of eukaryotic cells, effects of radiation quality, dose rate, environmental conditions, cell cycle kinetics, tumor and normal cell population dynamics, radiation-induced carcinogenesis and mutagenesis, tumor pathophysiology and radiobiology, and recent advances in experimental radiation oncology.
Offered Spring Term
Senior status
4.00
This course will be available to senior students enrolled in the Radiation Therapy and Medical Dosimetry programs. This seminar style course will serve a number of purposes; one will be to prepare our graduating students for board certification in their respective disciplines (AART for Radiation Therapy and MDCB for Medical Dosimetry). Exam preparation will include the use of lectures, student teaching, online teaching tools, mini mock exams, and a full-length mock exam. The seminar will also assist students with the preparation of their professional resumes including discussions regarding the skills necessary to make job interviews successful.
Those students interested in the radiation therapy major will require approval from the Faculty Advisory Committee (consisting of clinical staff and Suffolk faculty). For these students additional courses and training will be required at the clinical sites. Students selected for the clinical track must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have achieved grades of "B" or better in the following prerequisite courses:
Must take BIO L111 concurrently
3.00
Explanation of key biological structures and reactions of the cell. This is an introductory course required of all biology majors and minors, and some non-biology science majors. This course is not recommended for the non-science student. Fall Offering: Science Majors ONLY; Spring Offering: Biology Majors ONLY.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Concurrently with BIO 111
1.00
Sessions are designed to familiarize the student with biological molecules, and the techniques used in their study. The techniques covered include basic solution preparation, separation and quantification of molecules, enzyme catalysis, and cell isolation. Fall Offerings: Science Majors Only; Spring Offerings: Biology Majors Only.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
BIO L203 MUST BE TAKEN CONCURRENTLY BIO 111, BIO L111.
3.00
First part of a systematic survey of the structure and functional inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course includes histology and discussion of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Fall Term
Must take BIO-203 concurrently
1.00
A study of the human skeletal system and a comparative look at other organ systems involving observation of anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes computer simulations of physiological processes.
Offered Fall Term
BIO 203, BIO L203, BIO L204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
3.00
Conclusion of the survey of the structure and function of inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course investigates the endocrine,circulatory, respiratory,immunity, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Spring Term
BIO 203/L203 and BIO 204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
1.00
A study of the human viscera using anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes microscopy of tissues.
Offered Spring Term
Take MATH-121 or MATH-134 or permission of Physics department chair;PHYS L111 taken concurrently
3.00
Introduction to the fundamental principles of physics. Study of vectors, Newtons laws, rotations, rigid body statics and dynamics, simple harmonic motion, heat and thermodynamics, kinetic theory. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 concurrently
1.00
Introduction to the fundamental principles of physics. Study of vectors, Newtons laws, rotations, rigid body statics and dynamics, simple harmonic motion, heat and thermodynamics, kinetic theory. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks and formal reports required.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 and Concurrently with PHYS L112
3.00
Continuation of the fundamental principles of physics. Study of electric forces and fields, electric potential, DC circuits, electromagnetic induction, magnetic fields, AC circuits, introduction to optics, introduction to atomic, nuclear and particle physics.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 and PHYS L111; PHYS 112 must be taken concurrently
1.00
Continuation of the fundamental principles of physics. Study of electric forces and fields, electric potential, DC circuits, electromagnetic induction, magnetic fields, AC circuits, introduction to optics, introduction to atomic, nuclear and particle physics. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks, and formal reports required.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Take MATH-121 or MATH 165. PHYS L151 concurrently
3.00
Introduction to the fundamental principles of physics using calculus. The course includes the study of vectors, Newtons laws, rotations, rigid body statics and dynamics, simple harmonic motion, heat and temperature.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 151 concurrently
1.00
The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course: measurements, propagation of errors, vectors, Newtons laws, work and energy, momentum, rotations, oscillations, simple harmonic motion, fluid. Knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, differentiation and integration required.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 151, PHYS L152 concurrently
3.00
This calculus based course begins with topics in kinetic theory and the laws of thermodynamics. It then covers electric charge and field, Gauss law, electrical potential and capacitance, electric currents and DC circuits. Next magnetism, electromagnetic induction, Faradays law and AC circuits are discussed. This is followed by Maxwells equations, electromagnetic waves, and properties of light.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 151 and L151 and PHYS 152 must be taken concurrently
1.00
The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course: heat, gas laws, electric forces, field, and potential, DC and AC circuits, magnetic field, electromagnetic induction, Faradays law, optics. Calculus, algebra, trigonometry are required. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks, and formal reports required.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
4.00
This course will introduce the students to the top ten U.S. adult cancers, as well as the most common pediatric cancers. Topics to be covered include cancer causes, detection, and prevention. Psychosocial aspects of being diagnosed with cancer and the role nutrition plays for cancer patients will be described. The course will also discuss the major treatment modalities for each cancer including radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, and bone marrow transplants. The goals and objectives of the course will be met through the use of various teaching tools including but not limited to: PowerPoint presentations, videos, guest lectures, and a poster project with a presentation component. Cognitive assessment of the students will be accomplished through homework, quizzes, exams, and a group poster and oral presentation. Students with any type of academic background are welcome.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ
The department reserves the right to require the withdrawal of a student from the radiation therapy major if, in its estimation, the probability of the student’s success is doubtful. Factors such as academic performance, interest, effort and suitability for the field will be considered. Students who defer commencement into the program, for any reason, will forfeit their space in the program and will be required to reapply for the following year. A student may be dismissed from the radiation therapy major if he/she fails to maintain the minimum GPA or achieve a final grade lower than “B” in any of the radiation science courses.
If admitted into the radiation therapy major, part-time and full-time students must complete core clinical requirements within three years of being admitted. Radiation therapy graduates may seek employment immediately following graduation and will also be eligible for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Registry Exam.
4.00
This course studies persuasive and expository writing in the essay form through frequent writing assignments based on critical readings of class texts and discussions. Students will also compose a research paper and study the process of writing and revising for an academic audience. Offered every semester.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ENG 100 or ENG101 or ENG 103
4.00
Further study of persuasive and expository writing through the study of literary form with emphasis placed on critical reading and the revision of academic writing.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Must take BIO L111 concurrently
3.00
Explanation of key biological structures and reactions of the cell. This is an introductory course required of all biology majors and minors, and some non-biology science majors. This course is not recommended for the non-science student. Fall Offering: Science Majors ONLY; Spring Offering: Biology Majors ONLY.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Concurrently with BIO 111
1.00
Sessions are designed to familiarize the student with biological molecules, and the techniques used in their study. The techniques covered include basic solution preparation, separation and quantification of molecules, enzyme catalysis, and cell isolation. Fall Offerings: Science Majors Only; Spring Offerings: Biology Majors Only.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
4.00
This course will introduce the students to the top ten U.S. adult cancers, as well as the most common pediatric cancers. Topics to be covered include cancer causes, detection, and prevention. Psychosocial aspects of being diagnosed with cancer and the role nutrition plays for cancer patients will be described. The course will also discuss the major treatment modalities for each cancer including radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, and bone marrow transplants. The goals and objectives of the course will be met through the use of various teaching tools including but not limited to: PowerPoint presentations, videos, guest lectures, and a poster project with a presentation component. Cognitive assessment of the students will be accomplished through homework, quizzes, exams, and a group poster and oral presentation. Students with any type of academic background are welcome.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ
MATH 104, MATH 121 or appropriate math placement score.
4.00
A one-semester introduction to differential and integral calculus. Theory is presented informally and topics and techniques are limited to polynomials, rational functions, logarithmic and exponential functions. Topics include a review of precalculus, linear regression, limits and continuity, derivatives, differentiation rules, implicit differentiation, related rates, applications of derivatives to graphing, minima/maxima, applications of the derivative, marginal analysis, differential equations of growth and decay, anti-derivatives, the definite integral, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, area measurements. This course cannot be used to satisfy core or complementary requirements by students majoring in chemistry, computer science, engineering, mathematics, or physics. Several sections offered each semester. *This course cannot be applied toward a departmental concentration in Mathematics by Sawyer Business School students.
Take MATH-121 or MATH-134 or permission of Physics department chair;PHYS L111 taken concurrently
3.00
Introduction to the fundamental principles of physics. Study of vectors, Newtons laws, rotations, rigid body statics and dynamics, simple harmonic motion, heat and thermodynamics, kinetic theory. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 concurrently
1.00
Introduction to the fundamental principles of physics. Study of vectors, Newtons laws, rotations, rigid body statics and dynamics, simple harmonic motion, heat and thermodynamics, kinetic theory. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks and formal reports required.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 and Concurrently with PHYS L112
3.00
Continuation of the fundamental principles of physics. Study of electric forces and fields, electric potential, DC circuits, electromagnetic induction, magnetic fields, AC circuits, introduction to optics, introduction to atomic, nuclear and particle physics.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
PHYS 111 and PHYS L111; PHYS 112 must be taken concurrently
1.00
Continuation of the fundamental principles of physics. Study of electric forces and fields, electric potential, DC circuits, electromagnetic induction, magnetic fields, AC circuits, introduction to optics, introduction to atomic, nuclear and particle physics. The laboratory consists of experiments to illustrate the basic concepts studied in the course. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks, and formal reports required.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
BIO L203 MUST BE TAKEN CONCURRENTLY BIO 111, BIO L111.
3.00
First part of a systematic survey of the structure and functional inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course includes histology and discussion of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Fall Term
Must take BIO-203 concurrently
1.00
A study of the human skeletal system and a comparative look at other organ systems involving observation of anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes computer simulations of physiological processes.
Offered Fall Term
BIO 203, BIO L203, BIO L204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
3.00
Conclusion of the survey of the structure and function of inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course investigates the endocrine,circulatory, respiratory,immunity, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Spring Term
BIO 203/L203 and BIO 204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
1.00
A study of the human viscera using anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes microscopy of tissues.
Offered Spring Term
Placement at MATH 104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH 104 must take MATH 104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-L111.
3.00
Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Topics include introductions to atomic structure, stoichiometry, periodic table, gas laws, nature of chemical bonds, and thermochemistry. 3 lecture hours. Normally offered Fall/Summer I. This course is recommended for science and engineering majors or those considering careers in the heath sciences. Students seeking to satisfy the core science requirement may wish to consider enrolling in CHEM 101/L101.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 111.
1.00
Exploration of basic principles of chemistry discovery through laboratory investigation, including recognition of the major reaction types, stoichiometry, and qualitative analysis. Additionally, students will be introduced to good laboratory practices and experimental techniques. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered Fall/Summer I.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
CHEM 111/L111;Take MATHT-MPEL0 MATHT-MPEL1 MATHT-MPEL2 or MATHT-MPEL3; CHEM-L112 must be taken concurrently.
3.00
Continuation of the discussion of the fundamental principles of chemistry. Topics include introductions to solutions, kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base systems, thermodynamics and electrochemistry. Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of CHEM 111 and CHEM L111. 3 hours of lecture 1 term - 3 credits. Normally offered Spring/Summer II.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
CHEM 112 must be taken concurrently; Take MATHT-MPEL0 MATHT-MPEL1 MATHT-MPEL2 or MATHT-MPEL3;
1.00
Laboratory investigation in discovery format of topics from CHEM 112, including introduction to instrumental analysis and acid-base chemistry. Quantitative analysis, particularly volumetric analysis, is emphasized. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered Spring/Summer II.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
BIO 111/L111 and CHEM 211/L211
3.00
The study of cells, approached through examinations of biochemical mechanisms, the relation between the structure and function of biological molecules and organelles, and the regulation of normal and diseased cells.
Offered Fall Term
Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate) or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
4.00
This course will serve an an introduction to the role of the radiation therapist and medical dosimetrist in a Radiation Oncology department. Through a combination of detailed lectures, discussions, role-playing, case studies, and hands-on laboratory exercises, students will be introduced to the professional and clinical aspects of their respective professions. Additional topics included radiation safety, patients rights, infection control, communication for the clinic, patient assessment, and psychosocial aspects of cancer including death and dying.
Offered Fall Term
PHYS L315 concurrently; Radiation Biology, Radiation Science, Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate), or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
3.00
Content is designed to establish a thorough knowledge of the radiation physics used in radiation therapy treatments. Topics to be covered in this course include a review of basic physics (energy, mass, matter, SI units), structure of matter, types of radiations, nuclear transformations, radioactive decay, the fundamentals of x-ray generators and x-ray production, interactions of x and gamma rays with matter, absorbed dose, measurements of dose, principles of and practical use of ionization chambers and electrometers, Geiger counters and other survey meters, principles and practical use of TLDs, film, calorimetry, scintillation detectors, radiation protection and quality assurance.
Offered Fall Term
PHYS 315 concurrently
1.00
This lab will cover a broad range of experiments associated with the Department of Radiation Oncology at Massachusetts General Hospital. Topics include: Quality assurance measurements for radiation therapy, calibration of radiation teletherapy unit using ionization chambers, measurements of dose distribution via film, measurements of dose in a phantom via TLDs, radiation protection survey of therapy installation and brachytherapy sources, and radiation biology.
Offered Fall Term
Expanded Classroom Requirement
BIO 204 and MS 200
3.00
Through a systems-based approach, this course will review anatomy and physiology while teaching medical terminology. This course will also discuss the major cancers associated with each anatomical system and introduce the student to radiation therapy treatment techniques and procedures.
Offered Spring Term
MS 301 concurrently
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Spring Term
MS 315
4.00
This course is intended to expand on the concepts and theories presented in Radiation Physics I. It will provide a detailed analysis of the treatment units used in external beam radiation therapy, their beam geometry, basic dose calculations and dose distributions. This course will also cover the principles, theories, and uses of brachytherapy. This course was previously MS 412
Offered Spring Term
MS 315;MSL415 concurrently
3.00
This course will discuss the factors that influence treatment planning and govern the clinical aspects of patient treatment. Topics to be covered include treatment planning with 3-D CT and MRI beams, isodose plan descriptions, clinical applications of treatment beams and advanced dosimetric calculations. This course will also contrast new emerging technologies with conventional radiation therapy techniques (SRT, SRS, IMRT, Image Guided Therapy, Respiratory Gating).
Offered Spring Term
MS 315, MS L315, MS 415 concurrently
1.00
This lab will provide the student with the opportunity to apply clinical dosimetry principles and theories learned in the classroom to actual treatment planning situations within the clinic. Through hands-on lab exercises the student will demonstrate the use of the treatment planning instruments and interpret information they compute.
Offered Spring Term
MS 301 concurrently
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Spring Term
Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate) or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
3.00
This course is a continuation of MS 301. Through the same didactic approach, the course will cover all of the anatomical systems and their related medical terminology NOT covered in MS 301.
Offered Fall Term
Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate) Students Only
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Fall Term
MS 303 concurrent
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Spring Term
Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate) or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
4.00
This course, taught by Massachusetts General Hospital physicians will review cancer epidemiology, etiology, detection, diagnosis and prevention, lymphatic drainage, and treatment. The pathology(s) of each cancer will be presented in detail including the rationale for each preferred modality of treatment.
Offered Fall Term
Radiation Therapy (Major or Certificate) or Medical Dosimetry Students Only
4.00
This course will begin with an introduction to radiology, reviewing x-ray production and discussing basic radiation physics, image formation (Kv, mA) and distortion (blur, magnification), conventional processing and digital imaging. The above-mentioned radiographic imaging concepts will be presented with conventional lectures as well as with several imaging laboratories. In addition, the basic principles of each imaging modality, including mammography, CT, MRI, Nuc Med, and Ultra Sound, will be presented. With the use of departmental tours and guest lecturers, the use, benefits and limitations of each will be discussed. Building upon the information previously presented, radiographic anatomy will also be covered with an emphasis on cross sectional anatomy. Students will review basic anatomy viewed in sectional planes (axial/transverse) of the body. Using CT and MRI images, the topographic relationship between internal organs and surface anatomy will be interpreted and discussed.
Offered Fall Term
Take BIO 403, MS 315 and MS L315.
4.00
Topics covered include: physio-chemical aspects of energy absorption, the sequence of events after irradiation occurring on the molecular, cellular and organized tissue levels, radiation response and repair of eukaryotic cells, effects of radiation quality, dose rate, environmental conditions, cell cycle kinetics, tumor and normal cell population dynamics, radiation-induced carcinogenesis and mutagenesis, tumor pathophysiology and radiobiology, and recent advances in experimental radiation oncology.
Offered Spring Term
Senior status
4.00
This course will be available to senior students enrolled in the Radiation Therapy and Medical Dosimetry programs. This seminar style course will serve a number of purposes; one will be to prepare our graduating students for board certification in their respective disciplines (AART for Radiation Therapy and MDCB for Medical Dosimetry). Exam preparation will include the use of lectures, student teaching, online teaching tools, mini mock exams, and a full-length mock exam. The seminar will also assist students with the preparation of their professional resumes including discussions regarding the skills necessary to make job interviews successful.
Students may pursue a minor in radiation science by completing the following courses. (Please note that some of the courses have required laboratories.)
4.00
This course will introduce the students to the top ten U.S. adult cancers, as well as the most common pediatric cancers. Topics to be covered include cancer causes, detection, and prevention. Psychosocial aspects of being diagnosed with cancer and the role nutrition plays for cancer patients will be described. The course will also discuss the major treatment modalities for each cancer including radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, and bone marrow transplants. The goals and objectives of the course will be met through the use of various teaching tools including but not limited to: PowerPoint presentations, videos, guest lectures, and a poster project with a presentation component. Cognitive assessment of the students will be accomplished through homework, quizzes, exams, and a group poster and oral presentation. Students with any type of academic background are welcome.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ
Must take BIO L111 concurrently
3.00
Explanation of key biological structures and reactions of the cell. This is an introductory course required of all biology majors and minors, and some non-biology science majors. This course is not recommended for the non-science student. Fall Offering: Science Majors ONLY; Spring Offering: Biology Majors ONLY.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Concurrently with BIO 111
1.00
Sessions are designed to familiarize the student with biological molecules, and the techniques used in their study. The techniques covered include basic solution preparation, separation and quantification of molecules, enzyme catalysis, and cell isolation. Fall Offerings: Science Majors Only; Spring Offerings: Biology Majors Only.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
BIO L203 MUST BE TAKEN CONCURRENTLY BIO 111, BIO L111.
3.00
First part of a systematic survey of the structure and functional inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course includes histology and discussion of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Fall Term
Must take BIO-203 concurrently
1.00
A study of the human skeletal system and a comparative look at other organ systems involving observation of anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes computer simulations of physiological processes.
Offered Fall Term
BIO 203, BIO L203, BIO L204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
3.00
Conclusion of the survey of the structure and function of inter-relations of the organ systems of the human body. This course investigates the endocrine,circulatory, respiratory,immunity, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Medical terminology will be used.
Offered Spring Term
BIO 203/L203 and BIO 204 must be taken concurrently; By permission of the professor only.
1.00
A study of the human viscera using anatomical models and dissection of mammalian specimens. Also includes microscopy of tissues.
Offered Spring Term
BIO 111/L111 and CHEM 211/L211
3.00
The study of cells, approached through examinations of biochemical mechanisms, the relation between the structure and function of biological molecules and organelles, and the regulation of normal and diseased cells.
Offered Fall Term
Take BIO 403, MS 315 and MS L315.
4.00
Topics covered include: physio-chemical aspects of energy absorption, the sequence of events after irradiation occurring on the molecular, cellular and organized tissue levels, radiation response and repair of eukaryotic cells, effects of radiation quality, dose rate, environmental conditions, cell cycle kinetics, tumor and normal cell population dynamics, radiation-induced carcinogenesis and mutagenesis, tumor pathophysiology and radiobiology, and recent advances in experimental radiation oncology.
Offered Spring Term
Radiation Biology major only or permission of instructor.
4.00
This course will introduce the students to the twelve major cancers. Topics to be covered for each cancer include etiology, epidemiology, detection, diagnosis, and prevention as well as the psychosocial aspects of being diagnosed with cancer. The course will also discuss the major treatment modalities for each cancer including radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, bone marrow transplants, and the use of clinical trials. The goals and objectives of the course will be met through the use of various teaching tools including but not limited to: models, videos, guest lectures, radiation therapy departmental tour, and a poster project with a presentation component. Cognitive assessment of the students will be accomplished through quizzes, exams and an oral presentation.
Offered Fall Term
4.00
This course will serve as a detailed introduction to the medical dosimetry profession and how it fits into the Radiation Oncology department framework. The professional relationships, responsibilities and qualifications of the medical dosimetrist and other staff will be examined. The scope of practice and code of ethics from the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists (AAMD) will be discussed in detail as well as the role of other professional organizations. The policies and procedures governing the medical dosimetry program in relation to the standards set by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) will also be reviewed. Other topics to be covered in order to prepare students for entry into their clinical rotations will include radiation safety, patient rights, privacy laws, infection control and an overview of department workflow starting from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. Finally, students will receive detailed instruction on basic hand calculations as these will form the basis of the start of their clinical rotations in the following semester.
Offered Fall Term
Acceptance into the clinical track or post-bac program.
4.00
This course will serve an an introduction to the role of the radiation therapist and medical dosimetrist in a Radiation Oncology department. Through a combination of detailed lectures, discussions, role-playing, case studies, and hands-on laboratory exercises, students will be introduced to the professional and clinical aspects of their respective professions. Additional topics included radiation safety, patients rights, infection control, communication for the clinic, patient assessment, and psychosocial aspects of cancer including death and dying.
Offered Fall Term
MS 101; Acceptance into clinical track or post-bac program
4.00
This course will combine hands-on laboratory exercises, case studies, detailed lectures and discussions to introduce the student to radiation therapy. Topics to be covered include: history of x-rays, x-ray production, professional societies, departmental staff and structure, proper body mechanics, infection control, basic nursing/patient care and emergency procedures, patient communication, medical chart interpretation, linear accelerator operation, radiation safety, basic radiation therapy treatment techniques, basic medical terminology, and death and dying.
Offered Fall Term
BIO 204 and MS 200
3.00
Through a systems-based approach, this course will review anatomy and physiology while teaching medical terminology. This course will also discuss the major cancers associated with each anatomical system and introduce the student to radiation therapy treatment techniques and procedures.
Offered Spring Term
MS 301 concurrently
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Spring Term
MS 301
3.00
This course is a continuation of MS 301. Through the same didactic approach, the course will cover all of the anatomical systems and their related medical terminology NOT covered in MS 301.
Offered Fall Term
Students must take MS 302 concurrently
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Fall Term
MS 302
3.00
For the senior radiation therapy student, through a systems-based approach, this course will emphasize advanced radiation treatment techniques, including patient simulation, immobilization, contouring, and beam modification. The course will also cover radiation therapy quality assurance, medical law, and medical ethics.
Offered Spring Term
MS 303 concurrent
1.00
Provides the necessary clinical experience to become a radiation therapist. All labs are conducted at our clinical affiliates. Under the supervision of licensed radiation therapists, the students will become increasingly proficient in the manipulation of treatment equipment, will gain a thorough understanding of radiation treatment plans, will deliver a prescribed radiation dose to cancer patients, and will acquire knowledge of all relevant aspects of patient care. These labs are available only to students enrolled in the clinical track.
Offered Spring Term
Take MS-301 MS-L301;
1.00
Student radiation therapists will spend 12 weeks (full-time, 40 hrs/wk) gaining hands on patient care experience in the department of radiation oncology at our clinical affiliates. Under constant supervision by licensed therapists, the student will be guided toward the application of theory in the real world of cancer treatment.
Summer
Expanded Classroom Requirement
MS 301 and MS L301
1.00
Student radiation therapists and student dosimetrists will spend fourteen weeks (full-time, 40 hrs/wk) gaining hands-on patient care experience in the Department of Radiation Oncology at our clinical affiliates. Under constant supervision by licensed therapists and certified medical dosimetrists, the student will be guided toward the application of theory in the real world of cancer treatment and planning.
Summer
Expanded Classroom Requirement
MS-L111 and take MS-301 concurrently
1.00
Under the supervision of a Certified Medical Dosimetrist, students will gain hands on treatment planning experience in a clinical setting. Two,8-hour days per week, TTH.
Offered Spring Term
Take MS-L311 and MS-302 concurrently
1.00
Under the supervision of a certified medical dosimetrist, students will gain hands on treatment planning experience in a clinical setting. Three 8-hour days per week, MWF.
Offered Fall Term
MS-L312 and MS-303 concurrently
1.00
Under the supervision of a Certified Medical Dosimetrist, students will gain hands on treatment planning experience in a clinical setting. Three, 8-hour days per week, MWF.
Offered Spring Term
Take MS-301 and MS-L311;
1.00
Student dosimetrists will spend 12 weeks (full-time, 40 hrs/wk) gaining hands on treatment planning experience in the department of radiation oncology at our clinical affiliates. Under constant supervision of certified medical dosimetrists, the student will be guided toward the application of theory in the real world of cancer treatment planning.
Summer
Expanded Classroom Requirement
PHYS 112, BIO 111, and MATH 134 or higher AND MS L315 CONCURRENTLY
3.00
Content is designed to establish a thorough knowledge of the radiation physics used in radiation therapy treatments. Topics to be covered in this course include a review of basic physics (energy, mass, matter, SI units), structure of matter, types of radiations, nuclear transformations, radioactive decay, the fundamentals of x-ray generators and x-ray production, interactions of x and gamma rays with matter, absorbed dose, measurements of dose, principles of and practical use of ionization chambers and electrometers, Geiger counters and other survey meters, principles and practical use of TLDs, film, calorimetry, scintillation detectors, radiation protection and quality assurance.
Offered Fall Term
MS 315 concurrently
1.00
This lab will cover a broad range of experiments associated with the Department of Radiation Oncology at Massachusetts General Hospital. Topics include: Quality assurance measurements for radiation therapy, calibration of radiation teletherapy unit using ionization chambers, measurements of dose distribution via film, measurements of dose in a phantom via TLDs, radiation protection survey of therapy installation and brachytherapy sources, and radiation biology.
Offered Fall Term
Expanded Classroom Requirement
Instructors consent required
0.00
Service Learning Component
Expanded Classroom Requirement
MS 315
4.00
This course is intended to expand on the concepts and theories presented in Radiation Physics I. It will provide a detailed analysis of the treatment units used in external beam radiation therapy, their beam geometry, basic dose calculations and dose distributions. This course will also cover the principles, theories, and uses of brachytherapy. This course was previously MS 412
Offered Spring Term
MS 315;MSL415 concurrently
3.00
This course will discuss the factors that influence treatment planning and govern the clinical aspects of patient treatment. Topics to be covered include treatment planning with 3-D CT and MRI beams, isodose plan descriptions, clinical applications of treatment beams and advanced dosimetric calculations. This course will also contrast new emerging technologies with conventional radiation therapy techniques (SRT, SRS, IMRT, Image Guided Therapy, Respiratory Gating).
Offered Spring Term
MS 315, MS L315, MS 415 concurrently
1.00
This lab will provide the student with the opportunity to apply clinical dosimetry principles and theories learned in the classroom to actual treatment planning situations within the clinic. Through hands-on lab exercises the student will demonstrate the use of the treatment planning instruments and interpret information they compute.
Offered Spring Term
Take BIO 403, MS 315 and MS L315.
4.00
Topics covered include: physio-chemical aspects of energy absorption, the sequence of events after irradiation occurring on the molecular, cellular and organized tissue levels, radiation response and repair of eukaryotic cells, effects of radiation quality, dose rate, environmental conditions, cell cycle kinetics, tumor and normal cell population dynamics, radiation-induced carcinogenesis and mutagenesis, tumor pathophysiology and radiobiology, and recent advances in experimental radiation oncology.
Offered Spring Term
MS 415
4.00
This course is a continuation of Clinical Dosimetry I and will focus on advanced treatment planning techniques including intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), arc therapy, stereotactic treatment planning, and proton therapy. The advantages of each technique/modality over conventional 3D-treatment planning will be discussed. This will also be contrasted against the specific challenges presented by each technique such as the need for better immobilization, need for 4D CT scanning and daily IGRT (kV matching and/or CBCT).
Offered Fall Term
BIO 204, MS 302 must be taken concurrently
4.00
This course, taught by Massachusetts General Hospital physicians will review cancer epidemiology, etiology, detection, diagnosis and prevention, lymphatic drainage, and treatment. The pathology(s) of each cancer will be presented in detail including the rationale for each preferred modality of treatment.
Offered Fall Term
BIO 204 & BIO L204: may also be taken concurrently
4.00
This course will begin with an introduction to radiology, reviewing X-ray production and discussing basic radiation physics, image formation (Kv, mA) and distortion (blur, magnification), conventional processing and digital imaging. The above-mentioned radiographic imaging concepts will be presented with conventional lectures as well as with several imaging laboratories. In addition, the basic principles of each imaging modality, including mammography, CT, MRI, Nuc Med, and Ultra Sound, will be presented. With the use of departmental tours and guest lecturers, the use, benefits and limitations of each will be discussed. Building upon the information previously presented, radiographic anatomy will also be covered with an emphasis on cross sectional anatomy. Students will review basic anatomy viewed in sectional planes (axial/transverse) of the body. Using CT and MRI images, the topographic relationship between internal organs and surface anatomy will be interpreted and discussed.
Offered Fall Term
Available to Senior students in the Medical Sciences Radiation Therapy Clinical Track.
2.00
This course will be available to senior students enrolled in the Radiation Therapy Clinical Track. This seminar style course will serve three purposes; one will be to assist the senior students with the completion of the more advanced ARRT clinical competency requirements including, but not limited to, CSI, Mantle, and Paraaortic fields. This portion of the seminar will be conducted in a laboratory setting using our Phantom Patient. Its second purpose will be to prepare our graduating students for the ARRTs National Registry Exam. Exam preparation will include the use of lectures, student teaching, online teaching tools, mini mock registry exams and a full-length mock registry exam. Lastly, the seminar will assist the students with the preparation of their professional resumes including discussions regarding the skills necessary to make job interviews successful.
Offered Spring Term
MS-417;
4.00
Topics in this course will include, radioactive sources, calibration, instrumentation, factors affecting dose calculations, definitions of LDR, MDR and HDR, treatment planning and clinical dose calculation, implantation techniques, implant localization/verification, regulations, radiation safety, storage and QA. Detailed coverage of prostate brachytherapy including LDR and HDR will be emphasized.
Offered Spring Term
4.00
This course is designed for the medical dosimetry student, to include a general overview of computer systems and networking in the field of radiation oncology. A historical view of computers will be covered as well as the intricate uses in the medical field today. Oncology information systems such as MOSAIC and ARIA, as well as radiation therapy software used for imaging, contouring, treatment planning, and patient charting applications will be covered. Data and system security will also be addressed.
Offered Spring Term
MS 302 & RT Clinical Student
1.00
For the senior radiation therapy student, this course will emphasize advanced radiation treatment techniques, including patient simulation, immobilization, contouring, beam modification, as well as special procedures.
Senior status
4.00
This course will be available to senior students enrolled in the Radiation Therapy and Medical Dosimetry programs. This seminar style course will serve a number of purposes; one will be to prepare our graduating students for board certification in their respective disciplines (AART for Radiation Therapy and MDCB for Medical Dosimetry). Exam preparation will include the use of lectures, student teaching, online teaching tools, mini mock exams, and a full-length mock exam. The seminar will also assist students with the preparation of their professional resumes including discussions regarding the skills necessary to make job interviews successful.
Seniors Only; permission of program director
1.00- 7.00
Under special circumstances, seniors may be allowed to pursue studies in areas of particular interest to them. By special arrangement, members of the Medical Sciences Committee will schedule discussion sessions, assign projects and provide guidance and feedback. A paper & oral presentation are required.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
