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Radiometrics: Instrumentation and Modelling

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What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions

Our application process

  • Sign into our online portal, Apply Yourself, and start your application
  • Submit your application
  • We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  • Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  • We'll email you when a decision has been made
  • If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

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Master of Science

A Master of Science (MSc) is a master’s degree awarded for a postgraduate programme in the sciences.

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Course overview

The MSc in Radiometrics will teach you a broad range of detector technologies for measuring ionising radiation that are widely used in nuclear-related industries, equipping you for a career in any industry involving radiation and radiation detectors.

Introduction

Teaching will cover basic radiation principles, the use of detection systems and associated instrumentation applications, and modelling. There’s a strong focus on practicals and laboratory-based techniques.

The MSc in Radiometrics will teach you a broad range of detector technologies for measuring ionising radiation that are widely used in nuclear-related industries. It has a strong emphasis on practical laboratory skills using the state-of-the art equipment in our teaching laboratories, complementing the theoretical knowledge and advanced modelling skills you will learn. Many modules are also taken by participants from industry as part of their Continuing Professional Development, so you will have opportunities to learn first hand about what it’s like to work at some of the UK’s leading employers in the sector.

The project during the summer will give you a chance to conduct individual open-ended research under expert supervision. You’ll be able to carry out the project, often in industry, making you even more employable in sectors such as nuclear power, medicine, environmental protection, oil and mining, and health and safety.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for students with first degrees in physical sciences and engineering who are looking for a career in sectors such as nuclear-related industries, healthcare, security, radiation protection and environmental monitoring, as well as further study.

What you'll learn

  • Advanced laboratory practical skills
  • Computer modelling skills
  • Theoretical knowledge related to detector technologies used for measuring ionising radiation in a wide range of employment sectors

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Studying this course part-time

International students may be able to study this course on a part-time basis but this is dependent on visa regulations. Please visit the Government website for more information about student visas.

If you're able to study part-time, you'll study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually Up to 72 months. You can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements at graduation the following term.

Studying part-time means you can study alongside work or any other life commitments. You will study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually Up to 72 months. You can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements at graduation the following term.

Semester one

The programme consists of a number of one-week basic modules and their associated applied modules, which you can select to best meet your needs.

To gain your MSc qualification you must complete your dissertation and project (these are compulsory) and your chosen modules, totalling 180 credits.

Students who study part-time will complete all the taught modules, then the applied modules, followed by the final dissertation and project.

Compulsory modules

HIGH RESOLUTION GAMMA SPECTROMETRY (PHYS804)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

​This module provides a detailed introduction to the principles and applications of high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry. The focus is on a practical and theoretical knowledge of all aspects of high resolution gamma-spectrometry using germanium detectors. 

ALPHA SPECTROMETRY (PHYS806)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

Alpha spectrometry is widely used in environmental monitoring and nuclear-related industries. This module provides an introduction to the underlying theoretical principles and practical aspects of alpha spectrometry. These include of the origins of alpha emitters; the interaction of alpha particles with matter and the consequences for alpha spectrometry; an introduction to sampling strategies and spectrum analysis techniques; and commonly used chemical separation procedures and methods of source preparation. There is a strong emphasis on practical laboratory work using modern industry-standard alpha spectrometers in which key concepts covered in the lectures are demonstrated.

NEUTRONS: DETECTION AND MODELLING (PHYS807)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

​This module covers the principles of neutron detection and measurement. It provides an introduction to neutron measurement, Monte Carlo modelling and analysus. The module focuses on the  practical and theoretical knowledge of neutrons, their interaction with materials and their detection​.

STATISTICS (PHYS809)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

​This modules provides a theoretical and practical understanding of the statistical principles involved with radiation detectors​.

RADIATION PROTECTION AND DOSIMETRY (PHYS810)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

​ This module provides an introduction to the basicprinciples involved in radiation protection and dosimetry including biologicalaspects of being in a radiation environment. Learning in lectures is supportedby laboratory practical work.​

RADIATION SHIELDING (PHYS820)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

​ To introduce the subject of radiation shielding and illustrate solutions to the particle transport equation in the context of Monte Carlo and deterministic transport codes. Simple shielding methods will be compared with sophisticated complex calculations in order to familiarise students with the essential concepts. As well as the core material, the course has four external lecturers who are experts in their respective fields. The use of Monte Carlo and Deterministic Codes will be presented in the context of industry needs and requirements. Shielding applications and the shielding design process will be discussed.

APPLIED HIGH RESOLUTION GAMMA SPECTROMETRY (PHYS824)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

To carry out further detailed work on aspects of high resolution gamma spectrometry

APPLIED ALPHA SPECTROMETRY (PHYS826)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

In this module an open-ended problem has to solved, requiring the application of knowledge and understanding acquired in the pre-requisite module PHYS806 (Alpha Spectrometry). The problem involves the detailed analysis and interpretation of a complex alpha-particle energy spectrum, but there is a twist!

APPLIED NEUTRONS: DETECTION AND MODELLING (PHYS827)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

To carry out further detailed work on aspects of neutron detection.

APPLIED STATISTICS (PHYS829)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

To carry out further detailed work on aspects of the use of statistics in nuclear counting systems.

APPLIED RADIATION PROTECTION AND DOSIMETRY (PHYS830)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

To carry out further detailed work on aspects of radiation protection and dosimetry.

RADIATION SHIELDING ASSIGNMENT (PHYS840)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: whole session

To introduce the subject of radiation shielding and illustrate solutions to the particle transport equation in the context of Monte Carlo and deterministic transport codes. Simple shielding methods will be compared with sophisticated complex calculations in order to familiarise students with the essential concepts. As well as the core material, the course has four external lecturers who are experts in their respective fields. The use of Monte Carlo and Deterministic Codes will be presented in the context of industry needs and requirements. Shielding applications and the shielding design process will be discussed.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Your experience

The Department of Physics is a major centre for research, offering an exciting and rigorous environment to study in. Some of your teaching will be carried out in our award-winning teaching facilities, the Central Teaching Laboratory, for practical lab work.

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

What students say...

I would say the love of learning was the most enjoyable part of university. Science and maths were always an interest of mine and it was a joy to learn the inner working of the universe but it wasn’t all lectures and exams. There was a healthy amount of practical work which involved setting up and recording experiments to learning a range of programming, there was always something there to spark an interest and make you want to learn more.

, MSc Radiometrics: Instrumentation and Modelling 2019

Careers and employability

This course will equip you with the necessary specific skills for a career in any industry involving radiation and radiation detectors. You will also develop valuable transferrable skills for other industries or to go on to further study.

Career planning

Three career coaches standing outside the Careers Studio

Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.

From education to employment

Two graduates in postgraduate robes.

We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.

Networking events

Postgraduate students hold a discussion while sat round a table in in the Liverpool Guild of Students.

You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.

Your future

Previous graduates have begun careers in academia and other research environments, in industry (for example in the nuclear and nuclear related industries), in financial services, health services, the scientific civil service and further education both in the UK and abroad.

Meet our alumni

Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £11,600
Part-time place, per year £5,800
International fees
Full-time place, per year £26,400
Part-time place, per year £13,200
Fees stated are for the 2023-24 academic year. The part-time fees are based on a course duration of two years. Fees may vary on a pro-rata basis for alternative part-time course durations.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies..

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

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Postgraduate Global Advancement Scholarship

  • International students

If you’re a new international student starting this course with us from September 2024, you could be eligible to receive a discount of up to £5,000 off your tuition fees.

This includes £2,500 if you have a first-class degree, or equivalent qualification, and £2,500 if you’re from a Commonwealth country.

Graduate Loyalty Advancement Scholarship

  • Home and international students
  • University of Liverpool current students and alumni only

Completed your undergraduate degree, or studied as an undergraduate exchange student, at the University of Liverpool?

You could get a loyalty discount of up to £2,500 off the tuition fees for this course from September 2024 entry.

  • £1,500 tuition fee discount for eligible UK University of Liverpool graduates
  • £2,500 tuition fee discount for eligible international University of Liverpool graduates.

ANID Chile Scholarship

  • International students
  • Chile

Postgraduate taught and research students from Chile are eligible for this scholarship.

Chevening Scholarships

  • International students

The University, in partnership with Chevening, is delighted to offer this generous scholarship to students who are studying a master’s programme and who have future leadership potential. Please note that there is a fee cap applied to MBA programmes that requires applicants to cover any additional tuition costs over £18,000. You will still receive all additional allowances.

CONACYT Award

  • International students
  • Mexico

The University of Liverpool has an agreement with CONACYT to support postgraduate taught and research students from Mexico.

FIDERH Award

  • International students
  • Mexico

20% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate taught and research programmes. Must be Mexico national.

Fulbright Scholarship

  • International students
  • University of Liverpool alumni only
  • United States

One scholarship is available for a master’s student from the US and another is available for a postgraduate research student to undertake a three to six month research stay from the US

FUNED Awards

  • International students
  • Mexico

Up to ten awards are available for Masters or Research students from Mexico in receipt of FUNED loans. The award gives students a 20% reduction in fees for all applications received.

Graduate Association Hong Kong & Tung Postgraduate Scholarships

  • International students
  • China
  • Hong Kong

The University is able to offer competitive scholarships for both postgraduate taught master’s and research programmes.

HRM Princess Sirindhorn University of Liverpool Scholarship (Thailand)

  • International students
  • Thailand

The University is able to offer one award to a new postgraduate taught master’s student from Thailand.

The scholarship is open to all subjects offered as a one-year taught master’s programme.  However, priority will be given to those students who wish to study in a subject area associated with HRH Princess Sirindhorn such as science, IT, medicine, the arts, geography, history and languages.

JuventudEsGto Scholarship

  • International students
  • Mexico

Residents of State of Guanajuato, Mexico, wishing to study at postgraduate taught and research levels are eligible for this scholarship.

Marshall Scholarship

  • International students
  • University of Liverpool alumni only
  • United States

One scholarship is available for a master’s student from the US to cover the cost of tuition fees. Another, to the value of £20,000, is available for Doctoral study visit: https://www.marshallscholarship.org/

Turkish Ministry of Education Scholarship

  • International students
  • Turkey

Postgraduate taught and research students from Turkey are eligible for this scholarship, see the Turkish Ministry of Education website https://meb.gov.tr/ for more information.

University of Liverpool Humanitarian Scholarships for Master’s Programmes

  • International students

The three awards available cover full tuition fees, visas and support for accommodation and living expenses.

This scholarship is open to support people who have recognised status as either refugees or are under humanitarian protection under the 1951 Refugee Convention. This status must be held outside of the UK.

The scholarship is open for all postgraduate-taught programmes, excluding medicine, dentistry, veterinary and nursing.

University of Liverpool International College Excellence Scholarship

  • International students

The University of Liverpool will award five University of Liverpool International College students, who achieve the highest academic excellence (minimum 75%) in their UoLIC Pre-Master’s programme, the prestigious UoLIC Excellence scholarship.

University of Liverpool International College Impact Progression Scholarships

  • International students

University of Liverpool International College recipients of the Kaplan awards will receive the £3,000 Progression Impact Scholarship, deducted from first-year tuition fees, on successful progression to their UoL degree programme.

To be eligible for our Impact Progression Scholarships, students must apply for one of the Kaplan Impact Scholarships demonstrating their commitment to making an impact across issues of importance to the University and Kaplan. Themes include:

Sustainability
Women in STEM
Community
Career Focus (Employability)

Vice-Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship for China

  • International students
  • China

Details are:
1 (one) Full scholarship
2 (two) £10,000 scholarships
5 (five) £5,000 scholarships
10 (ten) £1,000 scholarships
All scholarships will be awarded after the formal registration at the University and will take the form of a fee waiver.

Please note: This scholarship cannot be combined with any other scholarships or bursaries provided by the University.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

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Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

Postgraduate entry requirements

Applicants are required to have completed a degree in a physical science, or a closely related subject. Relevant industrial experience can be an alternative, subject to references.

We also encourage applications from those from non-traditional backgrounds, for example with relevant industrial experience, in lieu of a degree. Each application will be assessed on its own merits and subject to references.

International qualifications

If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MSc, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.

English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

English language qualification Requirements
IELTS IELTS 7.0 overall with no component below 5.5
TOEFL iBT 100 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19
Duolingo English Test 130 overall, with no component below 95
Pearson PTE Academic 69 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic 75 overall, with no skill below 60
PSI Skills for English C1 Pass in all bands
INDIA Standard XII National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC C6 or above

PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH

Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Find out the length of Pre-Sessional English course you may require for this degree.

Pre-sessional English

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-Sessional English course you require.

Our Pre-Sessional English courses vary from 6, 10, 12, 20, 30 or 40 weeks.

You can email us at elc@liverpool.ac.uk for advice on the length of Pre-Sessional English course you require. Please let us know your most recent score in one of the following English languages tests so we can assess your current English language ability:

  • IELTS
  • LanguageCert Academic
  • Pearson PTE
  • Skills for English
  • Oxford Test for English
  • Duolingo English Test

We’ll be in touch to let you know the length of Pre-Sessional English course you require. We’ll also confirm whether you can study Pre-Sessional English on campus or online.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new application cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted on the website.

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Fees and Finance

Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.

Changes to Radiometrics: Instrumentation and Modelling MSc

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

23 March 2023: New postgraduate taught course pages

New course pages launched.