Advanced Physical Methods in Radiotherapy
Group photo of the first Master Online APMR class (2010)
| Degree: | Master of Science |
| Application deadline: | July 15th |
| Programme start: | Winter term (October) |
| Programme duration: | 4 semesters |
| Study options: | postgraduate distance learning programme, accredited by ACQUIN |
| Language requirement: | English |
| Maximum number of participants: | 20 |
| Language of instruction: | English |
| Tuition fees: | 5.000 € per Semester (full-time study option) |
Introduction
The Master Online Advanced Physical Methods in Radiotherapy (APMR) is a postgraduate programme in the field of medical physics delivered predominantly online. This English-speaking distance learning programme is the result of a long-term collaboration between the widely acclaimed German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), the distinguished Heidelberg University Hospital and the new state-of-the-art heavy ion facility, Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT).
Modules of study
M 1 Anatomy and Imaging for Radiotherapy
We will refresh your anatomical knowledge and you will be exposed to the latest improvements in radiological imaging, including modern X-ray CT, dual energy CT, morphological and functional MRI and MR spectroscopy, as well as in modern techniques in molecular imaging. The knowledge gained will form the basis for the understanding and application of the new treatment techniques.
M 2 Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy
After an overview of the basic features of IMRT, you will be introduced to the different technical implementations of modern IMRT and to applications in clinical practice. Building upon problem- and work-based scenarios you will have the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience at our facilities and to discuss your activities on-site with the IMRT innovators.
M 3 Ion Therapy
You will reinforce your knowledge about the basic physical interaction of protons and ions and discover how these can be harnessed to the benefit of the patient. An understanding of these interactions also forms the basis for the biological effects of high LET radiation, which you will study in detail. You will be introduced to vital technical features of accelerators, beam delivery systems and also to treatment planning and the implications for clinical practice.
M 4 Image Guided Radiotherapy and Adaptive Radiotherapy
More recently IGRT has become an important new paradigm. You will discover that applications of IGRT are not merely restricted to accurate patient positioning, but include further the resolution of inter- and intrafractional motion in order to arrive at a true 4D dose conformation. The basics of modern biological imaging techniques and their implication for radiotherapy will also be explored.
M 5 Advanced Dosimetry and Quality Assurance
The highly advanced techniques of IMRT, IGRT and ion beam therapy require complex solutions for dosimetry and quality assurance. You will scrutinize relevant guidelines for the design of dedicated QA procedures adapted to the unique requirements of these modern techniques. Dosimetric principles will be studied in-depth and then applied to special dosimetry techniques for small fields, ion dosimetry and dynamic fields. Finally, you will find yourself working side by side with world renowned experts during the practical training sessions at our flagship facilities.
M P Internships
Treatment Planning | IMRT | ART | Ion Therapy | Dosimetry and QA
M T Master’s Thesis
Topic to be selected from modules 1 - 5.
Programme structure
| Semester | Modules |
ECTS Credits |
|
|
|
Attendance phase (1.5 days) |
|
|
| 1 |
M 1 Anatomy and Imaging for Radiotherapy |
M 2 Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) |
15 |
|
|
Attendance phase (1.5 days) |
|
|
| 2 |
M 3 Ion Therapy |
M 4 Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT) and Adaptive Radiotherapy (ART) |
15 |
|
|
Attendance phase M2, M3 (4 days) |
|
|
| 3 |
M 5 Advanced Dosimetry and Quality Assurance (QA) |
M P 4 Internships |
15 |
|
|
Attendance phase M4, M5 (4 days) | Attendance phase (7-14 days) |
|
| 4 |
M T Master‘s Thesis |
30 | |
| Σ 75 | |||
| MSc Prerequisites |
|
45 | |
| Σ 120 | |||
Programme leaders
 |
Prof. Jürgen Debus, MD, PhD Professor for Radiation Oncology at the Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Heidelberg University Medical Director of the Department of Radiation Oncology and Radiation Therapy, Heidelberg University Hospital and CEO of HIT GmbH, Heidelberg |
|
 |
Prof. Wolfgang Schlegel, PhD Professor for Medical Physics at the Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Heidelberg University Head of the Department of Medical Physics in Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg |
|
 |
Prof. Oliver Jäkel, PhD Professor for Medical Physics at the Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Heidelberg University Medical Physics Director of HIT GmbH, Heidelberg Group Leader “Heavy Ion Therapy”, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg |
Formal Issues
Application and Admission
Admissions are restricted according to the Admission Regulations.
Closing date
July 15th for the winter term
Application
Applications should be directed to the department of Postgraduate Scientific Studies (see below).
Please download Application Form here.
Further Information
Further application procedure information
Examination Regulation / Study Regulation
Examination Regulations (01.10.2010)
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are 5.000 € per semester and a reduced fee of 1.000 € during the last semester. In addition, the Heidelberg University charges an administration fee and a Studentenwerksbeitrag per semester.
Tuition fees: amendment 1st of August 2011
Contact
Heidelberg University
Postgraduate Scientific Studies
Bergheimer Str. 58, Building 4311
D – 69115 Heidelberg
Tel: +49 (0) 6221/54-7812/24
Fax: +49(0) 6221/54-7819