Physics: Medical Optics

This course provides a deep understanding of how light is scattered and absorbed in complex materials such as tissue and blood. You will learn how this knowledge is applied in developing optical methods for medical diagnostics and laser-based treatments.

The course covers optical and thermal light–tissue interactions, modelling and measuring optical properties in highly scattering media as well as techniques for improving image contrast in optical systems. You will also explore various laser applications in medical diagnostics and treatment.

A central part of the course is a project based on an open-ended question, which you will solve together with a partner, both theoretically and practically. This course is ideal for students curious about how physics can be applied in medicine and life sciences. It can be taken as part of a master’s programme in physics or as a stand-alone course.

Teaching includes lectures, laboratory sessions, computer exercises and a major project. You will learn about medical laser applications, light propagation in tissue, and how to model and measure optical phenomena in highly scattering media.

The course includes two lab sessions and three computer exercises where you investigate optical properties in different materials. In the project, carried out in pairs or individually, you will work on a real-world problem and present your results both orally for your class mates and in writing.

Assessment consists of the project, lab work and an optional written exam. A well-executed project can earn extra points on the regular exam. To pass the course, active participation in all mandatory components is required.

Prerequisites

For admission to the course, 135 credits of natural science studies, including 90 credits in physics and 45 credits in mathematics, is required, alternatively a bachelor in physics. In both cases, knowledge equivalent to FYSA13, Physics: Introduction to University Physics, with Optics, Waves and Quantum Physics, 7.5 credits, FYSB22, Physics: Basic Quantum Mechanics, 7.5 credits and FYSB24 Physics: Atomic and Molecular Physics, 7.5 credits, are required. English 6/B.

Selection criteria

Seats are allocated according to: ECTS (HPAV): 100 %.

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside:

• The European Union (EU)
• The European Economic Area (EEA) and
• Switzerland

are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 23,125
First payment: SEK 23,125

Convert currency – xe.com

Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.

Application fee

No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.