Radiation Dosimetry, 15 Credits

Contents

In this course, knowledge about radiation interaction is applied in order to determine how energy from ionizing radiation is deposited, which is important for dose planning and radiation protection calculations, etc. The course explain how charged and uncharged particles interact with matter. Quantities and concepts used in radiation dosimetry are introduced. The course goes through differences between measurements and expected results and explain how to derive corrections for the discrepancies. An introduction to microdosimetry and internal dosimetry is given, both of which are important when determining the intentional and unintentional damage caused by ionizing radiation.
The course includes a compulsory laboratory and a compulsory project work.

The course includes three parts:
1. Theory, 7.5 ECTS
2. Laboration, 2.5 ECTS
3. Project, 5 ECTS

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

• In detail explain the dosimetric quantities and concepts on which radiation dosimetry is based.
• In detail explain large cavities as well as Bragg-Gray, Spencer-Attix and Burlin cavity theory
• Explain ion chambers and chemical and solid-state detectors
• Describe concepts and dose determination in internal dosimetry and give an overview of microdosimetry

Skills and abilities

• Independently apply the expected knowledge to determine the absorbed dose, using correct dosimeter, experimental design, approximations, and calculation methods
• Independently plan, organize, and perform a project work
• Based on given frameworks, communicate and collaborate with other participants in laboratory work and project work

Judgement and approach

• Critically reflect over experimental and theoretical results and validate them with respect to plausibility

Required Knowledge

University: At least 90 ECTS credits including the course Radiation Interaction 7.5 ECTS, or corresponding. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English A/5. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The teaching is conducted in the form of lectures, calculation exercises and laboratory work and a project work. Participation in the project and laboratory work is mandatory.

Examination modes

Part 1: Theoretical part 7.5 credits
The part is examined with written exam. The grade is assessed with Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Credit (4) or Pass with Distinction (5).

Part 2: Laboration 2.5 credits.
The part is examined by active participation in the laboratory work and a written laboratory report. The grade is assessed with Fail (U) or Pass (G).
 
Part 3: Project work 5 credits.
The part is performed in project groups and is examinated with an oral presentation and a written project report. The grade is assessed with Fail (U) or Pass (G).

On the whole course the grades Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Credit (4) or Pass with Distinction (5) are set. To pass the course it requires that all examinations and obligatory tasks are approved. The grade is a summary assessment of the results of the examinations of the different parts, and is set after all mandatory elements are approved.

Students who received a passing grade on an examination may not retake the examination.

Students who do not pass the regular examination renewed examination in accordance with the Umeå University Regulations for tests and examinations at the undergraduate and graduate level (FS 1.1.2-553-14) could be arranged. The first re-test is offered not later than two months after the first examination. When the ordinary examination takes place in May or June, d a first retesting opportunity is given within three months after the first examination. In addition, at least another re-test within one year of regular examination is offered.

In cases where the exam can not be repeated under the current rules for retesting the exam should instead be replaced with another task. The scope and content of such task should not be disproportionate to the missed exam.

A student who has taken two examinations in a course or part of a course without passing, has the right to have another examiner appointed, unless there are specific reasons against it (6 ch. 22, § HF). Requests for new examiners should be addressed to the head of the Department of Radiation Sciences.

Other regulations

In the event that the course expires or major changes are introduced, the students are assured at least three occasions of examination (including regular examination) as prescribed in the syllabus to the course that the student originally registered in over a period of a maximum of two years from the previous syllabus expired.