Radiation Therapy Physics & Linac Fundamentals

Syllabus

# LIN 101 - Radiation Therapy Physics & Linac Fundamentals

**Course Code:** LIN 101
**Course Title:** Radiation Therapy Physics & Linac Fundamentals
**Credits:** 3
**Term:** 1

## Course Description
This foundational course introduces the core principles of radiation therapy physics and the operational fundamentals of medical linear accelerators (linacs). Students will explore the generation of therapeutic electron and photon beams, understand dose delivery concepts, and gain a comprehensive overview of the major linac subsystems. Emphasis is placed on the physical processes underpinning linac operation, preparing future technicians to safely and effectively service these complex devices. The curriculum covers essential theory required for understanding maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting procedures in a vendor-neutral context.

## Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
* Explain the fundamental physical principles governing the generation of high-energy electron and photon beams in a medical linear accelerator.
* Describe the operational function and interaction of major linear accelerator subsystems, including the electron gun, accelerating waveguide, and treatment head components.
* Differentiate between electron and photon therapy modes, detailing the beam shaping and modification components specific to each.
* Apply basic concepts of radiation dosimetry, including absorbed dose, dose rate, and field size, as they relate to therapeutic beam delivery.
* Identify and interpret key safety interlocks and operational parameters critical for safe linac operation and service.
* Outline the typical workflow for a radiation therapy treatment and the role of the linear accelerator within that process.

## Topics by Week
*   **Week 1:** Introduction to Radiation Therapy and Medical Linear Accelerators
*   **Week 2:** Review of Atomic Structure and Ionizing Radiation Principles
*   **Week 3:** Electron Beam Generation and Injection Systems
*   **Week 4:** Radiofrequency (RF) Systems and Accelerating Waveguide Principles
*   **Week 5:** Magnet Systems and Beam Transport
*   **Week 6:** Photon Beam Production and Flattening Filter Operation
*   **Week 7:** Electron Beam Production and Scattering Foil Operation
*   **Week 8:** Beam Monitoring and Dose Delivery Systems
*   **Week 9:** Collimation and Beam Shaping Components
*   **Week 10:** Mechanical Systems and Gantry/Couch Operation
*   **Week 11:** Control Systems and Safety Interlocks
*   **Week 12:** Quality Assurance (QA) and Calibration Fundamentals
*   **Week 13:** Midterm Review
*   **Week 14:** Final Exam Review

## Grading
*   Knowledge Checks: 15%
*   Assignments and Labs: 30%
*   Quizzes: 25%
*   Final Exam: 30%

## Policies
*   **Attendance:** Regular attendance and active participation are expected. Students are responsible for all material covered in missed sessions.
*   **Late Submissions:** Assignments submitted after the due date will incur a penalty of 10% per day, up to a maximum of 50%. Extensions may be granted for documented extenuating circumstances.
*   **Academic Integrity:** All work submitted must be original. Plagiarism or any form of academic dishonesty will result in a zero for the assignment and may lead to further disciplinary action as per Anode Technical Institute's policies.
*   **Safety:** Adherence to all safety protocols and procedures is mandatory during lab sessions and simulated exercises. Failure to comply will result in immediate removal from the activity.