Health & Social Care

Note: this course is now closed for January 2012.

The course enables you to develop as a professional with expertise to the level of first post competence in diagnostic radiography. It is a pre-registration postgraduate-level course which aims to provide a high quality of learning experience, enabling development of academic skills to master's level. Following successful completion of the course you are able to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council as a diagnostic radiographer.

What you study

This is a unique, progressive and integrated fast-track course. It incorporates natural sciences, clinical sciences, health policy and research methods. The course would especially suit applicants with a biomedical sciences or anatomy background. We take a problem-based approach to learning, which includes opportunities to share learning with students from other allied health professions. We promote teamwork and an appreciation of how other disciplines contribute to health care.

How you learn

In University, learning is facilitated by lecture, seminar, group work and problem-based learning. In addition the medical imaging team has access to IT facilities and a proportion of teaching is supported via computer program which simulates the taking of x-rays plus special image retrieval and display systems. There are a total of three hospital-based practice placements where you are supervised by qualified radiographers and where you gain your professional practice skills. Learning on placement is facilitated through a virtual learning environment called Blackboard.

How you are assessed

A range of assessment methods is used including written assignment, presentation and oral and written examinations. If you choose to complete the major project module of the MSc you will be required to write a journal article.

Professional accreditation/placement

The course is accredited with the Health Professions Council (HPC) and the College of Radiographers. Practice placements are at Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, Darlington, Bishop Auckland, Sunderland, Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle and North Tyneside.

Career opportunities

Graduates in diagnostic radiography are a vital part of modern health care and employment opportunities are available in the UK and abroad.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally:

• have an honours degree (at least 2.2) in an appropriate related discipline.
• have evidence of study within the last three years.
• You must be eligible for a Department of Health bursary (more info on the NHS Student Bursaries website).

Admission to the course is dependent upon completion of the following selection processes:

• academic entry requirements being met
• satisfactory application form
• successful interview
• satisfactory references
• completed work-based risk assessment process
• receipt of a satisfactory Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure.

During the course and on completion you will be required to declare any convictions, cautions or allegations to the University and relevant professional body prior to application for registration.

For additional information please see the undergraduate and postgraduate entry requirements in our admissions section

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