Course summary
Diagnostic radiographers provide an imaging service for most departments within a hospital including accident and emergency, outpatients, operating theatres and wards. X-rays are an imaging technique used by diagnostic radiographers to visualise injuries or disease, or monitor changes inside the body. Diagnostic radiographers also carry out a much wider range of procedures, which may include cross-sectional imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound and radionuclide imaging (RNI). As a student on this course, you will complete a number of modules that integrate anatomy, physiology, radiodiagnostic imaging, physics and equipment, enabling you to understand the theory of diagnostic imaging. This theory will be put into practice in workshops in a clinical laboratory enabling you to experience the role of a diagnostic radiographer, including communication with teams and with service users, before placement blocks. You will also be required to complete a dissertation.
Modules
Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging (40 credits): This module aims to develop the student knowledge base with regard to the relationships between the structures and functions of the body, imaging procedures and the principles of radiodiagnostic radiation safety. Fundamentals of Diagnostic Imaging (20 credits): This module aims to develop the student’s knowledge and skills in selecting radiographic techniques in a variety of imaging modalities and patient conditions for safe and effective operation. Specialist Imaging and Advanced Diagnostic Practice (40 credits): This module will provide the student with detailed knowledge and a critical understanding of the performance of specialist imaging modalities and procedures with regard to advanced practice, clinical governance and patient pathways. Cross Sectional Imaging Science (20 credits): This module aims to develop the ability to critically evaluate concepts and scientific principles of specialist equipment and associated cross-sectional anatomy, pathology and image quality related to Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Preliminary Clinical Evaluation (20 credits): This module will develop the critical analytical skills and competence required for clinical evaluation of musculoskeletal trauma images. Preparing for Practice as an Allied Health Professional (20 credits): This module aims to explore factors that shape and influence the provision of health and social care by the allied health professions. Leadership and Enterprise in Health Practice (20 credits): To critically evaluate the concepts of leadership and leading change, intra/entrepreneurship and innovation within the health and social care sector and explore opportunities for leading and developing enterprising ideas for health and well-being. Understanding and Appraising the Evidence for Practice (20 credits): The aim of the module is to support the learner to develop an in-depth understanding of approaches to research, to apply knowledge in order to critically appraise evidence and to form reasoned conclusions and to develop the research skills and knowledge necessary to undertake an independent research project. Applying skills of Critical Enquiry (project) (20 credits): The module aims to enable learners to develop and apply the skills of research and enquiry to produce a small scale study which demands a professional approach, academic rigour, independence and self-direction. Diagnostic Radiography Practice-based Learning: Placement 1 (60 credits): This module aims to enable successful integration into the multidisciplinary team and development of a holistic, safe and effective approach to conventional diagnostic imaging. Diagnostic Radiography Practice-based Learning: Placement 2 (60 credits): This module aims to develop further the knowledge, skills and professional attributes required of an entry level diagnostic radiographer. NB The modules listed are correct at time of posting (October 2023) but are subject to change. In the event that modules change, QMU will seek to use reasonable endeavours to ensure that there is no detrimental impact on students.
Assessment method
Academic study is learner-centred with the analysis and synthesis of knowledge being of paramount importance. You will be expected to take overall responsibility for your learning. Teaching methods include keynote lectures, clinical workshops and tutorials, student-led seminars, group discussions, clinical observation and practice. Directed learning materials will be delivered via a virtual learning environment (the Hub) and comprise reading, self-assessment quizzes, workbooks, tutorial questions with answers and narrated lectures. Clinical skills will be developed in work placements in radiology departments in hospitals in central Scotland. A variety of assessment methods will be used, including online examinations, Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), self-appraisal, course work, ePortfolio, viva voce examinations and clinical assessment.
Professional bodies
Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.
- Health and Care Professions Council
- Radiographers, College of
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
Entry requirements
Second class honours degree or above in any discipline. It is essential that all applicants have some shadowing experience in a clinical environment. This course is not suitable for those already holding a diagnostic radiography or medical qualification. Shortlised applicants will be invited for an interview. International: You will be required to provide evidence of English language competence at no less than IELTS 6.5 with no individual component score less than 6.0. Criminal Records Check: A satisfactory criminal records check will be required.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £11710 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £11710 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £11710 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £11710 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £11710 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £11710 | Year 1 |
| International | £22970 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
Queen Margaret University Drive
Musselburgh
Edinburgh
EH21 6UU