Program Overview

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Musculoskeletal Ultrasound PGCert

The Postgraduate Certificate in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound is a clinically focused course designed for healthcare professionals seeking to develop advanced diagnostic imaging skills. Delivered through a flexible blended learning model, the course combines online theoretical instruction with hands-on practical sessions in state-of-the-art anatomy labs.

Course Overview

The course is ideal for physiotherapists, radiographers, sonographers, doctors, and other registered professionals working in musculoskeletal or sport and exercise medicine settings. Teaching is led by an experienced MSK radiologist and two sport, exercise, and musculoskeletal medicine consultants, providing real-world applied cases and expertise in both diagnostic and point-of-care ultrasound.

Course Structure

The course is structured around two integrated modules that build progressively from foundational ultrasound principles to advanced clinical application. The modular design allows students to develop both technical scanning skills and interpretative expertise in a coherent and clinically relevant sequence.

Modules

• Module 1: MSK Ultrasound Anatomy and Fundamentals 30 credits
  • This module introduces the foundational principles of MSK ultrasound, including ultrasound physics, probe handling, and image optimisation.
  • Students explore regional anatomy through cadaveric lab sessions and live scanning practice, covering key areas such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, foot, and ankle.
  • Assessment includes an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), anatomy multiple-choice questions (MCQs), and a formative workbook.
• Module 2: Recognition and Clinical Application of MSK Pathology, Reporting and Logbook 30 credits
  • This module focuses on the clinical application of MSK ultrasound, including pathology recognition and management, interpretative reporting, and reflective practice.
  • Students complete a logbook of 250 ultrasound cases, supported by supervised scanning sessions and case-based discussions.
  • Assessment includes a group poster presentation, logbook submission with reflection, and a formative workbook.

Learning and Teaching

Learning is achieved through a combination of:

• Online asynchronous content to support flexible, self-paced learning
• Face-to-face teaching days featuring anatomy lab sessions, live scanning practice, and clinical seminars
• Formative workbooks to guide reflection and consolidate learning
• Clinical practice and report writing exercises

Assessment

Assessment is designed to be authentic, clinically relevant, and aligned with CASE Level 7 standards, including:

• Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)
• Anatomy multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
• Formative workbook
• Group poster presentation
• Logbook of 250 ultrasound reports with reflective commentary

Entry Requirements

Applicants should normally have at least a 2:2 honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject and appropriate professional registration. Applicants without professional registration are required to have at least one year of relevant post-graduation clinical experience.

English Language Requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.

Fees

UK: Ł4,500 (Total)

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the PG Certificate in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound will be equipped with advanced diagnostic imaging skills, preparing them for roles such as:

• Advanced Practice Roles in physiotherapy, radiography, sonography, and medicine
• Extended Scope Practitioners in MSK and sport and exercise medicine
• Clinical Educators and mentors in ultrasound training
• Diagnostic Imaging Specialists in NHS and private healthcare settings
• Contributors to service development, audit, and research in MSK imaging

Scholarships and Financial Support

There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Scholarships are also available to help fund Masters studies.