Program Overview

---

Introduction to the Master of Diagnostic Radiography Course

The Master of Diagnostic Radiography course at Robert Gordon University is designed to provide students with the in-depth knowledge, clinical practice, and interprofessional learning experience necessary to start a career in the health service. The course focuses on patient-centered care, ensuring that students gain the skills highly desired within healthcare.

Course Overview

The course is developed with patient-centered care at the forefront, providing students with a strong foundation to start their career within the health service. Alongside vital clinical skills, students will also become confident in their softer skills, such as communication and teamwork. These skills will be further enhanced through diverse practice placements, where students will spend 50% of their time experiencing various radiography roles.

Mode of Study and Attendance

• Mode of Study: On Campus
• Mode of Attendance: Full Time
• Start Date: September
• Course Length: 4 years

What You Will Study

The course comprises two terms each year, consisting of academic and/or practice placement modules. Academic modules are studied within RGU and include lectures, tutorials, seminars, workshops, group work, and practical sessions.

Year 1

In the first year, students will study applied radiographic anatomy and pathology, as well as professional identity, ethics, and values, and radiographic practice. Interprofessional learning with other healthcare professions is experienced before the clinical education placement.

Year 2

In the second year, students will further develop their knowledge of the application of technologies and develop skills in self-appraisal, the measurement of outcome, and evidence-based practice. An eight-week clinical placement is undertaken, refining reflective practice skills and considering values within healthcare.

Year 3

In the third year, students take increasing responsibility for individual learning and decision-making, increasing their competence in clinical practice. They learn about highly specialist advanced practice roles in radiography and the professional, medico-legal, and ethical implications of such developments.

Year 4

In the final year, the research project and interprofessional learning develop students' skills in research, leadership, management, partnership working, service redesign, and quality improvement, preparing them for future career progression.

Student Stories

Students and graduates share their experiences studying this course, providing insights into the learning experience and career outcomes.

Sustainability Commitment

The course incorporates learning about reducing the environmental impact of healthcare, ensuring that future radiographers can make informed decisions for the benefit of people and the planet.

Events

The university hosts on-campus and virtual events for prospective students to learn more about the course, student experience, and future career paths.

Course and Module Information

Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The university regularly reviews its courses, and course content and structure may change over time.

Learning Methods

Each year of the course consists of academic and/or practice placement modules, with a mix of lectures, tutorials, seminars, workshops, group work, and practical sessions.

Activity Summary

• Lectures: 35 students per group, 10 hours per week
• Tutorials: 35 students per group, 4 hours per week
• Project Supervision: 4-6 students per group
• Independent Study: 500 hours per term
• Placement/Work-Based Learning: 35 students per group, 185 hours per term

Independent Study

Students spend approximately 20 hours per week outside of class working on their own, doing prescribed reading, preparing answers to tutorial assignments, and researching and writing course reports.

Staff Delivering the Course

All members of the academic staff team are qualified Diagnostic Radiographers registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and are members of the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR).

Assessment

Students are assessed each year through a combination of written exams, written assignments, reports, portfolios, practical skills assessments, and clinical placements.

Feedback

The university aims to provide students with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework, and practical exams.

Academic Support

The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia, and other specific learning differences.

Online Learning and Support

All undergraduate and postgraduate students benefit from using the university's collaborative virtual learning environment, Moodle, which provides 24/7 online access to learning material and resources.

Study Skills Support

The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in academic writing, study skills, maths and statistics, and information technology support.

Library Support

The Library offers support for the course, including books, eBooks, and journals, as well as online reading lists, workshops, and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing.

Placements

The university arranges for all students to rotate around a range of placements, giving them experience of the spectrum of radiography roles. Past placements have been in major regional centers, district general hospitals, community hospitals, and remote hospitals.

Job Prospects

As a Diagnostic Radiographer, graduates will use sophisticated X-ray technology and a range of specialist imaging modalities to help in the detection, monitoring, and treatment of patients' illnesses. They will work in a wide range of areas, from pediatrics to the elderly, and A&E to surgery, making a difference to patients' lives.

Is Diagnostic Radiography a Good Career Choice?

The integrated Master of Diagnostic Radiography curriculum allows students to extend their competence, knowledge, and skills beyond those required of an entry-level practitioner, enhancing their employability and future career progression.

Standard Entry Requirements

• SQA Higher: BBBC to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English) and two from Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths, and Physics.
• GCE A Level: BCC to include two from Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths, or Physics. English at GCSE grade 6/B if not held at A-level.
• Irish Leaving Certificate Higher: H2H3H3H3 to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English) and two from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, or Physics.
• IB Diploma: 27 to include Higher Level English (or a written subject requiring the use of English) at Grade 5 and two from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, or Physics at Higher Level.

Minimum Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements for widening access applicants are:

• SQA Higher: BCCC to include English or a written subject requiring the use of English and two from Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths, and Physics.

Alternative Qualifications

The university welcomes applications from those with equivalent qualifications to those stated, including SVQs/NVQs, access programs, Foundation Apprenticeships, and overseas qualifications.

International Students

International students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for this course can gain additional entry points through the International College at Robert Gordon University.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 7.0 overall, with no component lower than 6.5, or an equivalent.

Academic Year 2024/25 Fees

• Scottish Students: Ł1,820 per year for four years
• Rest of UK Students: Ł9,535 per year for four years
• International Students: Ł17,570 per year for four years

Academic Year 2023/24 Fees

• Scottish Students: Ł1,820 per year for four years
• Rest of UK Students: Ł7,220 per year for four years
• International Students: Ł16,980 per year for four years

Additional Costs

Students are responsible for the payment of travel and accommodation during practice placements and may need to purchase uniforms and equipment.

Student Funding

Scottish residents may be eligible for funding and should apply to SAAS for funding. Students from other parts of the UK should visit the appropriate website for their country.

Scholarships and Financial Awards

Students may qualify for a scholarship or financial award to support their studies.

Accreditation

The course is approved by the Society and College of Radiographers and is regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council.

Facilities

The university has a range of facilities to support the course, including a Radiography Suite and a Clinical Skills Centre.

Apply

Applicants can apply through UCAS, and the university has a range of resources to support the application process.