PGCert Mammography Principles and Practice

Program Overview

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PGCert Mammography Principles and Practice

Introduction

This course facilitates the student to become a proficient mammography practitioner, capable of producing high-quality mammographic images with a thorough knowledge and understanding of the underpinning evidence base.

Method of Assessment

• Clinical Record of Achievement - clinical portfolio and reflection
• A written clinical audit
• Online examination

Course Details

All about the course

The student will be encouraged to reflect upon their clinical experience and that of the service user journey to gain a deeper appreciation of both and improve their professional practice over the duration of the course. The online learning utilises bespoke elements, the excellent e-Learning for Health resources, and the National Breast Imaging Academy’s expertise to support the overall learning package.

As a student on a postgraduate certificate, you are expected to be an independent learner, able to identify your own learning needs and work toward achieving them. Completing the postgraduate certificate will enable you to develop your skills to become competent in performing an imaging technique.

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What will I be doing?

The module will be delivered using a blended learning approach. Some content will be delivered on campus at the University of Salford within our new imaging facility. The University’s Virtual Learning Environment, Blackboard Ultra, will be used for live online tutorials as well as providing students with directed learning resources and access to the University library’s extensive databases to complete independent learning.

Our team consists of academic and clinical experts. We collaborate with experienced honorary staff to develop an up-to-date curriculum and student-centered learning. You will be supported by an academic personal tutor.

You will work under the supervision of a clinical mentor at your site to complete a clinical caseload. Your employer must provide a suitably qualified clinical mentor who will provide regular supervision and support you through your course.

The School of Health and Society

The School of Health and Society is a forward-thinking, dynamic school with a commitment to lifelong learning and real-world impact.

Our courses are informed by the latest research, and we work closely with organisations from both the public and private sector to ensure our teaching is at the forefront of practice. The University has received approval for a new health building on the Frederick Road campus which will create brand new teaching spaces, including new Podiatry spaces. Construction will begin in late 2024, with completion expected by Autumn 2026. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a health and wellbeing hub, supporting popular healthcare courses and community services. It will feature sustainable design elements and provide modern clinical facilities to enhance student learning and community engagement. Find out more about our new Health Building.

In time community healthcare clinics will also take place there as partnerships are developed to explore research opportunities and to provide a range of therapeutic sessions.

Employment and Stats

What about after uni?

This certificate will enable you to work as a mammographer within breast screening and symptomatic clinics. If you'd like to continue your professional development in breast imaging we have a range of modules on our MSc Advanced Medical Imaging programme.

Career Links

As a school, we work with over 100 health and social care organisations, so our links with industry are very strong. These relationships will be of direct benefit to you because our academic team works in practice in some of these organisations at a senior level, keeping you at the forefront of developments in the sector, which in turn helps you provide a better service.

Requirements

What you need to know

• Any prospective student requires a placement site and a mentor, who must be a qualified mammographer. We require further information about the placement site as part of the application process. This information is gathered from the mentor via this form.
• Please ensure that your mentor completes this as soon as possible after you have submitted your application.

Application Checklist

• Complete the online application using the big red button at the top of this page. Ensure the following are included with your application:
  • Evidence of all previous qualifications
  • Completed verification form

Entry Requirements

• Undergraduate degree: You will hold a degree in BSc (Hons) in Diagnostic Radiography or other health care professional qualification, 2:1 or above.
• If you do not meet our entry requirements you will be asked to complete a writing task prior to being made an offer to study, please ensure that you apply in good time for this to be completed.

English Language Requirements

• If you are an international student and not from a majority English-speaking country, you will need IELTS 7.0 with no element below 6.5. We also accept a range of other English language qualifications.
• If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take the Pre-Sessional English course to gain entry onto this degree.

Alternative Entry Requirements

• Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)

We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.

There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.

To be considered for the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme you must have already achieved or be working towards GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4 (or equivalent).

Fees

• Type of study: Part-time
• Year: 2025/26
• Fees: £3,840

Additional Costs

You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview

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Overview:

The PGCert Mammography Principles and Practice program empowers students to become skilled practitioners in the field of mammography. The program equips them with the knowledge and practical skills required to produce high-quality mammographic images, while fostering a strong understanding of the evidence-based principles underpinning the practice.

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Objectives:

• Develop expertise in performing mammography, ensuring high-quality image acquisition.
• Cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills within the mammography domain.

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Program Description:

The PGCert Mammography Principles and Practice is a one-year part-time program designed for individuals seeking to advance their careers in mammography. The curriculum blends online learning and on-campus sessions at the University of Salford's advanced imaging facility. Students will engage with a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The program curriculum covers:

• Image Acquisition Techniques: Mastering the art of acquiring high-quality mammograms, encompassing positioning, technical factors, and image optimization.
• Anatomy and Pathology: Gaining a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the breast and common pathologies associated with breast cancer.
• Image Interpretation: Developing the ability to interpret mammograms effectively, identifying normal and abnormal findings.
• Quality Assurance and Safety: Implementing best practices in quality assurance and upholding patient safety within the mammography setting.
• Professional Development: Refining communication and interpersonal skills essential for effective collaboration within the healthcare team.
• Image Interpretation: Mastering the skills of image interpretation, recognizing normal variations and identifying potential abnormalities indicative of breast cancer.
• Clinical Practice: Gaining valuable hands-on experience through clinical rotations under the supervision of a qualified mentor.

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Structure:

The program comprises a blend of online learning modules and on-campus sessions.

• Online Learning: Students engage with interactive online modules, accessing e-learning resources, attending live online tutorials, and completing assignments.

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Course Schedule:

The specific course schedule is subject to change, but typically includes modules covering:

• Mammography Principles
• Anatomy and Pathology
• Image Interpretation
• Clinical Practice
• Quality Assurance and Safety
• Professional Development

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Module Descriptions:

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Mammography Principles:

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Image Interpretation:

This module focuses on developing the skills of image interpretation, enabling students to recognize normal variations and identify potential abnormalities indicative of breast cancer.

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Clinical Practice:

This module offers valuable hands-on experience through clinical rotations under the supervision of a qualified mentor. Students gain practical experience in performing mammograms and interpreting images.

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Quality Assurance and Safety:

This module emphasizes best practices in quality assurance and upholds patient safety within the mammography setting.

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Professional Development:

This module refines communication and interpersonal skills, fostering effective collaboration within the healthcare team.

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods:

The PGCert Mammography Principles and Practice program employs a multifaceted assessment approach:

• Clinical Record of Achievement: Students maintain a clinical portfolio, documenting their reflections on their clinical experience.
• Clinical Audit: Students complete a written audit of a clinical case, demonstrating their understanding of quality assurance principles.
• Online Examination: Students participate in an online examination to assess their theoretical knowledge of mammography principles and practice.

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Assessment Criteria:

Assessments are evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Accuracy and depth of knowledge
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication
• Professionalism and ethical conduct

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods:

The PGCert Mammography Principles and Practice program utilizes a variety of teaching methods:

• Live Online Tutorials: Students engage in real-time online discussions and interact with faculty and classmates.
• On-Campus Sessions: The on-campus sessions offer hands-on training and allow students to interact with faculty and peers in a collaborative environment.
• Case Studies: Students engage with real-world case studies to hone their problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities.

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Faculty:

The program boasts a team of highly qualified and experienced faculty members, including academic and clinical experts. The faculty consists of specialists in mammography with extensive clinical experience.

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Unique Approaches:

• Blended Learning: The program combines online learning with on-campus sessions, offering flexibility and a rich learning experience.
• Clinical Experience: The program incorporates clinical rotations, providing hands-on training and real-world application of knowledge.
• Collaboration with National Breast Imaging Academy: The program benefits from the expertise of the National Breast Imaging Academy, ensuring access to up-to-date curriculum and student-centered learning.

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Careers

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Career Opportunities:

Upon successful completion of the PGCert Mammography Principles and Practice program, graduates are well-positioned to pursue careers as:

• Mammographers: Performing mammograms and interpreting images within breast screening programs and symptomatic clinics.
• Advanced Practitioners in Mammography: With additional experience and qualifications, graduates can advance to roles with increased responsibilities, such as leading and supervising other mammographers.

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Career Outcomes:

Graduates of the PGCert Mammography Principles and Practice program will be equipped with in-demand skills and knowledge, enhancing their career prospects within the field of mammography. The program prepares graduates for successful employment opportunities in:

• NHS Breast Screening Programs
• Private Imaging Centers
• Hospitals and Clinics

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