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Postgraduate Certificate in Magnetic Resonance Imaging

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RS2725 Open Day (5) (2)
Institution code: 
S82
Location: 
Ipswich
Duration: 

One year part-time.

Typical Offer: 

Please see Entry Requirements below.

This course will allow you to develop your theoretical knowledge and your clinical experience and apply these to current practice. This will support the development of MRI services within your department and equip you with skills and knowledge to evidence your role as an advanced practitioner in MRI. 

Introduction

This course has been designed to support the advancing practice of radiographers in the field of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).  Between April 2019 and March 2020, 44.9 million diagnostic imaging examinations took place in England alone of which 3.8 million were MRI scans. This is an increase of 1.8% on the year 2018-19 and it is fully expected that this will continue year on year.

The NHS Long-Term Plan (2019) acknowledged that imaging services have been under extreme pressure for some time and as a result, it recommended the implementation of Imaging Networks by 2023. In the same year, there was also a Manifesto pledge made by the Prime Minister in which the government committed to replace all MRI, Computed Tomography (CT) and Mammography equipment over the next ten years. This was reinforced by the need to increase the number of scanners (both MRI and CT) per head of population in the Richard’s Review (2020).  This led to the investment of three Diagnostic Assessment Centres in Norfolk and Waveney. In order that these dedicated imaging centres are effectively staffed, there needs to be a radical workforce design and numbers of radiographers specialising in these imaging modalities needs to be increased. 

This is a new course provision which will support the development of current practitioners in the specialism of MRI.  It will enable radiographers to develop their theoretical knowledge and skills in this area of imaging and to develop service improvement within their workplace. 

Course modules

Full downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

Fundamentals of MRI 20 credits (Mandatory)

This module will enhance students’ overall understanding the technical aspects of MRI scanning. It will provide students with a firm theoretical grounding of the physics principles, clinical application, and technical innovation. The purpose of this module is to equip the students with skills and knowledge to underpin and influence their practice.

Delivery days
28 October 2022, 4 November 2022, 11 November 2022, 18 November 2022, 25 November 2022 and 2 December 2022
13 January 2023 — exam

MRI Principles and Practice: Work-based Learning 20 credits (Mandatory)

Students will learn about the range of MRI techniques which are used to diagnose conditions and trauma. Students will be required to complete a portfolio to evidence their clinical competence in MRI and will be given the opportunity to reflect on their practice.   

Delivery days
20 January 2023, 27 January 2023, 3 February 2023, 10 February 2023 and 17 February 2023

Managing Effective Care in MRI 20 credits (Mandatory)

During this module, students will acquire the skills set to develop and manage a MRI service.  The student will critically explore a range of service models, develop service standards and design clinical protocols to ensure best practice.

The student will also critically examine the NHS quality assurance mechanisms and evaluate their effectiveness in monitoring a MRI service.  As part of this module, the students will develop a range of skills needed to lead and manage a MRI service and understand the importance of effective interprofessional communication and teamwork

Delivery days
24 February 2023, 3 March 2023, 10 March 2023, 17 March 2023 and 24 March 2023
 

Career opportunities

All students will already hold posts across the healthcare sector, nonetheless completion of this programme will enable students to progress into advanced practitioner/lead roles in MRI.   Students completing the PGC element of the programme will be encouraged to apply for Advanced Practitioner Accreditation with the Society and College of Radiographers.   

Fees and finance

2023-24

UK part-time tuition fee: £972 per 20 credits (please contact the Student Centre for further information).

Further Information

At the University of Suffolk, your tuition fees provide access to all the usual teaching and learning facilities that you would expect. However, there may be additional costs associated with your course that you will need to budget for.

 

Entry requirements

Staff

Senior Lecturer in Diagnostic Radiography

Senior Lecturer in Diagnostic Radiography

Lecturer in Diagnostic Radiography

Head of Allied Health Professions and Associate Professor in Diagnostic Radiography

Lecturer in Diagnostic Radiography

External Lecturer: PgC in MRI

Facilities and Resources

This course will be delivered using blended learning and require access to the Ipswich Campus. No specialist equipment is required.