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STUDY

Postgraduate

Postgraduate Certificate in Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)

Close up of deteriorating bones
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: N/A
Start date: November 2025
Duration: One year part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: Please see entry requirements
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: N/A
Start date: November 2025
Duration: One year part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: Please see entry requirements
Apply Directly Ask us a question Get a Prospectus
Apply Directly Ask us a question Get a Prospectus

Overview

Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) is a medical imaging technique used primarily to measure bone mineral density (BMD). This non-invasive procedure plays a key role in managing fractures and osteoporosis by assessing bone health and helping in the diagnosis of conditions related to bone density loss. 

During this course, you will develop your understanding of osteoporosis and the role of Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) within the management of fracture risk. You will critically reflect on the theoretical principles, and how they can be applied to practice for the benefit and enhancement of person-centred care.

You will critically review the current evidence-base underpinning DXA Reporting and ensure continuing professional development within this emerging clinical area, endorsing your professional role within the field of DXA, osteoporosis and falls practice.

Ultimately, you will demonstrate the skills to become agents of change for enhanced practice in DXA and osteoporosis management. You will be taught by health care professionals who have worked or are working in a range of roles within the management of fracture risk. They will support you throughout your study, sharing the latest developments in bone densitometry reporting.

The University of Suffolk is world-class and committed to our region. We are proudly modern and innovative and we believe in transformative education. We are on the rise with a focus on student satisfaction, graduate prospects, spending on academic services and student facilities.

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in the UK for graduates in career 15 months after graduation in Health Professions (Radiography and Paramedic)

The Guardian University Guide 2024

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in the UK for spend on academic services

(The Complete University Guide 2024)

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in the UK for social inclusion

(The Good University Guide 2023)

Course Modules

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

Close up of deteriorating bones

In the United Kingdom, osteoporosis and other bone diseases constitute a major health concern. They contribute to significant morbidity, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. This underscores the urgent need for healthcare professionals who possess a deep understanding of these diseases and are equipped to deliver effective care. This module aims to address this need by providing a comprehensive understanding of pathophysiology, risk assessment, diagnostic tools and management strategies related to osteoporosis and bone health. It has been designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to address these challenges in both clinical and public health contexts. The focus on Fracture Liaison Services (FLS) further aligns with national healthcare priorities, contributing to sustainable models of care that reduce fracture incidence and improve quality of life for patients. 

With the national rise in osteoporosis, there is an urgent need for skilled healthcare professionals who can meet the increasing demand for precise DXA reports for bone densitometry assessments. DXA remains the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis, monitoring bone density and evaluating fragility fracture risk. The rise in the aging population has led to a growing prevalence of osteoporosis, which has led to a shortage of qualified DXA reporters to manage the increased clinical workload.
This module addresses this critical gap in education, by equipping healthcare professionals with the advanced skills to perform, analyse and report a range of DXA examinations. This module not only focuses on technical proficiency but also promotes expertise in clinical interpretation, artefact acknowledgement, medicolegal considerations and the integrations of the DXA findings to individualised patient care. Although DXA scanning is predominantly associated with bone density assessments, it is increasingly being used to provide vertebral fracture assessments, produce whole body compositions and paediatric imaging. These are specialised applications of DXA scanning, which are not taught at other institutions in the country. These specialties of DXA will also be covered in this module, to equip you with the skills and knowledge to acquire and analyse these scans when encountered.
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WHY SUFFOLK

2nd in the UK for Career Prospects

WUSCA 2024

3rd in the UK for spend on academic services

Complete University Guide 2025

4th in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction

Guardian University Guide 2024

Entry Requirements

BSc (Hons) first degree in a relevant relevant subject

 

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  • Current professional registration with a relevant professional body
  • Currently working in the field for a minimum of one year
  • Suitable qualified mentor to sign off competencies
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Career Opportunities

You will have the opportunity to progress in your current job role to undertake and potentially report on DXA scans.  

 

Fees and Funding

UK Part-Time Tuition Fee

£1,525*

per 30 credit module

*Please contact the Student Centre for further details

Further Information

Postgraduate Loans are available for this course, we also offer University of Suffolk Alumni a 25% reduction on fees, find out more below.

Postgraduate Funding Alumni Loyalty Scheme International Students

Your Course Team

Gemma Spelman

Gemma is a Diagnostic Radiographer by background and before joining the university was a Senior Radiographer at her local hospital.

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Professor Ruth Strudwick

Ruth is Head of Allied Health Professions and Associate Professor in Diagnostic Radiography.

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Facilities and Resources

Whatever you choose to study, you will learn in state-of-the-art surroundings. We have invested across the University to create an environment showcasing the latest teaching facilities enabling you to achieve great things. 

Every teaching room has state-of-the-art AV equipment enhancing students learning experience and spread across the open study areas there are approximately 50 iMacs. The dual function technology allows students to choose between Microsoft Windows and Apple Mac software, allowing students to utilise the technology that best supports their chosen field of study. 

The Waterfront Building supports flexible learning with open study on all floors, where students can access networked computers. 

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The Waterfront Building
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Students working on our iMacs
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Lecture Theatre in the Waterfront building
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How to apply

Applying for a postgraduate programme is simple, you can apply using the link below. You can also find out more about what to include on your application and how to contact us for support during the process on the Postgraduate Study link.

Apply Now Postgraduate Study
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NEXT STEPS

Now you know more about the course, we can guide you through the next steps.

HOW TO APPLY
ACCOMMODATION
FUNDING YOUR COURSE
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