Course Description

The programme will develop the expertise of radiographers working in the field of CT and will broaden knowledge of routine and advanced applications, communication skills and analytical thinking. Students have the option to continue their studies towards an MSc Computed Tomography by taking a further 30 credits over four months. This course builds on appropriate undergraduate study and existing clinical practice skills to enable radiographers to manage CT service provision and perform specialist CT examinations.

Modules

Technology of Computed Tomography I

This module endeavors to develop in the student an understanding of the physical theories and principles underlying Multidetector CT technology, thus encouraging a broader spectrum of clinical operation. It also aims to develop an understanding of the principles of radiation protection and their application in computed tomography. This module focuses on CT scanner design, data acquisition & processing, dosimetry and image quality. The module is delivered as a mix of on campus lecture blocks and distance e-learning units and is assessed by coursework and written examination.

Practice of Computed Tomography I

This module aims to enable students to expand on their current clinical and theoretical knowledge of fundamental CT scanning protocols. Five major themes form the basis of this module: Head and Neck CT, Body CT, Musculoskletal CT , Contrast Agents and CT Facility Management. For each theme, students are encouraged to investigate and analyse issues relating to clinical indications, patient preparation, scanning principles, radiation dose and image quality.

Technology of Computed Tomography II

This module endeavors to develop in students, an understanding of CT scanning parameters, thus encouraging a broader spectrum of clinical operation. It explores advanced image processing techniques and clinical applications. It also aims to develop an understanding of the importance of quality control for CT scanners & its application in conventional and radiotherapy CT. This module also focuses on the management of equipment throughout its lifecycle and is assessed by coursework and written examination.

Practice of Computed Tomography II

This module aims to enable students to develop their existing knowledge base to incorporate more advanced and multi-phasic CT protocols. Five major themes form the basis of this module: Head CT, Body CT, Musculoskeletal CT, Contrast Agents and CT Facility Management. For each of the above themes, students are encouraged to critically evaluate and analyse issues relating to clinical indications, patient preparation, scanning principles, radiation dose and image quality.

Clinical Practice of Computed Tomography

This clinical practice module aims to facilitate the integration of theoretical concepts and professional clinical practice in order to consolidate the learning process. This module endeavors to cultivate in students a critical and questioning approach to multi-detector CT practice. It also aims to help students to develop professionally in a manner that is largely autonomous. 

Professional Clinical Practice

Students will be required to present a record of their professional practice for all of the above modules at certain intervals throughout the programme. These hours may be spread over the calendar year, with more hours undertaken in semesters 1 & 2 and fewer pro rata in semester 3 however students must ensure that they have completed the required number of clinical hours in order to be awarded the Graduate Diploma.

This graduate diploma confers clinical competence and thus there is an emphasis on development of clinical skills and integration of theory and practice. Students must undertake 750 clinical hours during the course of the programme to gain the necessary specialist clinical skills in CT scanning.

Students are provided with a solid foundation in the principles, theory and practice of CT. Students will sharpen their reflective and evaluative skills and will develop essential skills to provide high quality care and positive outcomes in clinical practice. This programme enables radiographers to partake in collaborative learning and self-directed/autonomous study.

Overview

• This programme is open to any radiographer with at least one year post qualification experience and Department of Health approval to practise radiography in Ireland or Health Professions Council approval to practise radiography in the UK & Northern Ireland. 
• All candidates are required to undertake a minimum of four months of clinical work experience in CT scanning prior to commencing the course and provide documented evidence of same.
• All candidates must arrange their own clinical placement and provide evidence of an agreement to spend a minimum of 785 hours (22.5 weeks) gaining practical experience in CT over the duration of the programme.
• Candidates are required to arrange for a suitably qualified clinical supervisor to oversee their clinical experience.
• Details must be provided to the Academic Programme Co-ordinator during first week of course.
• A Clinical Hours Declaration form must be signed by your Radiographic Services Manager, indicating agreement to provide the requisite number of clinical hour during the course and confirming the requisite pre-course clinical experience in CT. This must be submitted together with other necessary documentation specified in the on line application process.

Essential Requirements

International applicants must:

• Hold a BSc (Honours) or equivalent in Diagnostic Radiography.
• Have attained a minimum score of 7.0 in IELTS (a minimum of 6 in each band) or 600 in TOEFL (250+ computer-based; 100+ iTB score; with test of written English at 475+). All test results must be less than 2 years old.
• Have attained at least 8 months clinical work experience in CT prior to commencing the course, and provide documented evidence supporting this.
• Provide an academic and clinical reference support your commitment to and ability to undertake this course.
• Please note that even if the above criteria are met, the offer of a place to international students is also dependent upon the University’s ability to negotiate clinical placement in a CT department of a Dublin-based hospital over the duration of the course. It will not be possible to confirm the outcome of these negotiations until the weeks prior to the start of the course.
• International applicants wishing to undertake this course are advised to contact the Academic Programme Director for information (edel.thomas@ucd.ie) regarding availability of places and eligibility.

Application Procedure

• Please ensure that you have read attached course information, the requirements and guidelines prior to commencing the online application process.  
• Please quote your application number in all correspondence in connection with your application and ensure that it is on any documentation submitted. 
• See below the additional documents that you need to download to complete and forward with your application. Further information on required documentation is available in the relevant section of the online application webpage. Your application will not be considered until all the requested documentation has been received.

Clinical Hours Declaration Form

Download: Clinical Declaration Form CT 

• To be submitted by all applicants who have organised clinical placement in a CT department for the duration of the programme.
• The University will organise completion of this form for the international applicants. 

To Apply Online

• Click on the www.ucd.ie/apply link and follow the steps outlined. The “Application Type” is Graduate Taught Courses, and “Admission Term” is Sept 2012 - 2013. Fill in your personal details, and when asked about the “Programme Choice”, select Computed Tomography (Graduate Diploma in Med) X021.
• Please note that selection of this programme code implies that you wish to apply for the taught Graduate Diploma in CT, and the corresponding fee will be applied.
• Having paid the application fee and received an e-mail receipt, you must continue to complete the application process by pressing “submit”. An e-mail confirming successful application will be sent to you within 24 hours. A detailed, step-by step guide to the online application process is available at www.ucd.ie/apply.
• You can track the status of your documentation online. Log in to your account & click on your submitted application. This will bring up an application summary. The application requirements are listed at the bottom of the summary. As we receive documents, the date of receipt will appear here.

Programme Administrator

Academic Programme Director

• For more information on course fees please visit the Fees & Grants Office website.
• Fees are correct at the time of writing and subject to change.