Professional Certificate Forensic Radiography

Course description

The focus will be on the history and role of forensic radiography in forensic medicine and science, an introduction to medico-legal aspects of forensic radiography, practical approaches and issues in forensic radiography, roles and responsibilities, injury processes and pathologies, and an introduction to developments in forensic radiography.

The role and responsibilities of the radiographer, together with evidence-based, safe and legal practice is emphasised throughout. Students are provided with a set of skills that will allow them to develop or to enhance an existing forensic imaging service.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

1. Provide an introductory theoretical background for radiographers to undertake forensic radiography examinations.
2. Consider the application of this theory to practice.
3. Discuss the legal issues surrounding the practice of forensic radiography in Ireland.
4. Provide radiographers with the basic skills required to deal with ante and post mortem cause.

This module builds on students' existing knowledge. The module allows the students to develop a wider appreciation and understanding of forensic imaging and its current applications.

Professional Skills

On commpletion of this module students will be able to gather, analyse and critically evaluate information from a wide range of sources. Students should also be able to critically reflect and evaluate their individual professional practice and knowledge base in order to recognise their need for continuous professional development and lifelong learning.

Entry criteria

• BSc in Radiography/Diagnostic Imaging or equivalent.
• One year of post-qualification experience in Radiography/Diagnostic Imaging or other forensic discipline is desirable.

How to apply

• Click on the www.ucd.ie/apply link and follow the steps outlined. 
• The “Application Type” is Graduate Taught Courses. 
• Fill in your personal details, and when asked about the “Programme Choice”, select Forensic Radiography (Professional Certificate) P/T X386. 
• Next, enter details of any third level institutions you have attended and professional qualifications you have attained in the “Academic Background” section. 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 here. 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 end of the summary.
• If you have any problems or queries with the online application process, email: applications@ucd.ie or telephone: + 353 1 716 1142 or 1476.

For information on course fees please visit:

EU applicants fees

Non EU applicants fees

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The course is composed of:

• Lecture attendance
• Practical demonstrations
• Small group sessions
• Online learning
• Practical workshops

This course is of relevance to all radiographers (regardless of level of forensic radiography experience). 

This course is targeted towards:

• Practising radiographers (with varying levels of forensic radiography experience)
• Non-radiography forensic professionals who wish to broaden their knowledge and understanding of forensic radiography and related issues.

It may also act as an entry level module for further studies up to masters level or for research in forensic imaging.

• International applicants should contact the academic programme director for a full list of entry requirements.
• A list of FAQs for international applicants is available here.
• Information on studying at UCD as international students is available here.