(Part time) 2019 start
Diagnostic Imaging PGCert
Overview
The Diagnostic Imaging programme is designed to match the professional development needs of the diagnostic imaging practitioner and the changing needs of patients in the modern healthcare system. It aims to develop highly competent practitioners who can make a real contribution to healthcare services.
This multi-disciplinary programme will appeal to a range of healthcare professionals including radiographers, clinical physiologists, mammographers, sonographers, medical doctors, nurses, clinical scientists. It offers:
- specialist clinical expertise underpinned by in-depth theoretical knowledge, including of specialist areas of diagnostic imaging, such as medical ultrasound and breast imaging.
- an understanding of the evidence and research base of the discipline.
We have a highly successful record of teaching breast imaging and medical ultrasound at postgraduate level. You’ll benefit from being part of the School of Medicine, with its world-leading research and expertise.
You can also study this subject at Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) and Master of Science (180 credit) levels.
Accreditation
The PGCert Diagnostic Imaging offered by the University of Leeds was approved by the College of Radiographers for a period of five years, from June 2016 to June 2021 inclusive. The programme is also accredited by the Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education (CASE).
Exemptions
<p>Students obtaining a Postgraduate Certificate which includes the Mammography Technique module will be eligible to apply for the College of Radiographers’ Postgraduate Award in Mammography.</p>Course content
The programme content reflects the increasing demand for focused and in-depth training in specialist areas of diagnostic imaging. It is both research-led and evidence based.
On the PGCert programme you study modules worth 60 or 75 credits. All students study a combination of Science and Technology, Professional Issues and Imaging Practice modules. A wide range of optional modules allow you to tailor your studies to your professional interests.
Some modules listed below contain a number of options. The Professional Work Based Learning module enables you to undertake a work-based project. The Negotiated Imaging Practice module offers a range of options, including: Breast Ultrasound, Cardiac Ultrasound, Musculoskeletal Ultrasound or Vascular Ultrasound.
In addition, we may support alternative areas of clinical practice by negotiation. Each module (15 credit equivalent) requires 3 to 5 days attendance at the University (for 30 credits this is 6-10 days), in addition to independent learning and practical skill development in order to achieve success in assessment and be of value to the student and their workplace. Students who already have a Postgraduate Diagnostic Imaging qualification may access certain 30-credit modules on a free-standing basis.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.
Learning and teaching
The course is designed to allow you as much choice as possible in the way that you study. Methods of training are highly participative with a combination of tutor-led input and support, learning through group work and discussion, and individual exercises and practice.
Assessment
Our assessment methods have been carefully chosen to develop the skills that imaging students will use in specialist and advanced clinical practice. The assessment of your competence to practice takes place via an observed clinical session or by portfolio, depending on the module. Other assessments include case reports, essays and Objective Structured Examinations.
Applying, fees and funding
Entry requirements
We typically require a 2:1 honours health-related degree from a recognised higher education institution in an appropriate subject, eg BSc (hons) in Radiography, Nursing, Midwifery, Clinical Physiology or Medicine. Applicants with a 2:2 degree and 1 year’s clinical experience also meet the entry criteria
You must also provide:
- documentary evidence of financial and clinical support
- written agreement of clinical placement availability
- identification of a suitably qualified/experienced named clinical mentor who will provide clinical learning support and supervision in the workplace.
The programme is generally not suitable for students who are from overseas as the entry criteria include a UK clinical placement.
English language requirements
IELTS 7.0 overall, with no less than 7.0 in any component..How to apply
This link takes you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.
If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Selection principles
Every applicant is invited to a recruitment half-day at the University, which may include a personal face-to face interview. You’ll be asked to identify your individual learning needs and your clinical placement site, so the course team can advise you on the most appropriate course/modules and time scale for study.
Admissions policy
School of Medicine Taught Postgraduate Policy 2019
Fees
- UK: £3,500 (total)
Read more about paying fees and charges.
Additional cost information
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs
Scholarships and financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more at Masters funding overview.
NHS Yorkshire and Humber employees
A limited number of funded places are available for some NHS staff in the Yorkshire and Humberside region. If you are interested in this possibility, we encourage you to apply early to the course. Please discuss any proposed study with your line manager.
Career opportunities
Graduates will use the postgraduate qualification to enable them to be employed as a sonographer in the UK or abroad.
Careers Support
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.