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University of Bradford: Undergraduate Programme specification
UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORDSchool of Health StudiesDivision of Allied Health ProfessionsProgramme title: BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography
Awarding and teaching institution:
University of Bradford
Final award and interim award(s):
BSc (Honours) [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 6]
Diploma of Higher Education [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 5]
Certificate of Higher Education [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 4]
Programme title: Diagnostic Radiography
Health Studies (for students gaining an award who do not meet the clinical or professional body requirements that permit application for professional registration )
Programme approved by Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and College of Radiographers (CoR)
Duration: 3 Years full-time (maximum 5 years)
UCAS code: B821
Subject benchmark statement:
Radiography (2001)
Date produced: 9 March 2011
Last updated : January 2014
Introduction
Diagnostic Radiographers are key members of the health care team in the National Health Service (NHS) and in the private health care sector. By exploiting the properties of X and gamma rays, ultrasound and magnetic fields, and understanding the ways in which they interact with body tissues, a radiographer’s role is to ensure
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the wellbeing and safety of people in their care and produce optimized images of the body which will allow them and others in the health care team to arrive at a diagnosis of disease or injury, thereby informing the future care and management of patients. At the University of Bradford, we will provide you with a supportive and multi-professional learning environment in both academic and clinical settings, to help you develop the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to practise as a diagnostic radiographer. To support its teaching, the Division’s research focuses on developing and advancing clinical radiographic practice which is recognised both nationally and internationally.
A distinctive feature of the Programme is the early commencement of the clinical learning component, which begins in week eight of the Programme. Clinical placements are undertaken in hospitals mainly in West Yorkshire. You will be assigned to a “home” group of hospitals where you will gain the majority of your clinical experience. Another distinctive feature of the Programme is the integration of the sciences studied in radiography and the associated clinical learning into themed modules. To enable this you will have access to all University learning and teaching resources, including the Division of Radiography X-ray room and PACS resource. Practice based learning will see you placed at a hospital trust within West Yorkshire, where you will work with and learn from clinical radiographers providing diagnostic imaging services to the public.
The Programme articulates well with the University of Bradford mission: ‘Making Knowledge Work’. We are providers of high quality teaching, informed by internationally recognised research and knowledge transfer which enables students to achieve their educational aspirations within an inclusive, supportive and sustainable environment.
The University of Bradford, Ecoversity programme aims to embed the principles and practice of sustainability across the entire institution, by encouraging people to adopt sustainable behaviours and lifestyles, but also we have adopted the UNESCO principles for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) with the curriculum (http://www.unesco.org/en/esd/). For you as a student, ESD aims to help you understand the world you live in and take some responsibility for creating a sustainable future at home and at work. The curriculum will help you to develop the attitudes, skills and knowledge to enable you to make informed decisions for the benefit of yourself, patients, carers and other health service users.
Programme Aims
The programme has been written with reference to the QAAHE Benchmark Statement for Diagnostic Radiography (2001), the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (2008, 2011), the HCPC Standards of Education and Training (2009) and the College of Radiographers Approval and Accreditation of Education Programmes and Professional Practice in Radiography (2004). It prepares you to meet the needs of the imaging service in the NHS and Private Sector. It will enable you to:
A1 become a health care professional who is capable of practising diagnostic radiography competently, effectively, safely and autonomously, within a multi-professional team environment, to meet service and service user needs
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A2 become eligible to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council for registration to practice as a radiographer
A3 become eligible to apply for full membership of the Society and College of Radiographers
A4 confidently challenge existing radiographic practice, through the development of critical thinking and clinical reasoning
A5 engage in lifelong learning through the enhancement of personal transferable skills
A6 become a health care practitioner who will take some responsibility for creating a sustainable future by adopting sustainable behaviours and lifestyles in the efficient use of resources and as health care professionals, provide imaging to all our service users regardless of social, economic and cultural background.
Level 4 Learning Outcomes
When you have completed Level 4 of this programme you will be able to:
LO1 Demonstrate knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles associated with your area of study and an ability to evaluate and interpret these within the context of health.
LO2 Demonstrate an ability to present, evaluate and interpret qualitative and quantitative data to develop lines of argument and make sound judgments in accordance with basic theories and concepts relevant to health.
LO3 Evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems related to health.
LO4 Communicate the results of your study/work accurately and reliably, and with structured and coherent arguments
LO5 Have the skills and understanding to undertake further training and develop new skills within a structured and managed environment.
LO6 Demonstrate the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility.
Level 5 Learning Outcomes When you have completed Level 4 of this programme you will be able to:LO1 Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the principles of health
and the way in which these have developed.
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LO2 Demonstrate an ability to apply underlying concepts and principles outside the context in which they were first studied, including the application of those principles in an employment context.
LO3 Demonstrate knowledge of the main methods of enquiry in health, and ability to evaluate critically the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems in health.
LO4 Demonstrate an understanding of the limits of your knowledge and how this impacts on your analyses and interpretations of that knowledge
LO5 Use a range of established techniques to initiate and undertake critical analysis of information, and to propose solutions to problems arising from that analysis
LO6 Effectively communicate information, arguments and analysis in a variety of forms to specialist and non-specialist audiences, and deploy key techniques of the discipline effectively
Programme Learning Outcomes
When you have completed the programme you will be able to:
LO1 practice diagnostic radiography safely, autonomously, competently and effectively, in a multiprofessional health care environment with due regard for the needs of patients and professional colleagues
LO2 evaluate the issues and legislation relating to equality and diversity and apply these to your professional practice
LO3 synthesis your knowledge and understanding of human anatomy, physiology and pathology and to apply this to the planning and production of diagnostic images and their subsequent evaluation
LO4 critically evaluate and interpret requests for imaging investigations to an extent which allows you to make an independent judgement about the need for, and suitability of, the proposed investigation
LO5 relate knowledge of imaging systems, radiation protection principles and legislation to the optimization of dose and image quality
LO6 evaluate the complementary role of medical imaging investigations in patient care
LO7 demonstrate knowledge of sustainability and apply its principles to your learning and subsequent professional practice
LO8 think logically, systematically and conceptually in order to demonstrate evidence based approach to professional practice through the use of research evidence and argument
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LO9 take responsibility for evaluating and improving your own learning by critically reflecting, setting targets, planning and prioritising learning activities
LO10 identify, evaluate, analyse, interpret and synthesise a wide range of relevant information through the reasoned selection of appropriate methods and techniques
LO11 illustrate, present and explain new information in a variety of formats to suit a range of purposes and audiences
LO12 recognise and articulate the significance of continuing professional development and the need to maintain clinical competence through the development of a portfolio of evidence.
Curriculum
Graduates from the Programme will have successfully achieved a standard of education and clinical competence which will allow them to work safely and effectively to the level required by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) as stated in the Standards of Proficiency for Radiographers (HCPC, 2009) and therefore be eligible to apply for registration. During the Programme you will be required to demonstrate that you understand and fulfil the requirements of the Health and Care Professions Council Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics (HCPC, 2008).
Also, the content of the Programme is guided by the radiographers’ professional body the Society and College of Radiographers. Thus the Programme aligns with the requirements of practitioner level radiographers as stated in the Learning and Development Framework (2007).
To ensure you meet the Health and Care Professions Councils Standards of Proficiency for Radiographers (HCPC, 2009), each academic year you will have 18 weeks of placements in local health care facilities. During this time you will develop practical skills related to the learning outcomes for the diagnostic radiography Programme. Clinical proficiency is assessed throughout the Programme. As these proficiencies are linked to the learning outcomes for the modules being studied, failure in clinical assessments will result in you not being eligible to pass profession specific modules and obtain a BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography. You will be eligible for academic credit for all successfully completed modules.
An induction programme which begins before you commence the Programme and continues throughout the first year will enable you adapt to becoming a student studying at university for an honours degree. A range of learning and teaching methods will encourage you to become a learner capable of independent thought and action and thus become an autonomous practitioner who is capable of working collaboratively for the benefit of your patients.
Throughout the three years of the Programme you will have the opportunity to study a range of subject areas including biological, physical and social sciences as well as applied topics relating to radiographic and healthcare practice.
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(Year 1/Stage 1/Level 4)
Main subject areas
During the first year of the Programme you will be introduced to the profession of radiography and the principles of being a collaborative health care practitioner. Major topic areas are anatomy, physiology, pathology and radiographic techniques of the: cardiopulmonary and respiratory system; appendicular skeleton (upper and lower limbs); axial skeleton (skull, spine, and pelvis) and; abdominal organs. In support of the safe use and application of radiographic techniques you will gain and apply knowledge of the fundamentals of X-ray production, radiation protection and imaging technologies. Teaching will be delivered in lectures which will be supported by tutorials and practical sessions which will take place in the radiography clinical skills laboratory which comprises a fully functioning X-ray room, digital acquisition system, and a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) suite. This will enable you to undertake simulated X-ray examinations and view images from our medical imaging library. Carefully planned and supervised elements of teaching will be undertaken by third year radiography students. To prepare you for collaborative professional practice you will be assigned to a group with students studying on other pre-registration health Programmes. Together you will study professional issues, teamwork and study skills utilising face to face contact and on-line discussions.
You will be allocated to a hospital trust where, under the supervision of qualified clinical radiographers, you will assist in undertaking routine radiographic examinations. Study at the University and on placement occurs in blocks throughout the academic year. Assessment takes a wide variety of formats including, at University: computer delivered examinations, assignments; at placement weekly formative feedback on your skill development, objective assessment of your competence in performing a range of routine x-ray examinations and summative assessment of your competence during the final clinical placement of the academic year. Throughout the Programme 100% attendance is required for placement learning and any deficit accrued has to be made good before you can pass the year and proceed to the next year of the Programme or during the final year graduate.
By the end of this year, you will be able to:
Understand the principles of becoming a collaborative, practice ready, health care practitioner.
Demonstrate the knowledge of and the ability to undertake, under supervision, a limited range of radiographic examinations of the appendicular and axial skeleton,
cardiopulmonary and respiratory systems and abdomen. Understand the reason for and apply principles of health and safety, including
appropriate radiation protection.
ModuleCode
Module Title Type Credits Level Study period
HEA-4012L Principles of Professional Practice Core 20 4 S1 & S2
HR-4000T Radiography of the Appendicular Skeleton and Chest
Core 30 4 S1
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HR-4001D Safe and Professional Radiographic Practice
Core 20 4 S1
HR-4002T Radiography of the Axial Skeleton Core 30 4 S2
HR-4003D Introduction to Abdominal Imaging Core 20 4 S2
S1 = semester 1: S2 = semester 2
Successfully completing both the academic and clinical assessments at this stage will make you eligible to exit the programme with an award of Certificate of Higher Education in Health Studies.
Please note:
This award does not confer eligibility to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.
Clinical proficiency is assessed throughout the Programme. As these proficiencies are linked to the learning outcomes for individual profession specific modules, failure in clinical assessments will result in you not being eligible to pass these modules and obtain a BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography. You will be eligible for academic credit for all successfully completed modules.
Year 2/Stage 2/Level 5
Main subject areas
During the second year of the Programme, you will study body systems which require the use of more complex imaging procedures and modalities, many of which will require the use of contrast agents. These include the anatomy, physiology, pathology and radiographic techniques of the: vascular, urinary, gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, reproductive, endocrine and nervous system; and the associated use of contrast agents. This will involve gaining an advanced understanding of image detector technology, exposure and scatter control.
To understand how medical images of these systems are produced, the physical principles and clinical application of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography, bone densitometry and mammography are studied. As a foundation for studies in year 3, policies and procedures for image interpretation are investigated and evaluated.
Your role in the practice of radiography in a diverse society is explored and learning is enhanced through small group discussion with service users who have complex health care needs. Providing equality of service provision to a wide range of service users throughout an extensive range of settings requires evaluation of needs and effective use of a range of equipment. This can only be mastered through learning in the university setting and in the clinical setting.
As part of your professional development you will increase your understanding and the application of professional regulation, the legal status of codes of professional conduct and registration, competence, responsibility and negligence.
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In the year 2, school-wide core module ‘Evidencing Professional Practice’ you will continue to study with your multi-professional tutorial group exploring the evidence underpinning a health promotion message. You will explore the concepts of evidence based practice and how professional knowledge is developed through research. This will allow you to practice diagnostic radiography safely, autonomously, competently and effectively, in a multi-professional health care environment with due regard for the needs of patients and professional colleagues.
Learning will be facilitated using an integrated curriculum utilising lectures supported by tutorials and placement based learning supervised by qualified radiographers. Elements of assessment will include reflective assignments, technical report writing, group work to produce a poster or leaflet and successfully demonstrating competence in clinical practice.
By the end of this year, students will be able to:
Understand and act in accordance with professional and legal principles. Understand and apply the skills required to safely practice radiographic
techniques and procedures for all service users from a diverse population, offering the highest standard of care.
You will have the knowledge and experience to participate in imaging procedures of the vascular, urinary, gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary and reproductive systems; head and nervous system. You will also be able to participate in undertaking procedures in computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography, bone densitometry and mammography.
Module Code
Module Title Type Credits Level Study period
HEA5000L Evidencing Professional Practice Core 20 5 S1 & S2
HR-5000V Imaging Using Contrast Agents Core 30 5 S1 & S2
HR-5001L Practicing Radiography in a Diverse Society
Core 20 5 S1 & S2
HR-5002J Imaging Modalities in Practice Core 30 5 S1 & S2
HR-5003D Principles of Image Interpretation and Reporting
Core 20 5 S2
S1 = semester 1: S2 = semester 2
Successfully completing both the academic and clinical assessments at this stage will make you eligible to exit the programme with an award of Diploma of Higher Education in Health Studies.
Please note: This award does not confer eligibility to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council.
Clinical proficiency is assessed throughout the Programme. As these proficiencies are linked to the learning outcomes for individual profession specific modules, failure in clinical assessments will result in you not being eligible to pass these modules and obtain a BSc (Hons) Diagnostic
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Radiography. You will be eligible for academic credit for all successfully completed modules.
Year 3/Stage 3/Level 6
Main subject areas:
During this, the final year of the Programme, you will study research frameworks and literature review methodology. You will study in depth, an aspect of practice through a review of the literature in the ‘Research for Advancing Practice’ module. In this school core module you will work again with your multi-professional tutorial group.
In preparation for graduate professional practice you will study the biological and health effects of ionising radiation and the principles of radiological physics and protection. You will evaluate and apply the principles of referral and justification of imaging requests to allow you to make an independent judgement about the need for and suitability of the proposed investigation. You will apply your knowledge of imaging systems, radiation protection and legislation to enable you to ensure the optimization of dose and image quality.
You will investigate the role of and analyse the contribution of and complementary roles of medical imaging and other medical interventions in patient care pathways.
Consideration of legal, ethical, cultural and professional issues and the application of these to the clinical supervision of students and health care staff and your future leadership role as a registered practitioner within a sustainable health care system.
Learning will be facilitated using an integrated curriculum utilising lectures supported by tutorials and placement based learning supervised by qualified radiographers. Assessment will focus on the application of knowledge to clinical practice and the ability to apply clinical learning to the analysis of theoretical principles. Assessments will include a 3000 word assignment on the clinical applications of an imaging modality in the diagnosis of disease, group work on a practical experiment to produce data for an individual technical report, an objective structured examination to demonstrate the application of knowledge to the clinical situation; you will produce a case study focussing on the role of imaging in a patient care pathway. As part of the development of your supervisory capacity you will develop an effective learning resource for use by first year radiography students.
Competence in clinical practice is assessed through the successful completion of clinical learning objectives, objective patient assessments and summative assessment of clinical competence by clinical radiographers. 100% attendance at all placement learning opportunities is required. Your Professional Development Portfolio must contain evidence of the successful achievement of all elements of clinical competence and attendance.
By the end of this year, you will be able to:
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practice diagnostic radiography safely, autonomously, competently and effectively, in a multiprofessional health care environment with due regard for the needs of patients and professional colleagues.
Apply principles of pattern recognition to the evaluation, interpretation and reporting of standard medical imaging investigations in accordance with the Health Professions Council Standards of Proficiency;
Be able to perform a standard computed tomography head examination and be able to assist in performing other examinations using computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound procedures, working as part of a multidisciplinary team;
Identify and critically analyse the knowledge base relevant to diagnostic radiography. Evaluate the effectiveness of imaging and other medical investigations in the diagnosis and treatment of disease;
Understand and apply the principles of sustainability to your professional practise, role as a supervisor and leader and engagement in your own future learning and development; be eligible to apply for registration as a diagnostic radiographer with the Health Professions Council, by virtue of having the knowledge, skills, experience and qualification to meet their Standards of Proficiency.
Write a curriculum vitae and be prepared for interview and apply your skills and knowledge to the role of a Band 5 radiography post.
Module Code
Module Title Type Credits Level Study period
HEA6000L Advancing Professional Practice Core 20 6 S1 & S2
HR-6000L Justification, Optimisation and Interpretation in Medical Imaging
Core 30 6 S1 & S2
HR-6001L Clinical Supervision and Leadership Core 20 6 S1 & S2
HR-6002D Medical Imaging Option Core 20 6 S2
HR-6003R Imaging in Context Core 30 6 S1, S2 & S3
S1 = semester 1: S2 = semester 2: S3 = semester 3 (clinical placement)
Successfully completing both the academic and clinical assessments at this stage will make you eligible to receive the award of BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography. This award confers eligibility to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council.
Please note:
Clinical proficiency is assessed throughout the Programme. As these proficiencies are linked to the learning outcomes for individual profession specific modules, failure in clinical assessments will result in you not being eligible to pass the modules from which failed clinical assessments are derived. Therefore you will not be eligible for the award of BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography.
Credit will be awarded for all modules were the academic and clinical components of assessment have been successfully completed. Students who
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have not passed all final year modules (120 credits) due to failing academic or clinical components of assessment may have sufficient credit to be eligible for an exit award of an Ordinary Degree, BSc Health Studies. This award does not confer eligibility to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council. .
The curriculum may change, subject to the University's Programme approval, monitoring and review procedures.
Teaching and Assessment Strategies
In each stage of the Programme, you will study the equivalent of 120 credits across a range of modules. A distinctive feature of the BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography Programme is the way it integrates theory and practice. The Programme does not have separate clinical practice modules, instead each module that you study has integrated academic and clinical practice components.
It is the need for substantial periods of clinical experience during the Programme that means the organisation of the Diagnostic Radiography Programme does not conform to the standard model adopted by this University in terms of Programme length and organisation of semesters.
The BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography Programme duration is three academic years. Each stage of the Programme is of 36 weeks' duration which includes two semesters and an end of year consolidation and clinical assessment placement.
There is an equal weighting between academic and clinical study. Each year there are:
18 weeks of academic study, which will include lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, on-line study, on-line collaboration and private study.
18 weeks of clinical placement education. This occurs within hospitals and other health care environments. There are clinical placements in each semester of the Programme and an extended consolidation and assessment placement at the end of each academic year.
During academic blocks you are expected to spend on average 30 hours per week for study. Whilst you are on placement you will attend for 37.5 hours per week which includes 3½ hours for personal reflection and study. This provides a total of approximately 1200 hours of study per year.
During each stage of the Programme you will have the opportunity to learn from and alongside students and clinical staff from a wide range of health and social care disciplines. It is an essential aspect of modern health care that practitioners do not see their profession in isolation and can understand the role and communicate effectively with everyone involved in patient care. In each year of the Programme there are core modules which give you the opportunity to collaborate with students from other School of Health Studies pre-registration Programmes.
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Level 4 (Year 1)
As part of your induction to the Programme and studying at university, the first module you will be involved in is Safe and Professional Radiographic Practice. Staff from the Division of Radiography, the School of Health Studies (SoHS) and Learner Support Service will introduce you to the Programme and the resources which are available to support you in your learning.
Many of the sessions delivered as part of this module will find you alongside students from other SoHS Programmes. In the module Principles of Collaborative Professional Practice, you will be introduced to a mixed group of pre-registration health care students. During this module, which spans both semesters you will investigate the generic principles of becoming a collaborative health care practitioner. You will remain in contact and work with your group throughout the three years of the Programme giving you the chance to share developing professional knowledge and understanding. Learning about and from other health care professionals occurs throughout the Programme and is particularly encouraged whilst you are at your practice placements.
Radiography specific modules integrate all aspects of knowledge required to undertake the examinations or procedures being studied. For example in the module Radiography of the Appendicular Skeleton and Chest you will study the anatomy, physiology, common pathology and radiographic technique (which includes care of the patient) of the appendicular skeleton (which is the upper and lower limb) and chest. You will be introduced to physical concepts such as fundamentals of X-ray production and exposure factors. This integrated approach ensures that you will acquire all relevant knowledge to be able to undertake X-ray examinations of the body systems being studied. Being able to observe X-ray examinations being performed in practice and then have the opportunity to undertake examinations is an essential element of this Programme. As part of all modules in the Programme, clinical placements are integrated into the learning, teaching and assessment strategy. Therefore each semester has a blend of academic study and clinical learning. In week eight you will attend your allocated clinical placement for the first time and work alongside qualified radiographers then, under supervision, undertake X-ray examinations.
The underpinning physical sciences, for example the production and interactions of X-rays, are studied at a fundamental level in year 1 and then are built upon in years 2 and 3 where more complex imaging procedures and principles are studied.
Level 5 (year 2)
Year 2 builds on general radiography by introducing procedures which may require the using of contrast agents to demonstrate organs and systems. Examples are the urinary and vascular systems. These examinations require injections and the insertion of catheters, therefore patient care is of paramount importance. Therefore consent, infection control and the safe use of drugs are studied to ensure patient welfare and safety at all times. Specialised imaging modalities such as ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are studied. This includes physical principles on which they operate and their clinical application. Supporting this will be placements in appropriate imaging departments where you will observe
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and actively participate as part of the radiography team in a range of procedures. The learning outcomes during these placements are such that you will be able to assist in a range of imaging procedures and undertake a standard computed tomographic examination of the head.
In the year 2 school-wide core module ‘Evidencing Professional Practice’ you will continue to study with your multi-professional tutorial group exploring the evidence underpinning a health promotion message
Level 6 (year 3)
Year 3 allows you to choose one of the specialised imaging modalities to study in more depth and you might chose to arrange a placement in a specialist unit in another part of the UK. This is an example of the independent learning which is a prominent aspect of studying at level 6 (the third year of an undergraduate Programme). You will be supported with lectures, tutorials and supervised by module leaders and your personal academic tutor, however you will be expected to organise and prioritise your workload both in your academic and placement studies.
You will study an aspect of practice in depth through a review of the literature in the ‘Research for Advancing Practice’ module. In this school core module you will work again with your multi-professional tutorial group.
As part of the module Imaging in Context, you will take responsibility for deciding on an area of study and arranging to spend time observing in practice the function of a multi-disciplinary team (MDT). You will work shadow members of the MDT in their clinical environment and at relevant meetings. This will allow you the opportunity to reflect on, and critically review the role of imaging in clinical decision making. You will then work shadow to evaluate the role of one member of the team. The assessment will be a case study based assignment and a presentation to other students and staff.
Assessment Regulations
This Programme conforms to the general principles set out in the standard University Assessment Regulations which are available at the following link:
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/aqpo/ordinances-and-regulations/
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), Standards of Education and Training (SETs), Section 6.11, requires that at least one external examiner who must be appropriately experienced and qualified and, unless other arrangements are agreed, be from the relevant part of the Register, in this case must be an HCPC registered diagnostic radiographer.
Admission Requirements
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The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their previous academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of a candidate’s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability to succeed on this particular programme. Entrance requirements for each programme will vary but consideration of your application will be based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience. Candidates need to have been in education within the five years prior to the start of the Programme.
Applicants who have already completed a degree are welcome to apply. An achievement of a first class or upper second class in a non-science, maths or technology based subject would normally be required although this may be relaxed when a previous degree is considered strongly relevant to diagnostic radiography.
The University of Bradford has always welcomed applications from students with disabilities, and these will be considered on the same academic grounds as are applied to all applicants. If you have a disability or think you may have one, you may wish to contact the university before you apply.
A typical offer to someone seeking entry through the UCAS scheme would be:
5 GCSE passes at grade C or above which must include English and Mathematics or Physics.
320 points to include 3 full A levels, at least one of the A levels should be in a science, maths or technology related subject. Alternatively an overall grade of Distinction, Distinction, Merit in an appropriate BTEC National Diploma or an achievement of an average grade of 70% or above in a university foundation year.
However, applications are welcome from those candidates studying non-standard qualifications, such as suitable Access courses in Health Professions or Science. Students studying on an Access course will be asked to obtain 25% of modules at Distinction which must include Science modules, with the remainder of modules at Merit level or above.
On completion of a UCAS form you may be invited to the School for interview and maths and English assessment when you will have the opportunity to meet staff and view the facilities. Offers made to candidates who are studying non-standard qualifications will be bespoke to reflect the individual’s program of study.
Candidates must be able to communicate in English to the standard equivalent to level 7 of the International English Language Testing System, with no element below 6.5.
'All places offered on the Programme are also subject to the candidate’s ability to meet non-academic requirements; these include assessment by an occupational health department and assessment via an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. These are to ensure the student can meet the physical and emotional demands of the programme and the requirements of the Schools Learning and
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Development agreement with Health Education Yorkshire and Humber (HEYH) for protection of the public. Where issues are identified during application in the DBS or occupational health assessment the results will be notified to the applicant and/or candidate as well as the actions proposed by a multi-professional panel.'
Learning Resources
The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist library in the School of Management provide a wide range of printed and electronic resources to support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own, and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow students. Subject librarians for each School provide training sessions and individual guidance in finding the information you need for your assignment, and will help you organise your references properly.
Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus. Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our online journals are available on the internet (both on and off campus), and you can also access your University email account, personal information and Programme-related materials this way.
Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7 IT helpline available.
The School of Health Studies is based in the Horton A Building which houses a number of specialised clinical skills suites. These include a fully functional X-ray room which utilises computed radiography image acquisition and a PACS (picture archiving and communication system) suite which allows students access to a large database of medical images.
Student Support and Guidance
Programme Team
Support for you personally and in your Programme of study, will be provided both by the University and the Programme Team. You will be allocated a Personal Academic Tutor who is someone with whom you will be able to talk about any academic or personal concerns. As part of the BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography Programme, your personal academic tutor will support a group of students who have their clinical placements within a group of hospitals. At the beginning of the Programme you will be assigned to a host group of hospitals and a member of academic staff will assume the role of personal tutor for the students within that group. Your personal tutor will therefore be in a key position to liaise with staff in your host departments to ensure you gain the required experience and monitor your progress whilst on placement. Your Personal Development Portfolio is an essential tool to both direct and record your personal development.
The School will ensure that there is someone available with whom you feel comfortable to help and support you. You will be provided with a comprehensive School and Programme handbook that you can consult on a range of learning and
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assessment issues and your Programme tutors will be available to consult on subject specific queries.
Clinical Placement Support
There are a number of people who will provide support for you whilst you are on clinical placement. Clinical education is organised by a University lecturer, the Clinical Education Co-ordinator. However, your Personal Academic Tutor will organise your placement and undertake supervisory meetings with you and members of the placement team.
Whilst undertaking any imaging procedures, you must be supervised at all times by a qualified clinical radiographer. All radiographers will undertake this supervision; however in each department there is a named radiographer who will undertake the role of Clinical Supervisor. This person will support you by being a source of information about any aspects of clinical radiography. They will help you complete clinical learning objectives and assessments, which are part of your Professional Development Portfolio. They will also liaise with your Personal Academic Tutor to ensure you are gaining the appropriate clinical experience and feedback on your personal development. Your Clinical Supervisor is there to ensure you get appropriate clinical learning. If you have any problems they are on site and can be approached in confidence about any issues you might encounter. They may refer you to your Personal Academic Tutor for further advice.
It is important to note that each medical imaging department has its rules, regulations and protocols which you must abide by. The imaging department and its staff are there to provide a service to the public and their primary duty is to ensure the safety of patients and other service users. Therefore whilst on placement you are accountable to the Medical Imaging Services Manager for your placement hospital. The Division of Radiography maintains close liaison with medical imaging services staff.
As part of our protection of the public and to facilitate your wellbeing you may be referred back to occupational health and or the schools fitness to practice panel if issues arise during your Programme
Students’ Union
We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’ Union, through a system of Programme representatives and formal staff student liaison committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly.
The Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services (based in the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students can access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student’s Union.
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Employability and Career Development
The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance their employability profile and capabilities through learning opportunities embedded within the curriculum.
Furthermore, the University is committed to supporting students to develop their commitment towards a career pathway(s) and to implementing a career plan. Professional career guidance and development support is available throughout your time as a student and as a graduate from Career Development Services. The support available from Career Development Services includes a wide range of information resources, one to one appointments, a weekly workshop programme, a mentoring programme, graduate recruitment and careers fairs, plus information and help to you find part time work, summer work placements, graduate internship programmes and graduate entry vacancies. In addition, some students as part of their programme of study may have the opportunity to complete a Career & Personal Development accredited module delivered by the Career Development Service.
All students are encouraged to access Career Development Services at an early stage during their studies and to use the extensive resources available on their web site www.careers.brad.ac.uk.
Career Development Services annually undertakes a survey of all graduates to find out their destination six months after graduation. The survey gathers data on the employment and further study routes graduates have entered and a range of other information including job roles, name and location of employers, salary details etc. The survey findings for each programme of study are presented on the programme information pages on the University website and via Career Development Services’ website www.careers.brad.ac.uk
Specific to this programme, the number of places available on the Programme is determined by the National Health Service dependant on demand for diagnostic radiographers in the workforce. All graduates in 2010 have gained first post-employment in either the NHS or private sector. Students gain practical work experience throughout the Programme and therefore gain the practical experience required by employers. Students build up a portfolio of evidence of their professional development throughout the Programme and they receive feedback via formative assessment of their development of personal transferable skills which helps to prepare them for the world of work.
Learner Development Unit for Academic Skills
For undergraduate students who are looking to improve their marks during their time at university, study skills and maths advice is available to all regardless of degree discipline or level of study. Students can access a programme of interactive workshops and clinics which is delivered throughout the year. This is in addition to
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our extremely popular face-to-face guidance from our advisers, who also offer a wide range of online and paper based materials for self-study.
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/learner-development/
Disability
Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to everyone. The Disability Service can help by providing equipment and advice to help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and is a place where you can discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need, whether these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information contact the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email: [email protected]
Students of the School of Health Studies who are supported through the disability office and or following an occupational health assessment will have a learning support report that also includes reasonable adjustment advice for clinical practice settings.
University Policies and Initiatives
Learning and Teaching
Our University approach to learning, teaching and assessment is encapsulated by an integrated set of themes and principles within our Curriculum Framework. All of our degree programmes have been designed to provide you with an inclusive and engaging learning environment which gives you the opportunity to thrive and develop in your area of study. Our research-informed programmes have a particular focus on developing your employability. We also place a strong emphasis on collaborative, real-world and enquiry-based learning, supported by appropriate learning technologies. Our assessment is designed not just to measure your achievement, but also to shape and guide your learning through preparing you for the increasing level of challenge as you progress through your degree. Together, these lead to you developing a distinctive set of graduate attributes which will prepare you for life beyond university.
Ecoversity
Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching, research activities campus operations and lives of our staff and students. We do not claim to be a beacon for sustainable development but we aspire to become a leading University in this area. The facilities we create for teaching and learning, including teaching spaces, laboratories, IT labs and social spaces, will increasingly reflect our commitments to sustainable development. Staff and student participation in this initiative is crucial to its success and its inclusion in the programme specification is a clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development, delivery, monitoring and review. For more details see www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity.
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Part of the sustainability agenda has transferred through into the School of Health Studies new facilities and teaching areas on the campus have been upgraded over the last few years to create more interactive learning areas. This includes incorporating the latest teaching aids with access to one line materials in most of the classroom spaces.
Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is part of the University of Bradford Ecoversity Programme, which aims to embed the principles and practice of sustainable development across the entire institution. Major areas of the Ecoversity Vision are working towards: a healthier environment; social well-being; a thriving local economy; and sustainable education.
ESD aims to help students to understand the world in which they live and take some responsibility for creating a sustainable future at home and at work. The BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography curriculum has been written to facilitate students to become health care practitioners who can work and live sustainably guided by the six ESD principles contained in the Statement on Education for Sustainable Development within the School of Health Studies (http://www.brad.ac.uk/health/ecoversity/).
Further Information:
For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact Admissions.
The Admissions OfficeThe University of BradfordRichmond RoadBradford, BD7 1DPUK
The Admissions OfficeSchool of Health StudiesHorton A BuildingThe University of BradfordRichmond RoadBradford, BD7 1DPUK
+44 (0)1274 233054
http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses/
+44 (0) 800 073 1225
http://www.brad.ac.uk/health/courses/undergraduate/diagnostic-radiography-bsc-3-years.php
The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's regulations and Programme approval, monitoring and review procedures.
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