Radiography - Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education ...

Radiography

Diagnostic Radiography (n)
the use of a range of imaging techniques and sophisticated equipment
to produce high quality images of an injury or disease.
Therapeutic Radiography (n)
the preparation and treatment of patients
with cancer using radiotherapy.
Contents
0 - 1 Radiography at the Faculty of Health and Social Care Sciences
2 - 3 A Dynamic Career
4 - 7 Diagnostic Radiography
8 - 13 Therapeutic Radiography
14 - 16 Postgraduate Studies
17 Out and About
18 - 19 Fact File
20 - 21 How to Apply?

Radiography
at the Faculty of
Health and Social
Care Sciences
One title – two careers
This demanding, technical and scientific discipline requires
exceptional personal qualities and in return offers a flexible,
professional career with a very high level of job satisfaction.
Whilst radiographers work in multi-professional teams
alongside other healthcare professionals, they also work
autonomously, undertaking independent interventions and
developing specialist expertise. Considerable maturity and
independence of mind is required to succeed in these
demanding and fast-moving professions.
Diagnostic radiographers are responsible for the acquisition
of high-quality clinical images used to detect, monitor and
manage disease processes and the effects of trauma. As a
diagnostic radiographer you will utilise a wide range of
sophisticated technological equipment for different imaging
modalities, such as X-ray, Ultrasound, and CT and MRI
scanners, combined with a high standard of patient care.
Therapeutic radiographers are responsible for the safe and
accurate planning and delivery of radiotherapy to patients
with cancer; a vital role that requires the use of sophisticated
technology. A course of radiotherapy treatment may last from
between one day to seven weeks, and you will support the
physical and emotional wellbeing of the patient throughout.
This degree programme is therefore ideal if you want to
combine a science background with medical and biological
sciences, and apply your training in a supportive clinical
environment.
Applicants should have:
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A commitment to a career in radiography.
A good knowledge of professional practice, especially in
the NHS.
Evidence of academic potential, preferably with a science
background, and a commitment to learning.
Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
Patience, tact and a real interest in and commitment to
dealing with people across a wide spectrum of ages and
backgrounds.
A willingness and ability to develop problem solving skills.
Working environments
Radiographers can follow several career paths, for example:
Diagnostic Radiographer
General radiography, trauma/accident and emergency, CT
scanning, magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear medicine
imaging*, breast screening/mammography*, medical
ultrasound*, teaching*, research*, management*, quality
assurance*. *after additional postgraduate study
Therapeutic Radiographer
Treatment planning, treatment delivery, management,
research, treatment review, treatment and patient support,
palliative care, teaching, quality assurance, mould room.
Areas of advanced practice
Diagnostic Radiographer
Reporting, interventional radiography, consultant practitioner.
Therapeutic Radiographer
Complex treatment planning, drug prescribing, consultant
practitioner.
1

A dynamic
career
Radiography offers graduates excellent employment
prospects within the health service and we are confident that
graduates from the School are well prepared for their
professional careers as either diagnostic radiographers or
therapeutic radiographers.
Diagnostic radiographers can specialise in advanced areas of
practice and undertake management, teaching or research.
Therapeutic radiographers can develop and progress in their
careers towards business or technical management, or
clinical specialism.
There are a number of postgraduate programmes available to
diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers who wish to
progress either generally or in specialised clinical areas.
We do hope you will consider studying Radiography at
Kingston University and St George's, University of London.
We will expect you to be hard working and committed and in
return you will receive a first rate professional education and
the dedicated support of staff and fellow students.
Benefit from the resources of two leading Universities
During the course you will spend time at both Kingston
University and St George's, University of London. Both
institutions have excellent facilities for teaching and learning
in radiography, and there is a strong emphasis on clinical
education and teaching links with clinical radiographers.
Learning will also take place in a wide range of hospital
departments, and there is regular shared learning with
students from across the healthcare sciences, including
medicine, biomedical sciences, physiotherapy, midwifery and
nursing.
A supportive learning partnership
Staff and students form a lively and close-knit team with an
emphasis on working together in partnership to achieve
learning goals. The enthusiastic and supportive staff team
maintains current clinical practice links and research interests
and is complemented by a diverse group of motivated and
committed students.
2

Why study at St George’s,
University of London and
Kingston University
Friendly and student focused
We take a personal interest in each individual, providing a
range of academic and pastoral support to help everyone
achieve their potential.
Cutting edge learning environment
Benefit from dedicated facilities with the latest equipment
(digital X-ray suite, VERT - the Virtual Environment for
Radiotherapy Training, treatment planning software), learning
resources, skills laboratory and access to an extensive
network of libraries and databases.
Quality education
Our undergraduate courses in both therapeutic and
diagnostic radiography have achieved high ratings in
independent Quality Assurance Assessments.
Innovative teaching
We use a variety of teaching approaches to help you learn in
a way that suits you best, including case based learning, peer
assisted learning, seminars and small group tutorials as
effective and interesting methods of teaching.
Learning from the experts
Our lecturers are qualified and experienced radiographers
with higher degrees and teaching qualifications.
Clinical experience
50% of the course is clinical, that means that you will work
with patients under the guidance of radiographers. This is
your key to becoming competent and your chance to benefit
from the close working relationships we have with a wide
range of NHS Trusts and specialist clinical radiographers.
Sharing knowledge
Some modules are shared with students from other health
and social care courses. This gives you an opportunity to
share knowledge and insights by studying and socialising
together.
Clinical placements
The School of Radiography has well established links with
local health service providers and is able to provide focused
and rewarding clinical education placements.
More to choose from
Outside the classroom, students also have a wide choice in
terms of social facilities within the two institutions (St
George's, University of London and Kingston University),
which are especially strong in sport, theatre and music.
3

Diagnostic radiographers are responsible for the acquisition
of high-quality clinical images used to detect, monitor and
manage disease processes and the effects of trauma. As a
diagnostic radiographer you will utilise a wide range of
sophisticated technological equipment for different imaging
modalities, such as X-ray, Ultrasound, and CT and MRI
scanners, combined with a high standard of patient care.
Daniella Claxton
This course will enable you to combine a science background
with medical, biological and physiological sciences and to
apply your training in a caring clinical environment.
The degree will enable you to progress and study at
postgraduate certificate, diploma and masters levels in areas
of advanced practice and in specialist areas including
Ultrasound and Radionuclide Imaging. This qualification is
recognised internationally and offers a range of career
opportunities in hospital and other clinical settings, as well as
management, teaching and research.
Diagnostic
Radiography
4

Student profile
‘
My name is Daniella Claxton. I am 20 years old and I am
currently studying diagnostic radiography in my third year.
I have always had an interest in science, particularly in the
human body. I enjoy working with and helping others; for four
years I was a volunteer in my local community, involving
myself in projects centred around the care of the disabled and
disadvantaged adults and children. The summer before I
started university, I worked as a healthcare assistant in an
elderly residents home.
I discovered radiography about five years ago whilst reading
the NHS careers webpage. I rang up a local hospital and
secured myself a two week work experience placement in the
radiography department and I have not looked back since.
Radiography offered me everything that I wanted in a job, with
the opportunity to work as an individual and as part of a team
within the department and with other healthcare
professionals.
‘
As a radiographer it is your responsibility to produce images
of diagnostic value, whilst maintaining a safe working
environment in adhering to radiation protection measures.
You also need to have good communication skills as you need
to gain the trust of the patient in a short space of time.
Imaging technology itself is constantly changing and
improving, and I feel privileged to be at the forefront of this
ever expanding medical field.
Radiography is an attractive career choice in that it offers
opportunities to specialise and study for postgraduate
qualifications. Kingston and St George’s University was the
ideal choice. I could commute from home and take advantage
of being placed in London hospitals. There are plenty of
resources available across both university sites, which are
excellent for both private and group study.
I have had no second thoughts about choosing radiography,
and I am looking forward to qualifying next year.
5

Daniella’s
Placement Diary
The alarm clock shrills the beginning of another day. This
week I am working my 8am-8pm shifts in the A&E
department, which I know is going to be both mentally and
physically demanding. My clinical tutor recommends doing
the 12 hour shift, as things tend to ‘liven-up’ after 5pm…
grabbing my bag, I leave for work.
After a quick breakfast, I head downstairs to A&E X-ray. The
radiographer is already there, taking over from the night
shift. No examination requests have been sent through, and
the printer sits quietly in the corner. However, the quiet does
not last long and the printer springs into life and spits out the
first request of the day. After reading the clinical indications
and patient information, I have to decide how best to
approach the situation and which radiographic views would
be best to demonstrate the area of interest. Once sure of my
intentions, I head off into the department in search of my
patient. The patient can be in one of five different areas, the
main waiting room, paediatrics, minors, majors or resus.
After finding their name scribbled next to a cubicle number
on the whiteboard, I head to minors. I poke my head around
the curtain and introduce myself. After checking I have the
right patient, I push the bed out of the cubicle and towards
the X-ray room. However, pushing beds is not a walk in the
park. I always seem to get the trolley that has a mind of its
own, and very quickly the A&E department turns into an
obstacle course. A chest and abdomen X-ray later, it’s time to
take the patient back…I return valiant, only to find more
requests waiting and the printer whirring away in the
background. The radiographers and I work away, and X-ray a
variety of requests ranging from rugby injuries, falls and DIY
injuries, to being knocked out by a horse…the morning
passes quickly and soon it is time for lunch.
I return at 1pm and my next patient is a child for an abdomen
X-ray. Children are understandably nervous, no matter how
many rhinos, elephants and monkeys have been painted on
the X-ray room walls. It is now that you never underestimate
the power of persuasion, or stickers, or sweets from mum for
that matter. We get on to the subject of Star Wars, as R2-D2 is
emblazoned on his t-shirt. After much discussion, in which I
am reminded that ‘no’ he hasn’t seen the ‘old’ versions…one
abdomen X-ray has been obtained. The afternoon flies by
and the next time I venture into the main waiting room it is
dark outside. 8pm is welcomed by the sound of the night
shift arriving, signalling it’s time for me to leave.
Even though the day was tiring, the experience gained with
every patient makes you a more confident and competent
student. Being placed in A&E, you never really know what to
expect, and how mobile and willing your patient may be. I
found the day rewarding, which is a good thing, considering I
have got to do it all again tomorrow…
6

Assessment
A wide range of assessment tools are used including:
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Essays and reports
Written examinations
Multiple choice questions
Presentations
Practical examinations
Research reports
Clinical portfolio and clinical assessments
A typical week at university for diagnostic radiography
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Visceral Imaging
Science & Technology
Student Centred Study
Skeletal Imaging
Visceral Imaging
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Science & Technology
Professional & Personal
Development
Sports and Recreation
Professional & Personal
Development
Skeletal Imaging
Locations
As a diagnostic radiography student you will spend time at
Kingston University and St George’s, University of London,
both of which have excellent facilities for teaching and
learning in radiography and other healthcare sciences. Fifty
per cent of your studies will be undertaken in hospitals.
Clinical placements
Clinical placements are an essential part of the radiography
programme. They provide an opportunity to put theory into
practice and to consolidate learning experiences. Students
are well supported by their tutors whilst on placements and
given plenty of guidance as to how to gain the greatest
benefit from their experiences. Diagnostic radiographers
work predominantly in hospital diagnostic imaging
departments but also undertake imaging procedures within:
l Operating theatres
l Accident and emergency departments
l Resuscitation rooms
l Cardiac catheter laboratories
l Endoscopy suites
l Minor trauma units
l CT (Computed Tomography)
l MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
l RNI (Radionuclide Imaging)
Frequently used clinical placement sites
l Ashford & St Peters NHS Trust, Chertsey, Surrey
l Chelsea & Westminster NHS Trust, London
l Epsom & St Helier NHS Trust, Carshalton, Surrey
l Frimley Park NHS Trust, Camberley, Surrey
l Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children, London*
l Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Trust, London
l Kingston Hospital NHS Trust, Kingston, Surrey
l Mayday University Hospital, Croydon, Surrey
l National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London*
l St George’s Hospital, London
l The Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Trust, London*
l The Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, Surrey
l The West Middlesex NHS Trust, London
l Newham University Hospital NHS Trust
*Short, specialist placements only.
Occasionally placements may be at hospital sites further afield.
7

Therapeutic Radiography involves the use of precisely
targeted, high energy X-rays to treat a range of cancers.
Cancer is not just one disease, cancers can develop almost
anywhere within the body and there are many different
tumour types; this means that every case is different.
Therapeutic Radiography is therefore a very challenging
career. It requires the use of a diverse range of equipment
and techniques to prepare and deliver the individualised
treatment that every patient needs.
Martin Brewer
Constant advances in technology allow therapeutic
radiographers to continue to improve the outcomes for patients
with cancer, making this a very rewarding career choice.
Therapeutic
Radiography
What do therapeutic radiographers do?
The role of the therapeutic radiographer is varied and
demanding. They prepare patients for radiotherapy by
imaging to locate the tumour (usually with CT); they then
perform a range of dose calculations.
When delivering the radiotherapy treatment, therapeutic
radiographers target the tumour with millimetre accuracy
using highly complex equipment and techniques to give the
maximum dose to the tumour and the minimum possible
dose to the surrounding normal anatomy.
Therapeutic radiographers work with patients of all ages
from all social and ethnic backgrounds during a potentially
stressful time. Excellent communication skills are therefore
essential.
Effective teamwork is central to the practice of therapeutic
radiographers; they work closely in small teams to prepare
and deliver the treatment to ensure the highest possible
standards. Therapeutic radiographers also work closely with
other healthcare professionals, eg medical physicists,
oncologists, dieticians, nurses and social workers, in order to
care for the patient’s physical and emotional needs during
their course of treatment.
Key skills of the therapeutic radiographer
l Sound understanding of the relevant science and
technology
l Numeracy
l Attention to detail
l Adaptability – need to be able to meet the fast pace of
change and to meet the needs of individual patients
l An ability to work well within a team
l Excellent communication skills
8

Student Profile
My name is Martin Brewer, and I’m 26. I live in a flat share in
the centre of Kingston with my partner, our cats, and our
Australian housemate.
I grew up in Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes. My childhood
was pretty uneventful; I did well at school and enjoyed
music, cycling, and all the other childhood stuff.
I had always been interested in all things medical and
decided at an early age that I wanted to be a doctor. I had
done everything needed to get a place, but due to
competition for places my first application wasn’t successful.
I spent the next year working in a nursing home while
contemplating my options. I decided I still wanted to go to
university and do something healthcare related, so I chose to
go to the University of Leeds to read Medical Sciences.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Leeds, but as time passed
and the end of the course was getting closer, I was at a loss
as to what to do after university. I didn’t want to pursue a
career in healthcare management or medical research, and
so after graduating I moved to Middlesbrough in the North
East. I had some family there and didn’t fancy moving back in
with my parents.
While living in Middlesbrough I started working for the NHS
at the local mental health trust. I worked with a wide range of
patients, including adolescents, adults in short and long term
care, and elderly patients with dementia. I also did voluntary
work with a local charity working with people with HIV and
promoting safer sex across the Tees Valley.
While working in mental health I decided I wanted a
professional career within the health service, and
contemplated a career in mental health nursing, but after
much thought I felt I would be better suited to a career that
also involved some technical skills. I did some research into
the allied health professions, and decided a career in
radiotherapy would stretch my technical skills while allowing
me to provide advice and support to patients going through a
difficult period in their lives.
I’m now in my second year and I have just finished my first
clinical placement at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London,
which has been very intense but totally worth it. Over the
past year I have also started RadSoc, a society for all
radiography students at Kingston University, to allow us to
let our hair down once in a while. I have thoroughly enjoyed
my time so far at Kingston University and St George’s,
University of London, and in terms of career path I have
never looked back – I just wish I had chosen therapeutic
radiography as a career when I left school!
I am looking forward to becoming a student ambassador and
representing both my course and the faculty as a whole.
9

Assessment
A wide range of assessment tools are used including:
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Essays and reports
Written examinations
Multiple choice questions
Presentations
Practical examinations
Research dissertation
Clinical portfolio and clinical assessments
Martin's Clinical Placement Diary
Tuesday 15th August
My day started half an hour earlier than usual, as I was going
to observe quality assurance checks on the treatment
machines, which are done daily to ensure the machines are
working accurately. I was shown how to check the movements
of the machine and the couch, and then how the energies of
the X-rays and the electron beams were checked, followed by
the safety checks.
The patients began to arrive and I had to prepare the couch for
the first patient who was having radiotherapy to the breast.
The radiographers then stood back while I positioned the
patient on the couch and aligned their tattoos to the room
lasers, and then moved the equipment so that the X-ray beam
would treat the breast. The radiographers pushed me a lot
throughout the day to get me used to setting up patients
having radiotherapy to the breast, head and neck, prostate,
and vertebrae.
During the afternoon I had the opportunity to sit in on a ‘first
day chat’. The patient was told what was going to happen
during treatment and then told about the reactions that may
occur due to the radiotherapy. They were given lots of advice
on how to minimise these reactions and take care of
themselves during treatment, and then the patient was given
the opportunity to ask lots of questions. Sitting in on the chat
was invaluable as I saw first hand how anxious and
apprehensive patients were before starting their treatment.
After a very busy day it was time for the cycle home, followed
by a long, hot bath and some food!
10

Sophie Main
Student profile
‘
Sophie Main, 20, is in her final year of BSc (Hons)
Therapeutic Radiography and currently lives in a student
house with five others.
I’d always wanted to be part of the caring profession but
couldn’t quite decide what I wanted to do until I read through
Kingston and St George’s prospectus and found therapeutic
radiography.
I gained nine GCSEs grade C-D and got merit/merit/merit in a
BTEC National Diploma in Sports and Exercise Science.
The course started in September and for the first term was
the common foundation programme. This term was
extremely useful and we got to work with people studying
for other health disciplines too, such as physiotherapists,
nurses, medics and midwives. After that we started to learn
about the most common cancers.
When we are at uni there is a variety of work: some of it is
facts and figures regarding different cancers, as well as
learning about patient care and communication. Some of the
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work is undertaken in groups and some of it is guided study.
For guided study you are given a subject and time off to go
away and learn about it independently.
Clinical placement is great, you get a real feel for what life
will be like once you are qualified, as well as putting the
theory you have learnt into practice. I always understood the
theory a lot more after being on placement because I could
see the way in which everything worked.
I receive a means tested bursary, which helps me to pay my
rent. I am also signed up to a Hospitality Agency so I work
when I have free time and if I don’t I am not tied into a
contract so I can focus on my studies. Alongside this I am
also a student ambassador, this has given me some great
experience and helped earn some extra pennies.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the course (even the stressful
times ended up being positive ones – and that’s the truth).
I’ve not only developed a career I love, but in the process
had the best time of my life and met some fantastic people.
11

Sophie’s University Diary
A usual day at university in the third year is 9.30am – 3pm,
three times a week.
This morning’s lecture was learning more about the cancer
care path. During this we explored the reasons behind the
ways in which patients act when dealing with their emotions.
The learning styles used in the third year are geared towards
discussions about experiences we have had and how we have
dealt with them. The lecturer also adds some other topics into
the discussion that we may not have considered; this is great
as it makes us think ‘outside the box’ which in turn makes us
well-rounded radiographers. At the end of each lecture we are
given some guided study for the following week’s lecture.
Guided study is set in order to make us go away and explore
the subject in our own way, so that we gain a better
understanding. Doing guided study before the lecture also
gives us a chance to ask questions and clarify areas that we
are unsure of.
Lunch is about an hour long. During this time, me and a
couple of friends grab a bite to eat and head to the library to
find some books for the guided study. Books found, now time
for a girlie gossip.
The afternoon lecture was on radiotherapy errors. This lecture
was also given in the form of an open discussion: the lecturer
would say what an error was and then ask us to give examples
of what these might be. I believe it is important to be open
about errors that occur because it is how others learn and the
way errors get rectified. We are in groups for this topic and in
several weeks’ time will be asked to give a small presentation
to the class on particular subjects set by the lecturer. This topic
has made me become more aware of the types of errors that
can occur within radiotherapy and made me think more about
what I am doing when on clinical placement so that I can
reduce the likelihood of an error occurring.
We also have lectures on other subjects such as interprofessional
management. This subject was designed to get
different disciplines to understand each other’s role in the
patient’s care.
12

Virtual Environment for
Radiotherapy Training (VERT)
Therapeutic radiography students will have a chance to
practice their radiography skills in a safe and supportive
environment using the latest Virtual Reality known as VERT.
VERT creates a 3-dimensional treatment suite comprising the
linear accelerator, the room in which it is situated, and the
patient lying on the couch. Using state of the art tracking
technology it also provides an interactive function for
students to acquire and practise a range of psychomotor
skills necessary for the accurate delivery of radiotherapy.
This innovative equipment allows us to further enhance our
teaching and the learning experience of students.
A typical week at university for therapeutic radiography
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Radiotherapy and
Oncology Lecture
Science and Technology
Demonstration
Study and Recreation
Radiotherapy and
Oncology
Radiotherapy and
Oncology Practical
Workshop
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Science & Technology
Lecture
Communication Key
Speaker
Study and Recreation
Communication and
Group Work
Radiotherapy and
Oncology Lecture
Clinical placements
Clinical Placements are an essential part of the Radiography
programme. They provide an opportunity to put theory into
practice and to consolidate learning experiences. Students
are well supported by their tutors whilst on placements and
given plenty of guidance as to how to gain the greatest
benefit from their experiences. Therapeutic radiographers
predominantly work in departments of radiotherapy treating
patients. Their role involves:
l Calculation of dose
l Delivery of radiotherapy
l Verification
l Information giving and support
Frequently used clinical placement sites
l The Royal Marsden Hospital, Sutton
l The Royal Marsden Hospital, Chelsea
l The Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, Surrey
l Preparation of patients for radiotherapy
l Imaging to localise tumour
Occasionally placements may be at hospital sites further afield.
l Definition of tumour volumes and normal anatomy
13

PgCert/PgDip/MSc in Medical Imaging
for diagnostic radiographers
PgCert/PgDip/MSc in Oncology Practice
for therapeutic radiographers
PgCert/PgDip/MSc in Breast Evaluation
for health professionals working in the area of breast
imaging, diagnosis and care
All three fields – Medical Imaging, Oncology Practice and
Breast Evaluation – are offered as either a part-time block
release course or as a full-time course.
Modules relate to clinical practice, management, supervision
and assessment, quality issues, research methods, etc to
prepare practitioners for advanced practice relevant to their
needs and the needs of the clinical departments.
Postgraduate Studies
Some of the clinical modules are delivered in partnership
with centres of excellence eg Jarvis and St George’s Breast
Screening Training Centres; Guy’s, King’s and St Thomas’
Hospitals, Department of Dental Radiology; the Royal
Marsden NHS Trust; and the Bristol Haematology and
Oncology Centre.
14

Discipline specific modules include
Medical Imaging
l Advanced Dental and Maxillo-Facial Radiography
l Computed Tomography I – Principles
l Computed Tomography II – Clinical Practice
l Foundation to Image Interpretation
l Magnetic Resonance Imaging I – Principles
l Principles of Digital Imaging
l Principles and Practice of Administration of Intravenous
Injections
Oncology Practice
l Cancer Management
l External Beam Radiotherapy Planning
l Image Guided Radiotherapy Verification
l Management of Treatment Toxicity in Oncology
l Radiotherapy Practice
Breast Evaluation
l Advanced Principles and Practice of Breast Assessment
Techniques
l Breast Cancer Treatment, Management and Care
l Clinical Breast Examination and Client Communication
l Family History and Genetics of Breast Cancer
l Introduction to Breast Imaging with Radiation
l Management of People in the Workplace
l Professional Practice in Mammography I
l Professional Practice in Mammography II
l Ultrasound of the Breast
Generic modules
l Assessing and Supervising in the Workplace
l Dissertation (equivalent to four modules)
l Managing Continual Professional Development
l Professional Care of Paediatric Patients in Radiography
l Quality and Professional Issues in Health Care
l Research Methods
l Self-Managed Learning
15

Postgraduate Student Profile
Sue Garnett
Postgraduate Radiography Student
I have enjoyed my five year association with Kingston
University as a part time postgraduate student. Even though it
has been hard work and demanding on top of a full-time job, I
have gained new skills and academic achievement and it has
been worth all the effort.
I am a radiographer and took on a new advanced practice role
in Coventry Breast Unit. I initially achieved a mammography
film-reading postgraduate certificate at Salford University and
then transferred to Kingston University to do the research
methods along with the digital imaging modules. More clinical
based modules were then studied which were pertinent to my
job of assessing and diagnosing breast conditions, as part of
my evolving role as a clinical practitioner. When these were
behind me I attempted the daunting task of my dissertation.
My proposal was submitted and accepted, the ethics
committee was tackled and I began the research. I was given
help and encouragement from my supervisors each step of the
way. I was much rewarded with passing and also winning a
prize on top!
However, all was not finished, my department desperately
needed a consultant radiographer to work independently
alongside the clinical team, as the breast screening
programme is extending its age range and more women will
pass through our department. I lacked a breast ultrasound
qualification, so I returned to Kingston last year to take this;
another logbook to complete and exams to pass.
All is behind me now and the consultancy post is achievable.
Following the Kingston postgraduate programme has been
enormously beneficial to my career. I have obtained
qualifications, skills and an academic life experience which I
have enjoyed as well as making new friends and contacts.
Teaching is a new direction I would like to explore and
incorporate into my forthcoming role. Also a PHD? We will see.
Overall the MSc programme offers more than a qualification.
Of course it depends on the time and effort put in, but the
rewards have been so worthwhile.
Entry requirements
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Degree/diploma or equivalent in radiography.
At least two years’ full-time clinical experience.
Evidence of the academic potential needed to
study at postgraduate level.
You must also have mentoring support from
appropriate personnel at your workplace for those
modules with a clinical element.
International students must have an IELTS score
of 6.5 or equivalent.
Fees
For details of fees for UK and international students
please visit our website at www.healthcare.ac.uk
How to Apply
For an application form please contact:
Postgraduate administrator
T: +44 (0)20 8547 8828
E: postgradrad-info@kingston.ac.uk
School of Radiography
Faculty of Health and Social Care Sciences
Kingston University and St George’s, University of
London
Penrhyn Road
Kingston upon Thames
Surrey
KT1 2EE
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Out and About
St George’s, University of London
St George's, University of London
St George's is connected to the heart of London by
tube and bus, providing easy access to all the
attractions of the capital city. There are restaurants,
pubs, clubs, shops, theatres, museums, galleries and
a wide range of other sporting, cultural and leisure
facilities. As well as the tourist attractions, London
also offers an attractive life style to students on low
incomes, from bustling street markets to parks and
river walks. Students benefit from discounts on
many items such as travel, theatre tickets, shops and
cinemas.
Kingston University
Kingston University campus showing Penrhyn Road
Penrhyn Road campus is the hub of student activity in
Kingston. Students from all campuses converge on
this large complex, home to the Students' Union
headquarters, the gym and the health centre.
Kingston-upon-Thames is a vibrant town with its own
distinctive identity, yet only 20 minutes by train from
Central London. Its setting on the River Thames and
surrounding areas of parkland make Kingston one of
London’s most attractive areas.
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Undergraduate
Fact File
Residential accommodation
Residential accommodation is normally available during the first
year and support is given in finding accommodation for the
remainder of the course. Information is available on the Kingston
University and St George's, University of London websites.
Student finance
British students resident in the UK are normally eligible for a
Department of Health means-tested bursary. Tuition fees are
paid for all UK and European Union students.
International students may not apply.
Academic Requirements
In addition to the above, candidates must offer at least one of
the following:
GCE A Level
Candidates should normally offer a minimum of 260 UCAS
points (equivalent to BCC). Science subjects are preferred. We do
not accept candidates who are taking A Levels over three years
but candidates may re-sit modules throughout years 12 and 13.
Actual or predicted grades will be taken into consideration when
assessing applications. General Studies and Key Skills will not be
accepted as qualifying subjects.
International Baccalaureate
Assessed on individual basis.
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GCSE candidates require at least five subjects at GCSE
with grades A*-C including English Language, Maths and
Physics or Combined Sciences. If English Language GCSE
is not taken, you must pass the International English
Language Testing System (IELTS) with 7.0 overall (with no
section less than 6.5).
All candidates must be classed as Home Students (which
includes nationals of EU countries). At present
international students (ie those from outside the EU) are
not accepted to St George’s for Diagnostic Radiography.
UCAS personal statement: In addition to meeting the
academic criteria for admission, you must be able to
demonstrate a broad awareness of the scope of
radiography and show a keen interest in a career in this
area. This should be evident from your personal statement.
Work experience: All candidates should demonstrate
relevant work experience.
Access Diplomas
We will consider applications from candidates taking Access to
Science or Access to Health Science Diplomas. You must achieve
the full diploma at distinction level with two thirds of the diploma
being science based. If the candidate is in any doubt, they should
arrange for the college to send a course content syllabus for the
Admissions Tutor to approve. The syllabus should be sent
initially to the Admissions Officer for Radiography, Lynda Carter
(lcarter@sgul.ac.uk)
BTEC National Diplomas and Certificates (eg BND/C)
We will consider candidates with a National Diploma in Health
Studies or Science. You must pass all modules and gain at least
DMM at the final level.
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Advanced GNVQ
Candidates must achieve a minimum Distinction grade for
AGNVQ level. Science subjects are preferred.
Science Foundation Course
Candidates require a minimum overall score of 60%.
Open University
We will consider 120 OU credits. 60 must be ‘Exploring Science’
and 30 each for two other modules, one of which must be either
‘Human Biology’ or ‘Biology, Uniformity and Diversity’. Please
note: all results must be received and verified by us by 1
September and therefore candidates studying with the Open
University should bear this in mind.
International qualifications
For those candidates with other EU and/or international
qualifications. Applicants should normally present with
qualifications equivalent to those of home students and must
provide evidence of proficiency in English. Further information
can be obtained by writing to the BSc Admissions Officer
giving details of the examinations and grades.
Applicant Category
Deferred entry
We welcome applications from candidates who wish to defer
entry to Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiography by a year,
provided they plan to use the time constructively. You must
inform us by 1 June of the year of entry if you wish to defer.
Mature applicants
We will consider applications from mature candidates with
alternative qualifications and evidence of assessed education
within five years of starting the course. Cases will be considered
on individual merit. There is no upper age limit for this course.
Transfers
The School does not accept transfers from radiography courses
at other universities.
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How to
Apply?
An offer of place will be conditional on:
Equal opportunities policy
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A satisfactory occupational health check,
including necessary vaccinations.
Satisfactory enhanced criminal record bureau
(CRB) clearance.
Compliance with the uniform policies of NHS
placement Trusts.
Full disclosure of previous educational and
professional experience.
Applications are considered on an equal basis, irrespective of
gender, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, social
class, nationality, religion, or ethnic origin. The School is
carefully monitoring the selection process on a regular basis in
order to ensure that no discrimination takes place.
Selection procedure and policy
Applicants will be selected on the basis of academic and
personal criteria and those who meet the relevant criteria will
be invited to attend an interview. Applicants are encouraged to
undertake or to have undertaken, a short period of work
experience in an appropriate setting.
The admissions policy is intended to open the course to
candidates who satisfy the entry requirements having followed
the widest possible range of academic routes. However, the
vocational nature of the course means that there will be
requirements that it may not be possible for some applicants
with a disability to meet. Applicants are strongly advised to
contact the Admissions Tutor as early as possible before
applying. A copy of the School's Disability Statement is
available from the BSc Admissions Officer.
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Applications should be made through the Universities and
Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Application forms are
available by writing to:
Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS)
Rosehill
New Barn Lane
Cheltenham
Gloucester GL52 3LZ
You should send your application to UCAS between September
and mid-January for entry in the following September. It is
advisable to make your application as early as possible.
www.ucas.ac.uk
E-mail: enq@ucas.ac.uk
Application Packs for UCAS: 0870 1122200
UCAS Enquiries: 0870 1122211
Application code
Diagnostic Radiography
3 year full time course
UCAS Code: B821
Therapeutic Radiography
3 year full time course
UCAS Code: B822
Further information
More information regarding Kingston University and St
George's, University of London is available in other
prospectuses and supporting booklets.
Admissions Tutor
Tel: 020 8417 2399
Email: radiography@sgul.kingston.ac.uk
Recruitment Team
Ms Lynda Carter
BSc Admissions Officer
St George's, University of London
Cranmer Terrace
London SW17 ORE
Tel: 020 8725 0499
Fax: 020 8725 2734
E-mail: lcarter@sgul.ac.uk
www.healthcare.ac.uk
www.sgul.ac.uk
www.kingston.ac.uk
Open Days at St George's are held on the last Wednesday of
the month. Please contact BSc Admissions Officer on 020 8725
0499 for details.
The Faculty also holds regular open days for all its courses.
Please telephone the Recruitment Team on 020 8547 8735 for
dates or visit our web site: www.healthcare.ac.uk
The School of Radiography would like to thank the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and staff
for hosting and participating in the photography for this prospectus.
Design by Wish Design Photography by Helen Stone Produced by Point Clear Public Relations
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