STUDY

Postgraduate

Postgraduate Certificate in Computed Tomography

CT of abdomen
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: N/A
Start date: November 2024
Duration: One year, part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography or equivalent A minimum of one year as a registered practitioner
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: N/A
Start date: November 2024
Duration: One year, part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography or equivalent A minimum of one year as a registered practitioner

Overview

This course has been designed to support the advancing practice of radiographers in the field of Computed Tomography (CT).  Between April 2019 and March 2020, 44.9 million diagnostic imaging examinations took place in England alone of which 6 million were CT scans. This is an increase of 5.2% on the year 2018-19 and it is fully expected that this will continue year on year.

The NHS Long-Term Plan (2019) acknowledged that imaging services have been under extreme pressure for some time and as a result, it recommended the implementation of Imaging Networks by 2023. In the same year there was also a Manifesto pledge made by the Prime Minister in which the government committed to replace all CT, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Mammography equipment over the next ten years. This was reinforced by the need to increase the number of scanners (both CT and MRI) per head of population in the  Richard’s Review (2020).  This led to the investment of three Diagnostic Assessment Centres in Norfolk and Waveney. In order that these dedicated imaging centres are effectively staffed, there needs to be a radical workforce design and numbers of radiographers specialising in these imaging modalities needs to be increased. 

This is a new course provision which will support the development of current practitioners in the specialism of CT.  It will enable radiographers to develop their theoretical knowledge and skills in this area of imaging and to develop service improvement within their workplace. 

Further information about the University's relationship with the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR) is available in the PSRB register.

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Course Modules

During this course, you will learn the theoretical aspects underpinning the technical aspects of CT scanning. Links to practice will be made throughout the course and you will complete a portfolio of successful examinations demonstrating an understanding and application of a range of CT imaging protocols and parameters. You will also develop your knowledge and understanding of service delivery and innovation, the provision of effective care and leadership.   

There are three modules, all of which are mandatory. 

Full downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

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This module will enhance students’ overall understanding the technical aspects of CT scanning. It will provide students with a firm theoretical grounding of the physics principles, clinical application, and technical innovation. The purpose of this module is to equip the students with skills and knowledge to underpin and influence their practice.

Module Dates

  • Wednesday 6 November 2024 (on campus)
  • Thursday 7 November 2024 (self directed study)
  • Friday 8 November 2024 (self directed study)
  • Thursday 21 November 2024 (on campus)
  • Friday 22 November 2024 (on campus)
  • Friday 13 December 2024 (online) 
  • Friday 10 January 2025 (exam on campus)

Students will learn about the range of CT imaging techniques which are used to diagnose conditions and trauma. Students will be required to complete a portfolio to evidence their clinical competence in CT and will be given the opportunity to reflect on their practice.

Module Dates 

  • Thursday 23 January 2025 (online)
  • Friday 24 January 2025 (online)
  • Thursday 6 February 2025 (online)
  • Friday 7 February 2025 (online)
  • Friday 21 March 2025 (assessment deadline online)
  • Friday 13 June 2025 (assessment deadline online)

During this module, students will acquire the skills set to develop and manage a CT service.  The student will critically explore a range of service models, develop service standards and design clinical protocols to ensure best practice. The student will also critically examine the NHS quality assurance mechanisms and evaluate their effectiveness in monitoring a CT service.  As part of this module, the students will develop a range of skills needed to lead and manage a CT service and understand the importance of effective interprofessional communication and teamwork.

Module Dates

  • Thursday 3 April 2025 (on campus)
  • Friday 4 April 2025 (on campus)
  • Thursday 1 May 2025 (self-directed study)
  • Friday 2 May 2025 (self-directed study)
  • Friday 6 June 2025 (assessment submission deadline)
  • Friday 20 June 2025 (assessment submission deadline)

Course Modules 2024

During this course, you will learn the theoretical aspects underpinning the technical aspects of CT scanning. Links to practice will be made throughout the course and you will complete a portfolio of successful examinations demonstrating an understanding and application of a range of CT imaging protocols and parameters. You will also develop your knowledge and understanding of service delivery and innovation, the provision of effective care and leadership.   

There are three modules, all of which are mandatory. 

Full downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

Lift shaft of the Health and Wellbeing Building

This module will enhance students’ overall understanding the technical aspects of CT scanning. It will provide students with a firm theoretical grounding of the physics principles, clinical application, and technical innovation. The purpose of this module is to equip the students with skills and knowledge to underpin and influence their practice.

Students will learn about the range of CT imaging techniques which are used to diagnose conditions and trauma. Students will be required to complete a portfolio to evidence their clinical competence in CT and will be given the opportunity to reflect on their practice.

During this module, students will acquire the skills set to develop and manage a CT service.  The student will critically explore a range of service models, develop service standards and design clinical protocols to ensure best practice. The student will also critically examine the NHS quality assurance mechanisms and evaluate their effectiveness in monitoring a CT service.  As part of this module, the students will develop a range of skills needed to lead and manage a CT service and understand the importance of effective interprofessional communication and teamwork.

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Entry Requirements

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Career Opportunities

All students will already hold posts across the healthcare sector, nonetheless completion of this programme will enable students to progress into advanced practitioner/lead roles in CT imaging.   Students completing the PGC element of the programme will be encouraged to apply for Advanced Practitioner Accreditation with the Society and College of Radiographers.   

Your Course Team

Jo Shuttlewood

Jo is Lecturer in Diagnostic Radiography and previously worked at a specialist Neurological Centre of Excellence specialising in Neuroradiography.

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Nancy Sims

Lecturer in Diagnostic Radiography and is passionate about contributing to enhancing the quality of care that diagnostic radiography service users receive.

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Professor Ruth Strudwick

Ruth is Head of Allied Health Professions and Associate Professor in Diagnostic Radiography.

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Dr Hollie Hadwen

Hollie is Course Leader for BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and the PgC in Advanced Practice and Reporting in Computed Tomography Colonography.

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Deana Hazeldene

Deana is Course Leader for MSc Diagnostic Radiography and co-ordinates radiography student clinical experience as Practice Placement Lead.

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Fees and Funding

UK part-time tuition fee

£1,010*

per 20 credit module

*Please contact the Student Centre for further details

Further Information

Postgraduate Loans are available for this course, we also offer University of Suffolk Alumni a 25% reduction on fees, find out more below.

Postgraduate Funding Alumni Loyalty Scheme International Students

How to apply

Applying for a postgraduate programme is simple, you can apply using the link below. You can also find out more about what to include on your application and how to contact us for support during the process on the Postgraduate Study link.

Apply Now Postgraduate Study
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