Computed Tomography

This course builds on appropriate undergraduate study and existing clinical practice skills to enable radiographers to further develop their professional competence in CT.

The course aims to provide a solid foundation in the principles and theoretical concepts of CT imaging and an understanding of how these concepts are applied in clinical practice. The programme provides an opportunity to develop reflective, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Course Features
Accredited by the Irish Institute of Radiographers and Radiation Therapists.

Fosters individual, personal and professional development of the postgraduate radiographer

Confers clinical competence in CT scanning on successful graduates.

Flexible programme delivery that accommodates working professionals.

Provides a platform for discussion of clinical and evidenced based CT practice and current technological advances.

This course is designed for diagnostic radiographers who want to develop the specialist CT skills necessary to provide high-quality patient care in a dynamic working environment. Applicants must have at least one year’s post-qualification experience in diagnostic radiography. Applicants must have at least three months experience in CT before commencing the course and must be working in a CT department for the duration of the course.

This course is delivered using a blended learning approach that integrates class discussions, tutorials, lectures, e-learning and practical tutorials. Lectures are delivered either face to face at the UCD campus or else via a virtual classroom. Emphasis is placed on reflection and self-directed learning. Clinical skills development is supported by undertaking a clinical placement in the students own CT department under the direct supervision of a clinical supervisor.

These teaching and learning strategies are designed to encourage autonomous personal and professional development within a supportive framework.

The Graduate Diploma in CT leads to a UCD Level 4 award (equivalent to NQAI Level 9) and takes eight months to complete. It is delivered in four modules: two technology modules and two professional practice modules.

The Technology of CT modules encompass the physical theories and technological principles underlying CT, image processing, quality control, equipment management and radiation protection thus encouraging a safer and broader spectrum of clinical operation.

The Professional Practice of CT modules encompass clinical practice, clinical placement hours, scanning protocols, optimisation of practice and facility management. This module aims to facilitate the integration of theoretical concepts and professional clinical practice in order to consolidate the learning process.

Since this Graduate Diploma confers clinical competence - and in order to gain the requisite specialist clinical skills - students must undertake a clinical placement in CT, under the guidance of a named clinical supervisor, and provide evidence of an agreement to spend a minimum of 620 hours in CT while undertaking the course.

Am I Eligible For This Course?

Criteria for standard entry applicants
- This programme is open to any radiographer with at least one year post qualification experience and Department of Health approval to practise radiography in Ireland, or Health Professions Council approval to practise radiography in the UK and Northern Ireland.

- All candidates are required to undertake a minimum of three months of clinical experience in CT scanning prior to commencing the course and provide documented evidence of same. All candidates must arrange their own clinical placement and provide evidence of an agreement to spend a minimum of 700 hours gaining practical experience in CT over the duration of the programme.

- Candidates are required to arrange for a suitably qualified clinical supervisor to oversee their clinical experience. Details must be provided to the Academic Programme Co-ordinator during first week of course.

- A clinical hours declaration form (available below) must be signed by your Radiographic Services Manager, indicating agreement to provide the requisite number of clinical hours during the course and confirming the requisite pre-clinical hours declaration form (available below). This must be submitted together with other necessary documentation specified in the on line application process.

9 months full-time, blended.

Next Intake: September Annually.