Masters Degrees (Cardiac Ultrasound)

Taught by industry recognised experts, this course provides a solid grounding in research methodologies, experimental design and statistics — delivering all the transferable skills required for a career executing specialist cardiac ultrasound procedures.Following the British Society of Echocardiography (BSE) syllabus, you will be equipped with the advanced theory and practice of cardiac ultrasound and signal processing.

With a significant leaderships and management component, the course teaches the management, legal and ethical concepts required of leadership positions. Our specialist laboratory, run by experienced practitioners, also houses a wide range of diagnostic equipment that you can access not only during classes, but also for independent study and research.

This course is designed for healthcare practitioners, including sonographers and physiologists, already working in the field of cardiac ultrasound. However, it is also suitable for graduates, who are interested in a research or an academic career, and will provide you with the knowledge and skills required for further study at doctoral level.

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Why choose this course:

• You'll be taught in our modern Clinical Skills Suite by some of the area's leading experts in medical ultrasound.

• You'll develop skills relevant to your own area of clinical practice, which will help you to move forward with your career.

• This course is a nationally recognised qualification and is accredited by the Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education (CASE) for its flexible and innovative approach.

About the course:

If you are a qualified healthcare professional, such as a radiographer, nurse or midwife, this course will help you to develop your ultrasound skills enabling you to practise independently.

Recently there has been a sharp rise in the use of ultrasound within the NHS, which is reflected through the number of non-imaging medical and health professionals seeking specialist ultrasound training.

This course, which is nationally recognised and accredited by the Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education (CASE), will provide you with the high quality training you need to become a practising sonographer within your workplace.

You can tailor the course to your own interests, with the option to specialise in these areas:

• Focused Specialist Ultrasound Practice
• General Medical Ultrasound
• Obstetric Ultrasound
• Early Pregnancy Assessment
• Gynaecology Ultrasound
• Cardiac Ultrasound
• Vascular Ultrasound.

Alternatively you can study a selection of modules from all areas to give you a wide range of training. We also offer some modules that will develop your management and leadership skills, which you can take alongside your chosen specialist modules.

You'll be supported throughout your studies and practical training by a tutor and a mentor. This ensures that you'll develop all the skills you need to practise in your chosen area of medical ultrasound.

You must have already organised a clinical placement in medical ultrasound with management support before you apply for this course. You'll also need to be able to complete a minimum of 200 hours practical scanning time, so that you can successfully complete the Postgraduate Certificate stage.

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The Diagnostic Imaging MSc is designed to match the professional development needs of the diagnostic imaging practitioner and the changing needs of patients in the modern healthcare system. It aims to develop highly competent practitioners who can make a real contribution to healthcare services.

This multi-disciplinary programme will appeal to a range of healthcare professionals including radiographers, clinical physiologists, mammographers, sonographers, medical doctors, nurses, clinical scientists. It offers:

• specialist clinical expertise underpinned by in-depth theoretical knowledge, including of specialist areas of diagnostic imaging, such as medical ultrasound and breast imaging.
• an understanding of the evidence and research base of the discipline.

We have a highly successful record of teaching breast imaging and medical ultrasound at postgraduate level. You’ll benefit from being part of the School of Medicine, with its world-leading research and expertise.

More information

You can also study this subject at Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) and Certificate (60 or 75 credits) levels. Study for the Postgraduate Diploma normally takes one year full time (specific module combinations only) or two years part time. Study for the Postgraduate Certificate normally takes one year part time.

Accreditation

The MSc Diagnostic Imaging offered by the University of Leeds was approved by the College of Radiographers for a period of five years, from June 2016 to June 2021 inclusive. The programme is also accredited by the Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education (CASE).

Exemptions

Students obtaining an MSc which includes the Mammography Technique module will be eligible to apply for the College of Radiographers’ Postgraduate Award in Mammography.

Course content

The programme content reflects the increasing demand for focused and in-depth training in specialist areas of diagnostic imaging. It is both research-led and evidence based.

On the PGCert programme you study modules worth 60 or 75 credits.  On the PGDip programme you study modules worth 120 credits. If you study part time you will study fewer modules in each year. On the MSc programme you study modules worth 180 credits. All students study a combination of Science and Technology, Professional Issues and Imaging Practice modules. A wide range of optional modules allow you to tailor your studies to your professional interests.

Some modules listed below contain a number of options. The Professional Work Based Learning module enables you to undertake a work-based project. The Negotiated Imaging Practice module offers a range of options, including: Breast Ultrasound, Cardiac Ultrasound, Musculoskeletal Ultrasound or Vascular Ultrasound.

In addition, we may support alternative areas of clinical practice by negotiation. Each module (15 credit equivalent) requires 3 to 5 days attendance at the University (for 30 credits this is 6-10 days), in addition to independent learning and practical skill development in order to achieve success in assessment and be of value to the student and their workplace. Students who already have a Postgraduate Diagnostic Imaging qualification may access certain 30-credit modules on a free-standing basis.

On the MSc programme you study a Research Methods module and submit a dissertation.

For more information on typical modules, read Diagnostic Imaging MSc in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

The programme is designed to allow you as much choice as possible in the way that you study. Methods of training are highly participative with a combination of tutor-led input and support, learning through group work and discussion, and individual exercises and practice.

Assessment

Our assessment methods have been carefully chosen to develop the skills that imaging students will use in specialist and advanced clinical practice. The assessment of your competence to practice takes place via an observed clinical session or by portfolio, depending on the module. Other assessments include case reports, essays and Objective Structured Examinations.

Career opportunities

Graduates will use the postgraduate qualification to enable them to be employed as a sonographer in the UK or abroad.

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

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The course involves the detailed study of the physiological consequences of chronic debilitating diseases and highlights the changes that these different diseases cause during exercise testing.

This unique course gives you a solid grounding in theory and application of physiological tests in clinical populations including: graded cardiopulmonary exercise testing; cardiac ultrasound; vascular ultrasound; and muscle function analyses; as well as practical and theoretical elements of Phase IV cardiac rehabilitation.

Throughout the course you will actively participate in practical sessions designed to increase your skills, with supervised practice sessions working alongside University sports teams. Integration of theory and practice ensures you will meet developing statutory professional requirements of practice-specific knowledge, understanding and skills.

Intermediate qualifications available:

• Postgraduate diploma – 120 credits at Masters level https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/clinical-exercise-physiology3

• Postgraduate certificate – 60 credits at Masters level

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/clinical-exercise-physiology

Course detail

• Study on a unique course with a multi-disciplinary approach to teaching, with access to world-leading staff expertise and research
• Explore areas including: research design; exercise testing and diagnosis; exercise testing and prescription; physical activity, nutrition and metabolic health; laboratory skills; research methods; advanced exercise testing and diagnosis
• Develop the high-level professional standards demanded of members of a health care team; understanding your ethical, moral and legal responsibilities as well as acquiring the practical competencies, theoretical knowledge and research skills that will help you access careers in health and fitness or academia
• Gain from the opportunity to practice your skills on work placement, and shadow experienced staff
• Benefit from gaining the necessary skills to become a Health Promotion Specialist; Clinical Exercise Physiologist; Clinical Technician or researcher, and/or continue to further research-based study on MSc by research, MPhil or PhD programmes.

Modules

• Laboratory Skills
• Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing and Interpretation
• Exercise Testing and Diagnosis
• Exercise Prescription for Clinical Populations
• Research Methods
• Clinical Exercise Physiology Dissertation
• Psychological Approaches to Public Health*
• Professional Skills for Healthcare Providers*
• Metabolic Health*
• Sport Science Support*
• Placement (short)*
• Placement (long)*
*denotes options

Assessment

A variety of assessment formats are used and are designed to develop your transferable skills such as written and oral communication, the ability to follow logical instructions, problem solving and time management.

Some assessments are designed to mimic the scenarios that you may find in the clinical environment, such as practical exams, assess client care, technical skills, analysis and interpretation of test results.

All of these assessments are considered to be the best method to assess the learning outcomes of the particular unit, as well as developing professional and transferable skills.

• Written assessments – dissertation, projects, reports, lab reports (approx. 85%)
• Exams and tests (5%)
• Presentations and practicals (approx. 10%)

Careers

You will experience hands-on practical experience from the start of the course developing confidence for meeting and assessing patients in the clinical setting.

You will be introduced to a range of specialist equipment that you become competent in, allowing you to transfer your practical skills to clinical environment.

The placement units allow you to experience the clinical setting and different clinical populations.

Clinical practitioners deliver some of the lecture and practical content ensuring that you can receive insight into the setting in which you are likely to work.

Graduates can to apply for positions such as: Health Promotion Specialist, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Clinical Technician. Previous graduates have gone on to train as cardiologists, including a specialist in congenital and adult heart disease in the Evelina Children’s Hospital and Guy's and St Thomas’.

You could also apply for further study, such as a PhD or the NHS Scientific Training Programme.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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We actively encourage postgraduate students on this course to undertake internships and build up a portfolio of clients and practical experience.

Course overview

Careers in Sport and Exercise Science can develop in at least two directions. Firstly you can help elite athletes reach their optimum sports performance. Secondly you can help the general population to improve fitness through exercise referral and community programmes.

This course allows you to specialise in both those areas, by providing you with a solid grounding in measurement, evaluation, research methods, data analysis, and sport and exercise psychology. Additionally, you will get the chance to study applied physiology, applied biomechanics or complete a personal project. The final stage is a research project that reflects your developed knowledge and skills.

Compared to undergraduate studies, this Masters has more emphasis on self-directed lab work, data collection and analysis. We encourage you to undertake real-world internships and build up experience with external clients and sports clubs. This practical experience will complement the rigorous research elements of the course.

By the end of the course you will have a portfolio of work, feedback from clients/employers, and a record of practical and academic projects. This will give you a clear advantage when it comes to applying for jobs.

Course content

The course mixes taught elements with independent research and self-directed study. There is flexibility to pursue personal interests in considerable depth, with guidance and inspiration from Sunderland's supportive tutors.

Core modules:
-Measurement and Evaluation (20 Credits)
-Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology (20 Credits)
-Applied Research Methods and Data Analysis (20 Credits)
-Masters Project (60 Credits)

Designated core modules (you must choose one of the following, but you may choose the other as an option):
-Applied Sport and Exercise Physiology (20 Credits)
-Applied Biomechanics in Sport and Exercise (20 Credits)

Optional modules (choose at least one):
-Strength and Conditioning in Practice (20 Credits)
-Sports Injuries, Management and Rehabilitation (20 Credits)
-Applied Weight Management (20 Credits)
-Professional Skills and Practice (20 Credits)
-Independent Learning Project (20 Credits)
-Applied Public Health (20 Credits)
-Brief Interventions (20 Credits)

Teaching and assessment

We use a wide variety of teaching and learning methods which include lectures, problem-based learning seminars, web-based resources, small group discussions and debates. You will develop your practical skills with workshops and laboratory classes.

Assessment methods include essays, case studies, portfolios, oral presentations, scientific reports, practical exams, data analyses, critical reviews, poster presentations and a dissertation.

Facilities & location

We have invested in the latest software and equipment so that you have maximum scope to measure and improve performance. Our facilities will propel your learning in sport and exercise sciences.

Biomechanics equipment

Our equipment can measure motion, muscle activity and forces on the body during high intensity sports and the activities of daily living. Equipment and techniques include the following:
-3D motion capture systems including Vicon® systems and Xsens® motion capture suits
-Software such as Dartfish®, Kinovea® and LongoMatch® software to capture live action images for match tagging and coaching feedback
-Movement tracking tools such as Actigraph® and Catapult®
-Delsys® Trigno electromyography equipment to see how the muscles of the body are working
-Kistler® force platforms and Batak® reaction walls to analyse sporting performance
-Novel® Pedar systems to analyse foot pressure

Exercise Physiology and Psychology
Our laboratories include the most up-to-date equipment for assessing human performance. You’ll get hands-on practical experience with the following:
-Polar® Team2 heart rate monitoring system for assessing the heart rates of a full squad of team players in real time
-Cortex® gas analysers to evaluate cardiovascular performance
-Biochemical analysers from Randox®, Jenway® and Gonotec® to measure substances and enzymes within the body
-Tendo®, Myotest® and Globus® equipment to profile your strength and power and develop specific training programmes
-Fusion Sport® SMARTSPEED light gates for assessing speed, agility and reaction times
-Assess and enhance cognitive performance using our Neurotracker® 3D multiple object tracking equipment

Sports Medicine and Anatomy
Anatomy is taught by experienced staff in a specialist clinical lab using skeletons, anatomical models, 3D software, online material and human subjects. You will learn techniques for sports injury rehabilitation, including the use of sports massage and ultrasound equipment.

You will also examine balance and stability using our Biodex® stability and balance trainer and assess strength imbalances using our sophisticated Biodex® dynamometer and new BTE Primus® rehabilitation equipment. You can investigate how new techniques such as thermal imaging are being used in injury assessment with Flir® IR cameras.

Fitness and Conditioning Suite
In our lab, you'll find fitness and conditioning equipment that would be the envy of most modern gyms. From a wide range of cardiovascular equipment to machine and Olympic weights, you will receive hands-on teaching in a professional environment.

University Library Services
The University library has thousands of relevant books, e-books and journal articles, with many more titles available through the inter-library loan service. We subscribe to useful resources such as SPORTDiscus, which provides journal articles, book chapters and summaries about sport, fitness and related disciplines.

Sciences Complex
This course is based in the Sciences Complex at our City Campus, which has benefited from multi-million pound investments. The IT facilities are excellent and, across the University, there are hundreds of workstations as well as wireless internet access. If you have any computer problems, just ask the friendly helpdesk team.

Sports facilities
Students at Sunderland have easy access to some of the best facilities in the region. These include:
-50m Olympic size swimming pool
-95m artificial ski slope
-Climbing wall with some of the best route setters in the UK
-Football training pitches at Sunderland AFC’s Academy of Light
-Marine Activities Centre for sailing, canoeing, kayaking and powerboating
-LTA indoor tennis centre with 13 indoor and outdoor courts
-Floodlit athletics tracks

CitySpace
Our City Campus features a state-of-the-art facility called CitySpace. It features:
-Sports hall (suitable for hosting large-scale events)
-Fitness suite/gym
-Strength and conditioning room
-Injury prevention and support suite
-Fitness classes
-Climbing wall

Employment & careers

Potential employers of graduates from this course include national sports associations, sports and leisure companies, recreation services, local authorities, health bodies including the NHS, schools and colleges. Job roles include the following (some require further training):
-Sports and exercise scientist
-Performance Analyst
-Sports coach/instructor
-Manager of health promotion initiatives
-Manager of cardiac rehabilitation and exercise referral
-Fitness centre manager
-Personal trainer/specialist fitness instructor
-Lecturer

Recent Sunderland graduates are now working within the fitness industry, sports development and in Further Education colleges.
A Masters degree will also enhance career opportunities within Higher Education and prepare you for further postgraduate studies.

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