Masters Degrees (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

This part-time programme is designed to be studied over an eleven month period, commencing in early September and being completed in July of the following year. The programme consists of two 30 credit core modules.

The MRI theory module, delivered in the first semester, is designed to give students an understanding of the scientific principles behind magnetic resonance imaging and the knowledge to explore the relationship between technical parameters and anatomical and pathological appearances. This theoretical module may also be accessed by students who are not registered for the full MRI certificate course as an option within the MSc in Medical Imaging programme.

The second module, clinical MRI, is delivered in semester two and is designed to provide the student with a structured and monitored experiential learning opportunity in their workplace. It is designed to enable students to critically evaluate MRI protocols used in clinical practice with respect to the evidence base in order to inform service delivery and practice.

The programme sits within the MSc in Medical Imaging programme and the Faculty of Health Studies SSPRD framework, and upon successful completion of this MRI course students can continue their studies by registering for additional modules from the Medical Imaging or School module portfolio, to obtain a postgraduate Diploma or Master's Degree.

Why Bradford?

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) programme was first validated in 1996 and since then it has proved to be a popular choice of study demonstrating its continued clinical relevance. The programme is delivered in partnership with clinical and scientific experts working within MRI to ensure it remains clinically relevant and of value to radiographers in developing the knowledge, understanding and skills, in MRI, that are required of a professional who aspires to work at an advanced level.

Modules

-Magnetic Resonance Imaging
-Clinical Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Learning activities and assessment

A 'block' attendance format is utilised in the delivery of the academic learning and this mode of delivery has proved to be popular with students who benefit academically from the concentrated period of time that can be devoted to their studies and learning with their peers. There are 5 blocks of academic learning and these are delivered in the first 6 months of the course.

Career support and prospects

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career and Employability Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the Careers website.

Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring options and refining skills of job-hunting. In most of our programmes there is direct input by Career Development Advisers into the curriculum or through specially arranged workshops.

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Enhance your employability as a diagnostic radiographer by taking a Masters level course in Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Thanks to the high level of support and facilities we supply to our students, we have gained an international reputation for excellence in MRI training. We'll develop your competence in practice alongside critical skills in evaluating practical applications of medical imaging. Our course is designed to encourage and develop your academic ability as well as clinical proficiency.

Course outline

You'll learn to demonstrate the judgement and problem solving skills necessary to produce the highest quality diagnostic medical images using a variety of magnetic resonance technology systems.

Graduate destinations

This qualification can lead to employment as a diagnostic radiographer. A Masters level degree is becoming a requirement in many departments, so you will have a head start in finding work with the NHS or in the private sector.

Other admission requirements

Students need a mentor who will be trained by the university e.g. a radiographer who is senior to the student. Alternatively, other professionals e.g. physicists or radiologists can be considered for this role.

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This module aims to enable you to:
-Critically evaluate the Magnetic Resonance (MR) protocols used in clinical practice with respect to the evidence base in order to inform service delivery and practice policy
-Develop your ability to evaluate MR images within a structured and monitored experiential learning environment

The learning in the module will utilise the knowledge and understanding gained in the Magnetic Resonance Imaging module, which is a pre-requisite and apply it to your own clinical practice. Evidence-based content will be delivered by Faculty experts with support from the technical and clinical fields.

You will be encouraged to identify the evidence base and critique clinical practice and protocols. In the clinical workplace you will undertake clinical MRI examinations of a wide range of anatomical regions/systems for a variety of clinical indications, gaining experience of advanced practice where applicable.

Tutorials will be used to facilitate peer learning and sharing of information by students. Case scenarios will facilitate group discussion and enhance your confidence in debating and justifying imaging techniques.

Why Bradford?

Postgraduate provision in Medical Imaging at the University of Bradford has long been established and is known for its quality and success in supporting development of healthcare professionals in their diverse roles, with students coming from around the UK, and full time international students choosing to study here. The modules are delivered by an experienced radiography team, clinical specialists and medical physicists, and a research informed curriculum ensures it is relevant to current and innovative practice.

Modules

This module is provided as part of this interdisciplinary Framework within the Faculty of Health Studies. The Framework enables students to create an individualised programme of study that will meet either their needs and/or the employers’ needs for a changing diverse workforce within a modern organisation.

The modules and academic awards are presented in areas representing employment practice or work based or clinical disciplines.

Whilst some students can build their own academic awards by choosing their own menu of module options, other students will opt for a named academic award. The Framework also provides the option for students to move from their chosen named award to another award if their job or personal circumstances change and they need to alter the focus of their studies. The majority of named awards also offer students, the option of choosing at least one module, sometimes more, from across the Faculty module catalogue enabling them to shape their award more specifically to their needs.

Learning activities and assessment

Achievement of the learning outcomes will be demonstrated through the completion of a portfolio, to include reflective journal entries, work-based case studies, a presentation and a log of clinical experience as part of the learning process. All assessments within a module must achieve 40% to pass.

Career support and prospects

The module is designed to support healthcare practitioners develop the knowledge, understanding and skills in medical imaging that are required of a professional who aspires to work at an advanced level of practice.

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Campus

Distance learning only

Overview

This is the longest-running distance-learning course of its type in the world, and one of very few dedicated solely to MRI. It is led by a world-renowned MRI educator Catherine Westbrook and supported by a team of MRI experts.
Study MRI to master’s level and open up exciting opportunities in clinical, research, management and academic careers. Develop as an independent and critical thinker, continually linking what you learn to your practice in this fast-changing field. Deepen your knowledge of scientific principles, learn to critically evaluate MRI images, and
understand their emotional impact on your patient. Engage in researching and advancing the world of MRI imaging. Undertake research that leads to publication offering the chance to contribute to wider MRI practice. When you graduate, you will have the advanced experience to seek more senior roles in the imaging profession. Many of our former students have had their research and theses published widely.

Core Modules

Applied Scientific Principles of MRI (30 credits)
Essentials of MRI Clinical Practice (30 credits)
Advanced MRI Practice (30 credits)
Research Studies (30 Credits)
Major Project (60 credits)
Please note that you will need to complete all of the above core modules. This course does not have any optional modules. Modules are subject to change and availability.

Start dates

September 2017

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If you work as a medical imaging radiographer and want to keep your skills fresh and relevant, then our course is perfect for your needs. We have an excellent international reputation for our medical imaging training, with a course designed to demonstrate academic ability as well as clinical proficiency. You'll develop your confidence and competence in practice alongside gaining critical evaluation skills on applications of MRI. With many employers requiring a formal qualification from radiographers, prove that you have the relevant skills by completing our programme.

Course outline

You'll learn to demonstrate the judgement and problem solving skills necessary to produce the highest quality diagnostic medical images using a variety of magnetic resonance technology systems.

Graduate destinations

This qualification can lead to employment as a diagnostic radiographer. A masters level degree is becoming a requirement in many departments, so you will have a head start in finding work with the NHS or in the private sector.

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Do you work with an MRI machine? Want to ensure your skills are of the highest calibre? With many employers requiring a formal qualification from radiographers, ensure you stay ahead by taking our programme. We'll develop your competence in practice alongside critical skills in evaluating practical applications of MRI, showing that you can demonstrate academic ability as well as clinical proficiency. Our course is approved by the College of Radiographers, and we have gained an excellent reputation worldwide for the high standards of our training. Prove that you have what it takes to provide first class medical imaging through a Masters level degree!

Course outline

You'll learn to demonstrate the judgement and problem solving skills necessary to produce the highest quality diagnostic medical images using a variety of magnetic resonance technology systems.

Graduate destinations

This qualification can lead to employment as a diagnostic radiographer. A Masters level degree is becoming a requirement in many departments, so you will have a head start in finding work with the NHS or in the private sector.

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This module aims to enable you to:
-Gain a comprehensive understanding of the physical principles and technology underpinning the acquisition, production and presentation of magnetic resonance (MRI) images
-Develop your ability to critically analyse and evaluate a broad range of magnetic resonance (MRI) imaging applications and protocols
-Develop your ability to comment on normal and variant anatomy seen in common MRI examinations

Lectures will introduce the students to the physical principles of MRI technology and the clinical applications of MRI, delivered by Faculty experts with support from the technical and clinical fields.

Students will be exposed to current MRI technology and its applications in clinical practice, encouraging reflection on existing practice.

Tutorials will be used to facilitate peer learning and sharing of information and directed study based on critiquing up to date literature and practice will be used to further stimulate the student's learning.

Why Bradford?

Postgraduate provision in Medical Imaging at the University of Bradford has long been established and is known for its quality and success in supporting development of healthcare professionals in their diverse roles, with students coming from around the UK, and full time international students choosing to study here.

The modules are delivered by an experienced radiography team, clinical specialists and medical physicists, and a research informed curriculum ensures it is relevant to current and innovative practice.

Modules

This module is provided as part of this interdisciplinary Framework within the Faculty of Health Studies. The Framework enables students to create an individualised programme of study that will meet either their needs and/or the employers’ needs for a changing diverse workforce within a modern organisation.

The modules and academic awards are presented in areas representing employment practice or work based or clinical disciplines.

Whilst some students can build their own academic awards by choosing their own menu of module options, other students will opt for a named academic award. The Framework also provides the option for students to move from their chosen named award to another award if their job or personal circumstances change and they need to alter the focus of their studies. The majority of named awards also offer students, the option of choosing at least one module, sometimes more, from across the Faculty module catalogue enabling them to shape their award more specifically to their needs.

Learning activities and assessment

Achievement of the learning outcomes will be demonstrated through the completion of a written examination based on the physical principles, and a second examination which involves responding to questions based on case studies with accompanying medical images.

All assessments within a module must achieve 40% to pass.

Career support and prospects

The module is designed to support healthcare practitioners develop the knowledge, understanding and skills in medical imaging that are required of a professional who aspires to work at an advanced level of practice.

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Take your clinical skills in Magnetic Resonance Imaging forward in a range of settings of increasing complexity.

Who is it for?

The MSc Medical Magnetic Resonance has been designed for Qualified Radiographers working in or rotating through Magnetic Resonance Imaging who wish to advance their clinical practice and understanding of this modality.

Objectives

This course has been designed to:
-Enhance the professional practice and personal development of practitioners.
-Provide opportunities for discussion and shared experience between practitioners.
-Enhance critical, analytical, professional, research and communication skills and promote the ability to relate these skills to individual clinical practice.
-Further develop the skills necessary for life-long independent learning.
-Prepare you to take on the professional roles of advanced practitioners.
-Encourage autonomous planning and implementation of tasks at a professional level.
-Encourage the development of originality in the application of knowledge to clinical practice.
-Enhance your understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to interpret knowledge in your field.

Placements

Students should be working as a radiographer in a Magnetic Resonance Imaging department at least thre days per week (or equivalent). City is unable to provide a clinical placement.

Teaching and learning

You will learn through a mix of lectures, class discussions, seminars, presentations, case study analyses, interactive computer-based exercises, a virtual learning environment, guided independent learning and individual supervision.

You will be taught by City Academics who specialise in Computed Tomography, Radiologists, Industry Professionals and Radiographers.

Assessment
You are assessed on a range of areas including your project dissertation, exams, written assignments, oral presentations and posters.

Modules

Core and elective module diet will vary depending on which certificate is undertaken.

Core modules
Year One (PGCert):
-RCM124 Physics and Instrumentation of Medical Magnetic Resonance (30 credits) - year one, term one
-RDM017 Clinical Applications of Medical Magnetic Resonance (30 credits) - year one, term two.

Year Two (PGDip):
-RCM124 Physics and Instrumentation of Medical Magnetic Resonance (30 credits) - year one, term one
-RDM017 Clinical Applications of Medical Magnetic Resonance (30 credits) - year one, term two
-HRM011 Introduction to Research Methods and Applied Data Analysis (15 credits)- year two, term one.

The remainder of the course will be selected from elective modules.

Year Three (MSc):
-RCM124 Physics and Instrumentation of Medical Magnetic Resonance (30 credits) - year one, term one
-RDM017 Clinical Applications of Medical Magnetic Resonance (30 credits) - year one, term two
-HRM011 Introduction to Research Methods and Applied Data Analysis (15 credits)- year two, term one
-APM002 Dissertation (60 credits)- year two, terms one and two.

The remainder of the course will be selected from elective modules.

Elective modules
-RCM005 Evidence Based Practice (15 credits – distance learning)
-RCM010 Student Negotiated Module 1 (15 credits – distance learning)
-CHM003 Comparative Imaging (30 credits – distance learning)
-CHM002 Education in the Workplace (15 credits – distance learning)
-RCM124 Physics and Instrumentation of Medical Magnetic Resonance (30 credits – 36 hours classroom based) only suitable for students with some CT rotation
-RDM017 Clinical Applications of Medical Magnetic Resonance (30 credits – 36 hours, classroom based). Only suitable for students with some CT rotation.

Career prospects

The postgraduate programme in Medical Magnetic Resonance will enable you to work towards advancing your practice and support a rationale for more senior roles in the profession including specialist clinical practice, management and research.

The programme is accredited by the College and Society of Radiographers.

Previous students have gone on to take positions overseas, in research, management and advance clinical practice. Some of our students have taken their skills and continued to study to PhD level.

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Gain both theoretical and practitioner’s knowledge of cognitive neuroscience. Cognitive neuroscience combines techniques and skills including psychometric testing, electroencephalogram (EEG) eye tracking and imaging techniques – for application to neuropathological and healthy groups in clinical, academic or biomedical settings. Neuropathological groups may include people with head injuries, Parkinson’s disease and dementia. This course is ideal if you:
-Are a graduate with an applied or pure science degree including psychology, biosciences and nursing, and want to pursue a research, clinical or biomedical career in neuroscience.
-Work in a related area and wish to formalise and develop your skills, knowledge and expertise as part of continuing professional development.
-Want to open alternative career pathways.
-Are an EU or international student with the appropriate background and qualifications.

The course gives you the knowledge and skills to evaluate cognitive and brain function and dysfunction in healthy and neuropathological groups. You learn to understand the important ethical issues involved in neuroscientific research targeted at neuropathological and healthy groups, such as drug development for commercial gain.

You have an opportunity to go on a six months work placement in a clinical setting under supervision of professional neuropsychologist consultants.

We also build your research skills enabling you to work as an independent researcher in this area.You have the opportunity to attend workshops run by experts from relevant professions and fields of work. Examples include private clinical consultants, NHS neuropsychologist, teaching staff from the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology course at the University of Sheffield and alumi from our course working in academia and the private sector.

Our specialist learning resources include psychometric measures for assessing cognitive function and 3D model brains for understanding neuroanatomy. You learn to use specialist equipment including:
-EEG
-Transcranial magnetic stimulation
-Structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
-Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
-Visuo-psychophysics equipment.

Some lectures are taught by guest tutors including clinical psychologists and neuroimaging experts. You are automatically affiliated with our Brain, Behaviour and Cognition Research Group, which:
-Delivers targeted neuroscience workshops.
-Organises subject specific presentations.
-Has regular research meetings.
-Has strong collaborative links with other institutions.

For more information, see the website: https://www.shu.ac.uk/study-here/find-a-course/msc-clinical-cognitive-neuroscience

Course structure

Full time – 1 year. Part time – typically 1 day per week for 2 years. Starts September.

Core modules
To graduate with an MSc you complete the following modules:
-Neursopsychopharmacology
-Neuron to neuropathology
-Cognitive neuroscience methods
-Electrophysiology
-Perception and cognition across the lifespan
-Research dissertation

Assessment: coursework; seminar activities; examinations; dissertation.

Other admission requirements

If English is not your first language, you need an IELTS score of at least 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in all other skills or equivalent. If your English language skill is currently below IELTS 6.5 we recommend you consider a Sheffield Hallam University Pre-sessional English course which will enable you to achieve an equivalent English score

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The Medical Imaging MSc, Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate offer ideal opportunities for qualified practitioners (eg in Diagnostic Radiography, Physiotherapy and Midwifery) wishing to advance their skills and career prospects within their area of specialism.

The MSc Medical Imaging course offers the following pathways:

• Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma and MSc
o Magnetic Resonance Imaging
o Medical Ultrasound
o Nuclear Medicine
o Medical Imaging

• Postgraduate Certificate only
o Radiopharmacy Practice
o Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Visit the website: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/courses/postgraduate/medical-imaging.aspx

Course detail

The course aims to:
• ensure you are a skilled, competent and confident practitioner in either Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Medical Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine or Medical Imaging
• enable you to be proactive in initiating and leading role developments in your specific field
• integrate academic learning with the development of higher levels of professional practice.

Content

The course is modular in structure and flexible. Each module attracts 20 credits at Master’s level (HE4). For the award of an MSc, you'll be required to successfully complete nine modules (180 credits). All pathways have a Postgraduate Certificate award comprising three modules (60 credits) and a Postgraduate Diploma award comprising six modules (120 credits).

The modules are a mixture of workplace-based (clinical applications or open), taught and research modules. The acquisition of specific competences takes place in the work setting under the supervision of an expert practitioner, underpinned by a learning agreement.

It is expected that all assignments will be relevant and specific to your own practice within the theoretical context and learning outcomes of the module. All assessments must be passed in order to gain the degree. Individual marks are not awarded. Students’ work is graded as fail, pass, merit or distinction and comprehensive written feedback is given.

Assessment

Assessment includes long essays, seminar presentations, unseen written exams, written reports, projects and case studies and the research dissertation.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Funding

-Masters Loans-

From 2016/17 government loans of up to £10,000 are available for postgraduate Masters study. The loans will be paid directly to students by the Student Loans Company and will be subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

For more information available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/funding-your-postgraduate-degree.aspx

-2017/18 Entry Financial Support-

Information on alternative funding sources is available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/2017-18-entry-financial-support.aspx

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The Medical Imaging programme is aimed at practising healthcare professionals who wish to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills in order to work at an advanced level of practice.

It provides a series of flexible modular pathways that are vocationally relevant and which meet the needs of radiographers and other healthcare professionals, their employers and professional bodies.

This Postgraduate Diploma develop critical perspectives on research and knowledge development in medical imaging practice and management. It is delivered by the Radiography academic team within the School of Allied Health professions, in partnership with clinical and scientific experts working within specialised areas of medical imaging to ensure that the curriculum remains appropriately diverse and clinically relevant.

Why Bradford?

-This course has developed a reputation as one of the UK’s leading postgraduate courses for radiographers and is renowned for its innovative pathways
-Continuing professional development funding may be available for some modules and courses. However, access to funding for part or all of an award cannot be guaranteed

Modules

-Any suitable choice of modules from the SSPRD framework
-Clinical Computed Tomography
-Clinical Magnetic Resonance Imaging
-Computed Tomography
-Current Topics in Medical Imaging
-Developing Practice
-Magnetic Resonance Imaging
-Medical Image Reporting
-Preparing For a Systematic Review
-Preparing for Primary Research
-Principles of Reporting

Career support and prospects

The pathways in CT, MRI and MIR are long established and highly regarded by local NHS managers and are seen as essential qualifications by professional bodies (RCR SCoR 2012) and some managers for advanced practitioner posts.

The clinical Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Imaging award addresses the need for a clinically relevant award for health care practitioners advancing their skills within multiple areas of medical imaging such as CT and MIR, or reporting in multiple areas of practice (SCoR 2013).

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The full time MSc Medical Imaging: International programme provides a coherent pathway of study relevant to contemporary medical imaging practice.

It is designed to be of particular interest to international students, with a qualification in diagnostic radiography or medical technology, who are currently working in the area of medical imaging and who wish to enhance their knowledge so as to contribute to improve medical imaging services. It is designed to support healthcare professionals develop their knowledge, understanding and theoretical skills related to medical imaging required for a professional who aspires to work at an advanced level of practice.

Education within the clinical environment is not a component of the course and on successful completion students will not be eligible to apply for Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration.

The programme is delivered by the Radiography academic team within the School of Allied Health professions and Sport in partnership with clinical and scientific experts working within specialised areas of medical imaging to ensure the curriculum remains appropriately diverse and clinically relevant, and alongside the part time MSc Medical Imaging programme for UK students.

This full-time MSc pathway is a modular programme encompassing a range of academic modules related to medical imaging, and research. Upon successful completion of the MSc Medical Imaging: International, students will have the knowledge and understanding necessary to work at an advanced level of practice within their chosen medical imaging discipline and apply research informed learning to international health communities to inform health service practice and delivery.

The role of higher education within the UK is not only to develop the learning and critical thinking skills of students but to provide students such as yourself with the opportunity to study for an award which will support your current and future career prospects within a dynamic and evolving healthcare environment.

Why Bradford?

The MSc Medical Imaging: International programme is aligned with the Faculty of Health’s SSPRD framework, a multidisciplinary framework for continuing professional development. The framework provides an opportunity to study alongside students from a range of healthcare disciplines to provide an enriched learning experience.

The programme is delivered by the experienced Radiography academic team within the School of Allied Health Professions and Sport in partnership with clinical and scientific experts working within specialised areas of medical imaging to ensure the curriculum remains appropriately diverse and clinically relevant, and alongside the part time MSc Medical Imaging programme for UK students.

This full-time MSc pathway is a modular programme encompassing a range of academic modules related to medical imaging, and research. Upon successful completion of the MSc Medical Imaging: International, students will have the knowledge and understanding necessary to work at an advanced level of practice within their chosen medical imaging discipline and apply research informed learning to international health communities to inform health service practice and delivery.

There is now some flexibility in module choice for MSc Medical Imaging: International. Applicants have a choice to study 2 out of 3 optional modules which support their experience and knowledge. They will then have 3 core modules which are compulsory.
The ethos of sustainable development is a fundamental feature of the programme with students encouraged to develop autonomous learning skills and the ability to apply critical thinking to clinical practice.

Modules

-Current Topics in Medical Imaging
-Preparing for a Systematic Review
-Pursuing a Systematic Review
-Computed Tomography
-Magnetic Resonance Imaging
-Principles of Reporting

Learning activities and assessment

When you have completed the programme you will be able to;
-Develop a detailed knowledge and understanding of the literature that relates to your specialist field of practice
-Critically analyse and synthesise the research evidence that informs the development of policy and service delivery in your specialist field of practice
-Evaluate and critically apply theoretical concepts and where appropriate, for your field of practice, master practical skills for the management of complex issues within your field of practice
-Reflect upon and demonstrate knowledge of values, ethical thinking, equality awareness, inclusive practice and demonstrate mastery within your specialist field or practice
-Develop and demonstrate the ability to articulate sound arguments using a variety of formats including written and oral communication skills
-Demonstrate management and leadership through effective communication, problem solving, and decision making
-Demonstrate the ability to become an autonomous learner through independent study and critical reflection on continuing development needs
-Demonstrate the ability to use IT skills to gather and synthesise information , to access course materials
-Demonstrate a critical awareness and understanding of different theoretical constructs underpinning research and/or project management methodologies.
-Design, undertake and report on either a systematic review, a piece of empirical research, work based or management project that contributes to or extends the body of knowledge for your field of practice

The MSc Medical Imaging assessments allows students flexibility to direct assessments to their area of developing practice and have been praised by external examiners for their relevance to current clinical practices. Assessments range from: portfolios demonstrating advanced practice skills; case studies; presentations; critical evaluations of imaging practices; examinations in image appearances and imaging technology; and a final research project.

Students need to achieve a mark of 40% for each assessment for each module.

Career support and prospects

The theoretical knowledge gained in the imaging modalities of Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and/or principles of medical image reporting will compliment the skills of critical reflection and research that developing practitioners and academics will use in advancing their careers.

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This MSc is provided jointly by the Department of Psychology and the York Neuroimaging Centre (YNiC), and recruits contributing faculty from other university departments such as The Hull-York Medical School. The overarching aim of the MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience at York is to provide a bridge between undergraduate study and PhD research in cognitive neuroscience, experimental psychology and imaging methods.

The course has been developed around training and research using neuroimaging techniques, and the experimental and analytical methods on which they depend. Through our specialist modules students are introduced the principles of neuroimaging, gaining hands on experience in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), magnetoencephalography (MEG), eletroencephalography (EEG) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), learning how to design, analyze and evaluate neuroimaging experiments, and how such experiments are contributing to our understanding of the brain mechanisms underpining cognition and behaviour. Along the way, students also receive training on generic statistical, writing and research skills, and are exposed to main research topics in cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience. Finally, students complete an extended empirical project, typically using a neuroimaging technique of their choice. The empirical project is supported by the state-of-the-art facilities at YNiC.

Content

Specialist modules place neuroimaging in the wider context of cognitive neuroscientific research and introduce students to the principles of neuroimaging the design of neuroimaging experiments and specialist methods required for the analysis of neuroimaging data. These include:
-Basic principles in neuroimaging
-Research Design and Analysis in Neuroimaging
-Topics in Cognitive Neuroscience
-Programming in Neuroimaging

Empirical project
Project enables students to participate in the design and implementation of a theoretically-motivated piece of pure or applied research in cognitive neuroscience providing hands-on training in advanced brain imaging methods, some of which are being developed at York. Topics are chosen so as to be timely and practicable within the relevant resource and time constraints. We regard it as important that the topic not only engages the interest and enthusiasm of the student, but is also a good match to the specialist expertise and knowledge of the supervisor.

Many of our students' projects are published. Each year we offer projects on a wide variety of topics linked to faculty research interests. For example students have used fMRI to investigate the processing of emotional and social cues, representation of semantic knowledge in the brain, disruption of visual cortex in patients with macular degeneration and brain mechanisms underpinning language understanding, face processing, number processing or anxiety and risky behaviour. Students have also used MEG and TMS to investigate brain mechanisms of memory for words and pictures, connectivity patterns between brain regions and auditory perception. Some of these projects are methodological in nature in that they aim to study the analytical strategies to apply in brain research, or they aim to develop the use of new imaging methods.

General research modules
These provide a solid grounding in contemporary issues in psychology and neuroscience, psychological research methods, professional and generic skills.

Assessment
Modules are assessed through a variety of different assignments and exams including practical reports, essays, multiple choice questions, critical analysis of published papers, short notes on a range of topics, dissertation on the Empirical Project, poster presentation.

Backgrounds

This challenging but rewarding course will best suit applicants who are:
-Interested in the brain and its workings (see What is cognitive neuroscience? in the overview)
-Interested in Psychology as a biological science
-Considering a career in research, especially in psychology, cognitive Neuroscience or imaging methods (many other career choices would be compatible with the general scientific, academic and professional training you will receive as part of the course)
-Comfortable with computers and statistics

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Bioimaging sciences have played a vital role in improving human life. A wide range of imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), ultrasound and optical imaging are now important tools for the early detection of disease, understanding basic molecular aspects of living organisms and the evaluation of medical treatment.

This one-year MRes course covers the fundamentals of modern imaging methodologies, including their techniques and application within medicine and the pharmaceutical industry, along with the chemistry behind imaging agents and biomarkers.

Imperial's research strength in imaging sciences is recognised both nationally and internationally, as exemplified by the creation of Imperial's Imaging Sciences Centre (ISC).

The course will progress interdisciplinary development in imaging sciences and create a multidisciplinary team involving chemists, immunologists, radiologists, image scientists, physicists, biomedical scientists and computer scientists.

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Clinical and Health psychology involves applying psychological understanding to difficulties connected with mental or physical health problems. Using this understanding, clinical psychologists assess and treat people of all ages and ability levels who are experiencing psychological distress, behavioural problems or related issues. Students taking the MSc will be introduced to the theory and knowledge that underpins effective practice in clinical psychology, will explore this in relation to a range of conditions, will gain an understanding of the range of research methods used by clinical psychologists, and will conduct their own research project in a relevant area.
How the course can further your career progression

This course will be of particular interest to:
-graduates in psychology who are aiming for a career in clinical or health psychology and who do not yet have relevant work experience. Completing the MSc provides a sound basis for obtaining employment as an assistant psychologist and later gaining entry to clinical training.
-graduates in psychology who are aiming for a career in clinical and health psychology and who have already gained relevant work experience. Completing the MSc course provides evidence of academic and research skills, which is valuable when making applications for clinical training.
- graduates in psychology or closely related disciplines who are keen to pursue research in the area of clinical or helath psychology. The MSc course is accredited as providing an appropriate research training for those wishing to progress to a PhD or to employment in a research post.
- qualified health professionals with an appropriate academic background who wish to extend their understanding of clinical psychology.

Clinical psychology training in the UK involves the completion of a three-year training programme leading to a doctorate in clinical psychology and eligibility to apply for chartered clinical psychologist status. The training is funded by the National Health Service (NHS) and almost all trainees go on to work in the NHS after qualifying. Entry to these programmes is highly competitive and applicants must have good academic and research skills as well as relevant work experience, usually two years in a paid, full-time assistant psychologist position or equivalent. The MSc aims to provide students with a profile of academic knowledge and research skills which, combined with relevant work experience, will equip them to make a credible application for clinical psychology training, either in the UK or elsewhere.

About the School of Psychology
The School of Psychology at Bangor, which was ranked in the Top 20 in the UK in the most recent Research Exercise Framework with 89% of research rated either 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent', brings together a large group of outstanding scientists with international research reputations in clinical psychology, neuropsychology and clinical and cognitive neuroscience. A number of staff also hold appointments as consultant psychologists or medical consultants with the NHS and contribute to clinical practice as well as to the training of clinical psychologists, medical students and NHS staff. The School runs its own clinical psychology training programme, leading to the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

Key research strengths within the clinical psychology domain include dementia, neuropsychology and rehabilitation, learning disability, developmental disorders, addictions, and cognitive-behavioural approaches. Close links with other departments and with NHS services produce tremendous opportunities for collaborative clinical psychology research. The School supports the practical implementation of research findings to improve patient care by hosting groups such as the Dementia Services Development Centre Wales.

The School has an extensive library of psychological tests and measures. Participant recruitment is facilitated through the availability of research panels for neurological patients and people with dementia, as well as student and community participation panels, supported by the School’s full-time patient co-ordinator. The School has a range of specialist laboratories and researchers in the School use a wide range of the latest techniques for understanding brain-behaviour relationships, including functional brain mapping with event related potentials (ERP), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

The School has a vibrant, diverse postgraduate community. Students on our MSc programmes are drawn from a range of backgrounds and nationalities. The School is known for its friendly and informal atmosphere, which combined with excellent facilities helps to ensure that studying here is a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Course Structure
The course includes three components: content modules, research methods modules, and a research thesis. Content and methods modules are all 20 credit modules and the research thesis is worth 60 credits. Students achieving 120 credits on the taught modules, but not completing a research thesis, may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma. The content modules are designed to provide an in-depth look at theory, evidence and practice in clinical psychology.

The course lasts one full calendar year if taken full-time and is also available part-time. During Semester 1 and Semester 2 you will combine taught modules with work on your research project. During the summer period all your time is devoted to completing and writing up the research project.

A variety of teaching approaches are used including lectures, case presentations, small-group sessions and seminars, and individual or group supervision. Assessment will include coursework and examinations, and the research thesis.

Career Prospects
This course will be of particular interest to psychology graduates aiming for a career in clinical psychology and who do not yet have relevant work experience. Completing the MSc provides a sound basis for obtaining employment as an assistant psychologist and later gaining entry to clinical training. For graduates who already have relevant work experience the course provides evidence of academic and research skills, which is valuable when making applications for clinical training. It is also an excellent preparation for graduates who are keen to pursue research in the area of clinical psychology and for qualified health professionals with an appropriate academic background who wish to extend their understanding of clinical and health psychology.

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