Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Clinical Science (Medical Physics) at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).
Medical physicists fill a special niche in the health industry. The role includes opportunities for laboratory work, basic and applied research, management and teaching, which offers a uniquely diverse career path. In addition there is satisfaction in contributing directly to patient treatment and care.
This three-year programme in Clinical Science (Medical Physics), hosted by the College of Medicine, builds on an existing collaboration with the NHS in providing the primary route for attaining the professional title of Clinical Scientist in the field of Medical Physics.
The Clinical Science (Medical Physics) programme is accredited by the NHS and provides the academic component of the Scientist Training Programme for medical physics trainees, within the Modernising Scientific Careers framework defined by the UK Department of Health, and offers students the chance to specialise in either radiotherapy physics or radiation safety. This Master’s degree in Clinical Science (Medical Physics) is only suitable for trainees sponsored by an NHS or an equivalent health care provider.
The MSc in Clinical Science (Medical Physics) is modular in structure, supporting integration of the trainee within the workplace. Students must obtain a total of 180 credits to qualify for the degree. This is made up of 120 credits of taught-course elements and a project that is worth 60 credits and culminates in a written dissertation.
The Clinical Science (Medical Physics) MSc is accredited by the Department of Health.
Modules on the Clinical Science (Medical Physics) MSc typically include:
• Introduction to Clinical Science
• Medical Imaging
• Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Imaging
• Radiation Protection
• Radiotherapy Physics
• Research Methods
• Advanced Radiotherapy
• Specialist Radiotherapy
• Advanced Radiation Safety
• Specialist Radiation Safety
The MSc in Clinical Science (Medical Physics) provides the main route for the professional qualification of Clinical Scientist in Medical Physics.
Additionally, the need for specific expertise in the use of medical radiation is enshrined in law. The Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (IRMER) 2000 defines the role of Medical Physics Expert, required within any clinical context where radiation is being administered, either a diagnostic or therapeutic.
The close working relationship between Swansea University and the NHS in Wales, through the All-Wales Training Consortium for Medical Physics and Clinical Engineering, provides the ideal circumstances for collaborative teaching and research. The Consortium is recognised by the Welsh Government. A significant proportion of the teaching is delivered by NHS Clinical Scientists and other medical staff.
The close proximity of Swansea University to Singleton Hospital, belonging to one of the largest health providers in Wales, Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University (ABMU) health board, as well as the Velindre NHS Trust, a strongly academic cancer treatment centre, provide access to modern equipment, and the highest quality teaching and research.
The Institute of Life Science (ILS) Clinical Imaging Suite has recently been completed and overlaps the University and Singleton Hospital campuses. It features adjoined 3T MRI and high-resolution CT imaging. ILS has clinical research of social importance as a focus, through links with NHS and industrial partners.
Swansea University offers a vibrant environment in medically-oriented research. The Colleges of Medicine has strong research links with the NHS, spearheaded by several recent multimillion pound developments, including the Institute of Life Science (ILS) and the Centre for NanoHealth (CNH).
The University provides high-quality support for MSc student research projects. Students in turn make valuable progress in their project area, which has led to publications in the international literature or has instigated further research, including the continuation of research at the doctoral level.
The College of Medicine provides an important focus in clinical research and we have the experience of interacting with medical academics and industry in placing students in a wide variety of research projects.
Medical academics have instigated projects examining and developing bioeffect planning tools for intensity modulated radiotherapy and proton therapy and devices for improving safety in radiotherapy. Industry partners have utilised students in the evaluation of the safety of ventricular-assist devices, intense-pulsed-light epilators and in the development of novel MRI spectroscopic methods. The student join teams that are solving research problems at the cutting-edge of medical science.
Medical Imaging is an essential component of modern medicine, playing a key role in the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease. The Medical Imaging MSc covers:
Whilst not a clinical skills course, the teaching of the technical aspects of imaging techniques is firmly grounded and in their clinical usage. Many of our lecturers are at the forefront of research in their field and bring insights from emerging imaging techniques.
This programme is designed for recent graduates preparing for a career in medical imaging, professionals already working in the field, and medical students wishing to intercalate.
More Information
You can study this subject at a MSc, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate level.
You may transfer from your original programme to another one, provided that you do this before you have completed the programme and before an award has been made. Part-time study is also an option.
You’ll become familiar with the range of clinical imaging techniques.
By the end of the programme you should be able to:
PGCert
Compulsory modules:
For more information on typical modules, read Medical Imaging PGCert in the course catalogue
PGDip
Compulsory modules :
For more information on typical modules, read Medical Imaging PGDip in the course catalogue
MSc
You’ll study modules worth 180 credits. If you study this programme part time you will study fewer modules in each year.
Compulsory modules:
As an MSc student, you undertake a research project in the field of Medical Imaging. New research topics are available each year and include projects in MRI, Ultrasound, X-ray and their clinical application. You'll be asked to state your preferred research project. Before projects are allocated, you are encouraged to meet potential supervisors and discuss the research work.
All modules (except for your research project) are taught through traditional lectures, tutorials, practicals and computer based sessions. We also employ blended learning, combining online learning with other teaching methods.
You’ll be taught about the underpinning science of the various imaging modalities, and we cover a range of clinical applications demonstrating the use of medical imaging in modern medicine. Many of the lecturers are at the forefront of research in their particular field and will bring insights from current clinical imaging practice and developments of new and emerging imaging techniques.
The taught modules are assessed by coursework and unseen written examinations. Exams are held during the University exam periods in January and May.
The research project is assessed in separate stages, where you submit a 1,000-word essay (20%), a 5,000-word journal-style research article (70%) and make an oral presentation (10%).
Past graduates have gone on to enter careers in medical imaging or related disciplines, such as radiology and radiography. Often students are already working in the area, and use the skills and knowledge gained in the programme to enhance their careers. Students have gone on to take lecturer or research positions, and have also chosen to take post graduate research degrees (such as a PhD). As a intercalated degree for medical students the programme is useful for students considering radiology or many other medical specialties.
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.
Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Medical Radiation Physics at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).
The Medical Radiation Physics course builds on the highly successful research partnerships between the College of Medicine and Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University (ABMU) Health Board, including the Institute of Life Science and Centre for NanoHealth initiatives, and ongoing work in Monte Carlo-based radiotherapy modelling and dosimeter development, body composition, tissue characterisation and novel modes of the detection of disease with state-of-the-art CT and MRI facilities.
On the Medical Radiation Physics MSc, you will gain the necessary knowledge and understanding of fundamental aspects of the use of radiation in medicine, in order that you are conversant in medical terms, human physiology and radiation mechanisms.
A direct link to clinical practice is provided through hands-on instruction with equipment used routinely in the hospital setting, which will prepare you for research in a rapidly changing field, including tuition in computer-based modelling, research methodology and the ethical dimensions associated with medical research.
The Medical Radiation Physics programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM).
The Medical Radiation Physics programme is modular in structure. Students must obtain a total of 180 credits to qualify for the degree. This is made up of 120 credits in the taught element (Part One) and a project (Part Two) that is worth 60 credits and culminates in a written dissertation. Students must successfully complete Part One before being allowed to progress to Part Two.
Part-time Delivery mode
The part-time scheme is a version of the full-time equivalent MSc in Medical Radiation Physics scheme, and as such it means lectures are spread right across each week and you may have lectures across every day. Due to this timetabling format, the College advises that the scheme is likely to suit individuals who are looking to combine this with other commitments (typically family/caring) and who are looking for a less than full-time study option.
Those candidates seeking to combine the part-time option with full-time work are unlikely to find the timetable suitable, unless their job is extremely flexible and local to the Bay Campus.
Timetables for the Medical Radiation Physics programme are typically available one week prior to each semester.
Modules on the Medical Radiation Physics course can vary each year but you could expect to study:
• Introduction to the Practice of Medical Physicists and Clinical Engineers
• Nanoscale Simulation
• Physics of the Body
• Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Radiology
• Research Methods
• Radiation Protection
• Radiation Physics
• Radiotherapy Physics
• Medical Imaging
• Advanced Radiotherapy
• MSc Research Project
The Medical Radiation Physics course has been accredited by the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM). IPEM is the professional body that works with physical science, engineering and clinical professionals in academia, healthcare services and industry in the UK and supports clinical scientists and technologists in their practice through the provision and assessment of education and training.
The close proximity of Swansea University to two of the largest NHS Trusts in the UK outside of London, as well Velindre NHS Trust (a strongly academic cancer treatment centre), offers the opportunity for collaborative research through student placements.
The academic staff of this discipline have always had a good relationship with industrial organisations, which are the destination of our medical engineering graduates. The industrial input ranges from site visits to seminars delivered by clinical contacts.
The Medical Radiation Physics course will prepare you for research and clinical practise in a rapidly changing field, including tuition in computer modelling, human engineering and the medico-legal issues they imply. It will enable you to develop the potential to become leaders, defining and influencing medical practise.
For a medical physicist career path, the role includes opportunities for laboratory work, basic and applied research, management and teaching, offering a uniquely diverse career. In addition there is satisfaction in contributing directly to patient treatment and care.
The Postgraduate Certificate in Non-Medical Prescribing aims to prepare Allied Health Professionals to practice within current non-medical prescribing legislation.
There will be two cohorts per year (subject to sufficient interest and professional body approval), starting in March and September each year. The Spring cohort will run every Wednesday from March to November (No lectures during August) and the Autumn cohort will be taught every Tuesday from September to the following March.
Professional body approval from the Healthcare Professions Council has been granted for Independent prescribing for Chiropodists/podiatrists, physiotherapists and therapeutic radiographers and for Supplementary prescribing, diagnostic radiographers.
The Non-Medical Prescribing course is not available to international students.
All of whom are looking to develop prescribing practice within a clinical setting.
The Non-Medical Prescribing course is designed to develop the knowledge, skills and competency required to undertake the role of an independent or supplementary non-medical prescriber. The course has been designed for allied health professionals to develop prescribing practice within a clinical setting.
The Non-Medical Prescribing programme comprises of two core modules: SHGM05 -Clinical Assessment and Decision Making in Non-Medical Prescribing which is 40 credits at level 7 and SHGM06 - Pharmacology principles and practice which is 20 credits at level 7. Both of these modules must be successfully completed to gain this qualification in Non-Medical Prescribing for Allied Health Professionals.
The Non-Medical Prescribing programme is taught at the St. David’s Park site in Carmarthen. Teaching takes place one day a week over the academic year. You are also required to have 96 hours of clinical practice with a designated medical mentor from which you will need to evidence the learning that has occurred.
The Non-Medical Prescribing for Allied Health Professionals teaching team:
The College of Human and Health Sciences has a vibrant postgraduate community with students drawn from a variety of backgrounds and nationalities. The College is known for its friendly, welcoming and supportive environment, which combined with its extensive facilities, state-of-the-art technology and superb beachside location, helps to ensure that students benefit from an exceptional student experience.
Facilities
In addition, students have access to a wide range of excellent facilities and equipment for realistic workplace experiences.
The Postgraduate Certificate in Non-Medical Prescribing aims to prepare nurses and midwives to practice within current non-medical prescribing legislation.
There will be two cohorts per year (subject to final professional body approval), starting in March and September each year. The Spring cohort will run every Wednesday from March to November (No lectures during August) and the Autumn cohort will be taught every Tuesday from September to the following March.
Unfortunately the Non-Medical Prescribing for Nurses and Midwives course is not available to international students.
Nurses or midwives who wish to develop prescribing practice within a clinical setting.
The Non-Medical Prescribing for Nurses and Midwives course is designed to develop the knowledge, skills and competency required to undertake the role of an independent or supplementary non-medical prescriber. The Non-Medical Prescribing course has been designed for multiple disciplines to learn together to develop prescribing practice within a clinical setting.
The Non-Medical Prescribing for Nurses and Midwives programme comprises of two core modules: SHGM26 -Clinical Assessment and Decision Making in Non-Medical Prescribing which is 40 credits at level 7 and SHGM27 - Pharmacology principles and practice which is 20 credits at level 7. Both of these modules must be successfully completed to gain this qualification.
The Non-Medical Prescribing for Nurses and Midwives programme is taught at the St. David’s Park site in Carmarthen. Teaching takes place one day a week over the academic year. It is a professional requirement that you also have 96 hours of clinical practice with a designated medical mentor from which you will need to evidence the learning that has occurred.
The Non-Medical Prescribing for Nurses and Midwives teaching team:
The College of Human and Health Sciences has a vibrant postgraduate community with students drawn from a variety of backgrounds and nationalities. The College is known for its friendly, welcoming and supportive environment, which combined with its extensive facilities, state-of-the-art technology and superb beachside location, helps to ensure that students benefit from an exceptional student experience.
Facilities
In addition, students have access to a wide range of excellent facilities and equipment for realistic workplace experiences.
The Postgraduate Certificate in Non-Medical Prescribing aims to prepare pharmacists to practice within current non-medical prescribing legislation.
There will be two cohorts per year (subject to sufficient interest and professional body approval), starting in March and September each year. The Spring cohort will run every Wednesday from March to November (No lectures during August) and the Autumn cohort will be taught every Tuesday from September to the following March. Please contact the Non-Medical Prescribing programme manager on [email protected] to discuss which cohort may be more appropriate for you.
Unfortunately the Non-Medical Prescribing for Pharmacists course is not available to international students.
Pharmacists who wish to develop prescribing practice within a clinical setting.
The Non-Medical Prescribing for Pharmacists course is designed to develop the knowledge, skills and competency required to undertake the role of an independent non-medical prescriber. The course has been designed for multiple disciplines to learn together to develop prescribing practice within a clinical setting.
The full Postgraduate Certificate in Non-Medical Prescribing for Pharmacists programme comprises one 40 credit module, SHGM22 Non-medical prescribing and one 20 credit module, Pharmacology principles and practice (NMC) SHGM23. The non-medical prescribing qualification annotated by the General Pharmaceutical Healthcare Council can be achieved by successful completion of a stand-alone 40 credit module, ‘Non-medical prescribing’ - SHGM22. Students wishing to complete the full Post Graduate Certificate in Non-Medical Prescribing for Pharmacists must also complete an optional 20 credit module, Pharmacology principles and practice (NMC) SHGM23.
The Non-Medical Prescribing for Pharmacists programme is taught at the St. David’s Park site in Carmarthen. Teaching takes place one day a week over the academic year.
The Non-Medical Prescribing for Pharmacists teaching team:
The College of Human and Health Sciences has a vibrant postgraduate community with students drawn from a variety of backgrounds and nationalities. The College is known for its friendly, welcoming and supportive environment, which combined with its extensive facilities, state-of-the-art technology and superb beachside location, helps to ensure that students benefit from an exceptional student experience.
Facilities
In addition, students have access to a wide range of excellent facilities and equipment for realistic workplace experiences.
Medical engineering combines the design and problem-solving skills of engineering with medical and biological sciences to contribute to medical device solutions and interventions for a range of diseases and trauma.
This exciting and challenging programme will give you a broad knowledge base in this rapidly expanding field, as well as allowing you to specialise through your choice of optional modules.
We emphasise the multidisciplinary nature of medical engineering and the current shift towards the interface between engineering and the life sciences. You could focus on tissue engineering, biomaterials or joint replacement technology among a host of other topics.
Whether you’re an engineer or surgeon, or you work in sales, marketing or regulation, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills to launch or develop your career in this demanding sector.
Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering
You’ll learn in an exciting research environment where breakthroughs are being made in your discipline. This programme is closely linked to our Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering (IMBE), which focuses on research and education in the fields of medical devices and regenerative medicine. It focuses on innovating and translating new therapies into practical clinical applications.
Our world-class facilities in materials screening analysis, joint simulation, surface analysis, heart valve simulation and tensile and fatigue testing allow us to push the boundaries in medical engineering.
This course is accredited by the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) under licence from the UK regulator, the Engineering Council.
One core module in Semester 1 will give you a background in experimental design and analysis within medical engineering. You’ll look at computational and biological methodologies alongside statistical data analysis and different data visualisation techniques to lay the foundations of your studies.
Optional modules in each semester will allow you to build on this knowledge and focus on specialist topics that suit your own interests and career intentions. You could focus on biomechatronics and medical robotics, spinal biomechanics, surface engineering or computational fluid dynamics analysis and a range of other topics. Depending on your academic or professional background, you may decide to take introductory modules such as Basic Orthopaedic Engineering or Structure and Function of the Body to fill the gaps in your knowledge.
Throughout the programme you’ll complete your Professional Project – an independent piece of research on a topic within mechanical engineering that allows you to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. In the two taught semesters you’ll review the literature around your topic and plan the project, before completing the design, analysis, computation, experimentation and writing up in the summer months.
If you choose to study part-time, you’ll extend your studies over a longer period so you can take fewer modules in each year.
Want to find out more about your modules?
Take a look at the Medical Engineering module descriptions for more detail on what you will study.
Compulsory modules
Optional modules
Our groundbreaking research feeds directly into teaching, and you’ll have regular interactions with staff who are at the forefront of their disciplines. You’ll have regular contact with them through lectures, seminars, tutorials, small group work and project meetings. Some modules make use of online learning methods or a short course format.
Independent study is also important to the programme, as you develop your problem-solving and research skills as well as your subject knowledge.
You’ll be assessed using a range of techniques including case studies, technical reports, presentations, in-class tests, assignments and exams. Optional modules may also use alternative assessment methods.
The professional project is one of the most satisfying elements of this course. It allows you to apply what you’ve learned to a piece of research focusing on a real-world problem, and it can be used to explore and develop your specific interests.
Recent projects for MSc Medical Engineering students have included:
Career destinations are diverse and include medical engineering within industrial or public sector organisations, regulatory affairs and sales and marketing.
Graduates from this programme have gone on to work in a range of roles for employers such as the clinical research centres, continued in a career in clinical orthopaedics, progressed to a PhD programme.
You’ll also be well prepared to continue with engineering research, whether in industry or at PhD level.
You’ll have access to the wide range of engineering and computing careers resources held by our Employability team in our dedicated Employability Suite. You’ll have the chance to attend industry presentations book appointments with qualified careers consultants and take part in employability workshops. Our annual Engineering and Computing Careers Fairs provide further opportunities to explore your career options with some of the UK's leading employers.
The University's Careers Centre also 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
The Thouron Award - Typically, 6 to 10 awards are made each year to British graduates. Each award provides funding in excess of US$90,000 per year
School of Social Sciences- a nationally and internationally recognised centre for the study of engaged social science
