Masters Degrees (Radiation Oncology)

OVERVIEW

The MSc in Cancer Medicine will provide students with new knowledge of how precision medicine can improve and shape future healthcare. Students will gain hands-on experience of molecular techniques and the equipment/devices used in a modern molecular laboratory; the course will provide training in laboratory and research skills that are applicable across multiple scientific disciplines in a supportive learning environment. Students will be able to evaluate how novel therapeutic approaches can be used to stratify patients into treatment groups for better clinical management (stratified / precision medicine). They will observe the delivery of precision medicine through tours of the Northern Ireland Cancer Centre.

There are optional modules in the second semester allowing students to explore.the fundamental principles of Carcinogenesis and the translational approaches (including cutting edge technologies) which allow cancer scientists and clinicians to advance our understanding and treatment of cancers. The Precision Cancer Medicine stream provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of the Hallmarks of Cancer from the role of genetic/epigenetic alterations, cell cycle control and metastases/angiogenesis to the development of applications to help diagnose cancers earlier, improve treatments, rationally design clinical trials and reduce chemotherapy drug resistance.

The Radiation Oncology stream will develop skills in understanding the biological principles of radiotherapy and its clinical applications in the treatment of cancer. This will include the physical and chemical basis of radiation interactions and the biological consequences of radiation exposures. Clinical aspects of Radiation Oncology will be covered including principle of advanced radiotherapy delivery, cancer imaging techniques and biomarker discovery.

Importantly, both streams show how our improved understanding of the molecular processes driving cancer growth and spread can be ‘translated’ through research-intensive MSc projects to improve the treatment and survival of cancer patients.

For further information email [email protected] or send us a message on WhatsApp

CANCER MEDICINE HIGHLIGHTS

The strong links between us and the biotech and biopharmaceutical sectors provides a stimulating translational environment, while also expanding your career opportunities.

GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES

• Our partnership with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) provides opportunity to study in the USA. Further information is available on our website.

INDUSTRY LINKS

• The strong links between us and the biotech and biopharmaceutical sectors provides a stimulating translational environment, while also expanding your career opportunities.

WORLD CLASS FACILITIES

• The Programme will be taught in the Centre for Cancer Research & Cell Biology a purpose-built institute at the heart of the Health Sciences Campus, boasting state-of-the-art research facilities

INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED EXPERTS

• We have an international reputation in this area, achieved through; high-impact peer review publications; significant international research funding and the establishment of successful spin-out companies.

COURSE STRUCTURE

Semester 1

Research Translational: from Concept to Commercialisation (Full Year)

• This module covers the principles of disease biology and new technological developments that increase our understanding of disease processes. It develops an appreciation of the importance of innovation, business awareness and leadership skills in the translation of discovery science to clinical implementation.

Diagnosis and Treatment (Semester 1)

• This module provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis and treatment of the common solid and haematological malignancies, including breast, ovarian, genitourinary and gastrointestinal cancers as well as the leukaemias. An overview of the common diagnostic pathways in clinical practice will be provided, and this will including gaining an understanding of imaging modalities and histopathological techniques in routine use. 

Cancer Biology (Semester 1)

• This module provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of carcinogenesis highlighting how normal control processes are bypassed during tumour formation. The pathogenic mechanisms to be discussed will range from genomic alterations in key gene families, to epigenetic mechanisms of gene control, alterations in kinase activities or protein turnover, or activation of aberrant phenotypes such as invasion and angiogenesis.Semester 2

Students will make a selection from the following modules:

• Precision Cancer Stream
• Cancer Genetics & Genomics
• Translational Cancer Medicine

OR

• Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics (ROMP)
• Biology of Radiotherapy

Clinical Radiation

Building on the biological basis of radiotherapy, this module will develop knowledge and skills in understanding clinical radiotherapy and medical imaging. Through the delivery of a multidisciplinary taught programme, students will cover clinical tumour and normal tissue biology, radiological imaging and the design of radiotherapy treatment plans. This will develop the clinical rationale for radiotherapy in the treatment of cancer and highlight emerging treatment combinations and techniques for biomarker discovery in radiation oncology.Biology and Imaging

Research Project

You will undertake a project in the Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology.

Dissertation

This module comprises the write-up contribution to the overall research element of the programme, with the Research Project (SCM 8067). The Dissertation will represent the student’s personal studies in the literature, a description of their experimental execution of their project, data presentation, analysis and interpretation, followed by critical discussion and conclusions.

For further information email [email protected] or send us a message on WhatsApp

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The Department of Physics and Astronomy is one of the oldest departments at the University of Calgary, and since its establishment it has excelled in both research and teaching.

Master's (MSc) Thesis-based

This degree must be completed on a full-time basis.

Program Requirements
1. The student must choose one of five broad areas of specialization: Astrophysics, Physics, Radiation Oncology Physics, Space Physics, and Medical Imaging (interdisciplinary).

2. All students must have a supervisor. When admitted to our graduate program, you are assigned an interim supervisor to assist you with your course selection, registration, etc., however this may not be your final supervisory. You have a maximum of four months from the time your program begins (either September or January) to finalize your supervisor. Your supervisor is then responsible for directing the research component of your degree, as well as for some fraction of your financial support package.

3. Course requirements:
-For students specializing in Astrophysics, Physics, or Space Physics, four half-course equivalents, including at least two of PHYS 609, PHYS 611, PHYS 613, and PHYS 615, plus two elective courses at the 500- or 600-level, as approved by the Graduate Chair.
-For students specializing in Radiation Oncology Physics, eight half-course equivalents. Six of which are MDPH 623, MDPH 625, MDPH 633, MDPH 637, MDPH 639, MDSC 689.01, then two Physics graduate core courses such as PHYS 609, PHYS 611, PHYS 613 or PHYS 615.
-In addition, all students are required to take a minimum of three terms of the Graduate Seminar, although the normal load is four terms, and additional terms may be required of students on an as need basis.

4. Thesis submission and defense

Master's (MSc) Course-based

This program may be done part time or full time, and in fact we encourage professionals in the field to consider doing this program as a part-time, professional development student.

Suitable for students not necessarily oriented towards research activity.

Program Requirements
1. The student must choose one of three broad areas of specialization: Astrophysics, Physics, or Space Physics. The Radiation Oncology Physics specialization is not available as a course-based degree.

2. All graduate students must have a supervisor. For a course-based MSc program, this is quite straightforward, as the graduate chair acts as supervisor for all course-based MSc students.

3. The student must complete ten half-course equivalents, made up of:
All six of the core experimental and theoretical physics courses: PHYS 603, PHYS 605, PHYS 609, PHYS 611, PHYS 613, PHYS 615. Plus four half course equivalents determined by the specialization area:
-Astrophysics - ASPH 699 plus three half-course equivalents labeled ASPH (two of these may be at the 500-level). PHYS 629 and SPPH 679 may be taken instead of ASPH courses
-Physics - PHYS 699, one half-course equivalent labeled PHYS, at the 600-level or above, and two half-course equivalents labeled ASPH, PHYS, or SPPH (these may be at the 500 level)
-Space Physics - SPPH 699, plus three half-course equivalents labeled SPPH at the 600-level or above. PHYS 509 may replace a SPPH course

4. A comprehensive examination with a written and oral component.

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Funded places available

This one-year, full-time, taught course is designed to equip students with the scientific knowledge and cutting edge technical skills to become scholars, teachers and researchers for the next generation and consists of:

• a core theoretical course covering the emerging areas of fundamental biology for oncology and its treatment by radiotherapy (October to February)

• a high-quality basic and clinically-applied research project (March to August)

Course Structure:

Fundamental radiation biological science, laboratory methods and practical skills are taught over a series of 12 modules. Each module is delivered over a period of up to two weeks and together comprises the ‘core content’ of the course:

1. Physics and Chemistry of Radiation Action

2. Molecular Radiation Biology

3. Cellular Radiation Biology

4. Whole Body Exposure and Carcinogenesis

5. Radiation Epidemiology

6. Radiation Protection

7. Imaging Technologies

8. Tumour Microenvironment

9. Normal Tissue and Applied Radiation Biology

10. Applications of Radiation Therapy

11. Translational Radiation Biology

12. Clinical Radiation Biology

Lectures are delivered by local, national and international experts, with additional tutorials and practical sessions given by staff in the Oxford Institute/Department of Oncology.

Funding:

The CRUK/MRC Oxford Institute has one remaining fully funded place available for 2018/19 entry. This will include payment of university and college fees (home/EU rate) and a stipend of not less than £14,777 for one year. All applicants are automatically considered for this funding (including applications already received).

Please refer to Fees and Funding for further details.

Application deadline:

This course is still open to applications for 2018/19 entry; however, please note the course will close once all places have been allocated. There will be 1 week's notice of closure on the course website.

Please refer to MSc in Radiation Biology for details of entry requirements and how to apply. 

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Programme Aims

This award is offered within the Postgraduate Scheme in Health Technology, which aims to provide professionals in Medical Imaging, Radiotherapy, Medical Laboratory Science, Health Technology, as well as others interested in health technology, with an opportunity to develop advanced levels of knowledge and skills.

The award in Medical Imaging and Radiation Science (MIRS) is specially designed for professionals in medical imaging and radiotherapy and has the following aims.

A. Advancement in Knowledge and Skill

• ​To provide professionals in Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy, as well as others interested in health technology, with the opportunity to develop advanced levels of knowledge and skills;
• To develop specialists in their respective professional disciplines and enhance their career paths;
• To broaden students' exposure to a wider field of health science and technology to enable them to cope with the ever-changing demands of work;
• To provide a laboratory environment for testing problems encountered at work;
• To equip students with an advanced knowledge base in a chosen area of specialisation in medical imaging or radiotherapy to enable them to meet the changing needs of their disciplines and contribute to the development of medical imaging or radiation oncology practice in Hong Kong; and
• To develop critical and analytical abilities and skills in the areas of specialisation that are relevant to the professional discipline to improve professional competence.

B. Professional Development

• ​To develop students' ability in critical analysis and evaluation in their professional practices;
• To cultivate within healthcare professionals the qualities and attributes that are expected of them;
• To acquire a higher level of awareness and reflection within the profession and the healthcare industry to improve the quality of healthcare services; and
• To develop students' ability to assume a managerial level of practice.

C. Evidence-based Practice

• ​To equip students with the necessary skill in research to enable them to perform evidence-based practice in the delivery of healthcare service and industry.

D. Personal Development

• ​To provide channels through which practising professionals can continuously develop themselves while at work; and
• To allow graduates to develop themselves further after graduation.

Characteristics

The Medical Imaging and Radiation Science award offers channels for specialisation and the broadening of knowledge for professionals in medical imaging and radiotherapy. It will appeal to students who are eager to become specialists or managers in their areas of practice. Clinical experience and practice in medical imaging and radiotherapy are integrated into the curriculum to encourage more reflective observation and active experimentation.

Programme Structure

To be eligible for the MSc in Medical Imaging and Radiation Science (MScMIRS), students are required to complete 30 credits:

• 2 Compulsory Subjects (6 credits)
• 3 Core Subjects (9 credits)
• 5 Elective Subjects (15 credits)

Apart from the award of MScMIRS, students can choose to graduate with one of the following specialisms:

• MSc in Medical Imaging and Radiation Science (Computed Tomography)
• MSc in Medical Imaging and Radiation Science (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
• MSc in Medical Imaging and Radiation Science (Ultrasonography)

To be eligible for the specialism concerned, students should complete 2 Compulsory Subjects (6 credits), a Dissertation (9 credits) related to that specialism, a specialism-related Specialty Subject (3 credits), a Clinical Practicum (3 credits) and 3 Elective Subjects (9 credits).

 Compulsory Subjects

• Research Methods & Biostatistics
• ​Multiplanar Anatomy

Core Subjects

• Advanced Radiotherapy Planning & Dosimetry
• Advanced Radiation Protection
• Advanced Technology & Clinical Application in Computed Tomography *
• Advanced Technology & Clinical Application in Magnetic Resonance Imaging *
• Advanced Technology & Clinical Application in Nuclear Medicine Imaging
• Advanced Topics in Health Technology
• Advanced Ultrasonography *
• Clinical Practicum (CT/MRI/US)
• Dissertation
• Digital Imaging & PACS
• Imaging Pathology

 * Specialty Subject

Elective Subjects

• Bioinformatics in Health Sciences
• Professional Development in Infection Control Practice

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About the course

The MSc Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences course and its four specialised pathways is designed to enable you to enhance your current knowledge and understanding in the field of diagnostic and therapeutic radiography and give you opportunities to challenge and critically evaluate your professional practice. The aim is to advance your skills as a professional and develop your career so that you can practice safely, effectively and legally.

The Radiotherapy and Oncology pathway specialises in the field of radiotherapeutic practice. Many of the options develop competencies for advanced practice such as in the palliative care and breast localisation modules.

See the website http://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/msc-medical-imaging-and-radiation-sciences-oncological-sciences

Course structure

The MSc Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences: radiotherapy and oncology pathway is modular in structure. If you wish to collect credits towards and award or a qualification see below the award and credit requirements:
- Postgraduate certificate - 60 credits
- Postgraduate diploma - 120 credits
- Masters degree - 180 credits

To complete a Masters degree award for this course you need to collect the following credits:
- Research modules - 60 credits
- Oncological sciences modules - minimum 30 credits
- Optional interprofessional modules - maximum 90 credits

Teaching methods

Modules are facilitated by a variety of experienced lecturers from the University as well as external lecturers.

Delivery of modules incorporates blended learning which aims to combine e-learning activities with campus based learning. You need to have access to a suitable personal computer and a good reliable Internet connection (broadband recommended). Most modern PCs or Macs (less than 3 years old) should be suitable. If you have any queries or need any additional support with IT skills, the School employs an e-learning technologist who will be pleased to help and advise you. Please contact the module lead for details.

Assessment methods include objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs), clinical portfolios, case study presentations, oral presentations and written presentations.

Work Placement

The University cannot offer to provide clinical placements for students.

Professional Accreditations

Accredited by the College of Radiographers

Find out how to apply here http://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/msc-medical-imaging-and-radiation-sciences-oncological-sciences#how-to-apply

Find information on Scholarships here http://www.herts.ac.uk/apply/fees-and-funding/scholarships/postgraduate

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The MSc Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences course and its four specialised pathways is designed to enable you to enhance your current knowledge and understanding in the field of diagnostic and therapeutic radiography and give you opportunities to challenge and critically evaluate your professional practice. The aim is to advance your skills as a professional and develop your career so that you can practice safely, effectively and legally.

The Radiotherapy and Oncology pathway specialises in the field of radiotherapeutic practice. Many of the options develop competencies for advanced practice such as in the palliative care and breast localisation modules.

Course structure

The MSc Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences: radiotherapy and oncology pathway is modular in structure. If you wish to collect credits towards and award or a qualification see below the award and credit requirements:
-Postgraduate certificate - 60 credits
-Postgraduate diploma - 120 credits
-Masters degree - 180 credits

Why choose this course?

-It gives you the opportunity to share ideas with other health professions in order to develop intellectual abilities and assist in the advancement of health care
-It offers you flexible study options based on a modular structure
-It includes interprofessional learning
-The teaching is done by experienced staff and visiting external specialists
-Accredited by the College of Radiographers

Professional Accreditations

Accredited by the College of Radiographers.

Teaching methods

Modules are facilitated by a variety of experienced lecturers from the University as well as external lecturers.
Delivery of modules incorporates blended learning which aims to combine e-learning activities with campus based learning. You need to have access to a suitable personal computer and a good reliable Internet connection (broadband recommended). Most modern PCs or Macs (less than 3 years old) should be suitable. If you have any queries or need any additional support with IT skills, the School employs an e-learning technologist who will be pleased to help and advise you. Please contact the module lead for details.

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This M.Sc. program in Translational Oncology will provide high-quality training for basic scientists and clinicians in the theoretical and practical aspects of the causes and treatment of cancer. A major focus of the programme is the cellular genetic and epigenetic basis of cancer. The course also covers the scientific and clinical challenges pertinent to the management of site specific cancers, and all aspects of cancer treatment from standard therapies to 'individualised' molecular targeted therapies. The focus of the course is research led teaching in the practical aspects of translational cancer research. This innovative M.Sc. program in Translational Oncology is aimed at scientists and doctors in training who wish to:

Develop their research skills
Broaden their expertise in oncology
Develop advanced knowledge in specific areas of scientific, translational and clinical oncology.

The proposed course will offer an opportunity for graduates from a variety of backgrounds to specifically train in translational oncology in advance of undertaking an MD or PhD. Modules are taught using a variety of methods including lectures, tutorials, workshops and laboratory practicals. Lectures are provided by leaders in the field of translational oncology from both scientific and medical backgrounds. The core modules are Cellular and Molecular Oncology, Cancer Epigenetics, Disease Specific Cancers, Radiation / Chemotherapy and Molecular Targeted Therapies, Tumour Immunology, Molecular Pathology and Imaging, Clinical Statsitics and Research Skills. Students can tailor the course to their interests with optional modules in Obesity, metabolism and Cancer, Gemomic Instability, Cancer Drug Development, Tumour Microenvironment, Clinical Pharmacology, and Surgical Oncology and Economics. Students will be required to submit a dissertation based on an emperical research project conducted in one of the many oncology groups located within or affiliated with Trinity College Dublin and the Institute of Molecular Medicine. Opportunities for national and international placements to conduct research projects will also be available in collaborating universities, hospitals and industry.

All applicants should provide two academic or clinical references confirming their eligibility and suitability for the course, before their application can be considered. Applicants should also include a 500 word personal statement addressing why they are interested in the course, their suitability for the programme and how it will impact on their future career development. Applications for admission to the course should be made through the online system no later than July 31st. Late applications will be considered provided places are available.

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Therapeutic radiographers play an important role for cancer patients as they are appropriately trained to plan and deliver radiotherapy treatment while ensuring each patient receives care and support and is treated as an individual. This programme has been developed to accelerate graduates into the radiotherapy workforce with the essential technical, communication and caring skills that are required in the NHS or private radiotherapy departments.

Key benefits

This course is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and on successful completion, you can apply to register with them for the protected title of Therapeutic Radiographer.

This course is also accredited by the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR).

Course detail

We are recognised nationally and internationally as one of the leading education and training centres for Radiotherapy and Oncology, and are proud to have produced the Society and College of Radiographers national student of the year in 2013 (BSc Radiotherapy and Oncology). A recent Radiotherapy MSc graduate also obtained the UWE Santander Master's Bursary for research or work experience. He used the money to gain experience at the Peter Mac RT department in SABR and HEARTSPARE (treatment techniques) in Australia.

Our teaching staff are known for their exceptional knowledge, clinical experience and student support, while our national student survey rank proves our continually high standards when it comes to learning experience and employability.

Our academic team's research-based approach to teaching led to them being chosen to host the inaugural VERT International Users Conference in 2010.

Year 1

In your first year you'll study a range of modules that allow you to build on your existing graduate skills. You will learn the fundamentals of radiotherapy and oncology linking with the relevant anatomy and associated physiology. You will also be introduced to applied physics relating to the radiation and technology in order to receive the underpinning knowledge required for the first clinical placement.

• Principles of Radiotherapy and Oncology (15 credit)
• Science and Technology in Radiotherapy (15 credits)
• Radiotherapy and Oncology Practice (15 credits including Practice Placement 1)
• Research methods in Radiotherapy (15 credits)
• Radiotherapy and Oncology theory and Practice (30 credits including Practice Placement 2)
• Dissertation (45 credits)

Year 2

In your second year, you'll build on the knowledge and skills you learned in Year 1 to explore more complex aspects of Radiotherapy and Oncology practice.

• Communication Skills in Cancer and Palliative Care (15 credits)
• Complex issues in radiotherapy and oncology (30 credits including Placement 3)

Placements

We have excellent industry links in the South West, with placements possible in nine different NHS hospitals from Cheltenham to Truro. You'll take part in three 14-week placements over the two years, where you'll learn on the job while carrying out primary research towards your final dissertation.

Format

Based on our health-focused Glenside campus, this course begins in January and involves classroom-based modules and clinical placements where you gain your clinical competence and undertake research. It's an excellent mix of study and professional experience. The focus is on using your graduate skills to be an independent learner and manage your workload effectively.

Assessment

We use a range of assessment methods throughout the programme, including written assignments, exams, presentations, interactive online assessment, objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) and continuous practice assessment in a clinical environment.

The course is assessed according to the University Academic Regulations and Procedures, and we expect full attendance at all times. You must take your professional practice placements in order, and you'll need to pass each placement before being allowed to start the next. There is always at least one external examiner.

Careers / Further study

Students graduating from this course are highly employable, and there are lots of career opportunities and areas for role extension in therapeutic radiography, including planning and dosimetry. Once qualified you will be eligible to register with the Health and Care Professionals Council.

How to apply

Information on applications can be found at the following link: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/study/applyingtouwebristol/postgraduateapplications.aspx

Funding

- New Postgraduate Master's loans for 2016/17 academic year –

The government are introducing a master’s loan scheme, whereby master’s students under 60 can access a loan of up to £10,000 as a contribution towards the cost of their study. This is part of the government’s long-term commitment to enhance support for postgraduate study.

Scholarships and other sources of funding are also available.

More information can be found here: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/students/feesandfunding/fundingandscholarships/postgraduatefunding.aspx

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Apply your physics background
A career in medical physics offers you the opportunity to use your physics background to provide people with life-changing options every day. Medical physicists play a critical role at the cutting-edge of patient healthcare, overseeing effective radiation treatment, ensuring that instruments are working safely, and researching, developing and implementing new therapeutic techniques.

The Medical Physics Programs at the University of Pennsylvania prepare students to bridge physics and clinical medicine, overseeing clinical applications of radiation and creating the cutting-edge medical technologies of tomorrow. The master’s degree and post-graduate certificate programs combine the resources of one of the world’s top research universities and most prestigious medical schools, offering you unmatched opportunities to shape your own path.

Unsurpassed resources and a rich array of options
Access to Penn’s outstanding facilities creates a unique opportunity for you to sample four subspecialties of medical physics, including radiation oncology, diagnostic imaging, nuclear medicine and health physics. Whether you enter a residency, seek employment directly after the program, go on to a PhD, earn an MBA or change career directions with your PhD, you’ll have the resources at your fingertips to build the career most compelling to you.

Our research facilities—all of which are located on campus, within a 10-minute walk—include the state-of-the art Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine; the Roberts Proton Therapy Center, the largest and most advanced facility in the world for this form of cancer radiation; and the Smilow Center for Translational Research, which brings Penn scientists and physicians together to collaborate on research projects.

Preparation for professional success
Our programs, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Educational Programs (CAMPEP), are grounded in providing the highest standard of patient care. Our students have numerous opportunities to gain hands-on experience at some of the most advanced medical imaging and therapy facilities in the world, through part-time clinical work, residencies, practicum training and much more. It is for this reason that our degree and certificate programs enjoy a high placement rate for our students, year after year. Faculty from Penn’s CAMPEP-accredited residency program participate in professional development to make our students competitive for medical physics residency programs.

We welcome you to contact a member of our program team to learn more about the possibilities that await you in the Medical Physics Programs at Penn.

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If you are a non-radiotherapy graduate who would like to become a registered therapeutic radiographer, this postgraduate course in radiotherapy and oncology will prepare you to become one. By graduating from this course, you are allowed to register for this role through the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

By qualifying in this area you are able to respond to the increasing demand for therapeutic radiographers in the health service. Medical, technological and professional advances in radiotherapy mean the role of the therapeutic radiographer is ever changing.

Your on-campus training is based at the £13 million purpose-built Robert Winston Building. Here you use the state-of-the-art virtual environment for radiotherapy training (VERT). It creates a life-size 3D replica of a clinical environment. We also have 20 networked eclipse planning computers and 10 image review licences with specialist staff on hand to teach you radiotherapy planning and image matching. We are one of the only universities outside of the USA that can offer these facilities.

You get real insights into all aspects of radiography with our professionally approved teaching programme. You learn from a lecturing team who are all qualified radiographers involved in research at a national level.

In addition to this expertise, we invite guest lecturers to teach that are leaders in their field. You also meet and hear from ex-patients who share their experiences of treatment.

As part of the course, you gain important clinical experience in one of our nine participating hospitals. This gives you the knowledge, skills and confidence to undertake and develop your professional role.

Clinical placements may be taken in

• St James' Hospital, Leeds
• Royal Derby Hospital
• James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough
• Leicester Royal Infirmary
• Lincoln County Hospital
• The Freeman Hospital, Newcastle
• Nottingham City Hospital
• Castle Hill Hospital, Hull
• Weston Park Hospital, Sheffield.

To begin with, your studies focus on the theoretical knowledge you need for your clinical experience. We encourage you to question and analyse, not simply accept the theory wholesale. You also learn to look at the complete picture from the view of the patient, healthcare team and associated scientific principles.

You gradually learn to apply theory to practice and tailor treatment to each patient by accurately targeting high dose radiation beams and sparing surrounding normal tissues.

Your studies enable you to develop and adapt your clinical expertise through reflective practice. You learn to analyse and evaluate your experience as you gain and develop new skills and competencies and to look for areas that need changing.

The course is designed in response to recent government initiatives to modernise healthcare education, increase recruitment into the health service and improve cancer care services.

Radiotherapy open days

To build your knowledge and understanding of radiotherapy and oncology you may be interested in attending an open day at one of our partner hospitals. More information about current opportunities to attend a hospital open day are shown here

CPD online

CPD Online, part of our CPD Anywhere™ framework, is being offered free to new graduates of this course for 12 months, as part of our commitment to support your lifelong learning.

CPD Online is an online learning environment which provides information to help your transition into the workplace. It can enhance your employability and provide opportunities to take part in and evidence continuing professional development to help meet professional body and statutory requirements.

For further information, visit the CPD Anywhere™ website at http://www.shu.ac.uk/faculties/hwb/cpd/anywhere.

Care experience

Before you apply for health courses, we require you to have gained some practical experience relating to your subject area. Download our applicant experience guidelines for information about the kinds of experience we expect you to have and the best places to gain it. Evidence of the experience gained, understanding of the profession and a genuine, reasoned commitment to studying a professional course must be explicit in your personal statement to be selected for interview.

Professional recognition

This course is pending accreditation by the College of Radiographers.

This course is subject to approval by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Graduates are eligible to apply to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and apply to become members of the Society and College of Radiographers. You must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in order to practise as a therapeutic radiographer in the UK.

Course structure

Year one modules

• Principles of Oncology, Radiotherapy and Technology 1
• Body Systems and Anatomical Image Interpretation
• Researching for practice • Introduction to Professional Practice
• Personal and Professional Development 1
• Competency for Practice 1

Year two modules

• Principles of Oncology, Radiotherapy and Technology 2
• Dissertation
• Personal and Professional Development 2
• Competency for Practice 2

Assessment

• individual assignments
• personal and professional development portfolio
• clinical assessment and appraisal
• case studies
• formatively assessed learning packages
• placement reports
• viva
• dissertation

Employability

After successfully completing the course and registering with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) you will be qualified to work in radiotherapy departments throughout the UK and overseas. Opportunities exist to specialise in particular areas of clinical practice such as management, quality assurance , treatment planning and patient information/counselling.

Alternatively, you may choose to enter the teaching profession.

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Additional Entry Requirements:

A satisfactory criminal records check will be required.

This course will allow individuals to retrain in the area of radiotherapy and oncology. It is not suitable for people already holding a qualification in therapeutic radiography.

Students normally complete a PgDip in two years. Some choose to return to progress to an MSc on a part-time basis.

Radiography is a caring profession that calls for technological expertise. Therapeutic radiographers use radiation to give radiotherapy  treatment to patients with cancer. If you are considering this career move, it is essential that you have good interpersonal skills as radiographers have to interact with other healthcare professionals as well as with patients and their families, many of whom may need considerable reassurance.

This course will focus on the professional elements required of a therapeutic radiographer. The aim of the course is to further develop the analytical, theoretical and practical skills of an honours graduate so that they can demonstrate the necessary attributes required for a registered therapeutic radiographer. This will enable employment within the UK.

Teaching, learning and assessment

This course uses a wide range of learning and teaching methods, based on a problem based learning approach with students working independently and collaboratively. The teaching and learning strategies are designed to enable independent progress within a supportive framework. Clinical work-based learning will be undertaken, on a rotational basis, within regional cancer centres in hospitals in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness, and your personal performance will be assessed. These placements will take place over May to September. In general, you will be assessed by a variety of methods including case studies, essays and presentations. Normally there are fewer than 15 students on this course, this ensures individuals receive excellent support and guidance. Joint teaching with other courses is utilised within this course. This allows individuals  to benefit from a shared teaching and learning approach where discussion and experiences between students can occur.

Teaching hours and attendance

All academic modules will be studied on campus where you will be required to attend classes and carry out independent work. The number of classes on campus along with required independent study will depend on size of the module. Both work based learning modules will be undertaken whilst on clinical placement in any of the five cancer centres in Scotland. In Year One clinical placement runs for 16 weeks May- Aug. In Year Two placement lasts for 20 weeks, May–Sept.

Links with industry/ professional bodies

You can become a member of the College of Radiographers as a student and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) on graduation. The course leads to eligibility to register as a therapeutic radiographer with the HCPC.

Modules

15 credits: Preparing for Practice as an Allied Health Professional/ Radiotherapy Science/ Research Methods for Health Professionals

30 credits: Introduction to Cancer and its Management/ Radiotherapy and Oncology Practice 1/ Radiotherapy and Oncology Practice 2

10 credits: Introduction to the Human Body/ Science and Technology

50 credits: Work-Based learning 1/ Work- Based Learning 2

If progressing to MSc, you will also complete a research project (60 credits).

Careers

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the HCPC and to work as therapeutic radiographers with the NHS in the UK. Currently, graduates from QMU have a high employment record. Many graduates have worked abroad. However, although HCPC is recognised in many overseas countries, you may have to apply to the registration body of the country in which you wish to work.

Quick Facts

• A starting salary of £21,909 with  excellent opportunity for career progression up to consultant level.
• A professional career in which you are eligible to register within just two years. 
• A caring profession that calls for technological expertise in the rapid developing area of cancer treatment.

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The aim of this course is to enable students to build on their current skills set, through teaching and their own research, in order to work at an advanced level within the radiotherapy department and/or the radiotherapy treatment planning area. The course will develop students' knowledge and skills in the advanced radiation therapy management of cancer patients and to enable students to critically evaluate and participate in research in this area.

The M.Sc. uses a range of authentic assessments which give students the opportunity to produce assessed work which is highly relevant to the clinical environment and which develops independent life-long learning skills.

This M.Sc. course has two separate strands:

1. Advanced Radiotherapy Practice

2. Radiation Therapy Treatment Planning

Strand 1: Advanced Radiotherapy Practice

This course aims to develop students' knowledge and skills in the advanced radiotherapy management of cancer patients and to enable students to critically evaluate and participate in research in this area. The course will provide knowledge of advanced clinical practice for radiation therapists, develop the role of the radiation therapist and provide skills required to further research into cancer management in the radiotherapy department.

On completion of this strand, students will be able to demonstrate:
The ability to use evidence-based medicine to underpin their radiation therapy practice
Proficiency in undertaking research in the field of radiation therapy
An understanding of management processes and their application in oncology
An understanding of the biological consequences of ionising radiation exposure and its potential in cancer treatment
Familiarity with radiological anatomy and the acquisition of optimal imaging for radiotherapy.
Understand the principles of contouring and become proficient in contouring for prostate radiotherapy.

Strand 2: Radiation Therapy Treatment Planning

This course develops students' skills in the area of radiotherapy treatment planning. All components of treatment planning are taught from 3D Conformal Radiotherapy to IMRT treatment planning and treatment planning for specialist techniques such as stereotactic radiotherapy and brachytherapy.

On completion of this strand, students will be able to:
Prepare 3D and IMRT treatment plans
Analyse and discuss treatment plans for specialist techniques
Undertaking research in the field of radiation therapy treatment planning
Identify radiological anatomy and discuss optimal imaging for radiotherapy, from diagnosis to on-treatment verification.
Understand the principles of contouring and become proficient in contouring for prostate radiotherapy.

For both strands, Year 1 consists of six taught modules (60 ECTS). Students who progress to Year 2 will undertake a research dissertation (30 ECTS). Students who pass the taught component and have completed 60 ECTS may exit with a postgraduate diploma if they do not wish to proceed to the dissertation in Year 2.

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Therapeutic radiographers are at the forefront of cancer care, having a vital role in the delivery of Radiotherapy services. They treat cancer patients with x-rays using highly sophisticated equipment. They are also responsible for ensuring that treatment planning and delivery is achieved with absolute precision.

In the treatment of cancer, accuracy is paramount and a variety of highly specialised equipment is available within Radiotherapy Departments to achieve this. Computerised Tomography (CT) simulators employ the latest technology to localise tumours.

Technological advances

Technological advances in linear accelerator design ensure that treatment conforms to patients needs with pinpoint accuracy. Treatment units housing radioactive sources also play a useful role in patient management, as do 3D planning systems.

London South Bank University has invested heavily to ensure that students have access to the best learning tools and staff. There are two dedicated fully equipped skill labs that enable Dosimetry (Radiotherapy treatment planning) and a state of the art virtual environment of a radiotherapy treatment room (VERT).

Communication and care

Alongside the technology, the importance of high standards of communication and care of cancer patients cannot be overestimated. Cancer patients are treated by a multidisciplinary team in which the therapeutic radiographer plays a major role in reducing the sense of vulnerability and promoting patients autonomy.

As a graduate, you'll be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Radiographer .

PgDip programme

The PgDip programme is an accelerated programme over two years, for graduate students who already have a Level 6 qualification. Building on graduate skills you'll develop an enquiring, reflective, critical and innovative approach to Therapeutic Radiography within the context of the rapid changes occurring in the health service.

Top-up to MSc

By adding the research element of a dissertation (an extended and independent piece of written research), you'll be able to graduate with a Masters-level qualification.

Modules

On this programme we'll develop you as confident and competent practitioner who practices autonomously, compassionately, skilfully and safely. The programme comprises of five compulsory modules instilling a range of academic knowledge from health sciences to profession specific radiotherapy and oncology practice. And, add a dissertation for the award of a Masters.

Year 1

Radiation science and technology
Applied biological sciences
Radiotherapy theory and practice 1

Year 2

Patient care and resource management in radiotherapy
Radiotherapy theory and practice 2
Dissertation (MSc only)

Teaching and learning

Academic theoretical knowledge is gained through taught session led by lecturers and experts in the field, supported by blended learning and self-study activities.

Practical skills are normally developed through practical skills based sessions using VERT and dosimetry software, problem-based approaches and clinical placement.

Types of learning activities include:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Enquiry-based learning
• Tutorials
• Formative assessments
• E discussions
• Observation and demonstration of practices within clinical placements.

Placements

Clinical placements are an essential element of the course. You will spend 50% of your time involved in academic study and 50% in clinical practice within a broad variety of healthcare settings. A clinical practice placement allows you to put theory into practice by working with a range of health professionals in clinical situations to develop the skills, knowledge and experience required to become a competent radiographer. Although sometimes initially challenging, practice learning is one of the most interesting and exciting aspects of learning to be a radiographer.

Clinical settings

At LSBU you will experience a variety of clinical settings such as NHS Trusts and the independent sector.

Placements for Therapeutic Radiography include:

• Brighton and Sussex University Hospital: Sussex Cancer Centre
• Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust: Kent Oncology Centre
• Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
• Royal Surrey Hospital
• Queens Hospital, Romford.

Structure of placements

Placements are spread over two years.

The first clinical placement; approximately seven weeks after the start of the course, gives a real taster of the role of the radiotherapy radiographer in the radiotherapy treatment process. It gives you an opportunity to confirm correct choice of career early within the course. Thereafter clinical placements follow the same pattern throughout the course.

Support from a mentor

An identified Link Lecturer and Personal Tutor from the University will be the person you can contact during working day hours whilst on placement with any concerns or questions you are unable to solve otherwise. As there is a close relationship between LSBU and the clinical placement; the Link Lecturer will pay regular scheduled visits to the different sites to meet up with students.

Professional links

The programme is validated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and accredited by the Society and College of Radiographers.

Radiotherapy as a career

On successful completion of the course you'll be eligible to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a therapeutic radiographer.

From helping plan and administering treatment, to explaining it to patients and assessing their responses, therapeutic radiographers are involved in every stage of the treatment process.

Therapeutic radiographers work closely with professionals from other disciplines, are involved in the care and support of the cancer patient and their families through all parts of the patient pathway from the initial referral through to treatment review and follow-up stages. They are predominantly responsible for treatment for the accurate localisation, planning and delivery of ionising radiation.

Therapeutic radiographers need excellent interpersonal skills and emotional resilience as they deal with patients and their families at very difficult and emotional times. Making patients feel comfortable and guiding them through the process can be as important as the technical skills required for this role.

Career progression

Through the acquisition of a wide range of transferable skills such as psychosocial, organisational, management, technical and scientific skills, individuals are well prepared to work in any situation that best suits their individual expertise and interest.Working as a consultant practitioner is one common career path as well as management, research, clinical work and teaching.

After qualification, clinically experienced therapeutic radiographers may gain additional specialist skills and expertise through the postgraduate, post-registration and continuing professional development frameworks.

LSBU Employability Services

LSBU is committed to supporting you develop your employability and succeed in getting a job after you have graduated. Your qualification will certainly help, but in a competitive market you also need to work on your employability, and on your career search. Our Employability Service will support you in developing your skills, finding a job, interview techniques, work experience or an internship, and will help you assess what you need to do to get the job you want at the end of your course. LSBU offers a comprehensive Employability Service, with a range of initiatives to complement your studies, including:

• Direct engagement from employers who come in to interview and talk to students
• Job Shop and on-campus recruitment agencies to help your job search
• Mentoring and work shadowing schemes.

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The course will provide a robust and wide-reaching education in fundamental and applied cancer biology, and focused training in laboratory research and associated methodology.

Why study Cancer Biology at Dundee?

The MRes Cancer Biology is a research-centred taught Masters programme providing a focused training in molecular cancer research. It covers both the fundamental and translational science of carcinogenesis, cancer biology, diagnosis and therapy.

The programme delivers outstanding research-focused teaching from internationally-renowned scientists and clinicians.

Dundee University is internationally renowned for the quality of its cancer research and has over 50 cancer research groups: current funding for cancer research is about £40 million from research councils and charities. In 2009 the university became the first Scottish university to be awarded Cancer Centre status by the CRUK.

What's so good about studying Cancer Biology at Dundee?

The MRes Cancer Biology has been developed from the innovative collaboration between the College of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing and the School of Life Sciences, and it complements the establishment of the Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Centre here in Dundee.

The Dundee Cancer Centre aims to enhance cancer research and apply discoveries to improve patient care. Key to this is training the next generation of cancer researchers.

Areas of particular strength at the University of Dundee are in surgical oncology for breast and colon cancer, radiation biology and clinical oncology, skin cancer and pharmacogenomics. Areas of strength in basic cancer biology are DNA replication, chromosome biology and the cell cycle, cell signalling and targets for drug discovery.

Teaching and Assessment

This course is taught by staff based in the College of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing and the School of Life Sciences.

The MRes will be taught full-time over one year (September to August).

How you will be taught

The course will be taught through a combination of face-to-face lectures, tutorials, discussion group work and journal clubs, self-directed study and supervised laboratory research.

What you will study

The MRes degree course is taught full-time over three semesters.

The first semester provides in-depth teaching and directed study on the molecular biology of cancer, and covers:

Basic cell and molecular biology, and introduction to cancer biology
Cell proliferation, cell signalling and cancer
Cancer cell biology
Carcinogenesis, cancer treatment and prevention
Specific training in research methodology and critical analysis

Students will also be required to take part in a journal club to further develop their critical review skills.

In semesters two and three students will be individually guided to focus on a specific cancer research topic which will be the subject of a literature review and associated laboratory research project. The research project is based in laboratories with state-of-the-art facilities, and under the leadership of world-class researchers.

How you will be assessed

Exams on the taught element of the programme will be held at the end of semester one. Essays and assignments will also contribute to the final mark, and the dissertation will be assessed through the production of a thesis and a viva exam.

Places on the course are limited, so early applications are strongly encouraged.
Apply early to avoid disappointment.
Follow us on Twitter to keep up with news from the MRes Cancer Biology @Mrescancerbiol

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If you are a therapeutic radiographer, dosimetrist or other healthcare professional working in radiotherapy and oncology, this course can help you develop your knowledge of radiotherapy planning. It’s a highly focused course that gives you a thorough understanding of the key practices surrounding simulating and evaluating radiation doses for radiotherapy.

You gain an in-depth understanding of current and future radiotherapy planning issues and, crucially, develop the ability to apply critical thinking skills to practice. You gain general critical thinking and literature skills as well as more specific planning theory and plan evaluation skills.

Your studies cover core modules involving fundamental planning theories, plan evaluation, advanced planning and image guided radiotherapy. We also introduce you to research skills, which you use to produce a final dissertation.

The course is delivered using our virtual learning environment, known as Blackboard. You don't need to attend the university and you can study via the web in your own time, which means you can fit the course around your clinical work. The web-based learning materials are designed to help improve your radiotherapy knowledge, as well as share experiences with other students through our e-based discussion forum. If you are not confident with computers, help and support is available.

For some modules there is a requirement to produce a plan for the course and you must have access to a clinical radiotherapy planning environment. This helps support the demands of your postgraduate work.

You may be eligible to apply for accreditation of work-based projects and prior certificated learning, which will count towards your final award.

Study individual modules

You can study individual modules from our courses and gain academic credit towards a qualification. Visit our continuing professional development website for detailed information about the modules we offer.

Professional recognition

This course is accredited by the College of Radiographers.

Course structure

The postgraduate certificate (PgCert) is achieved by successfully completing 60 credits.

The postgraduate diploma (PgDip) is achieved by successfully completing 120 credits.

The masters (MSc) award is achieved by successfully completing 180 credits. 

Postgraduate certificate core modules

• Fundamentals of radiotherapy planning (30 credits)
• Image guided radiotherapy (15 credits)

Plus a further 15 credits from the optional modules list 

Postgraduate diploma core modules

• Advanced radiotherapy planning (30 credits)
• Research methods for practice (15 credits)

Plus a further 15 credits from optional module list.

Masters

• Dissertation (60 credits)

Assessment

We use various assessment methods, supporting the development of both your academic and professional skills.Short online activities are used to promote engagement with the distance learning materials, provide support for the final assignment and facilitate online discussion with fellow peers. Other methods of assessment include

• essays
• business cases or journal article
• project and research work
• poster and PowerPoint presentation
• case studies
• service improvement proposal and plans
• critical evaluations
• profiles of evidence
• planning portfolio.

Employability

As a graduate of this course you gain a deeper understanding of current and future radiotherapy planning issues and gain the ability to apply critical thinking skills to practice. This can help you to advance to more senior radiotherapy roles.

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