Fundamentals of Mammography Practice FMP
Postgraduate
MSc
Advanced Medical Imaging
School of Health and Society
Attendance
Part-time
Course
Three year
Next enrolment
September 2021
In a nutshell
This programme will allow you to meet the challenge of specialist, advanced and consultant practitioner status in the field of advanced medical imaging within a rapidly evolving health service.
Your module choice will depend on your practice area and the profile of your award which should be discussed with the course team prior to commencement. There is no standard pathway, module choices will depend on your own practice area and intended role and responsibilities. Please let us know about your previous education so that we can recommend the most appropriate modules to support your development.
When you complete your online application you should include details of previous courses and qualifications so that we can ensure you are enrolled onto the correct modules and receive the appropriate award.
For 2020/21 our modules will be delivered online using our virtual learning environment, Blackboard Ultra. There may be a requirement to attend campus for mock and summative assessments toward the end of the programme. Any requirement to attend will be communicated via your module leads and conducted in accordance with government and university guidance.
Attendance is in multiple short blocks and may consist of scheduled sessions and directed activity. You should secure these dates as study leave. You can view the 2020/21 attendance dates here:
We do not offer all workstreams every year. To discuss further, please contact the programme leader, Joanne Ashworth: j.ashworth@salford.ac.uk
Placement
You will need access to a clinical caseload and clinical mentor in your specialist field of medical imaging. You will need to arrange this prior to applying.
You must complete the following verification form and submit it, signed, with your application. No offers will be made without this.
Support day for clinical mentors
We have organised a support day for clinical mentors, please ask yours to enrol using this link:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/advanced-medical-imaging-mentor-day-2021-tickets-142704331497
Placement
options available
Course accreditations
All about the course
The course modules will equip you with problem-solving skills and enable you to be critically aware of yourself and your practice. You will be supported to evaluate and implement evidence-based practice and develop comprehensive knowledge in the context of your specialist field.
Pathways may include mammography practice, reporting, ultrasound, fluoroscopy and radiological procedures (with reporting) and skills-based extended practice, e.g., cardiac stress testing.
Some modules require you to establish a Negotiated Learning Agreement, this means your course is tailor-made to meet your exact learning requirements.
For your first reporting qualification you must complete a post graduate certificate as a minimum.
Click on the tabs below for more information about our modules.
Postgraduate Certificate: 60 graduate credits in your chosen pathway of study
Postgraduate Diploma: 120 graduate credits in your chosen pathway of study
MSc: 180 graduate credits in your chosen pathway of study to include the Dissertation module
For more information about any of the modules, please contact the programme leader, Joanne Ashworth: J.Ashworth@salford.ac.uk
Year one and two options
This is the first module leading to the AMI Postgraduate Certificate (Mammography). It will enable you to develop the skills necessary to perform and critically evaluate routine mammographic examinations for the NHS Breast Screening Service and Symptomatic examinations. This module runs in conjunction with the Advanced Technique Mammography Practice module which students must also undertake.
Methods of Assessment:
- Reflective Audit
- Record of Clinical Experience
Advanced Techniques in Mammography Practice ATMP
This is the second module leading to the AMI Postgraduate Certificate (mammography). Starting in February it runs alongside the FMP module and allows you to develop your knowledge and skills to perform and critically evaluate advanced mammographic techniques. You will develop an approach to practice that is critically reflective and evidence-based. Successful completion of this module along with the Fundamentals of Mammography Practice leads to the College of Radiographers’ Postgraduate Award in Mammography.
Methods of Assessment:
- Case Study
- Viva with Case Presentation
Principles of Advanced Practice
This is a core theoretical module if you are new to post-graduate level study and/or intend to go on to develop your scope of clinical practice. It will help maximise your potential for success in your post-graduate AMI study pathway and support you in developing your scope of practice by introducing you to the skills of critical reflection, evidence-based practice and clinical leadership. The module does not include a clinical component, therefore, is suitable for students without a placement.
Method of Assessment:
- Assignment
Click here to view the full module page.
Core Skills for Radiological Reporting CSRR
This module will introduce you to the concepts that influence image appraisal, decision making and communication and will support you to develop your practice by applying your knowledge of these concepts within your chosen field of reporting.
This module is to be undertaken with the Radiological Image Interpretation module.
Method of Assessment:
- Assignment
Click here to view the full module page.
Radiology Image Interpretation RII
Completed alongside the Core Skills for Radiological Reporting module, RII allows you to develop your skills to become competent in pattern recognition and image interpretation specific to your own area of practice. The module is competency based and will allow you to be able to effectively formulate diagnoses and communicate your reports both verbally and in writing.
Specialisms can include MSK, CT Head and Mammography.
Method of Assessment:
- OSCE
- Viva with case log presentation
Click here to view the full module page.
Advanced Procedures AP
The Advanced Procedures module is a broad, flexible module which allows students to study one, of a variety of specialised techniques, including Cardiac Stress, Gastrointestinal and Fluoroscopic Practice, for example, Barium Swallow, Protograms, together with Arthrograms, CTC, Micturating Cystograms, Breast Intervention, HSG and Line Placements. It offers students a structured pathway to develop their Scope of Practice developing their skills of critical reflection for personal and professional development.
Training is led by multi-disciplinary educations in the field and this module can be adapted to suit a variety of clinical requirements and is not limited to the subjects listed above.
Method of Assessment:
- Reflective portfolio (to include a log of cases)
Click here to view the full module page.
Advanced Procedures Reporting APR
This module is aimed at experienced healthcare professionals who would like to further extend their role within a specialism of radiological reporting. Completed following Principles of Advanced Practice and in conjunction with Core Skills for Radiological Reporting module, APR allows you to develop your skills further in image interpretation within you negotiated radiological specialism and become competent in pattern recognition and image interpretation specific to your own area of practice. The module will equip students with the skills to be able to deal with a complex caseload and be effective in formulating diagnoses and communicating their reports both verbally and in writing. Specialisms can include for example; Barium Swallow Reporting, HSG Reporting, CTC Reporting.
This module will enable you to contribute to a double reporting system.
Method of Assessment:
- Viva with case log presentation
Click here to view the module web page.
Extending Advanced Practice EAP
For students who already hold a post-graduate level qualification and have extended their scope of practice. This module is designed to enable you to develop within another area of practice taking a more independent and bespoke route to your learning. For example, if you already perform barium swallow examinations you may use the module to develop skills in another fluoroscopy examination such as proctograms. Examples of areas of practice which may be studied on this module include all fluoroscopic procedures, CTC, niche ultrasound areas such as Breast or Vascular Ultrasound, Extended MSK reporting (GP referrals for example). Other areas may be considered.
Method of Assessment:
- Viva Portfolio
Click here to view the module web page.
Radiography in Suspected Physical Abuse
Keynote lectures will introduce relevant anatomy and image evaluation, radiographic technique principles, legal frameworks and clinical governance. You will identify personal learning objectives and will document achievement through the completion of a portfolio of evidence to include a reflective log of cases and a critical review of the local policy.
Method of Assessment:
- A reflective log of cases including evidence of relevant learning and a critical review of the local policy.
Click here for full module information.
Preliminary Image Evaluation
This module allows you to develop your skills in the evaluation of radiographic images specific to your own scope of practice. We will introduce you to concepts that influence your decision making including the principles of image acquisition and potential errors in evaluation. You will learn a systematic approach to reviewing x-ray images to develop your pattern recognition of normal anatomy, trauma and relevant pathology.
Method of Assessment:
You are required to submit a portfolio. You will complete a clinical caseload and produce a reflective audit of your accuracy.
For more information visit the module page.
Core Skills for Chest Reporting (CSCR)
Core Skills for Chest Reporting (CSCR) is a 15 credit theoretical module introducing concepts that influence image appraisal, decision making and communication. CSCR supports you to develop your practice by applying your knowledge of these concepts to analysis of your clinical reporting caseload.
Click here to view the module web page.
Adult Chest Reporting (ACR)
Adult Chest Reporting (ACR) is a 30 credit module aimed at healthcare professionals who would like to extend their role. Completed alongside our Principles of Advanced Practice and Core Skills for Chest Reporting module, ACR allows you to develop your skills to become competent in pattern recognition and image interpretation of the adult chest. The module will allow you to be able to effectively formulate diagnoses and communicate your reports both verbally and in writing. You will have the support of a personal tutor who holds a post graduate qualification in chest reporting.
Click here to view the module web page.
Scientific Principles of Ultrasound Imaging
This module will equip you with the core knowledge and understanding of the underpinning science and technology of diagnostic ultrasound. The module will ensure you have the ability to apply the knowledge, to optimise the image and practice safely within appropriate guidelines.
Scientific Principles of Hybrid Imaging
This module looks closely at SPECT-CT and PET-CT imaging in the diagnosis of pathology. In the same way as the preceding modules, there is an integrated approach that looks at the science, clinical applications and clinical practice. You will also be introduced to the evolving PET-MR modality and its current and potential future roles.
Click here for full module information.
Research Methods Applied to Public Health
In this module you will learn about contemporary issues and debates in research, the nature role and context of research in health and social care and the theoretical issues and approaches to research. You will master developing research questions and hypotheses, searching for evidence and information and form a critical review of existing research. This module prepares you for writing research proposals, and research reports.
Leading Education in Practice
You will take 30 credits from the Leading Education in Practice and this module will allow you to critically examine the theory, research base and impact of the drivers for health and social care reform on leading practice education. You will identify a clear theory and/or research base in the design of practice learning, teaching and assessment. This is an ideal module for those practitioners who are working in an education role within their service.
Year three
Dissertation
Completed following successful completion of 120 credits this module is designed to enable you to develop further an independent and bespoke route to your learning, allowing you to enhance your skills using systematic processes of enquiry to investigate an aspect of professional, clinical or organisational practice. This module is specifically designed to instil an approach to practice that is critically reflective and evidence-based. Students will be expected to negotiate their option with the module leader, taking account of their professional/practice interests and learning needs, and the expertise available within the research and scholarly community in the Diagnostic Imaging Research Programme. These choices will be underpinned by a thorough consideration of research, clinical governance and ethical issues within the student practice context and in accordance with University frameworks.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
The School of Health and Society
The School of Health and Society is a forward-thinking, dynamic school with a commitment to lifelong learning and real world impact.
We live in a rapidly changing world, and we’re keen to leave a productive legacy of helping people at all stages of their lives, improving their physical, psychological and social wellbeing.
FACILITIES
The Advanced Medical Imaging programme has access to the Directorate’s imaging suites. This includes the Susan Hall Imaging Facility, which comprises a Toshiba Aquilion 16 slice CT scanner with full supporting software, and two ceiling suspended x-ray tubes with digital image capture and display. We also have an Ultrasound skills lab suite of 4 diagnostic ultrasound machines and have purchased clinical-quality high-resolution digital viewing systems. These combined facilities are probably the best in the UK and may be among the best in Europe, in terms of an academic environment.
Our extensive imaging facilities are used in skills labs and self-directed study by both undergraduate and postgraduate students, and there are also several research projects underway which use this equipment and feed into the programmes. Some of the postgraduate assessments are linked to projects using the ultrasound equipment. Use of equipment is compliant with the appropriate UK legislation and guidance.
Staff profile
Programme Leader - Joanne Ashworth
“This programme offers innovative teaching within a multidisciplinary team of educators and clinical specialists who are at the cutting edge of their field. Students are offered a unique pathway tailored to their individual training requirements. They develop their professional, evidence-based and patient centred skills enabling them to enhance their career within the dynamic field of Advanced Medical Imaging”.
Specialist lecturers and support
Teaching is delivered by clinical and academic experts, many of whom are Advanced and Consultation practitioners themselves, and are considered national experts in their field. All students have access to a personal tutor who will help them derive their own learning outcomes to ensure they are relevant and appropriate for developing clinical competence.
What about after uni?
Most students have been seconded from and return to their work in the National Health Service with advanced practitioner status, and a number have gone on to become Consultant Practitioners. Students will also be supported to apply for Advanced Practitioner Accreditation with the College of Radiographers.
Career Links
The radiography directorate has a very successful history of developing advanced practice, and this course has strong links with imaging departments, mostly within the UK National Health Service. It is also supported by the North West Medical Physics Department. This means that all your learning will be relevant to current practice and will ultimately benefit your patients through development of your clinical skills and enhanced knowledge.
What you need to know
APPLICANT PROFILE
Please refer to the top section of this page for details of the verification form that needs submitting with your application.
This course will appeal to a variety of health care professionals engaged in current practice including radiographers, radiologists, vascular technologists, midwives, speech and language therapists, physiotherapists and medical and nursing staff.
Regrettably, the University of Salford cannot undertake to find a clinical placement for you.
Please note, this course is not suitable for international applicants.
English language requirements
Students whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English - IELTS - a minimum overall score of 7.0 (with no element below 6.5) is proof of this.
Standard entry requirements
Undergraduate degree
You will hold a degree in BSc (Hons) in Diagnostic Radiography or other health care professional qualification, 2:1 or above. For the clinically related modules, you will also have access to a relevant imaging caseload and support of a clinical mentor. Regrettably, the University of Salford cannot undertake to find a clinical placement for you.
If you do not have a 2:1 degree and wish to apply, the programme lead will make a decision about whether a APEL is required. This may delay your offer so please apply as soon as possible.
Alternative entry requirements
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)
We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.
The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.
Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).
How much?
Please note for the standard programme, fees are:
2021/22: £1,350 per 30 credit module
2022/23: £1,380 per 30 credit module
The FMP and ATMP mammography modules are:
2021/22: £1,685 per 30 credit module
2022/23: £1,720 per 30 credit module
Please note: In Mammography Practice there are additional professional/regulatory body costs; students are to follow the additional procedures for registering and to be issued a certificate to be awarded the Society of Radiographers Postgraduate Award in Mammography Practice. Find out more here - http://www.sor.org/learning/post-registration-courses/postgraduate-award-mammography-in-practice
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Part-time | 2021/22 | Standard modules are £1,350 per 30 credit module; FMP and ATMP Mammography modules are £1,685 per 30 credit module. |
| Part-time | 2022/23 | Standard modules are £1,380 per 30 credit module; FMP and ATMP Mammography modules are £1,720 per 30 credit module. |
Additional costs
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits to other associated Hospitals during your course.