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Postgraduate Taught

Healthcare and Medicine

MRI: Integrated Theory and Practice 

HPDM138

Specialist radiographers are experienced practitioners who assess and image patients within their own specialist area.

This module will equip you for specialist practice in MRI across a range of clinical presentations and pathologies, and for a range of patient needs.

This module is suited to:

Registered practitioners working regularly within an MRI unit who aim to become specialist radiographers.

What will I learn?

This module allows you to explore how the theory and science of MRI applies to your clinical practice and your workplace procedures and protocols. Undertaking a mixture of university-based sessions and placement-based learning means you will clearly work towards developing yourself in this area under the supervision of a clinical mentor.

This module will further develop understanding of the practicalities of utilising the evidence base within practice whilst considering any logistical challenges and will enable students to explore strategies to improve the integration / translation of knowledge to improve their practice. Successful completion of this module will meet elements of the Outcomes for Advanced Practitioner as defined the College of Radiographers' Education and Career Framework 2013.

Learning outcomes

  1. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the fundamental safety principles of MRI and the use of contrast agents, including safety aspects for self, team members and patients.
  2. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the physical principles of MRI, including pulse sequence selection, parameter and image optimisation, artefact recognition and minimisation and digital imaging requirements.
  3. Critically evaluate the range of MRI equipment design and functionality to inform selection and appropriate use, including room/unit design.
  4. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the legislative and governance framework for MRI, including MRI safety, the role of quality assurance, quality control, audit, general safe practice and contrast agent safety.
  5. Critically evaluate the role of different clinical protocols and the science, safety and usage of contrast media and other medicines used within MRI to make recommendations around protocol optimisation.
  6. Critically evaluate the evidence base to inform communication and general care strategies for the full spectrum of likely patient and service users.
  7. Provide recommendations for your specific work area to improve integration of knowledge to improve practice / patient experience.
  8. Contribute, collaborate and communicate accurately and effectively with peers, colleagues and service users.
  9. Practice effectively within the MRI unit, reflecting on development of underpinning theoretical knowledge and ability to apply theory to practice.
  10. Critically reflect on personal practice to allow for personal development and change

How is the module assessed?

Presentation % Duration
Portfolio (pass/fail) 0 5000 words
Computer based exam 10 30 minutes
Written exam 30 2 hours
Professional Discussion 60 60 minute (maximum)

Syllabus plan

  • Safety, contraindications, roles of other team members
  • Physics of imaging, parameters and parameter manipulation
  • Artefacts, causes and minimisation
  • Digital imaging including processing, post-processing and secure handling
  • Equipment design, benefits and limitations
  • Governance – legislation / guidance / framework including
  • Choice of imaging protocols used in MRI
  • Science and usage of contrast media and other medicines used in imaging
  • Patient care considerations

Module staff

Dr Christine Heales

Dr Christine Heales
Senior Lecturer (Education and Scholarship)

Sue McAnulla

Mrs Sue McAnulla
Senior Lecturer (Education and Scholarship)

Entry Requirements

You should hold a minimum 2.2 Honours degree (or for older qualifications a Professional Diploma) in a healthcare related discipline. Relevant clinical experience or previous postgraduate qualifications will also be considered as part of the admissions process.

You must be a registered practitioner working regularly within an MRI unit and be able to identify an appropriately qualified and experienced radiographer to act as a clinical mentor before commencing this module. You will also be required to demonstrate how you take responsibility for your own continuing professional development and reflect on your own performance.

English language requirements

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.

 Starts September 2025

£2,200 (Home)
£5,000 (Intl)

Part-time
Online

Apply now