Please note that if you apply for this module, it may be necessary to process your registration under module code 7HSK2129. This will not affect the content studied nor the assessment methods, it is purely for our administrative.

The aim of the course is to help you critically evaluate the role that contemporary imaging plays in the diagnosis, staging and management of cancer with specific reference to radiotherapy.

The module is designed to enable you to advance your knowledge and understanding of a range of imaging modalities and their use in the management of cancer. You will study a range of equipment and imaging techniques and reflect on their use with respect to your own clinical practice. Topics typically include: imaging modalities used in cancer staging and diagnosis. Radiotherapy imaging practices in localisation, verification and treatment.

This distance learning module can be studied on its own or as a module on the following educational pathways:
•    MSc / Pg.Dip / PgCert Advanced RT and Oncology Practice


Course content includes:

The module is designed to enable practitioners to advance their knowledge and understanding of a range of imaging modalities and their use in the management of cancer. Students will gain a knowledge and understanding of the most up to date equipment and imaging techniques and be able to reflect on them with respect to their own clinical practice experience. 
The learning outcomes will be achieved through online based learning, drawing on the student's professional knowledge and experience.

Topics will include:
Contemporary issues in imaging practice as they apply to:
Cancer diagnosis and staging;
Tumour localisation
Treatment verification
Treatment delivery.
Developments in Imaging modalities utilised in the above processes including:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI), Computerised Tomography (CT), Positron Emission Tomography(PET), Ultrasound (US) On−Board Imaging KV, MV, CBCT, Surface guided(OBI), Tomotherapy and the MRLinac for example

The exact content will be dictated by the most recently available peer reviewed research and literature.

Canvas will be used to facilitate the students' study and communication between the students and the tutors throughout the module.

Resources and links will be provided on Canvas but students will be required to seek additional resources to enhance their learning. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement their learning and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. 

This distance-learning course is facilitated by Ruth Rowse who guides you through your learner journey, using on-line activities and tasks to support your learning.

Learning Outcomes
Students will typically:
1. Critically evaluate a range of literature regarding the imaging modalities used in the diagnosis and staging of cancer.
2. Critically evaluate the most recent technological developments in imaging related to radiotherapy localization, verification and treatment delivery.
3. Apply their knowledge of the scope and limitations of imaging and treatment equipment to examples of clinical radiotherapy practice.
4. Reflect on their own current clinical practice experience in order to suggest how current technologies and research may impact in the near future.   

Assessment

100% coursework, submitted on-line. Typically a 3000-word reflective case study

This module can contribute to the following programme(s)

HSMIRSM: MSc Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences – Advanced Radiotherapy and Oncology Practice