This course is for 2021/22 entry.
-
Discover why Superintendent Sonographer, Alexandra Drought from West Middlesex Hospital recommends studying at City to her colleagues.
Course overview
Benefits of this course
A combination of core and elective modules will allow you to build your professional knowledge while also pursuing your own areas of interest.
Our innovative mix of blended learning activities is designed to enable you to drive your own study and develop as an independent learner.
The flexible modular structure allows you to work to postgraduate certificate, postgraduate diploma or full master’s level.
If you continue to MSc, a core module in Research Methods and Applied Data Analysis will equip you with essential critical, research and analytical skills to plan and complete your dissertation and develop essential skills for life-long independent learning and career development.
Awards
You can select to apply for one of the available exit points for this course.
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
- Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert)
Who is this course for?
If you are a healthcare professional with a qualification in radiography, nursing, midwifery or other related disciplines, this programme will provide the academic qualifications and clinical skills you need to specialise in medical ultrasound.
Structure
Awards
You can select to apply for one of the three available exit points for this course.
Master of Science (MSc)
Duration:
- Part-time: 3 years
Total credits: 180
Modules:
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
Duration:
- Part-time: 2 years
Total credits: 120
Modules:
Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert)
Duration:
- Part-time: 1 year
Total credits: 60
Modules:
You can also apply for PGCert with an additional module in two clinical areas e.g. Obstetrics and Gynaecology or Abdominal and Gynaecology.
This option is worth an additional 15 credits.
Modules
You will be able to select from a number of clinical options including obstetrics, gynaecology and / or abdominal ultrasound.
Additional clinical areas can be studied via work-based learning modules, if appropriate clinical support is available within the students' clinical department.
The course is also designed to develop transferable skills to support clinical practice development.
MSc Modules
Students undertake the compulsory modules RDM033 (ultrasound physics) and RCM022 (Developing Professional Skills in Ultrasound).
Those progressing to MSc must take either a 15 or 30 credit research methods module.
Students take clinical modules to the value of 75 credits (60 if the 30 credit research methods module is chosen) and a 60 credit dissertation module.
PGDip Modules
Students undertake the compulsory modules RDM033 (ultrasound physics) and RCM022 (Developing Professional Skills in Ultrasound) and clinical modules to the value of 90 M level credits.
Example module choices for a typical PGDip: 30 credit Obstetric module, 15 credit Gynaecology module, 30 credit Abdominal module and 15 credit Work Based Learning module.
PGCert Modules
Students undertake the compulsory modules RDM033 (ultrasound physics) and RCM022 (Developing Professional Skills in Ultrasound) and clinical modules to the value of 30 M level credits.
Example module choices for a typical PGCert: 15 credit Gynaecology module, 15 credit Early Pregnancy Work Based Learning module
30 credit Abdominal or Obstetric module.
PGCert + 15 credits Modules
Students undertake the compulsory modules RDM033 (ultrasound physics) and RCM022 (Developing Professional Skills in Ultrasound) and clinical modules to the value of 45 M level credits.
Example module choices for a typical PGCert = 15: 15 credit Gynaecology module,30 credit Abdominal or Obstetric module.
Core modules
-
Developing Professional Skills in Ultrasound (15 credits)
This module will provide you with the background knowledge of personal, professional, ethical and legal issues relating medical ultrasound imaging and advanced practice.
-
Ultrasound Physics (15 credits)
This module provides you with knowledge of ultrasound and instrumentation and the associated artefacts, hazards and safety implications, so that you can operate the ultrasound equipment in a safe and professional manner, providing the best images possible for accurate diagnosis.
-
Gynaecology Ultrasound (15 credits)
Through this module you will develop your knowledge, understanding and ability to perform, interpret and report on diagnostic gynaecological ultrasound examinations and be able to respond to changes in working practice and apply new techniques after critically evaluating them.
Elective modules
-
Obstetric Ultrasound (30 credits)
Through this module you will develop your knowledge and understanding to perform, interpret and report a wide range of clinical ultrasound examinations in obstetrics, whilst being able to respond to changes in working practice and apply new techniques after critically evaluating them.
-
Abdominal Ultrasound (30 credits)
Through this module you will develop your knowledge, understanding and ability to perform, interpret and report on diagnostic abdominal ultrasound examinations, whilst being able to respond to changes in working practice and apply new techniques after critically evaluating them.
-
Introduction to Research Methods and Applied Data Analysis (30 credits)
You will develop your theoretical, methodological and research skills to enhance your ability to conduct rigorous research and to reach analytical conclusions. This will form the basis for the development of effective service delivery in health and social care organisations.
-
Introduction to Research Methods and Applied Data Analysis-online module (30 credits)
This module will develop your theoretical, methodological and research skills to enhance your ability to conduct rigorous research and reach sound, evidence-based, conclusions, which can form the basis for effective service delivery in health and social care organisations.
-
Education in the workplace (15 credits)
This module will enhance your skills in presentation, teaching, supervision and assessment of others and will provide insight into your own learning and education needs.
-
Evidence based practice (15 credits)
This module will enable you to confidently and competently evaluate the evidence for your clinical practice. It will provide an overview of evidence-based practice including implementation, identification of clinical problems, formulating questions, search strategies and critical appraisal.
-
Student Negotiated Module (15 credits)
This module enables you to study a particular topic in more depth or consider topics from a number of modules and follow a cross modular approach. It will develop your skills in self-directed study and critical reflection.
-
Comparative Imaging (30 credits)
The module provides you with an understanding of the various imaging modalities alongside other non-imaging diagnostic tests, allowing you to see how they complement each other and advise on their appropriateness in the diagnosis of disease and management of patients.
-
Work Based Learning in Practice (15 credits)
This module enables you to undertake scholarly activity within a specified work related area for example the development of treatment / imaging techniques or new policy procedure development. Your learning will focus on the enhancement of practice relevant to your role.
-
Work Based Learning in Practice 2 (15 credits)
The module will enable you to undertake scholarly activity and skills development in an area of clinical practice in your chosen field. You will diversify and expand your range of clinical skills and integrate them into your clinical practice.
-
Work based learning expert / specialist practice (15 credits)
This module provides a framework for practitioners to gain credit whilst working towards competence in a specialist / expert clinical practice role.
-
Professional Leadership (15 credits)
In this module you will develop your leadership qualities and have regard for the leadership qualities of others. The approach to the module is practical and straightforward yet enables you to critically explore leadership concepts in your own practice.
Dissertation
-
Dissertation (60 credits)
The dissertation provides you with the opportunity to undertake a piece of original, independent research focussed on the topics that are of particular interest to you, and you wish to explore in greater depth.
Core elective modules
-
Foundations in Research Methods and Data Analysis (15 credits)
The aim of this module is to provide you with understanding and skills in research to enable you to access and critically appraise evidence relevant to your particular field, as well as to plan a research study or service evaluation.
-
Foundations in Research Methods and Data Analysis (on-line) (15 credits)
This module provides you with basic research skills to access the evidence base and perform entry-level statistics. You will learn about different research methodologies, be able to critique the literature and gain working knowledge of the principles underlying statistics.
Programme specification
The programme specification contains more information on how the course is organised, the requirements for progression for each part and credits required for awards.
Download course specification:
Teaching and assessment
Your teaching will be delivered by the programme team, all of whom are experienced sonographers who have specialised in university teaching, and by expert guest speakers from a range of clinical disciplines.
Our university facilities include a clinical skills suite equipped with an ultrasound machine and simulator.
Teaching takes place over one or two days a week, depending on the modules you select.
The programme is Master’s level. It is intellectually challenging and applicants must be prepared to take responsibility for their own learning. Teaching is delivered through a combination of distance online and in person tutorials. A good internet connection and sound basic IT skills including use of Microsoft Word, and Power Point is a requirement.
You will learn though a combination of small group seminars, whole group plenary sessions, online activities and case based learning designed to reinforce the link between theoretical knowledge and clinical practice.
Placement
The university does not arrange or provide clinical placements for medical ultrasound training. Prior to applying for a place on the programme you will need to obtain a clinical placement in an ultrasound department meeting the requirements of the programme.
The department must be able to provide an average of three days clinical time per week and a named clinical supervisor. The supervisor must attend City, University of London Clinical Supervisor training at least every three years.
If the department has not sent students to us in the last five years we will need to arrange a meeting with the departmental manager and clinical supervisor.
Sonographer training posts may be advertised on NHS Jobs.
Fees and funding
Fees for academic year 2021/22
Master of Science
(MSc)
Part-time per year
UK: £5,510
Overseas/EU: £8,585
Part-time per year
UK: £5,510
Overseas/EU: £8,585
Postgraduate Diploma
(PGDip)
Part-time per year
UK: £4,160
Overseas/EU: £8,325
Part-time per year
UK: £4,160
Overseas/EU: £8,325
Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert)
PGCert Regular route
Part-time per year
UK: £4,160
Overseas/EU: £8,320
Fees in each subsequent year of study (where applicable) will be subject to an annual increase of two percent. We will confirm any change to the annual tuition fee to you in writing prior to you commencing each subsequent year of study (where applicable).
Funding
Funding update: Non-repayable grants of at least £5,000
The Government has announced that from September 2020 students studying undergraduate and postgraduate pre-registration nursing, midwifery and many allied health courses, including radiography and speech and language therapy, will receive a non-repayable and non-means tested (universal) grant of £5,000 a year. This is in addition to existing mainstream student support accessed through the Student Loans Company.
The Government has also announced additional funding for specific courses or to help students with childcare costs. We will update our website once more details have been announced by the Government.
Applications for this new funding can be made from Wednesday 1st July 2020, please visit the NHS Learning Support Fund website for more information. You can also read the NHS Funding FAQs for more information about the funding available, how to apply and eligibility.
Loans
If you have already received a student loan for a previous undergraduate course, you are eligible to apply for a second undergraduate loan for this course.
Find out more loan options and additional financial support for studying an MSc pre-registration nursing course.
Career
Successful completion of your chosen qualification will equip you with specialist knowledge, as well as demonstrating your commitment to your profession.
You will be ideally placed to consider progression to a range of specialist, leadership, or educational roles.
How to apply
Entry requirements
UK
Applicants will normally hold a BSc (hons) degree (2:1 or above) from a recognised higher education institution e.g. Radiography, Nursing, Midwifery.
Non-standard entrants will be considered on a case by case basis, subject to availability of places on the programme (early application is recommended).
The university does not arrange or provide clinical placements for medical ultrasound training. Prior to applying for a place on the programme you will need to obtain a clinical placement in an ultrasound department meeting the requirements of the programme.
The department must be able to provide an average of three days clinical time per week and a named clinical supervisor. The supervisor must attend City, University of London Clinical Supervisor training at least every three years.
If the department has not sent students to us in the last five years we will need to arrange a meeting with the departmental manager and clinical supervisor.
Sonographer training posts may be advertised on NHS Jobs.
English language requirements
For students’ whose first language is not English, the following qualifications will meet the English language requirement for entry to a post graduate course of study:
- A first degree from a UK university
- International English Language Testing Service (IELTS) with a minimum score of 7 (minimum of 7 in all categories).
Application process
Applications are not yet open.
The programme is currently undergoing revalidation.
The application process will reopen in May 2021
If you have any enquiries please contact the Programmes Office.
When applications open you will be expected to:
- Ensure you have a clinical placement and meet the entry criteria
- Submit an application online.
Following applications you can expect that:
- Applications will be reviewed as they are received. (Non-standard entrants need to submit applications by April to allow time for review)
- Additional information may be sought, or interviews arranged prior to a decision being made on an admission.
- Decisions will be made when applications are reviewed
- Pre-course information will be sent to successful applicants before the programme commences.
This course is not currently open for applications.
September 2021 entry
- Apply online for MSc Medical Ultrasound with part-time study in
- Apply online for PGDip Medical Ultrasound with part-time study in
- Apply online for PGCert Medical Ultrasound (Regular route) with part-time study in
- Apply online for PGCert Medical Ultrasound (Medical Ultrasound (+15 credits)) with part-time study in
Contact the postgraduate team
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7040 5790
Email: pghealth@city.ac.uk
Our academics
Your studies are supported by a team of committed and enthusiastic teachers and researchers, experts in their chosen field. On occasion we also work with external professionals to enhance your learning and appreciation of the wider subject.
Facilities
Take a tour of our Clinical Skills Centre, specialist labs, radiography suite and optometry and speech and language clinics.
Housing and student life
-
Accommodation and housing
We offer accommodation options and support for all postgraduate students. Our dedicated Accommodation Service can help you to find private accommodation in London if required.
-
Student wellbeing
Our extensive support network spans from learning support and disability support through to counselling, financial advice and career advice. Please do tell us if you need our help.
-
Living in London
We are based in the heart of one of the most vibrant and colourful cities in the world. London offers a rich variety of cultural experiences far beyond your studies.