19. Medical Radiation Sciences

The Faculty of Health Sciences is a leader in the provision of a wide range of postgraduate programs, both coursework and research, in the discipline of medical radiation sciences. There are four distinct postgraduate programs offered within the discipline.

Graduate entry level programs

Master of Diagnostic Radiography (MDR), Master of Nuclear Medicine (MNM) and Master of Radiation Therapy (MRT), plus honours options for the three professional areas.

These programs prepare entrants for practice in three professional streams – diagnostic radiography, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy.

Graduate Entry Coordinators

Dr John Atyeo (Curriculum design, course planning and staffing)
Associate Professor Michael Kassiou (Curriculum review)
Ms Elisabeth Kilburn-Watt (Students)

Postgraduate coursework programs in Medical Radiation Sciences

Postgraduate MRS Coursework Coordinators

Associate Professor Michael Kassiou (Curriculum review)
Mr Peter Kench (Staff)
Mr Warren Reed (Students)

Postgraduate coursework program in Medical Sonography

Sonography Coordinator

Ms Jillian Clarke

Postgraduate research programs

Research Coordinator

Associate Professor Jenny Cox

Further information on research degrees offered by the Faculty of Health Sciences is found in Chapter 25.

Further information

Phone: +61 2 9351 9161
Website: www.fhs.usyd.edu.au

Graduate entry programs

Admission requirements

The admission requirements for Master of Diagnostic Radiography, Master of Nuclear Medicine and Master of Radiation Therapy are as below:

Applicant should possess a bachelor’s degree in any field.

Students must have achieved a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.5 or greater (approximately equivalent to a credit average or better) in their bachelor’s degree. Entry will be on a competitive basis. Students whose undergraduate degree is health or science related are likely to be more competitive. Transcripts and other evidence will be required to confirm applicant’s academic backgrounds. For more details, please contact the discipline of Medical Radiation Sciences.

The English language proficiency requirement is an IELTS score of at least 7.0 with at least 6.5 in speaking and writing for international students from a non-English speaking academic background.

Master of Diagnostic Radiography

The MDR aims to prepare graduates who hold an undergraduate degree for professional practice as a diagnostic radiographer. As this program leads to eligibility to practice, students in the course will be assisted in achieving prescribed professional competencies through practical and theoretical skill acquisition and by undertaking clinical fieldwork placements. Students undertake clinical placements in centres which are part of both the public and private sector.

During these placements they have the opportunity to develop an understanding of the career path they have chosen and its place in the modern medical environment. The pace of work in the MDR is reflective of postgraduate expectations as is the level and complexity of the issues dealt with in the degree, including research project design.

A diagnostic radiographer is a qualified health professional who utilises a range of modalities to provide images and data for the diagnosis and treatment of an injury or disease. The diagnostic radiographer has the skills and knowledge to produce medical images and critically analyse these images and data generated to determine whether they are diagnostically adequate and appropriate for radiological interpretation. In the radiology department the diagnostic radiographer will usually work with the radiologist, however, outside the department they may work with a range of medical specialists in a variety of areas.

Honours

At the end of Semester 1 Year 1 and the completion of 24 credit points of study, students who meet the academic criteria may articulate into the honours program. To be eligible, students must have achieved a weighted average mark (WAM) of at least 70 per cent in their first semester of study.

Instead of choosing an elective as per the pass program, honours students will complete the specific unit of study MRSC5008 Honours Dissertation A as well as MRSC5021 Honours Dissertation B. The honours dissertation will follow the University policy regarding length of written output, that it should not exceed 20,000 words: www.usyd.edu.au/ab/policies/Guidelines_Terms.pdf. Honours grades will be determined by the performance of students in the honours dissertation as well as related units of study and follow university guidelines on assessment of coursework masters honours:
www.fhs.usyd.edu.au/learn_teach/mhonsmrkngmatrx.doc.

Course outline

The course will be offered full-time at a postgraduate level leading to the award of the degree, Master of Diagnostic Radiography. The degree will be offered at the pass or honours level. The general structure of the course is two years, full-time with four semesters of four 6 credit point units including theoretical and clinical units of study, as based on a 16 week teaching calendar. Clinical placements will occur both during semester times and outside normal semester times as detailed in the clinical placement calendars.

The course outlines for the Master of Diagnostic Radiography pass and honours are presented in Tables 19.1 and 19.1.1. See Chapter 26 for unit descriptions and a list of faculty and research electives.

Table 19.1: Master of Diagnostic Radiography (Pass)

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Course code SC131: Credit points for award: 96
On-campus: full-time, 4 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
MRSC5001 Professional Practice Radiography 1	6		Semester 1
MRSC5002 Medical Radiation Science 1	6		Semester 1
MRSC5003 Foundations of Health Care Practice	6		Semester 1
MRSC5026 Clinical Studies Radiography 1	6		Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
BACH5341 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions	6	N BACH3126 Research Project Development, BACH4047 Developing a Research Project, BACH5268 Developing a Research Project, DHSC7002 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions, DHSC7005 Developing a Research Project	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRSC5005 Professional Practice Radiography 2	6	P MRSC5001 Professional Practice Radiography 1	Semester 2
MRSC5027 Clinical Studies Radiography 2	6	P MRSC5026 Clinical Studies Radiography 1	Semester 2
Elective [6] (see elective list below Table 19.3.1)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
HIMT5067 Evidence Based Health Care	6		Semester 1
MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3	6	P MRSC5005 Professional Practice Radiography 2	Semester 1
MRSC5028 Clinical Studies Radiography 3	6	P MRSC5027 Clinical Studies Radiography 2	Semester 1
MRSC5038 Medical Radiation Science Radiography 2	6	P MRSC5002 Medical Radiation Science 1	Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
MRSC5014 Professional Practice Radiography 4	6	P MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3	Semester 2
MRSC5029 Clinical Studies Radiography 4	6	P MRSC5028 Clinical Studies Radiography 3	Semester 2
MRSC5039 Medical Radiation Science Radiography 3	6	P MRSC5038 Medical Radiation Science Radiography 2	Semester 2
MRSC5044 Advanced MRS Practice	6	P MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3 or MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3 or MRSC5024 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 3	Semester 2
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS

Table 19.1.1: Master of Diagnostic Radiography (Honours)

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Course code SC132: Credit points for award: 96
On-campus: full-time, 4 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
As per Pass course
Semester 2
BACH5341 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions	6	N BACH3126 Research Project Development, BACH4047 Developing a Research Project, BACH5268 Developing a Research Project, DHSC7002 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions, DHSC7005 Developing a Research Project	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRSC5005 Professional Practice Radiography 2	6	P MRSC5001 Professional Practice Radiography 1	Semester 2
MRSC5008 Honours Dissertation A	6		Semester 2
MRSC5027 Clinical Studies Radiography 2	6	P MRSC5026 Clinical Studies Radiography 1	Semester 2
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3	6	P MRSC5005 Professional Practice Radiography 2	Semester 1
MRSC5021 Honours Dissertation B	6	P MRSC5008 Honours Dissertation A	Semester 1
MRSC5028 Clinical Studies Radiography 3	6	P MRSC5027 Clinical Studies Radiography 2	Semester 1
MRSC5038 Medical Radiation Science Radiography 2	6	P MRSC5002 Medical Radiation Science 1	Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
MRSC5014 Professional Practice Radiography 4	6	P MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3	Semester 2
MRSC5029 Clinical Studies Radiography 4	6	P MRSC5028 Clinical Studies Radiography 3	Semester 2
MRSC5039 Medical Radiation Science Radiography 3	6	P MRSC5038 Medical Radiation Science Radiography 2	Semester 2
MRSC5044 Advanced MRS Practice	6	P MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3 or MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3 or MRSC5024 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 3	Semester 2
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS

Master of Nuclear Medicine

The MNM aims to prepare graduates who hold an undergraduate degree, for professional practice as a nuclear medicine technologist. As this program leads to eligibility to practice, students in the course will be assisted in achieving prescribed professional competencies through practical and theoretical skill acquisition and by undertaking clinical fieldwork placements. Students undertake clinical placements in centres which are part of both the public and private sector.

During these placements they have the opportunity to develop an understanding of the career path they have chosen and its place in the modern medical environment. The pace of work in the MNM is reflective of postgraduate expectations as is the level and complexity of the issues dealt with in the degree, including research project design.

A nuclear medicine technologist works in the field of medicine that uses radionuclides in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. A nuclear medicine technologist's responsibilities include the preparation and administration of radiopharmaceuticals to patients and the acquisition and computer analysis of diagnostic functional images using sophisticated instrumentation.

Therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals are prepared for administration and are used in the treatment of specific diseases. New developments in both instrumentation, for example, Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and radiopharmaceuticals produced from a cyclotron make this a rapidly evolving and exciting technology.

Nuclear medicine technologists have responsibility for critically analysing images and data to determine whether they are of a high diagnostic standard; for performing quality control procedures in all aspects of their work and for ensuring that they provide a high level of patient care.

Honours

Course outline

The course will be offered full-time at a postgraduate level leading to the award of the degree, Master of Nuclear Medicine. The degree will be offered at the pass or honours level.

The general structure of the course is two years, full-time with four semesters of four 6 credit point units including theoretical and clinical units of study, as based on a 16 week teaching calendar. Clinical placements will occur both during semester times and outside normal semester times as detailed in the clinical placement calendars.

The course outlines for the Master of Nuclear Medicine pass and honours are presented in Tables 19.2 and 19.2.1. See Chapter 26 for unit descriptions and a list of faculty and research electives.

Table 19.2: Master of Nuclear Medicine (Pass)

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Course code SC133: Credit points for award: 96
On-campus: full-time, 4 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
MRSC5002 Medical Radiation Science 1	6		Semester 1
MRSC5003 Foundations of Health Care Practice	6		Semester 1
MRSC5009 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 1	6		Semester 1
MRSC5030 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 1	6		Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
BACH5341 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions	6	N BACH3126 Research Project Development, BACH4047 Developing a Research Project, BACH5268 Developing a Research Project, DHSC7002 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions, DHSC7005 Developing a Research Project	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRSC5010 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 2	6	P MRSC5009 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 1	Semester 2
MRSC5031 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 2	6	P MRSC5030 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 1	Semester 2
Elective [6] (see elective list below Table 19.3.1)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
HIMT5067 Evidence Based Health Care	6		Semester 1
MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3	6	P MRSC5010 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 2	Semester 1
MRSC5032 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 3	6	P MRSC5031 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 2	Semester 1
MRSC5040 Medical Radiation Science Nuclear Med 2	6	P MRSC5002 Medical Radiation Science 1	Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
MRSC5023 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 4	6	P MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3	Semester 2
MRSC5033 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 4	6	P MRSC5032 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 3	Semester 2
MRSC5041 Medical Radiation Science Nuclear Med 3	6	P MRSC5040 Medical Radiation Science Nuclear Med 2	Semester 2
MRSC5044 Advanced MRS Practice	6	P MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3 or MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3 or MRSC5024 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 3	Semester 2
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS

Table 19.2.1: Master of Nuclear Medicine (Honours)

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Course code SC134: Credit points for award: 96
On-campus: full-time, 4 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
As per Pass course
Semester 2
BACH5341 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions	6	N BACH3126 Research Project Development, BACH4047 Developing a Research Project, BACH5268 Developing a Research Project, DHSC7002 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions, DHSC7005 Developing a Research Project	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRSC5008 Honours Dissertation A	6		Semester 2
MRSC5010 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 2	6	P MRSC5009 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 1	Semester 2
MRSC5031 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 2	6	P MRSC5030 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 1	Semester 2
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
MRSC5021 Honours Dissertation B	6	P MRSC5008 Honours Dissertation A	Semester 1
MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3	6	P MRSC5010 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 2	Semester 1
MRSC5032 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 3	6	P MRSC5031 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 2	Semester 1
MRSC5040 Medical Radiation Science Nuclear Med 2	6	P MRSC5002 Medical Radiation Science 1	Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
MRSC5023 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 4	6	P MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3	Semester 2
MRSC5033 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 4	6	P MRSC5032 Clinical Studies Nuclear Medicine 3	Semester 2
MRSC5041 Medical Radiation Science Nuclear Med 3	6	P MRSC5040 Medical Radiation Science Nuclear Med 2	Semester 2
MRSC5044 Advanced MRS Practice	6	P MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3 or MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3 or MRSC5024 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 3	Semester 2
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS

Master of Radiation Therapy

The MRT aims to prepare graduates who hold an undergraduate degree, for professional practice as a radiation therapist. As this program leads to eligibility to practice, students in the course will be assisted in achieving prescribed professional competencies through practical and theoretical skill acquisition and by undertaking clinical fieldwork placements. Students undertake clinical placements in centres which are part of both the public and private sector.

During these placements they have the opportunity to develop an understanding of the career path they have chosen and its place in the modern medical environment. The pace of work in the MRT is reflective of postgraduate expectations as is the level and complexity of the issues dealt with in the degree, including research project design.

A radiation therapist is responsible for the accurate and precise planning, calculation and delivery of radiation to cure or relieve the symptoms of malignant disease. A radiation therapist is involved in the localisation of the treatment area using treatment simulators and CT scans, the design and calculation of the treatment technique using sophisticated 3 dimensional computerised planning systems, and the daily treatment of patients. They also provide emotional, social and educational support to their patients and because patients undergo treatment for several weeks, radiation therapists have the opportunity to develop friendly and supportive relationships with their patients.

Honours

Course outline

The course will be offered full-time at a postgraduate level leading to the award of the degree, Master of Radiation Therapy. The degree will be offered at the pass or honours level.

The general structure of the course is two years, full-time with four semesters of four 6 credit point units including theoretical and clinical units of study, as based on a 16 week teaching calendar. Clinical placements will occur both during semester times and outside normal semester times as detailed in the clinical placement calendars.

The course outlines for the Master of Radiation Therapy pass and honours are presented in Tables 19.3 and 19.3.1. See Chapter 26 for unit descriptions and a list of faculty and research electives.

Table 19.3: Master of Radiation Therapy (Pass)

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Course code SC135: Credit points for award: 96
On-campus: full-time, 4 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
MRSC5002 Medical Radiation Science 1	6		Semester 1
MRSC5003 Foundations of Health Care Practice	6		Semester 1
MRSC5011 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 1	6		Semester 1
MRSC5034 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 1	6		Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
BACH5341 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions	6	N BACH3126 Research Project Development, BACH4047 Developing a Research Project, BACH5268 Developing a Research Project, DHSC7002 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions, DHSC7005 Developing a Research Project	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRSC5012 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 2	6	P MRSC5011 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 1	Semester 2
MRSC5035 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 2	6	P MRSC5034 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 1	Semester 2
Elective [6] (see elective list below Table 19.3.1)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
HIMT5067 Evidence Based Health Care	6		Semester 1
MRSC5024 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 3	6	P MRSC5012 Professional Practice Radiation Therapy 2	Semester 1
MRSC5036 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 3	6	P MRSC5035 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 2	Semester 1
MRSC5042 Medical Radiation Science Rad Therapy 2	6	P MRSC5002 Medical Radiation Science 1	Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
MRSC5025 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 4	6	P MRSC5024 Professional Practice Radiation Therapy 3	Semester 2
MRSC5037 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 4	6	P MRSC5036 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 3	Semester 2
MRSC5043 Medical Radiation Science Rad Therapy 3	6	P MRSC5042 Medical Radiation Science Rad Therapy 2	Semester 2
MRSC5044 Advanced MRS Practice	6	P MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3 or MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3 or MRSC5024 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 3	Semester 2
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS

Table 19.3.1: Master of Radiation Therapy (Honours)

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Course code SC136: Credit points for award: 96
On-campus: full-time, 4 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
As per Pass course
Semester 2
BACH5341 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions	6	N BACH3126 Research Project Development, BACH4047 Developing a Research Project, BACH5268 Developing a Research Project, DHSC7002 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions, DHSC7005 Developing a Research Project	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRSC5008 Honours Dissertation A	6		Semester 2
MRSC5012 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 2	6	P MRSC5011 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 1	Semester 2
MRSC5035 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 2	6	P MRSC5034 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 1	Semester 2
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
MRSC5021 Honours Dissertation B	6	P MRSC5008 Honours Dissertation A	Semester 1
MRSC5024 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 3	6	P MRSC5012 Professional Practice Radiation Therapy 2	Semester 1
MRSC5036 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 3	6	P MRSC5035 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 2	Semester 1
MRSC5042 Medical Radiation Science Rad Therapy 2	6	P MRSC5002 Medical Radiation Science 1	Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
MRSC5025 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 4	6	P MRSC5024 Professional Practice Radiation Therapy 3	Semester 2
MRSC5037 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 4	6	P MRSC5036 Clinical Studies Radiation Therapy 3	Semester 2
MRSC5043 Medical Radiation Science Rad Therapy 3	6	P MRSC5042 Medical Radiation Science Rad Therapy 2	Semester 2
MRSC5044 Advanced MRS Practice	6	P MRSC5013 Professional Practice Radiography 3 or MRSC5022 Professional Practice Nuclear Medicine 3 or MRSC5024 Professional Practice Rad Therapy 3	Semester 2
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 24 CREDIT POINTS

Graduate entry electives

Unit of study	Credit points	Session
Electives may be taken from within or outside the Faculty of Health Sciences, subject to availability, prerequisites and minimum student enrolment. Students who wish to take an elective other than those listed below must discuss their choice of elective with their academic adviser prior to enrolment. Students may choose from the following suggested pool of electives:
AHCD5052 Intro to Indigenous Community Health	6	Semester 1 Semester 2
BACH5321 Psychology for Graduate Students	6	Semester 1 Semester 2
HIMT5023 Fundamentals of Medical Terminology	6	Semester 2

Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

carry out a range of procedures in their specialised field with a higher degree of ability than is expected from the graduate qualified practitioner;
write coherently and logically;
translate their learning to the workplace and take a place as a senior practitioner; and
apply informed critical thinking to their professional activities.

It should be noted that the MRS graduate coursework program does not lead in any way to accreditation or licensure to practise as a radiographer, radiation therapist or nuclear medicine scientist in Australia. This can only be achieved by completing the undergraduate or graduate entry degree accredited by the relevant professional body.

Admission requirements

Diploma in the medical radiation science field (specifically diagnostic radiography, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy); or
submit other evidence of general and professional qualifications and/or experience, to satisfy the faculty that the applicant possesses the educational capacity to pursue graduate studies, and satisfy such additional requirements for admission to the program, if any, as may be prescribed by the faculty.

Students with professional accreditation in the fields of diagnostic radiography, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy, but less than a diploma qualification, will be required to:

have at least three years recent clinical experience;
present evidence to the head of academic unit of their ability to study at postgraduate level; and
complete any enabling subjects that may be required by the head of academic unit.

Course outline

The course outline for the Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) is presented in Table 19.4. A minimum of 12 credit points must be completed from Medical Radiation Sciences electives (listed after Table 19.6). See Chapter 26 for unit descriptions and a list of faculty and research electives.

Students’ programs of study must be approved by the course coordinator before enrolment. Units in this course will be offered depending on sufficient enrolments.

Table 19.4: Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Course code SG024: Credit points for award: 24
Off-campus: part-time, 2 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
Two electives [12] (see elective list below Table 19.6)
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 12 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
Two electives [12] (see elective list below Table 19.6)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 12 CREDIT POINTS

Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

This program aims to advance the knowledge, skills, and attributes of medical radiation professionals in their field of specialisation, and to broaden their exposure to the wider field of health sciences. It is a three semester (minimum) off-campus course, comprising 36 credit points. To qualify for a Certificate of Specialisation issued by the Discipline of Medical Radiation Sciences, there should be a minimum of 30 credit points from a major area. Up to 12 credit points may be gained by studying electives from outside the University. There is one obligatory unit of study that must be completed by all students.

Holders of the Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) will receive credit transfer for 24 credit points of the Graduate Diploma course. This qualification will be relinquished on achieving the Graduate Diploma qualification.

Students who successfully complete the Graduate Diploma will be able to:

Carry out a range of procedures in their specialised field with a higher degree of ability than is expected from the graduate qualified practitioner
write coherently and logically
discuss advances in medical radiations and their implications for the profession, the health consumers that it serves, and society in general
translate their learning to the workplace and take a place as a senior practitioner
apply informed critical thinking to their professional activities.

Admission requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or
Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) from The University of Sydney, or equivalent qualification from another University, or
Diploma of Applied Science (Medical Radiation Technology) from The University of Sydney, or equivalent qualification from another University, or
Submit other evidence of general and professional qualifications and/or experience, to satisfy the faculty that the applicant possesses the educational capacity to pursue graduate studies, and satisfy such additional requirements for admission to the program, if any, as may be prescribed by the faculty.

Students who entered the Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) with less than an undergraduate diploma will be required to achieve at least a credit average to be admitted to the Graduate Diploma. Should the student articulate to the higher degree, the lower level award will be relinquished.

Course outline

The course outline for the Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) is presented in Table 19.5. A minimum of 18 credit points (inclusive of core subjects) must be completed from Medical Radiation Sciences elective units of study listed below. The remaining credit points may be completed from other academic units within the Faculty of Health Sciences. See Chapter 26 for unit descriptions and a list of faculty and research electives.

Students’ programs of study must be approved by the course coordinator before enrolment. Units in this course will be offered depending on sufficient enrolments.

Table 19.5: Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

Unit of study	Credit points	Session
Course code SF053: Credit points for award: 36
Off-campus: part-time, 3 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
Two electives [12] (see elective list below Table 19.6)
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 12 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
Two electives [12] (see elective list below Table 19.6)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 12 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
MRTY5024 Current Issues in Medical Radiations	6	Semester 1 Semester 2
Elective [6] (see elective list below Table 19.6)
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 12 CREDIT POINTS

Master of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

This course aims to advance the knowledge, skills, and attributes of medical radiation professionals in their field of specialisation, and to broaden their exposure to the wider field of health sciences. It is a four semester (minimum) off-campus course comprising 48 credit points. To qualify for a Certificate of Specialisation issued by the Discipline of Medical Radiation Sciences, there should be a minimum of 30 credit points from a major area. Up to 18 credit points may be gained by cross-institutional enrolment in approved units of study. There is one obligatory unit of study that must be completed.

Holders of the Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) will receive credit transfer for 36 credit points of the Master's course. Holders of the Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) will receive credit transfer for 24 credit points of the Master's course. These qualifications will be relinquished on achieving the Master’s qualification.

Students who successfully complete the Master's program will be able to:

carry out a range of procedures in their specialised field with a higher degree of ability than is expected from the graduate qualified practitioner
investigate in detail a topic of interest
write coherently and logically
discuss advances in medical radiations and their implications for the profession, the health consumers that it serves, and society in general
translate their learning to the workplace and take a place as a senior practitioner
apply informed critical thinking to their professional activities.

Admission requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or
Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) from The University of Sydney, or equivalent qualification from another University, or
Submit other evidence of general and professional qualifications and/or experience, to satisfy the faculty that the applicant possesses the educational capacity to pursue graduate studies, and satisfy such additional requirements for admission to the program, if any, as may be prescribed by the faculty.

Students who entered the Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) with an undergraduate diploma or less will be required to achieve at least a credit average to be able to articulate to the Master of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences).

Acceptance into the MRS graduate program and articulation from any level of the program to any higher level is at the discretion of the academic adviser and program coordinator. The lower level award will be relinquished on achieving the higher award; however, full credit transfer will be given for the 4 units of study completed in the Graduate Certificate or the 6 units completed in the Graduate Diploma, leaving only a further four or two units of study respectively to be completed to achieve the Master's.

Course outline

The course outline for the Master of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) by Coursework is presented in Table 19.6. A minimum of 24 credit points (inclusive of core subjects) must be completed from Medical Radiation Sciences electives. The remaining credit points may be completed from other academic units within the Faculty of Health Sciences. See Chapter 26 for unit descriptions and a list of faculty and research electives.

Students’ programs of study must be approved by the course coordinator before enrolment. Units in this course will be offered depending on sufficient enrolments.

Table 19.6: Master of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

Unit of study	Credit points	Session
Course code SC077: Credit points for awards: 48
Off-campus: part-time, 4 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
Two electives [12] (see elective list below)
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 12 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
Two electives [12] (see elective list below)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 12 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
MRTY5024 Current Issues in Medical Radiations	6	Semester 1 Semester 2
Elective [6] (see elective list below)
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 12 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
Two electives [12] (see elective list below)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 12 CREDIT POINTS

Medical Radiation Sciences electives

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Semester 1
BACH5085 Clinical Teaching and Supervision	6	A Some knowledge of adult learning theory is useful Broadband internet access is desirable	Semester 1
MRTY5030 Advanced Radiographic Pathology	6		Semester 1
MRTY5039 CT Applications	6		Semester 1
MRTY5042 Digital Communications in Med Radiations	6		Semester 1
MRTY5043 Directed Studies A	6		Semester 1
MRTY5047 History of Medical Radiations	6		Semester 1
MRTY5057 Prevention and Care of Radiation Injury	6	A Basic biology	Semester 1
MRTY5058 Quality Management in Medical Radiations	6		Semester 1
MRTY5062 Specialised Skeletal Scintigraphy	6		Semester 1
MRTY5064 Stabilisation and Positioning	6		Semester 1
MRTY5098 Radiographic Image Interpretation A	6	A It is recommended that MRTY5030 Advanced Radiographic Pathology be completed before taking this unit	Semester 1
MRTY5107 Brachytherapy: Principles and Practice	6	N Not available to students who have previously completed MRTY5094 Brachytherapy Theory.	Semester 1
Semester 2
BACH5042 Teaching Clinical Reasoning	6	A Some knowledge of Adult Learning theory is useful Broadband internet access is desirable	Semester 2
MRTY5041 CT Practice II	6		Semester 2
MRTY5044 Directed Studies B	6	P MRTY5043 Directed Studies A	Semester 2
MRTY5054 Nuclear Cardiology	6	A Basic principles of nuclear medicine imaging	Semester 2
MRTY5056 Patient/Practitioner Communication	6		Semester 2
MRTY5059 Radiation Safety	6		Semester 2
MRTY5060 Radiation Therapy Tmt Planning Systems	6	A MRTY5038 Diagnostic Imaging for Radiation Therapists is useful but not essential	Semester 2
MRTY5063 Applied Positron Emission Tomography	6		Semester 2
MRTY5087 Advanced MR Theory	6	P MRTY5051 MR Theory	Semester 2
MRTY5090 Advanced Multiplanar Anatomy A	6		Semester 2
MRTY5091 Advanced Multiplanar Anatomy B	6		Semester 2
MRTY5096 Advanced Nuclear Medicine Practice	6	A Clinical experience in nuclear medicine	Semester 2
MRTY5099 Radiographic Image Interpretation B	6	A It is recommended that MRTY5098 Radiographic Image Interpretation A be completed prior to enrolling in this unit	Semester 2
MRTY5100 Radiographic Image Interpretation C	6	A It is recommended that MRTY5098 Radiographic Image Interpretation A be completed prior to enrolling in this unit	Semester 2
Offered in both semesters
BACH5002 Educational Design	6	Broadband internet access is desirable	Semester 1 Semester 2
BACH5186 Professional Development Skills	6	Broadband internet access is desirable	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5024 Current Issues in Medical Radiations	6		Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5040 CT Practice I	6		Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5051 MR Theory	6		Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5052 MR Applications 1	6	P MRTY5051 MR Theory	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5053 MR Applications 2	6	P MRTY5051 MR Theory	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5097 CT for Nuclear Medicine Technologists	6	A Clinical experience in nuclear medicine	Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5106 Breast Imaging	6		Semester 1 Semester 2
Notes
1. Units offered in both semesters are run subject to sufficient applications.
2. For the list of Faculty electives, see Chapter 26.

Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Sonography)

The course is a two semester part-time course comprising 24 credit points, which aims to develop skills and knowledge relevant to specialists or limited scope applications of diagnostic ultrasound. It does not meet the requirements of accreditation as a sonographer. Students wishing to articulate from the Graduate Certificate to higher levels within the program must gain at least a credit average.

Students who successfully complete the Graduate Certificate program will be better able to:

carry out sonographic procedures in their specialised field
develop an understanding of ultrasound imaging and procedures
apply informed critical thinking to their professional activities.

The Graduate Certificate will NOT meet accreditation requirements for the Australasian Sonographers Accreditation Registry (ASAR).

Admission requirements

Diploma in a medical radiation science field (specifically diagnostic radiography, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy), or
Submit other evidence of general and professional qualifications and/or experience, to satisfy the faculty that the applicant possesses the educational capacity to pursue graduate studies, and satisfy such additional requirements for admission to the program, if any, as may be prescribed by the faculty.

Students with professional accreditation in the fields of diagnostic radiography, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy, but less than a diploma qualification, will be required to:

have at least three years recent clinical experience
present evidence to the head of academic unit of their ability to study at postgraduate level
complete any enabling units of study that may be required by the head of academic unit.

Course outline

The course outline for the Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Sonography) is presented in Table 19.7. See Chapter 26 for unit descriptions and a list of faculty and research electives.

Table 19.7: Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Sonography)

Unit of study	Credit points	Session
Course code SG023: Credit points for award: 24
Off-campus: part-time, 2 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
Clinical Practice elective [4] (see note 1)
BIOS5047 Biological Sciences	4	Semester 1
Sonography elective or elective [6] (see note 2)
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 14 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
Sonography elective [6] (see note 2)
Sonography elective or elective [4] or [6] (see note 2)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 10 CREDIT POINTS
Notes
1. Clinical Practice elective may be taken in Semester 1 or 2.
2. Electives are outlined below Table 19.9. The choice of electives must be approved by the course coordinator prior to enrolment. On-campus residential may be required for some units of study.

Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Sonography)

This course provides for the development of knowledge and skills relevant to the professional practice of medical sonography. The course covers physical principles and instrumentation, professional issues encountered in the field of sonography and a wide variety of the applications of sonography. It is a four semester part-time course comprising 48 credit points, offered in an off-campus mode with on-campus blocks. Students who successfully complete the Graduate Diploma program will be better able to:

carry out a wide range of sonographic procedures in general sonography or a specialised field
develop competence and professional identity as a sonographer
discuss advances in medical sonography and their implications for the profession, the health service consumer, and society in general
integrate a thorough knowledge of the physical principles of ultrasound into practice for optimum outcomes
apply informed critical thinking to their professional activities.

The Graduate Diploma is fully accredited by the Australasian Sonographers Accreditation Registry (ASAR).

Admission requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or
Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Sonography) from the University of Sydney*, or equivalent qualification from another University, or
Diploma of Applied Science (Medical Radiation Technology) from the University of Sydney, or equivalent qualification from another University, or
Submit other evidence of general and professional qualifications and/or experience, to satisfy the faculty that the applicant possesses the educational capacity to pursue graduate studies, and satisfy such additional requirements for admission to the program, if any, as may be prescribed by the faculty, and
At least one year of relevant work experience (in the field of their undergraduate studies), and
A condition of the course is that each student is engaged in sonography for at least 18 hours per week throughout the entire course.

* Students who entered the Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Sonography) with an undergraduate Diploma or less will be required to achieve at least a credit average to be admitted to the Graduate Diploma.

Course outline

The course outline for the Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Sonography) is presented in Table 19.8. See Chapter 26 for unit descriptions and a list of faculty and research electives.

Table 19.8: Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Sonography)

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Course code SF052: Credit points for award: 48
Off-campus: part-time, 4 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
Clinical Practice elective [4] (see note 1)
BIOS5047 Biological Sciences	4		Semester 1
MRTY5088 Physics and Instrumentation I	6		Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 14 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
MRTY5067 Professional Issues	4		Semester 2
Sonography elective [6] (see note 2)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 10 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
MRTY5068 Physics and Instrumentation II	4	P MRTY5088 Physics and Instrumentation I	Semester 1
Sonography elective [6] (see note 2)
Clinical Practice elective [4]
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 14 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
Sonography elective [6] (see note 2)
Clinical Practice elective [4]
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 10 CREDIT POINTS
Notes
1. Clinical Practice elective in Year 1 may be taken in Semester 1 or 2.
2. Electives are outlined below Table 19.9. The choice of electives must be approved by the course coordinator prior to enrolment. On-campus residential is required in Year 1 and Year 2. Students wishing to meet accreditation requirements for the Australasian Sonographers Accreditation Registry (ASAR) must consult with an academic adviser regarding choice of electives.

Master of Health Science (Medical Sonography)

This program aims to advance the knowledge, skills and attributes of medical sonographers in their field of specialisation, and to broaden their exposure to the wider field of health sciences. This is a six semester part-time course comprising 72 credit points.

Students who successfully complete the master's program will be able to:

carry out a range of sonographic procedures in general sonography or in their specialised field with a higher degree of ability than is expected from the accreditation level practitioner
develop competence and professional identity as a sonographer
integrate a thorough knowledge of the physical principles of ultrasound into practice for optimum outcomes
investigate in detail a topic of interest
write coherently and logically
discuss advances in medical sonography and their implications for the profession, the health service consumer, and society in general
translate their learning to the workplace and potentially take a place as a senior practitioner
apply informed critical thinking to their professional activities.

Admission requirements

Degree in Medical Radiation Sciences, or
Degree in a relevant field (e.g. nursing). Such applicants may be required to make up deficiencies in identified areas of assumed knowledge (e.g. physics, medical imaging modalities, etc), or
Submit other evidence of general and professional qualifications and/or experience, to satisfy the faculty that the applicant possesses the educational capacity to pursue graduate studies, and satisfy such additional requirements for admission to the program, if any, as may be prescribed by the faculty, or
The Graduate Diploma of Applied Science (Medical Ultrasonography) or Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Sonography) from the University of Sydney*, or
Equivalent qualification from another University**
Equivalent qualification from a professional body***
and at least one year of relevant work experience in the field of their undergraduate studies
and be working in the field of sonography for at least 18 hours per week during at least the first two years of the course.

* Holders of the Graduate Diploma of Applied Science (Medical Ultrasonography) or the Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Sonography) will receive credit transfer for 48 credit points of the master’s course, and the Graduate Diploma will be relinquished on achieving the master’s qualification.

** Applicants who have completed a University Graduate Diploma holding ASAR accreditation within 5 years, with marks of a credit average, or assessed as equivalent by the head of academic unit, and who have at least 2 years or equivalent recent graduate experience, will receive credit transfer of 36 credit points towards the master's by coursework program.

*** Applicants who have completed a professional qualification holding ASAR accreditation within 5 years, with marks of a credit average, or assessed as equivalent by the head of academic unit, and who have at least 2 years or equivalent recent graduate experience, will receive credit transfer of 24 credit points towards the master's by coursework program.

Course outline

The course outline for the Master of Health Science (Medical Sonography) is presented in Table 19.9. See Chapter 26 for unit descriptions and a list of faculty and research electives.

Table 19.9: Master of Health Science (Medical Sonography)

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Course code SC076: Credit points for award: 72
Off-campus: part-time, 6 semesters
Year 1
Semester 1
Clinical Practice elective [4] (see note 1)
BIOS5047 Biological Sciences	4		Semester 1
MRTY5088 Physics and Instrumentation I	6		Semester 1
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 14 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
MRTY5067 Professional Issues	4		Semester 2
Sonography elective [6] (see note 2)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 10 CREDIT POINTS
Year 2
Semester 1
MRTY5068 Physics and Instrumentation II	4	P MRTY5088 Physics and Instrumentation I	Semester 1
Sonography elective [6] (see note 2)
Clinical Practice elective [4]
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 14 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
Sonography elective [6] (see note 2)
Clinical Practice elective [4]
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 10 CREDIT POINTS
Year 3
Semester 1
Elective or Sonography elective [6] (see note 2)
Elective or Clinical Practice elective [4] or [6] (see note 2)
SEMESTER 1 TOTAL: 10 CREDIT POINTS
Semester 2
MRTY5086 Investigative Project	8		Semester 1 Semester 2
Elective [6] (see note 2)
SEMESTER 2 TOTAL: 14 CREDIT POINTS
Notes
1. Clinical Practice elective in Year 1 may be taken in Semester 1 or 2.
2. Electives are listed below. The choice of electives must be approved by the course coordinator prior to enrolment. On-campus residential is required in Year 1 and Year 2. Students wishing to meet accreditation requirements for the Australasian Sonographers Accreditation Registry (ASAR) must consult with an academic adviser regarding choice of electives.

Medical Sonography Electives

Unit of study	Credit points	A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition	Session
Sonography electives (6 credit points)
Semester 1
MRTY5069 Sonography in Obstetrics and Gynaecology	6		Semester 1
MRTY5072 Independent Study in Sonography	6		Semester 1 Semester 2
Semester 2
MRTY5072 Independent Study in Sonography	6		Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5073 Abdominal Sonography	6		Semester 2
MRTY5074 Superficial Structures Sonography	6		Semester 2
Clinical practice electives (4 credit points)
Offered in both semesters
MRTY5078 Clinical Prac in Abdominal Sonography	4		Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5079 Clinical Prac in Ob & Gyn Sonography	4		Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5080 Clinical Prac in Superficial Str Sono	4		Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5081 Clinical Practice in Vascular Sonography	4		Semester 1 Semester 2
MRTY5085 Clinical Practice in Independent Study	4		Semester 1 Semester 2
Electives (4 or 6 credit points)
Choose from the following:
BACH5085 Clinical Teaching and Supervision	6	A Some knowledge of adult learning theory is useful Broadband internet access is desirable	Semester 1
BACH5298 History and Philosophy of Science	6	Not available to Doctor of Health Science students	Semester 2
MRTY5043 Directed Studies A	6		Semester 1
MRTY5044 Directed Studies B	6	P MRTY5043 Directed Studies A	Semester 2
or
Elective or research elective (see Chapter 26 for descriptions), subject to approval by program coordinator.
or
Medical Radiation Sciences elective units of study (see elective list below Table 19.6), subject to approval by program coordinator.
or (see note 1 below)
MRTY5067 Professional Issues	4		Semester 2
MRTY5088 Physics and Instrumentation I	6		Semester 1
Notes
1. MRTY5067 and MRTY5088 are core units for the graduate diploma/master's degree. However, they are available as electives for the graduate certificate course.
2. Some electives offered may depend on sufficient enrolments.

The University of Sydney - Handbooks

19. Medical Radiation Sciences

Graduate entry level programs

Graduate Entry Coordinators

Postgraduate coursework programs in Medical Radiation Sciences

Postgraduate MRS Coursework Coordinators

Postgraduate coursework program in Medical Sonography

Sonography Coordinator

Postgraduate research programs

Research Coordinator

Further information

Graduate entry programs

Admission requirements

Master of Diagnostic Radiography

Honours

Course outline

Table 19.1: Master of Diagnostic Radiography (Pass)

Year 1

Semester 1

Semester 2

Year 2

Semester 1

Semester 2

Table 19.1.1: Master of Diagnostic Radiography (Honours)

Year 1

Semester 1

Semester 2

Year 2

Semester 1

Semester 2

Master of Nuclear Medicine

Honours

Course outline

Table 19.2: Master of Nuclear Medicine (Pass)

Year 1

Semester 1

Semester 2

Year 2

Semester 1

Semester 2

Table 19.2.1: Master of Nuclear Medicine (Honours)

Year 1

Semester 1

Semester 2

Year 2

Semester 1

Semester 2

Master of Radiation Therapy

Honours

Course outline

Table 19.3: Master of Radiation Therapy (Pass)

Year 1

Semester 1

Semester 2

Year 2

Semester 1

Semester 2

Table 19.3.1: Master of Radiation Therapy (Honours)

Year 1

Semester 1

Semester 2

Year 2

Semester 1

Semester 2

Graduate entry electives

Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

Admission requirements

Course outline

Table 19.4: Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

Year 1

Semester 1

Semester 2

Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

Admission requirements

Course outline

Table 19.5: Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Medical Radiation Sciences)

Year 1

Semester 1

Semester 2

Year 2