The Radiotherapy and Oncology degree programme is tailored to provide the education and training required for first post therapeutic radiographers.
The BSc Hons Radiotherapy and Oncology programme is designed to provide vocational education at undergraduate level for careers in therapeutic radiography. Therapeutic Radiography involves the use of ionising radiation in the treatment of cancer and non-malignant disorders. A therapeutic radiographer is responsible for the planning and delivery of the treatment prescription together with the general healthcare of the patient. It is important to note that radiotherapy involves working with ill and vulnerable patients and that patient care is as vitally important as the technical aspects of the role.
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In this section
The BSc Hons Radiotherapy and Oncology course is a full-time programme of study of three-year duration leading to the award of an Honours degree with eligibility to apply for registration with the HCPC. The Radiotherapy and Oncology course is recognised by the Society and College of Radiographers and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Radiotherapy and Oncology graduates are eligible to apply for Registration with HCPC and membership of the Society of Radiographers.
Three years, full-time including eight week long clinical placements each summer between Year 1 and 2 and between Year 2 and 3.
Academic semesters, Monday to Friday, 12 weeks of on-campus contact hours: Year 1 (level 4) averaging 20 hrs /wk, year 2 (level 5) averaging 16 hrs/wk, year 3 (level 6) averaging 12 hrs/wk. The total effort hours per semester (contact time and self-directed study) is 600 hours, averaging 40 hrs/wk. Clinical Placement modules - Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm, 40 hrs/wk.
The programme is delivered by a combination of academic and professional practice modules. The academic subjects include a basic education and training in human anatomy, physiology and pathology, physics applied to radiotherapy, radiation protection, clinical studies and an introduction to clinical oncology and radiotherapy science. Individuals undertake professional practice/clinical placement training within a designated hospital radiotherapy department. Much of the professional practice is undertaken during the summer months.
The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 59% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.
Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (25%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (20%) or Lecturers (55%).
We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic staff (81%) are accredited fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advanced HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.
The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise. The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff. This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.
Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.
Figures correct for academic year 2021-2022.
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Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
In this section
Year: 1
Status: C
This module provides opportunities to learn in an interprofessional context. Students will acquire skills for both academic and practice based learning. It will provide them with an opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills on issues relating to professional practice and personal development within a supportive environment.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module introduces the anatomy, physiology and pathology syllabus relevant to radiotherapy and oncology. This knowledge will underpin the concurrent study of oncology and future studies relative to radiotherapy practice.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module will enable the student to gain knowledge and understanding of the physical principles and capabilities of external beam radiotherapy and X-ray imaging equipment. An understanding of the process of image formation, essential for safe and competent therapeutic radiography practice. It provides a fundamental understanding of the principles and describes the design and use of radiotherapy treatment and imaging equipment.
Year: 1
Status: C
Introduction to the LRC, literature and database searching. Discussion on academic writing. Using Refworks and Harvard referencing. Public health, Cancer, epidemiology, aetiology, tumour formation, staging and spread, treatment modalities, patient management in RT department. Investigations and patient care. Carcinogenesis, Principles of radiobiology. Normal tissue reactions. Introduction to developing a Professional Practice Portfolio and enhancing learning through reflective practice. Principles of Radiation Protection, Health & Safety. Appreciation of treatment prescription and optimization. Practical principles of radiotherapy practice. The role of the professional body and professional responsibilities of the radiographer. Orientation placement in clinical department.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module requires the student to explore Radiotherapy and Oncology presentation and management of a variety of malignancies in preparation for professional practice placement 1.This knowledge will underpin the future studies relative to radiotherapy technique and practice.
Additionally, students will develop an understanding of the mechanisms of actions of chemotherapy, hormone-blocking therapy and various targeted therapies. Lymphoedema management and principles of pharmacology will also be explored.
Through the integration of the service-user voice, students will gain a unique insight and understanding of the full psychosocial experience of a person who has been through cancer.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module will enable the student to gain knowledge and understanding of the digital image and image formation, essential for safe and competent radiotherapy practice. It provides a fundamental understanding of the principles and describes the design and use of digital diagnostic imaging equipment and associated information technology such as PACS and RMS. It provides more detailed understanding of the physical principles and capabilities of radiotherapy equipment and treatment planning.
Year: 2
Status: C
The module develops research knowledge and skills for using published evidence to inform practice and for designing and conducting research and clinical audit post-registration. The focus is on research design and qualitative and quantitative methods appropriate for healthcare research. A series of lectures and seminars will develop research knowledge and its application in using and producing research evidence. Workshops will provide practical experience of research activities including data analysis. In addition, course specific seminars will provide guidance on the development of a research idea and presentation of an outline research proposal.
Year: 2
Status: C
Students will have the opportunity to develop their interpersonal and interprofessional communication skills and experience being an integral part of a radiotherapy treatment team. This module allows the individual student to build in their previously acquired knowledge and clinical skills. It will provide the student with the opportunity to expand their knowledge and experience in a range of radiotherapy settings including mould room, treatment planning and other non-radiographic departments.
Year: 2
Status: C
This module will build on the knowledge acquired in Radiotherapy Physics and Equipment module studied in year 1 and the experience gained during Professional Practice Placement. It complements some of the aspects of Quality Assurance studied in Imaging for Radiotherapy Module. It will provide students with an understanding of the subjects of Brachytherapy, Radiopharmaceuticals for treatment, Stereotactic RT, and current developments in radiotherapy. It consolidates aspects of Professional Practice Placement 1 undertaken concurrently during semester 1 of year 2. Students will have the opportunity to fuse theoretical and clinical knowledge as they study oncology of female reproductive system, endocrine system, central nervous system in this academic module alongside developing an insight and appreciation of the necessity for Quality Management Systems.
Year: 2
Status: C
This module provides an understanding of the key concepts of science, technology and safety relating to the specialised imaging modalities: CT MRI, MU and RNI. Participants will develop an understanding of digital image quality amd effective image manipulation.
Year: 2
Status: C
This module examines Radiotherapy and Oncology of the oral cavity, salivary glands, pharynx (including tonsils), larynx, nasal cavity, sinuses and thyroid gland.
Year: 2
Status: C
This module will facilitate and enhance the student's appreciation of their role as a practising radiographer and explore opportunities for role development. The module will examine the importance of entrepreneurial skills and health promotion activity in the professional setting and examine their application to radiography or radiotherapy. Mechanisms to ensure the protection and safety of the patient and service users are examined.
Year: 3
Status: C
In this module students will develop research skills by undertaking a research study on a topic related to practice. Each student, with support, will have an opportunity to undertake one of the following types of research project: (i) a systematic critical review to inform practice;(ii) a research protocol involving the design of a research study or health promotion activity or (iii) a research report involving the collection and/or analysis of data to produce evidence to inform practice. Lectures and clinics, supplemented by online material, will provide the theoretical knowledge and guidance required to undertake the research task. Workshops will provide support for practical skills such as systematic searching for literature, using critical appraisal tools and data management and analysis.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module allows the individual student to build on their previously acquired knowledge and clinical skills. It will provide the student with the opportunity to develop clinical skills in the localization of tumours, production of treatment plans and delivery of treatment. Students will also have the opportunity to develop their interpersonal and interprofessional communication skills and to experience being an integral part of a radiotherapy treatment team.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module examines radiotherapy and oncology of the musculoskeletal system, lymphatic and haemopoietic cancers and the use of radiotherapy for the treatment of non-malignant disorders. It also explores the common forms of paediatric cancer with discussion of appropriate treatment management and psychosocial wellbeing.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module will develop an appreciation of the impact of government strategies and policies related to cancer, palliative and end of life care. The psychosocial impact of cancer on the individual and family circle will be considered. Students will critically examine the need for cancer education and public cooperation to reduce the cancer burden. Attention will be drawn to the role of charitable organisations and support networks. Alternative and complimentary therapies will be evaluated, and the evidence base examined. The magnitude of the necessity for interdisciplinary collaboration will be consolidated.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module will provide the student with the opportunity to develop clinical skills in the localisation of tumours, production of treatment plans and delivery of treatment, quality assurance and risk assessment management. Students will also have the opportunity to develop their interpersonal and inter-professional communication skills and to experience being an integral part of a radiotherapy treatment team.
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
Students will have the opportunity to develop their interpersonal and inter-professional communication skills and to experience being an integral part of multidisciplinary teams. They will be able to choose elective placements that complement previous experience or pursue an interest that was cultivated during a previous placement. This will foster specific interests and engender an understanding of the necessity of evidence based practice to deliver high-quality patient outcomes. The module will require students to produce a written article in the form of a submission for publication.
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides an opportunity for Radiotherapy and Oncology students to engage in an Erasmus exchange with partner institutions in Europe. The module is optional, students have the choice to undertake the final year Cancer Service Evaluation module or to participate in an Erasmus exchange with one of the partner institutions within the Erasmus Radiography Group. Learning agreements for studies are established between Ulster and the host partner institutions enabling students to experience an international professional and cultural exchange. Students will have the opportunity to develop their interpersonal and inter-professional communication skills and to experience being an integral part of international multidisciplinary teams. This will foster specific interests and engender an understanding of the necessity of evidence based practice to deliver high-quality patient outcomes.
We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.
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Grades BBB to include a grade B from one of the following: Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Double Award Life & Health Sciences (BB) or Double Award Applied Science (grade BB).
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2016 Suite) (relevant science based BTEC). Applicants must also meet the GCSE science requirements for the course.
Award profile of DDM
Recognised RQF BTEC National Extended Diplomas include Applied Science or Health & Social Care (all BTECs to have enough relevant science content).
RQF BTEC National Extended Diploma Health & Social Care to include compulsory module: Anatomy & Physiology for Health and Social Care plus four modules from: Scientific Techniques for Health Science, Microbiology for Health Science, Medical Physics Application in Health Sector, Genetics, Biomedical Science.
OR
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2012 Suite) (relevant science based BTEC). Applicants must also meet the GCSE science requirements for the course.
Award profile of DDD
For applicants taking the Pearson QCF level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma (first teaching 2010) the requirement will be DDD in a relevant science based BTEC eg Health Sciences. Applicants are required to have at least six of the following modules: Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology for Health and Social Care, Physiology of Fluid Balance, Biochemistry for Health, Science in Practice for Health, Mobility and Exercise for Health and Social Care, Human Inheritance for Health and Social Care, Introduction to Microbiology for Health and Social Care.
You may also meet the course entry requirements with combinations of different qualifications to the same standard (provided subject requirements are met). Examples of combinations include:
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Diploma (2012 Suite)(relevant science based BTEC)
Award profile of DD plus A Level Grade B
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Diploma (2016 Suite)(relevant science based BTEC)
Award profile of DM plus A Level Grade B
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Introductory Diploma (2012 Suite)
Award profile of D plus A Level Grades BB
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Certificate (2016 Suite)
Award profile of D plus A Level Grades BB
For further information on the entry requirements for this course please contact the administrator as listed in Contact details.
Grades H3,H3,H3,H3,H3 to include English, Maths, Physics (Physics with Chemistry acceptable), plus one of Biology or Chemistry.
Overall Access profile pass with an overall mark of 65%, including 65% in each level 3 module to include physics and one of biology or chemistry. To include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 40% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma.
Overall Access profile of 24 credits at distinction plus 21 merits in graded units (60 credit Access course) (GB Access course) in a relevant science subject (which must include physics). Plus GCSE Mathematics and English language grade C. For further information on the entry requirements for this course please contact the administrator as listed in the Contact details.
For full-time study, you must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first degree course and hold a GCSE pass at Grade C/4 or above in English Language, additionally GCSE maths Grade C/4.
Plus GCSE Physics grade C/4 and either GCSE Biology or GCSE Chemistry grade C/4
or GCSE Double Award Science grade BB/66.
Please note that for purposes of entry to this course the Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number is NOT regarded as an acceptable alternative to GCSE Maths.
English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 7.0 with no band score less than 6.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
As part of the selection method applicants will be required to undertake a successful video interview. Interviews will occur after the 25 January 2023 deadline.
Applicants should note that, as they will be engaged in 'regulated activity' involving children or vulnerable adults as part of their course, there is a compulsory, legal requirement to obtain an Enhanced Disclosure from AccessNI. The cost for this is payable by the applicant and is currently £33. More information on Enhanced Disclosures may be accessed by http://www.accessni.gov.uk.
You will also be required to demonstrate good health prior to commencing the course. You will therefore complete a health declaration form which will be screened by Occupational Health who will confirm your medical fitness to undertake the course. Following the screening, you may be required to undertake a vaccination programme. You will be liable for the cost of both the health screening and vaccinations. Costs will be confirmed.
HND (science related) entry requirement:
Pass HND with overall Merit to include 60 distinctions in level 5 credits/units.
HNC (science related) entry requirement:
Pass HNC with overall Distinction to include 90 distinctions in level 4/5 credits/units.
Ulster Foundation Degree
Pass in Foundation Degree in a science related area with an overall mark of 55% in level 5 modules. Applicants will be considered for year one entry only.
Due to the nature and structure of the course programme exemptions and transfer are very unlikely, however each case is determined individually. Postgraduate programmes are available on successful completion of the course.
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With this degree you could become:
Excellent employment opportunities for Radiotherapy and Oncology graduates exist within the National Health Service, in private medicine and in those companies concerned with the manufacture and sale of radiotherapy equipment. There are also many research opportunities for suitably qualified graduates both at this university and elsewhere.
Further information regarding careers in radiotherapy may be found at www.sor.org and www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
The Radiotherapy and Oncology students undertake professional practice placement modules as an integral part of the programme. Final year students have the opportunity to undertake an elective clinical placement at a hospital of their choosing either at home or abroad. The programme is a partner in the Erasmus Radiography Group and students may apply for a three month exchange as part of the programme.
Approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for the purpose of providing eligibility to apply for registration with the HCPC as a radiographer.
Approved by the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR).
Funding is available for this course - find out more
Additional costs include - AccessNI Check, Health Screening, Membership of Society of Radiographers, Placement Expenses, Uniforms.
Uniforms: As part of entry to your course, you will be required to purchase a uniform during the first semester of first year. 2020/21 costs were approx. £110.
Membership of Society of Radiographers: You will be required to join the Society of Radiographers. The cost of student membership will be approximately £100 for the three years.
Placement Expenses: Students may incur expenses during periods of placement. Some placements may be outside Northern Ireland and will incur additional costs.
It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.
Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.
There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.
See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
