HE Cert Mammography

Program Overview

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Queen Margaret University's HE Cert in Mammography is a one-year part-time program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to become competent Mammography Assistant Practitioners. The program combines online learning with practical experience, emphasizing the link between theory and practice. Graduates can pursue careers within the National Breast Screening Programmes and enhance their career prospects in radiography. The program is accredited by the Society and College of Radiographers.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Queen Margaret University's HE Cert in Mammography

is a program designed to equip individuals working in clinical mammography environments with the necessary skills and knowledge to become safe and competent practitioners.

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This one-year part-time course emphasizes the link between theory and practical skills, focusing on clinical skill development, critical thinking, and reflective practice.

Completion of the program enables graduates to pursue careers as Assistant Practitioners within the National Breast Screening Programmes.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the skills and knowledge to become competent and safe Mammography Assistant Practitioners.
• Foster critical thinking and reflective practice within clinical settings.
• Enhance collaboration and teamwork within multidisciplinary teams.
• Enable graduates to contribute to cutting-edge research and development in mammography.

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Program Description:

The HE Cert in Mammography combines online learning with practical experience at the West of Scotland Breast Screening Centre or the South East of Scotland Breast Screening Centre. Students will be exposed to a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Online lectures introducing theoretical concepts.
• Specialist talks focusing on specific areas of breast imaging.
• Tutorials for in-depth exploration of syllabus topics.
• Practical learning within individual workplaces.
The program also utilizes 'The Hub,' a virtual learning environment providing access to interactive learning resources.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• The HE Cert in Mammography curriculum consists of five modules:
• Production of the X-Ray Image (20 credits)
• Breast Anatomy and Disease (20 credits)
• Mammography Practice for Assistant Practitioners (40 credits)
• Mammography Practice for Assistant Practitioners (20 credits)
• Person-Centredness in the Breast Care Service (20 credits)
• This program may be pursued in its entirety or as individual modules for continuing professional development (CPD).
• Students will attend online teaching blocks and participate in one week of clinical training at a designated breast screening center.

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Course Schedule:

• The program is delivered over one year, with students attending online classes and participating in clinical training sessions.

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Individual Modules:

• Production of the X-Ray Image: This module focuses on the principles and techniques of producing high-quality X-ray images in mammography.
• Breast Anatomy and Disease: This module covers the anatomy of the female breast and the range of diseases that can affect it.
• Mammography Practice for Assistant Practitioners: These modules provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills for competent mammography practice, including positioning, image acquisition, and quality control.
• Person-Centredness in the Breast Care Service: This module focuses on providing compassionate and patient-centered care within the breast care service.

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Assessment:

• The HE Cert in Mammography utilizes various assessment methods, including:
• Essays
• Portfolios
• Practice-based assessments
• Case studies

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Assessment Criteria:

• Each assessment will be evaluated based on its specific criteria, aligned with the learning outcomes of each module.
• Students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding of theoretical concepts, practical skills, and critical thinking abilities.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining online lectures, specialist talks, tutorials, and practical learning experiences.
• Students will be supported by a named clinical trainer throughout their studies.

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by the SABI Clinical Training Team, which includes:
• NHS Radiologists
• Consultant Radiographers
• Breast Surgeons
• Advanced Practice Mammographers
• Breast Care Nurses
• Other NHS professionals working within Breast Care Services

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Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes the link between theory and practice, ensuring students can apply their knowledge to real-world clinical scenarios.
• The collaboration between QMU and SABI provides students with access to expert instructors from both academic and clinical backgrounds.
• The use of 'The Hub' virtual learning environment allows students to access interactive learning resources and engage in online discussions.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

• Graduates of the HE Cert in Mammography can pursue careers as Assistant Practitioners within the National Breast Screening Programmes.
• This program also provides graduates with valuable skills and knowledge that can enhance their career prospects within the field of radiography.
• The program is designed to promote professional development and improve the delivery of breast care services.

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Other:

• The HE Cert in Mammography is accredited by the Society and College of Radiographers.
• International students applying for the program will need to provide evidence of English language proficiency at IELTS 7 (no less than 6.5 in any element) or equivalent.
• Students with disabilities or health conditions can access support services and reasonable adjustments to ensure they can fully participate in the program.