MSc/PgDip/PgCert Advanced Practice (Radiotherapy and Oncology)
Distance learning
Subject area • Radiotherapy and oncology
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One of our students talks about his experiences of studying a distance learning course.
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Normally you need one from
• a degree in therapeutic radiography
• a Diploma of the College of Radiographers (T) or equivalent study in therapeutic radiography
• an equivalent healthcare degree
If English is a second language, you also need an IELTS of 6.5 or above.
You also need a letter of support from line manager indicating that you are in an appropriate extended role in practice, have clinical support mechanisms and a mentor assigned.
We consider applicants on an individual basis. To be accepted, you need to satisfy the course leader that you have an ability to complete the course. A telephone conversation may be arranged with the course leader to discuss your role and the suitability of the course, before a place is offered.
You must be prepared to be intellectually challenged and to reflect on your clinical practice and consider how it may be improved based on critical evaluation. You need to be motivated, able to contribute to the online discussion and debate, and be prepared to study independently to explore the research literature that underpins practice.
You must also declare
•any disciplinary proceedings taken by earlier employers or educational establishments
•any investigation relevant to you under the Children Act 1989 or other associated legislation
Distance learning – a mix of e-learning and work-based learning although you can study optional taught modules
You study for at least three years and a maximum of six years to masters level
Starts January and September
Complete the application form available at www.shu.ac.uk/study/form
2013/14 academic year
Typically £1,785 for 60 credits
The course fee may be subject to annual inflationary increase. For further information on fees and funding see www.shu.ac.uk/funding
2013/14 academic year
Typically £7,200 for the course
2014/15 academic year
Typically £7,380 for the course
The course fee may be subject to annual inflationary increase. For further information on fees, scholarships and bursaries see www.shu.ac.uk/international/fees
• demonstrate clinical competencies in your field of expertise • individually negotiated assignment • portfolio • outline business case • journal article • oral viva
The course is recognised by the Society and College of Radiographers for the purposes of professional accreditation.
Distance learning study
Distance learning is a rewarding and flexible way to learn. You study at the time, place and often pace of your choosing, to fit around your personal and working life. Like all types of learning, you need skills in personal organisation, time management, self-motivation, and a commitment to academic study.
As a distance learning student, you normally learn away from the University – in your own home or place of work. Most of our distance learning courses are delivered online via a portal called Blackboard.
We prepare you for your distance learning course with an online induction package. It helps you develop and practise your skills and allows any issues, concerns or development needs to be addressed prior to commencing a course of study.
You're fully supported by our learning centre, with library database searches and information enquiries, journal article supply and other help in accessing library and information services, all without having to travel to Sheffield.
We believe that you learn best when you engage in prolonged debate. Your course provides an active learning experience, with an ongoing dialogue between you, your peers and your tutors via discussion forums, blogs and others. You carry out a series of structured tasks, which build towards a successful final assessment submission.
Michelle Watson
MSc/PgDip/PgCert Advanced Practice (Radiotherapy and Oncology)
After her first degree in health sciences Michelle trained for two years and became a therapeutic radiographer, working at the James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.
She followed some of her colleagues in taking a module where you specialise in an area of your choice, and enjoyed it so much she went on to the full MSc, funded by the hospital.
'When I first started studying part-time it was quite stressful. With a full-time job all the study is done in your spare time. You work weekends, evenings, and I've even booked holidays to make time for studying. But my study relates to my practice at work which makes it easier. I've had a lot of support from the consultant team at the hospital. They've provided me with advice, encouragement and ideas about which areas to study.
'The module leaders are all really helpful. Whenever I have a question I get a quick response – sometimes within minutes.'
Michelle has spent four years on the course and hopes to complete it in the next year. 'I've already gained so much. 'I've even been asked to do some teaching to undergraduate radiotherapy students, which was nerveracking as I don’t like public speaking. But it's really built my confidence, and the last time I did it I wasn't so anxious about it.
'It has given me extra ambition to progress in my career. It's certainly led to quick promotions. I've only been a qualified radiotherapist for five years and thanks to the course I'm already at the same level as radiographers who have been working for ten to fifteen years.
'Because you can choose which areas you want to specialise in, the course is really helpful for your work, as you can do what's most useful to your organisation. My whole department has been benefiting from the knowledge I'm gaining.'
Profiles
Michelle Watson
MSc/PgDip/PgCert Advanced Practice (Radiotherapy and Oncology)
John Sharpe (1:34)
John Sharpe, Rolls-Royce employee, and one of our MSc Total Quality Management and Organisational Excellence graduates talks about his experiences of studying a distance learning course while working.
Download the transcript of this video.
Staff profiles
Visit the Department of Allied Health Professions website to view profiles of the staff who teach in this subject area.
