Coventry’s degree courses benefit from replica hospital environment

Coventry University is aiming to help address the NHS’s shortage of radiographers with the launch of new diagnostic radiography degree courses. The university is combining industry standard, cutting-edge facilities with clinical and academic expertise to help produce the next generation of radiography professionals through a healthcare programme offering a range of learning opportunities.

Students will have the opportunity to pursue careers and education in diagnostic radiography through either a three-year BSc (Hons) degree or a four-year integrated master’s (MSci) degree with the final year studied at master’s level. The MSci degree programme will give students the opportunity to develop research skills and gain a Chartered Management Institute qualification with a focus on leadership.

Radiography programme lead Adam Ryder said: “I’m excited that Coventry University’s well-established School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health is now able to offer a route into diagnostic radiography. With radiographic imaging in high demand, we’ve designed a unique course with the future of the radiography profession in mind, ensuring it will not only meet the needs of our students but also our local hospitals, communities and the wider NHS.

“Our programme, alongside investment in medical imaging technology, will provide diagnostic qualifying radiographers with exceptional training and education, preparing them for the future of healthcare.”

The university has invested in equipment including a purpose-built digital x-ray room, a mobile x-ray unit, an ultrasound unit and a DEXA bone density scanner with an image reporting hub. Siemens Healthineers has worked with the university to ensure the facilities replicate a hospital environment to help students prepare for professional clinical work.

Head of imaging sales for Siemens Healthineers GB Neil Lincoln said: “We are pleased to be supporting Coventry University in its work to help reduce the nation’s shortage of radiographers. The Ysio Max digital x-ray and the Mobilett Elara Max mobile x-ray at Coventry are an ideal representation of equipment in hospitals across the UK. They offer a great platform for training, and experience on these systems will translate well for students as they take up clinical placements in x-ray, other imaging modalities and, later, as they begin their careers.”

Picture: Equipment in the new facilities replicates a hospital environment as closely as possible.

Published on page 2 of the September 2021 issue of RAD Magazine.