Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The Graduate Diploma MRI programme will develop the expertise of radiographers working in the field of MRI, broadening their knowledge of standard MR applications, and developing communication skills and critical thinking.



Programme content builds on undergraduate study and existing clinical practice skills to enable radiographers to become experts in MR imaging. During the Technology of MRI modules, students will evaluate the physical principles underpinning MR image generation together with the factors influencing equipment and pulse sequence selection and manipulation within the clinical setting.



Practice-based modules address the spectrum of current standard applications of MRI in the central nervous, musculoskeletal and vascular systems, together with applications in the abdomen and pelvis. This provides the knowledge-base for students to evaluate MR scanning protocols and resultant image appearances for diverse clinical indications, and to justify clinical decision-making.



Since this Graduate Diploma programme confers clinical competence, there is an emphasis on the integration of theory and practice to enable students to develop practical MR scanning skills and manage MR service provision within the clinical department. During the course, students must undertake a minimum of 700 clinical hours to gain the requisite specialist clinical skills in MR scanning.



The programme encourages radiographers to apply a critically questioning approach to the evidence base for MR imaging practice and fosters both the development of decision-making and problem-solving skills.



Technological advances in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) have led to a greater range of clinical applications, such that MRI is now a core imaging modality in contemporary healthcare. This course encompasses current technological developments in MRI, providing a platform for discussion of physical principles, scanning techniques and clinical practice issues.



This course aims to foster the personal and professional development of the postgraduate radiographer by encouraging students to build on appropriate undergraduate study and existing clinical skills in MRI further their knowledge and practical expertise in this area.



What Will I Learn?

• Apply knowledge and professional insights to develop an audit strategy to promote evidence-based practice within the clinical MR work environment.

• Apply theoretical knowledge to clinical MR imaging practice, and demonstrate the practical skills and professional attributes necessary for high-quality MRI service provision.

• Appraise clinical MRI service provision from diverse perspectives and propose strategies for constructive change within the workplace.

• Critically analyse literature, research evidence and policy relative to clinical MR imaging practice and apply findings to support clinical decision-making and problem-solving.

• Evaluate MR scanning protocols relative to their effect on image quality and diagnostic efficacy, suggesting, if necessary, appropriate modification strategies.

• Identify the salient facts, challenges and controversies associated with theory and practice issues in MRI and communicate these effectively to peers.

• Reflect on and critically appraise their individual technical and professional performance according to best practice standards, identifying approaches to advance these in future years as part of life-long learning and continued professional development.



NFQ Level: 9 (60 credits)

Level: Graduate Taught

Award: Graduate Diploma



Professional Accreditation: Accredited by the Irish Institute of Radiography and Radiation Therapy (IIRRT).

Stage 1 Core Modules

RDGY40520: Technology of Magnetic Resonance Imaging I

RDGY40530: Practice of Magnetic Resonance Imaging I

RDGY40540: Technology of Magnetic Resonance Imaging II

RDGY40550: Practice of Magnetic Resonance Imaging II

RDGY41580: Clinical Practice of MRI 1

RDGY41590: Clinical Practice of MRI 2

Criteria for standard entry applicants

• This programme is open to any radiographer holding a BSc degree, or Diploma of the College of Radiographers (DCR) in radiography, or equivalent, with at least one year post-qualification experience.

• Applicants working in Ireland must be registered with the Health & Social Care Professionals Council (CORU: https://www.coru.ie/) and have Department of Health & Children approval to practice radiography in Ireland. Applicants working in Northern Ireland or the UK, should be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC: http://www.hcpc-uk.org/). Applicants from other EU countries must be registered with the appropriate national professional body.

• Normally, all candidates must undertake a minimum of four months of clinical work experience in MR scanning prior to commencing the course, and provide documented evidence of this by completing the Pre-course MRI Clinical Experience Form.

• Candidates must arrange their own clinical placement and provide evidence of an agreement to spend approximately 700 hours (20 weeks) gaining practical experience in MRI over the duration of the Graduate Diploma programme.

• Candidates are required to nominate a suitably qualified clinical supervisor to oversee their clinical experience and must provide these details to the Academic Programme Director during the first week of the course.

• Signed Declaration Forms from your Radiographic Services Manager or nominee, indicating agreement to provide the requisite number of clinical hours during the course MRI Clinical Hours Declaration Form 1) and confirming the requisite pre-course clinical experience in MRI (‌Pre-course MRI Clinical Experience Form), must be submitted by the programme start date together with other necessary documentation specified in the relevant section of the online application web page.



You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme.



Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page (https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax) for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

1 year full-time.

Delivery: On Campus

X022: Grad Dip Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Full-time: Graduate Diploma



Full-Time: Commencing September 2025

Graduate Taught