Therapeutic Radiography and Oncology (Pre-registration) MSc

Year one

Year two

How you'll learn

This pre-registration MSc programme is designed using a modular format that integrates blocks of academic studies with blocks of professional practice across both semesters at level 7. The learning and teaching strategy of Social Constructivism is intended to acknowledge and promote the need to develop the learner’s knowledge, critical appraisal and evolving clinical skill as they progress through the programme, from being more guided in year 1 (level 6 and 7) to being more independent, and learner led in year 2 (level 7). Their learning is a collaborative process, and knowledge develops from the individuals’ interactions with their culture and society as well as from each other.

The programme content is organised into 4 key themes:

1. Physical and Radiobiological Science for Radiotherapy
2. Treatment Planning and On-treatment Verification Imaging
3. Radiotherapy Theory & Clinical Practice
4. Research

In Year 1 of the programme, learners are introduced to foundations of physical and radiobiological science, with key concepts of ionising radiation interaction with matter, radiotherapy treatment planning and features of radiation beams introduced. In year 2 science modules, learners begin to evaluate critically the technology used in clinical practice, comparing and contrasting the use of dosimetry equipment, treatment planning processes and justifying the use of on-treatment verification processes. As practitioners of the future, the final science module enables learners to explore new and emerging technologies and the critical role of the Therapeutic Radiographer in error propagation, clinical consequence and mitigation of risk.

In Radiotherapy Theory and Clinical Practice, learners are introduced to key concepts of oncology in Year 1 such as epidemiology, aetiology, anatomy and physiology, signs and symptoms, management and survivorship and link these to radiotherapy and oncology 1. Using a case-based approach, whereby each cancer site studied is framed by an authentic patient case; learners begin to evaluate critically key aspects of the radiotherapy patient journey. Radiotherapy treatment planning requires an understanding of cross-sectional anatomy and application of this knowledge in order to critically evaluate a treatment plan and its suitability. Throughout the 2 years of the programme, learners develop critical clinical reasoning skills which facilitate this essential skill. With alternate blocks of academic study and clinical practice, the learner is able to continually develop clinical skills and knowledge, which is reinforced by academic learning. The final Oncology and Clinical Practice module explores the complex needs of palliative and end of life care in the context of cancer care. New and emerging practice in relation to management of paediatric and young adults with cancer requires learners to consider challenging emotional concepts, critically evaluate the evidence base and continue to reflect critically on their own professional and personal development, leadership, management and future practice.

In year one students work with a research supervisor to develop a research question in an area of practice in which they are interested. This leads to their project proposal at the end of year 1. In year two they work with a project supervisor, who has expertise in the area they have chosen to study, in the year-long dissertation module to carry out the project in a supported but increasingly independent manner as the project progresses leading them to develop independent learning and research skills.

The themes reflect knowledge, understanding and skills that are integral to therapeutic radiography practice. The programme is designed to produce practitioners who are competent, discerning and committed to personal and professional development, whilst ensuring that their patients receive the treatment and care appropriate to their needs. The teaching and learning opportunities on this programme are chosen to equip the professional Therapeutic Radiographer with the appropriate knowledge, understanding and skills using a variety of pedagogic methods and skills development as well as developing their professional identity. At the heart of all the learning and teaching, is a commitment to develop within the learner the capacity to care and show compassion to all patients. This is emphasised in all the academic modules, and especially whilst on clinical placement where, for example, compassionate patient care and communication form a core component of all formative feedback and continuous clinical assessment. Patient care, ethics, social awareness and communication are constantly highlighted and reflected upon. The MSc Therapeutic Radiography & Oncology embraces the University of Liverpool curriculum framework, ensuring that programme content is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

• Research connected teaching
• Active learning
• Authentic Assessment

In the university setting, the learning and teaching for the primary knowledge base is achieved through a truly blended learning approach, utilising a mix of lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical sessions (simulation), computer-based and directed learning via study packs, University based technology enhanced learning resources, work-based, case-based and problem-based learning. The more formal teaching methods, such as lectures and tutorials, are used to develop the learners’ knowledge acquisition of new subject matter since some may not have not studied these areas in their first degrees. However, lectures are usually delivered interactively with question and answer, and discussion methods in order to develop the learners’ critical thinking, understanding and the applicability to radiotherapy. Multimedia is used where appropriate, through video clips and media streams in class and online sessions, as well as focussed reading for private study from sources such as books, e-journals, web resources, video clips etc. Introducing the concept of reflection and reflective practice during the first semester, in preparation for their first clinical placement, ensures that learners develop essential critical reflective skills needed for professional practice and development. Self-directed learning is used to develop research and information gathering skills.

Learners undertaking the programme are supported in their development of academic writing and critical thinking skills (University Strategy 2026). Level 6 module content introduces the learner to the key concepts, knowledge and skills required to optimise their learning of more advanced knowledge, problem solving and critical evaluation which characterises study at level 7. The level 6 Radiotherapy physics, technology and radiobiology module provides fundamental knowledge relating to radiation interaction, radiotherapy equipment, treatment planning, radiation safety and quality management. Learners are encouraged to read widely around a subject theme, developing their information gathering and assimilation skills.

All of the teaching methods used support and develop higher level critical thinking, reading, academic writing and research; but with a continual focus on reflective clinical practice of radiotherapy and the care of the service user.

How you're assessed

The range of assessments selected are designed to integrate theory and practice and to ensure that there is constructive alignment between the learning outcomes, teaching and assessment. They also enable learners to develop independent and critical thinking via active and social processes.
All assessments are designed to motivate the learner and bring together the learning and assessment components of the programme. The wide range of learning and assessment methods enables learners to demonstrate their knowledge in a variety of ways which addresses different learning styles and preferences, enhancing their understanding. The clinical assessment methodology ensures that the learner is constantly monitored, given formative feedback, engages in their own action planning and, therefore, improves, develops and takes responsibility for their learning journey.
Assessments will be:
• Structured to allow the learner to be discriminating in their selection of appropriate information;
• Designed to test the ability of the learner to conceptualise, critique and evaluate;
• An appropriate method of assessing modular learning outcomes and learning level.
Learners will be required to communicate their knowledge orally and in written form; critically analyse, implement and evaluate their practice; and to explore the research and evidence base of the profession. This will be indicative of a reflective practitioner. The various methods of assessments have been chosen to provide a balance that will permit
There are both formative and summative assessments to give learners the opportunity for personal development and to build confidence through assessment. There are a range of formative assessments including quizzes, feedback on draft course work, feedback on presentations and feedback from facilitators and peers during the development of the research project. There are a range of different types of examinations in the programme.
Similarly, continuous clinical assessments will advance in their scope and complexity from year 1 to year 2. In year 1 learners will be expected to demonstrate a range of fundamental clinical skills in carrying out routine radiotherapy treatments. In year 2 they will be expected to demonstrate their ability to respond to patients with more difficult conditions who require more complex management and treatment.

The programme has a diverse range of assessments and methods guided by Education Strategy 2026 and governed by the University Code of Practice on Assessment and its appendices. The overriding aim of the Education Strategy is to support learners as they become creative and culturally rich graduates with the capacity to find employment that will enable them to be agents for change in a connected world.

Liverpool Hallmarks

We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.

Learn more about our Liverpool hallmarks.