Master of Science in Imaging Sciences
The program builds upon the foundation of knowledge from a bachelor’s degree and specific science-related prerequisites for admission to better prepare students to acquire the advanced skills provided in the curriculum. Application materials must be submitted through ahcas.liaisoncas.com. The following minimum requirements will be applied:
- A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university in the United States or proof of an equivalent degree from a foreign institution is required.
- Overall GPA of 3.0.
- Overall Science and Math GPA of 3.0.
- Official transcripts from each college/university currently and previously attended reflecting completed and in progress coursework.
- Transcripts from institutions outside the United States must be submitted in the original language along with an evaluation from a National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) approved organization.
- International applicants whose native language is not English must present evidence of proficiency in English by satisfactorily completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language examination (TOEFL) with a minimum score of 84; English language test for study (IELTS) score of 7.0; or and Duolingo score of 115. A waiver of this requirement may be requested if the individual has graduated from a United States high school or a higher education degree program (associate’s or higher), or one of its English-speaking protectorates.
- Two letters of recommendation, attesting to student’s academic experience and personal attributes
- MRI Safety screening. *
- Required immunizations, criminal background checks, drug screening, health and physical capability and other requirements by the School of Health Professions or UT Health San Antonio.
- Ability to meet the general technical requirements for the field. **
- Perform the essential functions of the job. ***
- Personal interview with program faculty.
Science and Math Prerequisites
In addition to a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university in the United States or proof of an equivalent degree from a foreign institution, 26 semester credit hours (SCH) of specific prerequisite work is also required. The aggregate grade point average for the prerequisite courses must be at least a 3.0.
Required Science and Math Prerequisites
Mathematics (6 SCH):
- College Algebra OR Higher-level Mathematics OR Statistics
Natural Sciences (20 SCH):
- Biology lecture with Lab
- General chemistry lecture with Lab
- Physics with Lab
- Human Anatomy with Lab AND Physiology with Lab (covering all body systems)
MRI Safety Screening. Establishment of thorough and effective screening procedures for patients and other individuals is one of the most critical components of a program that guards the safety of all those entering the MRI environment or undergoing MRI procedures. An important aspect of protecting patients and individuals from MRI related accidents and injuries involves an understanding of the risks associated with the various implants, devices, accessories and other objects that may cause problems in this setting. This requires constant attention and diligence to obtain information and documentation about these objects to provide the safest MRI setting possible. The faculty of the program want to provide the students and patients with a safe clinical environment; therefore, the program requires students to complete the MRI safety screening form prior to acceptance into the program. This form must be completed by a qualified practitioner. Any questions or concerns may be addressed by contacting the program director.
The student must keep these records current for the duration of the program. If he/she has a foreign object (i.e., ferrous material, implants, surgical clip, insulin pump, etc.) located in or on their body after admission, it is the student’s responsibility to notify the program director. After notification to the program director, a second MRI safety screening must be completed by a qualified health care practitioner to assure student and personnel safety. Information about the MRI safety screening can be found in the application packet and on the program website.
General Technical Requirements. To graduate from the program, students must be able to meet certain technical requirements. Graduates of this program must be able to meet certain physical and mental requirements to ensure the safe performance of imaging procedures.
Due to the nature of typical employment assignments, a graduate of this program must be able to:
1. Work in a clinical setting for eight (8) to ten (10) hours performing physical tasks requiring physical energy without jeopardizing patient safety. Examples of these tasks include but are not limited to: pushing wheelchairs, stretchers, carts and mobile radiographic equipment; lifting and carrying imaging coils weighing up to twenty (20) pounds, wearing a five ten (5-10) pound, lead apron when needed; reaching, manipulating, and operating patient positioning tables, radiographic tables, stands, tubes, and other radiographic and imaging equipment to obtain the requested radiographic or diagnostic image; cleaning and preparing patient positioning tables, radiographic tables, stands, and other accessory equipment; moving and assisting patients on and off radiographic tables, carts and stretchers, or in/out of wheelchairs.
2. Interact with patients and other medical personnel in providing appropriate patient care and in performing imaging procedures. Examples of these interactions include but are not limited to: effectively communicating with patients and medical staff; providing patients with a clear and complete explanation of procedures; providing oral and written information, reading written information, and receiving oral and written information from patients and medical staff relevant to patient care; responding appropriately to unusual patient situations; making appropriate judgments in critical and non-critical patient care situations.
Essential Job Functions. The following essential functions are required of all students enrolled in the program. Medical imaging science specialists are responsible for the care of patients, some of whom are critically ill. They are often required to manage complex pieces of equipment, as well as interact with patients to make assessments. Medical imaging science specialists must also be able to communicate with other health care professionals. Therefore, to be successful in the program, all applicants should be able to perform, or learn to perform, the following functions:
- Spending much of the day traveling in between imaging departments.
- Moving and positioning bedridden patients.
- Performing physically demanding tasks-lifting and positioning imaging equipment.
- Communicating effectively with patients and staff.
- Responding to alarms.
- Accurately measuring contrast media, reading patient records, evaluating information displayed on patient monitors, and making observations of patients as required.
- Manipulating equipment and perform tasks-venipuncture and IV-line management.
- Applying sufficient intellectual and emotional skills to plan and exercise independent judgment, and to respond quickly to medical emergencies.
The program reserves the right to require applicants or students to demonstrate any of these essential functions with or without accommodation. Accreditation standards, program resources and availability of clinical practicum sites will influence enrollment capacity.
The program curriculum will begin with Radiography principles and practice, followed by academic and clinical instruction in CT and culminating in the acquisition of the knowledge and skills needed to perform MRI. The didactic content will be provided in-person with a traditional classroom mode of delivery while capitalizing on the ample availability of supervised clinical experiences.
Clinical Practicum
The clinical practicums will occur clinically affiliated medical centers, hospitals, and outpatient imaging centers. Prior to the first clinical practicum, students will be given the training necessary to obtain current certification in Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers by the American Heart Association. The clinical hours are required for program completion, and the students must arrange their schedules accordingly to ensure attendance as outlined by each course syllabus. The clinical hours are based on the clinical site’s designated hours of operation-Monday-Sunday, days, evenings, and weekends, as necessitated by the facility. The length of specific clinical rotations is determined by the clinical site (hours may vary by site) and the clinical coordinator to ensure that the students meet the competency requirements for the program. Students will receive appropriate academic advising and mentoring to complete didactic and clinical course materials in a timely manner.
The clinical requirements are as follows:
- Radiography Clinical Practicums I and II: Each practicum requires 540 hours.
- CT Clinical Practicum III requires 540 hours and Practicum IV (Weeks 1-7 of semester) requires 300 hours.
- MRI Clinical Practicum IV (Weeks 8-15 of semester) requires 300 hours and Practicum V requires 540 hours.
The program will provide students the opportunity to acquire marketable skills while progressing sequentially and earning multimodality credentials along with a master’s degree. The curriculum will include didactic content in anatomy and pathophysiology, patient assessment, pathophysiology, positioning & protocols, principles & instrumentation, radiographic technique, MRI safety, radiation biology, pharmacology, contrast media agents, venipuncture, patient safety, health care policies, emergency procedures, quality assurance, professional standards and supervised clinical training in radiography, CT and MRI.
In order to foster the development of clinically competent, imaging technologists with multi-modality, registry-eligible ARRT certifications in Radiography, CT and MRI, the program will be structured in phases-Phase 1: radiography proficiency (student earns ARRT radiography exam eligibility after phase 1 completion), Phase 2: CT proficiency (student earns ARRT CT exam eligibility after phase 2 completion), and Phase 3: MRI proficiency (student earns ARRT MRI exam eligibility after phase 3 completion). Learning outcomes will exceed the minimum ARRT structured educational requirements in the advanced imaging modalities. After successful completion of the program, the graduates will be eligible for state licensure by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to the Texas Medical Board (TMB) (https://www.tmb.state.tx.us/page/licensing-full-medical-radiologic-technologist). In addition, the students will be prepared for the Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer (MRSO) credentialing examination by the American Board of Magnetic Resonance Safety (ABMRS). The ABMRS offers (MRSO) Certified™ (MRSC™) credentials to MRI technologists who demonstrate competency in advanced MRI safety (https://abmrs.org/).
Phase 1: Radiography (48 Semester Credit Hours)
Radiographers use electromagnetic radiation to produce radiographs (X-rays). X-rays have higher energy and can pass through most objects, including the body's internal structures. X-rays are the most frequently used form of imaging for routine follow-up exams, such as chest X-rays due to much lower radiation doses compared to CT. X-rays are used to diagnose fractured bones, injury, or infection and to locate foreign objects in soft tissue. Some X-ray exams may require the use of iodine-based contrast material or barium to help improve the visibility of specific organs, blood vessels, tissues or bone.
The underlying scientific theory, sectional anatomy, pathophysiology, and clinical protocols will be discussed. Emphasis is placed on patient care and radiation protection, principles of electromagnetic radiation and physical interactions with living matter. The phase 1 plan of study in radiography will consist of 14 courses totaling 48 semester credit hours. The didactic courses (30 semester credit hours) will be offered at the UT Health San Antonio campus. The clinical courses (18 semester credit hours) will be provided at affiliated clinical sites during the day, night and/or weekends, and students must be able to commit to participating in a minimum of 36 hrs/wk (minimum 6 and maximum 10-hour shifts) of clinical training during each semester. Students will receive a certificate of completion in radiography after successful completion of phase 1. This certification will allow students to sit for the primary-pathway radiography registry exam by the ARRT. Students must successfully pass the ARRT radiography registry examination in order to proceed into phase 2 CT.
Phase 2: Computed Tomography (25 Semester Credit Hours)
Computed Tomography (CT) is an advanced radiographic imaging modality that utilizes highly collimated fan-shaped x-ray beam and array of radiation detectors to produce cross-sectional images of human body structures and organs for diagnostic purposes. CT images can be reconstructed in various anatomical orientations for better visualization of pathology, diagnostic analysis, and interpretations. Phase 2 plan of study in CT will consist of 6 courses totaling 25 semester credit hours. The didactic courses (11 semester credit hours) will take place at the SHP during the day while the clinical practicums (14 semester credit hours) will be provided at affiliated clinical sites during the day, night and/or weekends. The CT clinical practicum enable students to solidify the didactic education while mastering patient care skills, CT principals & instrumentation, CT protocols & procedures, disease identification, and advanced imaging techniques which offer graduates an employment edge and increased career mobility. Students must commit to a minimum of 36-40 hrs/wk (minimum 6 and maximum 10-hour shifts) of clinical training during each semester. Students will receive a certificate of completion in CT after successful completion of phase 2 which allows them to take the post-primary pathway ARRT CT registry exam. Students must successfully pass the ARRT CT registry exam in order to proceed into phase 3.
Phase 3: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (25 Semester Credit Hours)
Magnetic resonance technologists use the resonant frequency properties of atoms within a magnetic field to image anatomic and/or physiologic conditions of the body to assist physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. MRI is an imaging modality that produces exceptionally detailed images of the tissues and organs of the body in a variety of imaging planes. This course of study focuses on the underlying scientific theory, sectional anatomy, pathophysiology and clinical protocols. Emphasis is placed on patient care and safety, and principles of magnetism.
Phase 3 plan of study in MRI will consist of 6 courses totaling 25 semester credit hours. The didactic courses (11 semester credit hours) will be offered at the SHP during the day while the clinical education courses (14 semester credit hours) will be provided at affiliated clinical sites during the day, night and/or weekends. The curriculum is designed to enable students to acquire knowledge in MRI physics, equipment operation/methodology, cross-sectional anatomy, pathophysiology, patient care, and MRI imaging skills. Students must be able to commit to participating in a minimum of 40 hrs./wk. (minimum 6 and maximum 10 hour-shifts) of clinical training during each semester. Students will receive a certificate of completion in the advanced modality of MRI after successful completion of phase 3. The certification will allow students to sit for the post-primary pathway MRI registry exam by the ARRT.
To graduate, students must successfully complete all courses (98 SCH) with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better and successful completion of the 5,1000 clock hours required of the program. In addition, each student must successfully complete a research capstone project as a part of their last clinical practicum course completion requirement.
Master of Science in Imaging Sciences Graduation Requirements
The imaging program will provide students the opportunity to acquire marketable skills while progressing sequentially and earning multimodality credentials along with a master’s degree. The curriculum will include didactic content in anatomy and pathophysiology, patient assessment, pathophysiology, positioning & protocols, principles & instrumentation, radiographic technique, MRI safety, radiation biology, pharmacology, contrast media agents, venipuncture, patient safety, health care policies, emergency procedures, quality assurance, professional standards and supervised clinical training in radiography, CT and MRI.
Sample Plan of Study
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credit Hours | |
| MSIS 5000 | Radiation Physics | 3 |
| MSIS 5001 | Patient Assessment and Management | 3 |
| MSIS 5002 | Radiographic Procedures I with Lab | 3 |
| MSIS 5003 | Image Production & Evaluation | 2 |
| MSIS 5004 | Radiobiology & Protection | 3 |
| MSIS 5005 | Sectional Anatomy and Pathophysiology I with Lab | 2 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 16.0 | |
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Credit Hours | |
| MSIS 5006 | Radiographic Procedures II with Lab | 3 |
| MSIS 5007 | Sectional Anatomy and Pathophysiology II with Lab | 2 |
| MSIS 5008 | Special Radiographic Procedures | 2 |
| MSIS 5009 | Ethics and Law | 2 |
| MSIS 5010 | Clinical Practicum I | 9 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 18.0 | |
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Credit Hours | |
| MSIS 5011 | Research | 3 |
| MSIS 5012 | Clinical Practicum II | 9 |
| MSIS 5013 | RAD Registry Review | 2 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 14.0 | |
| Second Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credit Hours | |
| MSIS 6000 | CT Physics and Instrumentation | 3 |
| MSIS 6001 | CT Procedures | 3 |
| MSIS 6002 | Education | 3 |
| MSIS 6003 | Clinical Practicum III | 9 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 18.0 | |
| Second Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Credit Hours | |
| MSIS 6004 | CT Registry Review II | 2 |
| MSIS 6005 | Clinical Practicum IV | 10 |
| MSIS 6006 | MRI Physics & Safety | 3 |
| MSIS 6007 | Management and Supervision | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 18.0 | |
| Second Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Credit Hours | |
| MSIS 6008 | MRI Procedures | 3 |
| MSIS 6009 | MRI Registry Review III | 2 |
| MSIS 6010 | Clinical Practicum V | 9 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 14.0 | |
Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes
The School of Health Professions evaluates student learning outcomes primarily through grades in academic coursework, performance in clinical rotations, and scores on standardized licensure examinations.
Provided below in Table 1 is the plan for how the student learning outcomes (SLOs) will be assessed and evaluation, as well as when the SLOs will be reassessed and evaluated over the duration the two-year program. Also described is the assessment method used to establish learning related to SLOs and the desired target level of performance.
Assessment methods may include faculty-designed comprehensive or capstone exams; performance on faculty developed or external exams; professionally judged performance as in clinical or lab performance; portfolios compiled over time; written assignments, etc. SLOs are defined in terms of the knowledge, skills, and abilities that a student has attained at the end (or as a result) of her or his engagement in a particular set of higher education experiences. In our program, we might refer to these as terminal objectives or competencies. SLOs should not be confused with program outcomes, objectives or goals which might include graduation, employment, satisfaction, certification/licensure rates, scores on standardized tests, etc., (see Table 2). Although such indicators might be used as a proxy for instructional effectiveness, they are not actual measures of learning.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
- Demonstrate critical inquiry and reasoning in applying the knowledge and skills required by each imaging modality.
- Demonstrate optimal selection of imaging protocols and correction for sub-optimal images.
- Demonstrate appropriate radiation and MRI safety standards of practice.
- Demonstrate the ability to adapt to varying clinical experiences and equipment.
- Appropriately respond to demanding situations in trauma or emergency settings.
- Communicate (orally and written) in an effective and respectful manner.
- Collaborate within interprofessional teams by practicing leadership.
- Demonstrate scholarship and understanding of research principles.
- Integrate ethical principles in professional activities.
- Demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a diverse and global society.
Established policies and procedures will be in place to assure consistency in student evaluations. This will include use of student written evaluations of courses and instructors, student conferences to solicit feedback from students and instructors as well as the quality of clinical rotations, and graduate exit surveys. In addition, students have a well-defined appeals process should they believe that they have received an unfair grade or evaluation.
Program Outcomes
- To graduate clinically competent, entry-level, and multi-modality registry-eligible radiography, CT and MRI technology professionals.
- To graduate clinically competent students with critical thinking skills to function as competent healthcare professionals.
- To instill in the student the importance of effective communication, continued education and professional development.
- To provide the community with qualified, component and compassionate imaging professionals.
Results of the program outcomes will be continuously disseminated beyond the program director. Program outcome results will be disseminated at the yearly advisory meeting consisting of community members. The outcomes will also be shared openly with potential applicants during the information sessions. Program outcomes of the program will be available on the program website, as well as brochures and marketing advertisement. The program outcomes/results will be used to implement changes in the curriculum based on the results of the assessment. In addition to providing a strong science and technical background, the program will strive to address the growing need of highly trained graduates for leadership roles in medical imaging. The program will adhere to the guidelines that the accrediting body (ARRT) has set.
Program Policies
Established policies and procedures will be in place to assure consistency in student evaluations. This will include use of student written evaluations of courses and instructors, student conferences to solicit feedback from students and instructors as well as the quality of clinical rotations, and graduate exit surveys. In addition, students have a well-defined appeals process should they believe that they have received an unfair grade or evaluation.
The program director and faculty have established program policies and procedures in order to oversee curriculum development. To uphold the program’s high standard and relevancy in student education, faculty members teaching courses are actively engage in continuous curricular development and revision using student learning outcome data. The Student Progress Committee of the M.S. in Imaging Sciences degree program will ensure that the degree plan is followed by M.S. in Imaging Sciences students in order to make appropriate progress towards their degree. The Student Progress Committee will grant exceptions from this schedule only under extenuating circumstances.
MSIS 5000. Radiation Physics. 3 Credit Hours.
This course applies to Radiography, Phase I, and Computed Tomography, (CT) Phase 2. The first semester radiography student will be introduced to the fundamental principles of ionizing radiation. During the course of this semester, the student will be presented with material covering the discovery of X-ray, properties, terminology, Electricity and Magnetism, Electromagnetic Radiation, unit and tube, production, and emission spectrum. The course provides an introduction to the effects of ionizing radiation on the human body, and optimizing radiation protection for patients, self and other healthcare providers. Radiation biology and concepts as ALARA, ionizing radiation interaction with matter, and early and late effects of ionizing radiation will be introduced. Open for Cross Enrollment on Space Available Basis.
MSIS 5001. Patient Assessment and Management. 3 Credit Hours.
General and system specific concepts related to the causation and clinical presentations of pathology across the life span are discussed. Prototype diseases are used to illustrate pathologic concepts. Use of medical interviews, physical examinations, and interpretation of examination findings will be introduced. Instruction on the components of the health history (chief complaint, present illness, past history, family history, personal and social history, review of symptoms) is provided. Physical examination including the general survey of the patient, vital signs, skin, head and neck exam, thorax and lungs, cardiovascular and peripheral vascular systems, breasts and axillae, abdomen, genitalia and rectal exams, musculoskeletal system, and the mental status and nervous system exams will be introduced. Cardiovascular, diuretic and respiratory agents, hypoglycemic agents, drugs acting on the blood and blood forming organs, toxicology, antibiotics and cancer chemotherapeutic agents will be discussed. Students will receive training for CPR certification. The student will be expected to pass both clinical competency evaluations related to this course.
MSIS 5002. Radiographic Procedures I with Lab. 3 Credit Hours.
This course applies to Radiography (Phase I). This course, the first of a two-semester sequence, provides detailed instruction in the fundamental principles of positioning for all routine radiographic procedures. It includes relevant topographic anatomy and cross-sectional anatomy instruction. Also included in this course is an instruction in procedures that are unique to pediatrics, geriatrics, obesity, mobile radiography, trauma and operating room. This course integrates with the Clinical Practicum I and is divided into categories, each having its own laboratory component. The categories are chest, abdomen, extremities, pelvis, and the bony thorax. Emphasis is placed on critical evaluation of images and problem-solving skills about producing diagnostic radiographs.
MSIS 5003. Image Production & Evaluation. 2 Credit Hours.
This course applies to Radiography (Phase I) and will provide students with the principles of image creation. The primary focus of this course will be the process of digital imaging to include characteristics, image identification, computed radiography, direct digital radiography, image processing and display, as well as information about RIS, DICOM and PACS.
MSIS 5004. Radiobiology & Protection. 3 Credit Hours.
This course applies to Radiography (Phase I) and Computed Tomography, (CT) Phase 2. Content will include review and continuation of basic radiobiology involved with radiography and advanced modalities, such as CT. It will address the radiobiological/biophysical events at the cellular and subcellular levels. Analysis of factors influencing radiation response of cells and tissues will be covered. Construction and evaluation of radiobiological data on graphs, charts, and survival curves will be included. Relationships of time, dose, fractionation, volume and site as they apply to tissue response will be evaluated. The principles of radiation response modifiers, hyperthermia, chemotherapy and their influence on biologic effects in combination with radiation will be examined.
MSIS 5005. Sectional Anatomy and Pathophysiology I with Lab. 2 Credit Hours.
This course, the first of a two-semester sequence, and is designed as a survey of human anatomy and selected pathology from a regional rather than system perspective. Students will become accustomed to viewing anatomy of regions of the body in the different anatomical planes typically produced in cross-sectional imaging. Special emphasis will be placed upon correlating and recognizing anatomical structures as they appear on medical images produced with Radiography, CT, and MRI. The anatomy of the: cranium and facial bones, brain, spine, and neck will be covered. Students will also solidify concepts learned from the modules with hands-on learning in the lab using the Anatomage® table.
MSIS 5006. Radiographic Procedures II with Lab. 3 Credit Hours.
This course applies to Radiography (Phase I) and will continue to provide students with detailed instruction on increasingly difficult radiographic examinations to include; spine, headwork, contrast imaging, genitourinary studies, venography, arteriography, arthrography, myelography and hysterosalpinography. It includes relevant topographic anatomy and cross-sectional anatomy instruction. Continued emphasis will be placed on critical evaluation of images and problem-solving skills in relation to producing diagnostic radiographs. This course integrates with the Clinical Practicum I and is divided into categories, each having its own laboratory component. Prerequisites: MSIS 5002.
MSIS 5007. Sectional Anatomy and Pathophysiology II with Lab. 2 Credit Hours.
This course is a continuation of Sectional Anatomy I with Lab human anatomy course. The purpose of this course is for the student to learn the essentials of cross-sectional anatomy of the human body. Students will solidify concepts learned from the modules with hands-on learning in the lab using the Anatomage® table. The anatomy of the: thorax, abdomen, pelvis, and extremities. Prerequisites: MSIS 5005.
MSIS 5008. Special Radiographic Procedures. 2 Credit Hours.
This course applies to Radiography (Phase I) and it provides an overview of alternate imaging modalities including: Cardiovascular Interventional Imaging, Neuro-Interventional, Computed Tomography, Nuclear Medicine Technology, DEXA, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Mammography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Radiation Therapy. Included in the discussions of these alternate imaging modalities will be necessary requirements to become certified in the areas. The course aims to educate radiologic personnel in basic pharmacology principles, ensuring quality patient care. Contrast media is used by most modalities of diagnostic Imaging. Topics include uses, prevention of acute reactions, contrast induced nephropathy, renal adverse reaction. Prerequisites: MSIS 5002.
MSIS 5009. Ethics and Law. 2 Credit Hours.
This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of medical imaging and focuses on the legal system, basic foundational theories of ethics, and practical application of to health care situations. Policies and procedures of the program will be covered. The student will be oriented to the profession in relation to various accreditation and credentialing agencies. The course explores the legal, moral values and judgments as they apply to medicine and ethical principles associated with research. It also elaborates on the ethical decision-making framework, and the legal and ethical principles that govern the practice of medicine. This course covers ethical issues that Allied Health professionals can expect to encounter during their education and career. It covers such areas of concern as professionalism, cultural differences, confidentiality, informed consent, responsible practice, and key legal aspects of these issues.
MSIS 5010. Clinical Practicum I. 9 Credit Hours.
This course applies to Radiography (Phase I). Supervised clinical experience in radiography (Phase 1). This course is designed so the students gain the clinical experience needed to function in an active imaging sciences department and initiate the student in patient care and routine radiographic imaging procedures. This experience is intended to give the student the confidence to assist and perform radiographic procedures that parallel progress in didactic education. The clinical education experience is competency-based with professional components included to document the needed clinical procedures. Review of medical imaging with an emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking. Prerequisites: MSIS 5006, MSIS 5007 and MSIS 5008.
MSIS 5011. Research. 3 Credit Hours.
This course introduces students to methods of scientific research to include review of literature, research designs, sampling techniques, measurement, and related issues. Critical review of the components of research reports will be performed to include definition of the problem, review of the literature, research design, data analysis and results. Using Google Scholar, CINAHL, PubMed and Other Library Resources, students will choose evidence-based topic in imaging and conduct a critical review of its components, Research topics includes oncology treatments, imaging in orthopedics, evidence-based practice in radiography/CT/MRI, innovations in pediatric imaging and fusion imaging.
MSIS 5012. Clinical Practicum II. 9 Credit Hours.
Supervised clinical experience in Radiography (Phase I). This course is an extension of Clinical Practicum I. This course provides experience for the student in Radiography (Phase 1). Prerequisites: MSIS 5010.
MSIS 5013. RAD Registry Review. 2 Credit Hours.
This course applies to Radiography (Phase I). This course builds on the previous learning related to Radiography. This course will allow the students to engage in self-directed study to prepare for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) in Radiography by completing registry review board modules. This course will provide the students the opportunity to integrate the theory and clinical practice in order to meet the complex needs of patients. ARRT registry review modules and case presentations will be completed. This course will provide a review of medical imaging with an emphasis on problem solving and critical thinking. Prerequisites: MSIS 5010.
MSIS 6000. CT Physics and Instrumentation. 3 Credit Hours.
This course applies to CT (Phase 2) and will provide the student with an in-depth review of the fundamental physical principles of Computed Tomography (CT). CT is a specialized imaging modality. The historical development and evolution of CT will be reviewed. Physics topics include x-radiation in forming the CT image, CT beam attenuation, linear attenuation coefficients, tissue characteristics and Hounsfield number application. Data acquisition and manipulation techniques, image reconstruction algorithms will be also explained. This course will also provide students with knowledge of quality control, and instrumentational concepts. Prerequisites: MSIS 5013 Open for Cross Enrollment on Space Available Basis.
MSIS 6001. CT Procedures. 3 Credit Hours.
This course applies to CT (Phase 2). Computed Tomography (CT) is a specialized imaging modality. This course is designed to provide an understanding of proper protocols and positioning utilized to acquire appropriate imaging with patient history in mind concepts of Computed Tomography. The content is divided into three units: (1) head, neck and spine, (2) chest and abdomen, and (3) pelvis and extremities. The student also becomes familiar with contrast administration guidelines and timing issues related to dynamic imaging. Spiral CT, 3D reconstruction procedures, and vascular imaging are discussed and compared with routine imaging of the same anatomical regions. Prerequisites: MSIS 5013 Open for Cross Enrollment on Space Available Basis.
MSIS 6002. Education. 3 Credit Hours.
This course will provide students with an introduction to basic principles and techniques used in Imaging Sciences Professional education. This course will provide students with the knowledge needed by health professionals who interact with other health professionals and/or patients in educational settings including professional development, higher education, patient education, or community education. Case studies will be presented. Topics include medical imaging professional role in education, patient education, in-service education, course design, curriculum development and models, objectives and goals, lesson plan development, learning activities, use of media, teaching methods, development of presentations, testing, and evaluation.
MSIS 6003. Clinical Practicum III. 9 Credit Hours.
This course applies to CT (Phase 2). This clinical course will allow the student to achieve final competencies in CT. Students gain hands-on experience with different types of CT imaging scanners and procedures. Students are expected to master the techniques for each category of CT procedures and will be required to demonstrate competency for a range of routine procedures. Supervised clinical experience in CT (Phase 2). Prerequisites: MSIS 5012.
MSIS 6004. CT Registry Review II. 2 Credit Hours.
This course applies to CT (Phase 2) and builds on the previous learning related to imaging sciences. This course will allow the students to engage in self-directed study to prepare for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) in CT by completing registry review board modules. This course will provide the students the opportunity to integrate the theory and clinical practice in order to meet the complex needs of patients. ARRT registry review modules and case presentations will be completed. This course will provide a review of CT with an emphasis on problem solving and critical thinking. Prerequisites: MSIS 5013.
MSIS 6005. Clinical Practicum IV. 10 Credit Hours.
This course is an extension of Clinical Practicum III and will allow the student to achieve final competencies in CT (Phase 2). Students will begin MRI Phase 3 hands-on experience with different types of MR imaging scanners and procedures. Supervised clinical experience in CT (phase 2) and MRI (Phase 3). Prerequisites: MSIS 6003.
MSIS 6006. MRI Physics & Safety. 3 Credit Hours.
This course applies to MRI (Phase 3) and will provide the student with an introduction to the field of MRI. Topics will include an overview of MRI history and development, fundamental principles of magnetism, safety in MRI, equipment, terminology, and coils. This course will explain in depth concepts of MRI physics. Topics will include, image weighting and contrast, tissue characteristics, signal production, image formation, image acquisition & image production, pulse sequences, flow phenomena, artifacts in MRI, scanning parameters, contrast media administration, along with functional imaging techniques. MRI safety policies and procedures will be reviewed for hospitals/medical centers, and research facilities.
MSIS 6007. Management and Supervision. 3 Credit Hours.
This course focuses on practices and principles related to developing leadership skills. The Association of Hospital Radiology Administrators (AHRA) provides a credentialing exam, Certified Radiology Administrator (CRA) for leaders in medical imaging. This course will provide foundational preparation for the credential exam offered by the AHRA. The course reviews each subject area covered in the exam: fiscal management, human resource management, operations management, asset management, and communication and information management.
MSIS 6008. MRI Procedures. 3 Credit Hours.
This course applies to MRI (Phase 3) and is designed to provide an understanding of proper protocols and positioning utilized to acquire appropriate imaging with patient history in mind concepts of MRI. Protocol and positioning topics include indications for procedure, preparation, positioning and landmarks, patient history and assessment, scan parameters for brain, spine, upper and lower extremity imaging, female and male pelvis, abdominal imaging, cardiac and breast imaging. Open for Cross Enrollment on Space Available Basis.
MSIS 6009. MRI Registry Review III. 2 Credit Hours.
This course builds on the previous learning related in MRI (Phase 3). This course will allow the students to engage in self-directed study to prepare for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) in MRI by completing registry review board modules. This course will provide the students the opportunity to integrate the theory and clinical practice in order to meet the complex needs of patients. ARRT registry review modules and case presentations will be completed. This course will provide a review of MRI with an emphasis on problem solving and critical thinking. Prerequisites: MSIS 6004.
MSIS 6010. Clinical Practicum V. 9 Credit Hours.
This course is an extension of Clinical Practicum IV and will allow the student to achieve final competencies in MRI (Phase 3). Supervised clinical experience in MRI (Phase 3). The student will participate in a series of classroom demonstrations and practice in Venipuncture. The student will complete a self-learning packet of materials required by the Radiology Department for all technologists, nurses, and students who wish to practice venipuncture in the department. The student will prove competency by passing a clinical practicum with a radiology nurse. Prerequisites: MSIS 6005.