Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences: Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers frequently asked questions for potential applicants to the PgC/PgD/MSc Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences (MIRS) Programmes.
Choose a question from the list below. If your question is not answered here, email mirt@ucc.ie.
Find your question
Do I need to have studied a specific prior degree?
Yes, a suitable existing qualification is required, i.e. in diagnostic radiography or radiation therapy (radiotherapy). There will be some exceptions to this, and it is recommended that you contact the Programme Director / Admission Team with specific enquiries (mirt@ucc.ie).
Do I need appropriate state / national registration in a particular profession?
Yes, a suitable professional / state registration is required, for example CORU registration within Ireland or HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) within the UK. There will be some exceptions to this, and it is recommended that you contact the Programme Director / Admission Team with specific enquiries (mirt@ucc.ie).
What classification of prior degree do I need?
As a guide, a 2:2 with honours in a Level 8 degree is the minimum. A high classification will mean that your application is likely to be more competitive. As with the type of degree, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
For the most up-to-date entry requirements, see each pathway, linked from the MSc course page.
Do I need a specific background?
Yes, the course is primarily intended for those working in either radiology/radiography or radiation therapy (radiotherapy).
Is it competitive?
Yes, it is important that you pay attention to your application, complete all elements of it, make it an example of your best work. It is a good idea to have others read over your application to ensure that it demonstrates clear motivations applicable to the Programme. Common issues with rejected applications include:
- Too short, rushed, with insufficient detail to judge motivation.
- It is copied and pasted from another application and refers to another course.
- It has spelling mistakes and grammatical errors.
- It focusses on what you have done in the past, not on your motivation to study MIRS (and specifically the individual pathway).
- It is unspecific, shows little knowledge of what the Programme entails.
What can I do to improve my chances?
- Get the best prior degree classification you can.
- Visit the course page, understand the course structure and fees.
- Understand how your prior medical imaging and / or radiation therapy experience can help you on the MIRS Programme.
- Consider what personal qualities you think you need to progress on the MIRS Programme.
- Consider why you want to be part of the UCC MIRS Programme.
- Consider how you will apply what you have previously learned / work experience to the MIRS Programme.
- Complete all aspects of the application form.
Where do I apply?
You can apply for postgrad courses through www.ucc.ie/apply. Search for codes:
What is the selection process?
- Apply all year.
- Shortlisting is on a rolling basis.
- Places are offered based on the application form.
- Begin late September / January. The exact start dates are on the MSc course page.
What is the course structure?
It varies depending on the individual qualification, for example the Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences (MIRS) is about 6 months in duration. The Diploma is 1 year and the Master's is between 18 months and 2 years.
What pathways are currently available?
This is a relatively new course at UCC and currently we are recruiting for the following pathways:
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Mammography
- Management & Leadership
- Image Interpretation
Other pathways are taking expressions of interest.
Are there any scholarships or finance available to support my studies as an international student?
For MIRS students, based on previous experience, it is unlikely that there are any scholarships or funding sources available. Funding sources do change, and it would always be worth checking the following UCC website: scholarships for international students.
What documents are required when applying for an MIRS programme at UCC?
There can be some variation depending on the pathway, but most MIRS pathways require the applicant to upload:
- Copy of passport ID.
- Qualification certificates and transcripts (particularly relating to radiography/radiation therapy).
- Proof of State Registration, i.e. CORU / HCPC.
- Proof of English language proficiency, if required.
- Support letter from employer, stating support for the pathway and providing confirmation that a suitable mentor has been allocated.
In terms of clinical experience / placement, what is expected?
You will be expected to have access to relevant clinical experience / an appropriate placement within your current employment. This will be determined during the application process, but it is for you to arrange relevant clinical experience, not UCC. You will also be expected to have a clinical mentor within your current workplace. Again, this will be determined / discussed during the application process.
What are the English language requirements?
English language requirements can be found on the UCC postgraduate English language requirements page.
What are the fees?
Look at the relevant course pages for the most up to date information on fees.
Money matters are discussed in this video for UCC students.
It is also useful to look at the Student Finance 101 Manual. Explore how you can fund your studies at one of Ireland's leading research universities.
How is the course delivered?
The course is delivered entirely asynchronously and fully online. This provides full international access without any visa constraints. It also allows study outside of any requirements to take time away from paid employment and will fit around commitments both inside and outside of work.
Can I continue to work during my studies?
Yes, you can. This is likely to be a requirement of admission to the Programme. This is a part-time course and it is expected that you will continue to get relevant clinical experience in your pathway area.
What are my career prospects following completion of my course at UCC?
Gaining a post-registration qualification, such as a PgC/PgD/MSc in MIRS, is likely to provide opportunities to progress your career. This could be as a senior radiographer or clinical specialist within your chosen pathway area. Such a qualification may also be useful in obtaining employment within academia or industry. The Programme Director would be happy to provide advice on this (email mirt@ucc.ie).
Discipline of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy
Contact us
Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, College Road, Cork, T12AK54