Malawi University of Science and Technology Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging
MUST Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging; PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Medical Imaging (Radiology) is a health profession concerned with the direct administration of radiation, such as x-rays, in disease diagnosis and injury assessment. Medical imaging studies have been a cornerstone in medical diagnosis for decades as they assist in rapid and accurate detection of diseases or injuries which leads to early and proper patient management. Currently, there is no health training institution in Malawi which offers a proper training programme in advanced imaging techniques up to Bachelor’s degree level. Over years, the government of Malawi, through the Ministry of Health (MoH), has been sending individuals recruited to be radiographers to South Africa for further training in advanced imaging techniques but this initiative had proven to be quite costly hence not sustainable. In addition, a large number Malawians requiring specialized diagnosis have been referred to seek such services abroad at high and unsustainable costs, thereby draining the limited forex in Malawi.
Furthermore, one of the recommendations from the Malawi Health Sector Strategic Plan of 2011-2016 was the introduction of a BSc programme in Medical Imaging in Malawi. Considering the above-mentioned gaps, the introduction of this proposed BSc in Medical Imaging programme at will help in producing graduates who will be capable of applying their skills in accurate detection and timely treatment of various pathologies. This will improve the health standards of Malawians in line with Malawi Growth and Development Strategy (MGDS) number III, which is in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 3.
The programme aims to train students to develop knowledge, attitudes and skills in medical imaging in accordance with statutory requirements including quality, ethics and safety. In addition, it shall also educate scientists in medical imaging who are versatile and able to apply principles and techniques in general and advanced imaging procedures. Furthermore, the students shall acquire skills to manage and organize imaging departments in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and conduct research and consultancy related to imaging.
Career Prospects
Graduates under this programme can work in a wide range of careers in the medical field such as patient care, medical imaging management, imaging analysts, diagnostics etc.
DURATION
Four Years