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Master in Ultrasound

MSc (NFQ Level 9)

This course is available through the following application route(s)

Duration:
18 Months
Attendance:
Full Time
Delivery:
On Campus
NFQ Level:
9 (100 credits)
Level:
Graduate Taught
Award:
Master of Science
Next Intake:
September
Country Specific Entry Requirements:
Visit the UCD Global Undergraduate Entry Requirements webpage.
Other School Leaving Requirements:
See www.ucd.ie/admissions
Curricular information is subject to change.

Apply Now

The aim of the MSc (Ultrasound) is to develop ultrasonographers who can respond to the dynamic needs of the profession, the health service and its users. To this end the programme will develop professional competencies by integrating the following domains: high level clinical skills; specialist theoretical knowledge; and advanced key skills.  These embedded advanced key skills include simulator and practical training, teamwork, problem solving, leadership, communication, self- directed learning, information literacy, self-evaluation and applied research.

Healthcare professionals who provide ultrasound imaging services need to be highly educated in a wide variety of skills in order to practice, manage and direct this rapidly evolving field. This modularised course at level 4 (NQAI 9) employs a blended learning approach in all semesters.

The blended learning approach utilises a broad ranging of teaching and learning methods. Students receive didactic lectures coupled with image based tutor sessions with experts in the field. The students also participate in practical scanning labs, both on a Medaphor Simulator and human subjects. Some topics are taught through Problem Based Learning (PBL) which consists of carefully selected and designed ultrasound problems that demand from the learner acquisition of critical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and problem solving proficiency, self-directed learning strategies and teamwork skills. 

There is decreased attendance at UCD in the final semester, with a focus on synthesising knowledge and developing clinical expertise. This provides students with an opportunity to use their self-directed learning skills while continuing to be supported by online lectures; clinical supervision; contact with module coordinators; and monthly face to face sessions at UCD.

About This Course

  • .Adhere to best practice in ultrasound through an increased awareness of professional guidelines and departmental protocols.
  • Demonstrate an ability to interact effectively as a participant and a leader in problem solving groups and inter professional teams.
  • Demonstrate high level clinical skills in the practice of ultrasound.
  • Effectively self-evaluate their performance in relation to their professional development.
  • Exhibit an ability to source and analyse appropriate literature and apply current theories of ultrasound, basic sciences and communication to their clinical reasoning.
  • Justify the contribution of ultrasound to the overall management of the patient.
  • Reflect on current practices and apply an evidence-based approach to all aspects of ultrasound practice and have the skills to continue their education and development throughout their professional careers
  • Reflect on the social and ethical implications of professional issues using a patient centred approach.

Below is a list of all modules offered for this degree in the current academic year. Click on the module to discover what you will learn in the module, how you will learn and assessment feedback profile amongst other information.

Incoming Stage 1 undergraduates can usually select an Elective in the Spring Trimester. Most continuing undergraduate students can select up to two Elective modules (10 Credits) per stage. There is also the possibility to take up to 10 extra Elective credits.

Module Type Module   Trimester Credits
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
1a) General Stream - VascularStudents must complete vascular modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41340 Abdominal Ultrasound 2 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum)  10
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
1a) General Stream - VascularStudents must complete vascular modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41360 Gynaecological Ultrasound 1 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum)  10
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
1a) General Stream - VascularStudents must complete vascular modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41470 Vascular Ultrasound 2 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum)  10
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
1a) General Stream - VascularStudents must complete vascular modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY40010 Technology of Ultrasound 1 Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
1a) General Stream - VascularStudents must complete vascular modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41330 Abdominal Ultrasound 1 Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
1a) General Stream - VascularStudents must complete vascular modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41640 Vascular Ultrasound I Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
1a) General Stream - VascularStudents must complete vascular modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY40020 Technology of Ultrasound 2 Spring  10
Stage 1 Options - B) Min 0 of:
General Stream - Vascular
RDGY41650 Gynaecological Ultrasound II Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - B) Min 0 of:
General Stream - Vascular
RDGY41660 Management Principles Autumn  5
Stage 1 Options - B) Min 0 of:
General Stream - Vascular
RDGY41680 Vascular Ultrasound III Autumn  5
Stage 1 Options - B) Min 0 of:
General Stream - Vascular
RDGY41700 Abdominal Ultrasound III Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - C) Min 0 of:
1b) General Stream - Superficial Structures students must complete superficial structures modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41340 Abdominal Ultrasound 2 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum)  10
Stage 1 Options - C) Min 0 of:
1b) General Stream - Superficial Structures students must complete superficial structures modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41360 Gynaecological Ultrasound 1 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum)  10
Stage 1 Options - C) Min 0 of:
1b) General Stream - Superficial Structures students must complete superficial structures modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41500 US of Superficial Structures 2 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum)  10
Stage 1 Options - C) Min 0 of:
1b) General Stream - Superficial Structures students must complete superficial structures modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY40010 Technology of Ultrasound 1 Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - C) Min 0 of:
1b) General Stream - Superficial Structures students must complete superficial structures modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41330 Abdominal Ultrasound 1 Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - C) Min 0 of:
1b) General Stream - Superficial Structures students must complete superficial structures modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY41630 Ultrasound of Superficial Structures I Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - C) Min 0 of:
1b) General Stream - Superficial Structures students must complete superficial structures modules in Year 1 and Year 2
 RDGY40020 Technology of Ultrasound 2 Spring  10
Stage 1 Options - D) Min 0 of:
General Stream - Superficial Structures
RDGY41650 Gynaecological Ultrasound II Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - D) Min 0 of:
General Stream - Superficial Structures
RDGY41660 Management Principles Autumn  5
Stage 1 Options - D) Min 0 of:
General Stream - Superficial Structures
RDGY41670 Superficial Structures III Autumn  5
Stage 1 Options - D) Min 0 of:
General Stream - Superficial Structures
RDGY41700 Abdominal Ultrasound III Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - E) Min 0 of:
2) Obstetric Stream
RDGY41360 Gynaecological Ultrasound 1 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum)  10
Stage 1 Options - E) Min 0 of:
2) Obstetric Stream
RDGY41810 Ultrasound in Obstetrics 2 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum)  20
Stage 1 Options - E) Min 0 of:
2) Obstetric Stream
RDGY40010 Technology of Ultrasound 1 Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - E) Min 0 of:
2) Obstetric Stream
RDGY41800 Ultrasound in Obstetrics 1 Autumn  20
Stage 1 Options - E) Min 0 of:
2) Obstetric Stream
RDGY40020 Technology of Ultrasound 2 Spring  10
Stage 1 Options - F) Min 0 of:
Obstetric Stream
RDGY41650 Gynaecological Ultrasound II Autumn  10
Stage 1 Options - F) Min 0 of:
Obstetric Stream
RDGY41660 Management Principles Autumn  5
Stage 1 Options - F) Min 0 of:
Obstetric Stream
RDGY41820 Ultrasound in Obstetrics 3 Autumn  15

Master in Ultrasound (X545) Full Time
EU          fee per year - € 9945 th
nonEU    fee per year - € 29500 th

thDiagnostic Imaging Programmes where Year Fee is Full Programme Fee charged to First Year 2026/27 Entry students only.
***Fees are subject to change

EU Students

This course is mainly suited to radiographers and midwives.  In order to apply applicants must be employed by or attached to a clinical ultrasound department in Ireland.

A clinical ultrasound supervisor with postgraduate ultrasound qualifications must provide written agreement to supervise the applicant.  Applicants must provide evidence from their employer that they are in a position to gain a minimum of 1000 hours clinical ultrasound experience, divided proportionately between the specialisms they have selected to study.

All applications are reviewed on a case by case basis by the programme coordinator and should further information be required the applicant will be informed.

NB: In addition applicants must submit a logbook (link below), which should demonstrate a minimum of three months pre-course ultrasound experience.

 

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 for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

Full Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EU) applicants: No


Course Structure

The Course is structured in a modular format. All MSc Ultrasound students must select Technology of Ultrasound 1&2, as well as core additional clinical modules determined by the context selected below. The clinical modules selectedmust reflect the clinical experience and supervision available to students in their clinical ultrasound department.Schemes of modules, which reflect the contexts within which sonographers normally practice in Ireland are outlined.

Context 1:

A hospital with a clinical ultrasound department, which receives a large number and variety of referrals for abdominal,gynaecological and vascular ultrasound. Recommended scheme of modules: Technology 1&2; Abdominal Ultrasound1,2&3; Gynaecological Ultrasound 1&2; Vascular Ultrasound 1,2&3 and management principles.

Context 2:

A hospital with a clinical ultrasound department, which receives a large number and variety of referrals for abdominal,gynaecological and superficial structures ultrasound. Recommended scheme of modules: Technology 1&2; AbdominalUltrasound 1 ,2 & 3; Gynaecological Ultrasound 1&2; Superficial Structures 1, 2 & 3 and management principles.

Context 3:

A hospital with a fetal assessment unit or an obstetric ultrasound department, which receives a large number andvariety of referrals for obstetric and gynaecological ultrasound. Recommended scheme of modules: Technology 1&2;Obstetric Ultrasound 1, 2&3; Gynaecological Ultrasound 1&2 and management principles.

(NB: This scheme is normally selected by midwives).



This course is mainly suited to radiographers and midwives. In order to apply, applicants must be employed by or attached to a clinical ultrasound department for the duration of the programme.




  • Application deadline is 31st July 2026.

  • Applicants must submit a logbook, which should demonstrate a minimum of three months pre-course ultrasound experience. Download and complete the Pre-Course Form 2026/27 and attached it to your application. Updated form will be available in Summer 2026. Last year form is here: Pre-course Record of Ultrasound Clinical Experience 2025/26.

  • Read and take note of the MSc Ultrasound Attendance Dates for 2026/27. Updated dates will be available in Summer 2026. Last year dates are here: MSc Ultrasound Attendance Dates 2025/26. 

  • There will be a mandatory clinical supervisor induction training held on Thursday, 10th September 2026 (Online).

  • Student Induction will be held on TBC August 2026 in UCD.


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General application route(s) for Irish/UK/EU applicants* for International (non-EU) applicants* to Master in Ultrasound:

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X545
Master in Ultrasound
Master of Science

Full-Time
Commencing September 2026
Graduate Taught
Not available to International applicantsApply
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