Course description

🧪 Basic and Supporting Medical Sciences

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the fundamental principles of chemistry. Topics include the nature of matter, the atomic structure of elements, chemical calculations, chemical reactions in aqueous solutions, chemical bonding, gases, solids, liquids and solutions, thermochemistry, chemical equilibrium, and chemical kinetics.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course introduces the basic physics and physical ideas that arise in all branches of science and technology. It offers a clear and logical presentation of the fundamental concepts and principles of physics, supported by a wide range of interesting and relevant applications. Topics include position and time; motion in one, two or three dimensions and circular motion; the experimental basis of Newton's laws and some applications; work, energy and power; elastic properties of materials; heat, temperature and the behavior of gases; thermodynamics and the thermal properties of matter; electric forces, fields and potentials; fluid mechanics; and geometrical optics.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the basic concepts of the life sciences in terms of the functional and structural aspects of the living cell; energy transformations in metabolic processes such as respiration and organic synthesis; and the composition, replication, transcription and translation of genetic material. It also addresses the anatomical and functional structure of human body organs, such as the circulatory, respiratory, immune and nervous systems.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the gross anatomy of the normal human body, with emphasis on the structure of the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary and integumentary systems. Other anatomical systems are also covered. The course is designed to help students build a basic understanding of the neuromusculoskeletal systems of the human body.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course aims to provide students with knowledge of the normal functions and mechanisms of the various body systems, with emphasis on the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary and integumentary systems. Other systems are also covered. The course is designed to help students establish a basic understanding of the neuromusculoskeletal systems of the human body.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course introduces students to pathophysiology, the study of disease mechanisms, with emphasis on its application in health informatics. Students explore how disease processes affect human systems, including genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors, and how these processes can be documented, analyzed and used in health information systems. The course also emphasizes integrating clinical data with electronic health records, decision support systems and predictive analytics, helping students understand the importance of pathological knowledge in improving patient care and healthcare delivery.

🧭 General Supporting Courses

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course provides an overview of professional communication skills that enhance students' performance and satisfaction in the workplace. It also offers a roadmap to excellence in leadership, explains the theoretical foundations of leadership through a review of leadership theories, and gives students the opportunity to understand what it takes to influence and empower others.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course gives students an overview of the research process and applied statistics. Topics include research ethics; literature searching using offline and online databases; critical reading and appraisal of the literature; developing an answerable research question and evaluating research problems; research design, including experimental and non-experimental research; writing a research proposal; professional presentation; and the basic principles of statistical analysis.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course introduces students to the core concepts, tools and applications of digital health. Topics include electronic health records, telemedicine, wearable devices, mobile health applications, artificial intelligence, big data analytics and digital therapeutics. The course focuses on how digital health technologies are transforming prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation, and on enhancing patient engagement in healthcare. It also addresses ethical, legal and social considerations, including data privacy, cybersecurity, patient safety and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in healthcare.

☢️ Radiation Physics, Protection and Quality Assurance

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Theory

This course introduces students to the field of radiological sciences, including the historical development of medical imaging, the role of radiographers in healthcare systems, and the basic principles of diagnostic imaging modalities. It emphasizes professional responsibilities, ethical standards, principles of patient care, and an overview of radiation safety in clinical practice.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the fundamental principles of radiation physics relevant to diagnostic imaging. Topics include atomic structure, X-ray production, interactions of radiation with matter, radiation measurement and radiation dosimetry. The course provides the theoretical foundation needed for safe and effective radiographic practice.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course addresses the principles and practices of radiation protection in diagnostic imaging. It includes the biological effects of ionizing radiation, dose limits, radiation monitoring, shielding design, regulatory standards and quality assurance procedures to ensure the safety of patients, staff and the public.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course offers an in-depth exploration of quality assurance and quality control principles in diagnostic imaging, including performance testing, image quality indicators, dose optimization, accreditation standards and audit systems.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

This course covers the practical application of quality assurance and quality control principles in diagnostic imaging through performance testing of imaging equipment, image quality evaluation, measurement of radiation dose indicators, verification of equipment safety and compliance with standards, and documenting and analyzing quality test results, preparing reports and taking corrective actions.

🦴 Radiographic Anatomy

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers sectional and radiographic anatomy relevant to diagnostic imaging. It focuses on correlating anatomical structures with radiographic images and positioning techniques.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

This practical course provides hands-on training in identifying anatomical structures on X-ray images and practicing accurate positioning techniques using anatomical models and imaging simulation.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course focuses on surface anatomical landmarks and their clinical significance for patient positioning during radiography. It emphasizes palpation techniques and the anatomical correlations needed to obtain accurate images.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

This practical course provides hands-on training in identifying anatomical landmarks and applying positioning techniques based on surface anatomy using anatomical models and simulation tools.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the normal anatomy of the different body regions as they appear on cross-sectional images, with emphasis on recognizing organs, tissues and anatomical relationships in the axial, coronal and sagittal planes. It includes the anatomy of the head, brain, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis and musculoskeletal system, and correlates anatomical landmarks with their normal radiographic appearance on CT images, strengthening students' ability to recognize basic anatomical variations and distinguish normal appearances on medical images.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

This course aims to develop students' practical skills in recognizing normal anatomical structures as they appear on CT images. Practical training includes identifying organs, tissues and anatomical relationships in the axial, coronal and sagittal planes for the different body regions, including the head, brain, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis and musculoskeletal system. The course also focuses on using cross-sectional images and digital applications to identify anatomical landmarks and correlate them with the normal radiographic appearance, distinguishing between basic normal variants and common abnormal changes.

📷 Radiographic Procedures

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course focuses on the principles and techniques of basic radiographic examinations of the upper and lower extremities and the chest. Emphasis is placed on patient positioning, exposure factors, image evaluation criteria and radiation protection.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

This practical course provides hands-on training in basic radiographic positioning techniques for the extremities and chest using simulation labs and models of radiographic equipment.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

Building on Radiographic Procedures I, this course focuses on radiographic examinations of the axial skeleton, skull, spine and pelvis, as well as contrast studies. It emphasizes positioning techniques, image evaluation and patient safety considerations.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

This practical course provides hands-on training in advanced positioning techniques for radiography of the axial skeleton and for contrast studies using simulation and clinical lab environments.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

A specialized course in breast tissue imaging. It covers the unique physical characteristics of the molybdenum/rhodium targets used in mammography X-ray tubes, breast anatomy, and the special projections (craniocaudal and mediolateral oblique) required for cancer detection. This course typically aligns with the initial educational requirements for mammography certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Theory

This course provides an in-depth understanding of maxillofacial radiography. Topics include the theory of intraoral imaging (periapical and bitewing radiography) and extraoral imaging techniques, particularly panoramic imaging (Panorex) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Students study the unique anatomy of the mandible, maxilla and teeth.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

Students practice using film/sensor holders and the paralleling technique for intraoral imaging. The lab includes operating panoramic imaging units and reconstructing 3D cone-beam CT (CBCT) data for dental implant planning.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the unique physiological and psychological needs of pediatric patients. It focuses on pediatric-specific conditions (such as greenstick fractures and intussusception) and the critical importance of radiation protection for the developing tissues of infants and children.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

In this lab, students practice specialized pediatric positioning using simulation models and immobilization devices such as the Pigg-O-Stat. It focuses on "rapid radiography": learning how to capture high-quality diagnostic images quickly and accurately for uncooperative or distressed patients.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the technical aspects of measuring bone mineral density. Students learn to interpret T-scores and Z-scores and understand the pathophysiology of osteoporosis. Emphasis is placed on precise positioning of the hip and lumbar spine to obtain reproducible data for long-term patient follow-up.

🖥️ Imaging Equipment, Image Processing and Interpretation

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the design, components, operation and maintenance of imaging equipment used in diagnostic radiology. Topics include X-ray tubes, generators, digital imaging systems, the basics of CT and MRI scanners, image receptors and quality control systems.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

This practical course provides hands-on training on imaging equipment components and quality control testing procedures. Students gain practical experience in equipment setup, system inspection and performance testing in simulated environments.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the basic principles of processing and enhancing digital radiographic images to improve their quality and diagnostic value. It includes image processing techniques, brightness and contrast adjustment, enhancement of sharpness and detail, reduction of noise and artifacts, and handling images in digital radiography systems. It also covers the principles of image display, storage and transfer using PACS and DICOM concepts, with a focus on choosing appropriate processing techniques that preserve diagnostic information and improve image quality.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

This course aims to develop students' practical skills in processing and enhancing digital radiographic images using medical imaging systems and applications. Practical training includes applying brightness and contrast adjustment, enhancing sharpness and detail, reducing noise and artifacts, and processing images to improve their quality while preserving diagnostic information. Students also practice displaying, storing and transferring images using PACS, handling DICOM files, and evaluating the effect of different processing techniques on image quality and diagnostic value.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course provides a structured approach to the critical analysis of medical images across different imaging modalities (X-ray, CT and MRI). Students develop a "critical eye" for evaluating images based on two core pillars: technical quality and clinical anatomy. The curriculum covers the theoretical basis for identifying normal and abnormal structures, understanding the appearance of common pathologies (such as fractures, pleural effusion and tumors), and the legal and ethical implications of the radiographer's role in "preliminary observations".

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

The lab involves practical diagnostic simulation in which students apply systematic review protocols to an extensive library of clinical cases. Unlike the lecture, which is observation-based, the lab requires students to take on the role of primary evaluator. Students use Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) workstations to manipulate images by adjusting window levels, using measurement tools and applying post-processing filters. The lab focuses on "repeat analysis", in which students evaluate "suboptimal" images and decide whether an image is of diagnostic quality or the patient must be re-imaged.

🧲 Cross-Sectional and Advanced Imaging Modalities

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course explores the theoretical foundations of computed tomography, tracing the evolution of CT scanners from first-generation narrow-beam units to modern multi-detector CT systems. Students delve into the physics of X-ray attenuation in a rotating gantry, the mathematical principles of image reconstruction (such as filtered back projection and iterative reconstruction), and the complexities of helical data acquisition. A significant part of the course is devoted to CT dose optimization. The course also covers the pharmacology of iodinated contrast media and the management of adverse reactions.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

The CT lab provides hands-on experience operating a CT simulator or clinical workstation. Students learn how to translate a physician's request into a precise scan protocol. The lab focuses on the pre-scan workflow, including checking the patient's renal function, IV cannulation and the use of power injectors. Students practice the art of image processing, turning raw volumetric data into diagnostic tools using multiplanar reformation (MPR) and 3D maximum intensity projections (MIP). The lab concludes with a focus on emergency procedures and technical troubleshooting of common image artifacts.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course offers an in-depth study of the physics of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Students study the behavior of hydrogen protons in a strong magnetic field (B₀), the application of radiofrequency pulses, and relaxation times.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

Using MRI simulators or clinical scanners, students learn how to control pulse sequences. The lab focuses on adjusting parameters (TR, TE and flip angle), coil selection, and the basic screening protocols needed to prevent projectile incidents in the Zone IV magnetic environment.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the physical principles, instrumentation and clinical applications of diagnostic medical ultrasound. Students learn about the behavior of sound waves in body tissues, how transducer technology works, and blood flow dynamics in Doppler imaging. Beyond the physics, students gain basic scanning skills, with a focus on sectional anatomy and the identification of common pathologies of the abdomen and pelvis.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course covers the basic principles and clinical applications of nuclear medicine techniques in diagnosis and medical imaging. It includes the study of radiopharmaceuticals, their properties and uses, and nuclear imaging equipment and systems, including the gamma camera, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET). It also covers the various nuclear examination procedures, patient preparation, selection and administration of radiopharmaceuticals, image acquisition and processing, and interpretation of basic normal appearances, in addition to the principles of radiation protection, quality control, and the safety of patients and staff in nuclear medicine departments.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course explores advanced technologies that fall outside the four main modalities (X-ray, CT, MRI and ultrasound). It covers the principles of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), hybrid imaging (PET/MR), digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) and artificial intelligence in image reconstruction. Students analyze how these specialized technologies provide specific diagnostic data that conventional modalities cannot.

💉 Interventional Radiology, Vascular Imaging and Contrast Media

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course focuses on the drugs used in the radiology department. It details the chemical composition of ionic and non-ionic contrast media, gadolinium-based contrast agents and radiopharmaceuticals. Students learn how to manage contrast reactions, from mild urticaria to anaphylactic shock, and how to use emergency medications.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course presents the clinical foundations of interventional radiology, focusing on minimally invasive techniques used to diagnose and treat diseases across the body's systems. Students study the specialized equipment, pharmacology and procedural protocols of the interventional radiology suite. The curriculum covers vascular and non-vascular anatomy relevant to percutaneous interventions, the properties of different contrast media, and physiological monitoring of patients under moderate sedation. Radiation safety for both the patient and the healthcare team in the treatment environment is emphasized.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

The interventional radiology lab provides a simulated clinical environment in which students move from theory to the practical application of specialized interventional tools. The course focuses on hands-on skills and mastery of the fluoroscopic imaging chain. Students practice setting up sterile trays, tactile catheter handling using vascular models, and operating digital subtraction angiography (DSA) software with a mobile C-arm X-ray unit. Safety is the top priority in this lab, including strict adherence to surgical sterile technique, proper use of lead shielding and dosimeter placement in a high-dose environment.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course explores the circulatory system through the lens of vascular imaging. It focuses on the anatomy of the arterial and venous systems, blood flow dynamics, and the radiographic techniques used to image vascular diseases (such as stenoses, aneurysms and malformations).

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Practical (Lab)

A hands-on simulation lab in which students practice the physical aspects of vascular access. This includes preparing high-pressure injectors, tactile catheter handling using anatomical vascular models, and mastering digital subtraction angiography (DSA) image processing.

📋 Professional Practice and Management

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Theory

This course introduces students to ethical principles, professional standards, patient rights, confidentiality, legal responsibilities and communication in radiology practice.

1 Credit Hour | Course Type: Theory

This course focuses on the operational side of radiology. Topics include healthcare economics, accreditation standards (The Joint Commission / American College of Radiology), legal aspects of medical imaging and staff management. Students learn workflow optimization, lean management in the clinical environment and the financial impact of equipment purchasing.

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This course teaches students how to critically appraise peer-reviewed research to inform clinical practice. Rather than relying on traditional approaches, students learn to use the PICO framework (Patient, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) to evaluate the effectiveness of imaging protocols and patient safety procedures.

🏥 Clinical Education

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This initial clinical placement introduces students to the healthcare environment. It focuses on familiarizing them with hospital protocols, patient transfer, radiation safety in practice and professional ethics. Students begin by observing registered radiographers, then progress to performing basic radiographic examinations (such as chest, abdomen and upper extremity imaging) under direct supervision.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

Building on the foundations of Clinical Education I, this course requires students to take a more active role in the imaging department. Students are expected to perform a wider range of procedures, including lower extremities, bony thorax, spine, contrast studies and trauma imaging.

3 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

This placement focuses on advanced procedures and modalities. Students complete competencies in fluoroscopic studies (gastrointestinal/genitourinary), pediatric imaging and trauma radiography.

6 Credit Hours | Course Type: Theory

The final clinical course serves as a "capstone residency" designed to ensure the student is ready for the job market. Students are expected to work with near-complete independence (under indirect supervision) and manage a full patient load. During the fourth clinical phase, students typically begin training in specialty areas such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or interventional radiology (IR) to identify a potential future specialization. The course includes a comprehensive review of all clinical competencies and a final competency assessment across all body systems.

🎓 Graduation Project

2 Credit Hours | Course Type: Project

This is a capstone course designed to give students the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired to a real-world radiological problem or research question. Students engage in individual or group research or a case study analysis under the supervision of an academic mentor. The project must demonstrate the student's ability to analyze, design, implement and evaluate a solution related to radiology or other relevant fields. Students follow a structured methodology that includes problem definition, literature review, methodology development, data collection and analysis, implementation (where applicable) and evaluation. At the end of the course, students are expected to submit a written report and give a presentation of the project.