Module manager: Lucy Hammond
Email: l.hammond1@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Standard entry criteria for BSc(Hons) Diagnostic Radiography programme
ARCS1028 - Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Radiographic Pattern Recognition
This module is not approved as a discovery module
The interpretation of medical images and having detailed anatomical knowledge of normal and abnormal appearances forms an essential part of the radiographer’s role. This module provides the fundamental biological principles and an overview of the body’s systems and their appearances on a range of imaging modalities to support the students’ early experiences in the clinical setting. It introduces students to image interpretation through the application of fundamental principles of systematic image evaluation and interpretation to be able to detect and communicate findings. This module provides the fundamental concepts on which the students will develop their skills in more complex areas throughout the programme enabling the student to develop their knowledge, understanding and analytical skills.
The aim of this module is to provide the student with information in respect to the fundamentals of cellular and gross anatomy of body systems, an introduction to simple pathology, and the principles of medical image interpretation; all of which are essential in order for the student to begin to identify, understand, analyse, evaluate and interpret radiographic appearances.
At the end of this module the student should be able to:
1. Identify cells and tissue including basic structure and function
2. Describe the gross anatomy of systems of the body and be able to identify anatomical structures on diagnostic images
3. Apply fundamental image interpretation skills to diagnostic images
4. Demonstrate a systematic approach to image evaluation
Systematic approach to image evaluation
Identification of anatomical structures
Communication of image findings
- Overview of cells and tissues
- Basic biological principles and homeostasis
- Body planes and medical terminology
- Gross anatomy of the body systems; musculoskeletal, respiratory, digestive, genitourinary, cardiovascular, nervous system
- Imaging appearances of gross anatomical features and organs on a range of imaging modalities (eg radiographs, CT and MRI)
- Image perception and pattern recognition, theories and factors influencing pattern recognition
- Principles of systematic image evaluation and production of preliminary image evaluations.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 14 | 2 | 28 |
| Practical | 4 | 1 | 4 |
| Independent online learning hours | 18 | ||
| Private study hours | 150 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 32 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Within the first semester in which the module runs, students will be provided a directed online learning activity each to help consolidate the sessions/content delivered in that week. This will include the completion of workbooks based around the topics covered.
Students will be expected to undertake pre-reading and complete preparatory activities to contribute to lectures and practical activities.
Private study should be utilised to write up lecture notes and do pre- and post-session reading on the topics covered as well as in preparation and completion of the class tests.
The nature of this module is such that there is direct application to clinical practice. Whilst in the clinical department students are encouraged to use every image viewed to assess knowledge of the anatomy covered in this module. In this way student can identify areas they need to seek additional support on.
A range of formative activities will be available throughout the module with students encouraged to access and complete activities at their own pace and in a style that suits their learning needs (for example, remote, in groups, within a time frame).
Workbooks, tutorials, online textbook with associated activities and games, and formative MCQ questions in the same style and platform that the in class tests will use will be provided with open access from the beginning of the module. Students will have signposting to the formative activities of what they are and suggestions of how they will benefit their learning.
Feedback will be provided by automatic marking and availability of answers on formative tests and workbooks. During tutorials feedback on correct answers of example questions will be given but also explanations of correct and incorrect answers with tips on how and where to develop their learning. Other forms of formative work and activities are encouraged to be done via group work. Peer to peer collaboration and feedback can help provide opportunities to identify areas of development.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| In-course MCQ | 4 x 0.5 hours Online MCQ. Week 5 for tests 1 and 2. Week 9 for tests 3 and 4. | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
There is no compensation between tests each test will require 40% to pass the test. Resit of each test will be available in the August assessment week. A range of formative activities will be provided, including example questions in the format of the in class MCQ tests.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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