Unit outline_

MRTY5040: Computed Tomography A

Semester 2, 2025 [Online] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

This unit of study examines the clinical application of computed tomography. It covers routine examinations of the head, body, spine and extremities. The adaptation of protocols for paediatric patients is also explored, as well as the principles and clinical applications of CT angiography. Patient preparation, and oral and IV contrast safety and administration will be examined and related to current best practice.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Clinical Imaging
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
MRTY5134
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Peter O'Reilly, peter.oreilly@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Out-of-class quiz MCQ Exam
MCQ on the weekly lecture material. 10 questions worth 0.5 mark each
5% Week 01
Due date: 10 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 10 Aug 2025
20 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Evaluation Discussion Board
Student submission to discussion board
5% Week 02
Due date: 17 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 17 Aug 2025
300 - 350 words (not exceed 350 words) AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz MCQ Exam
MCQ on the weekly lecture material. 10 questions worth 0.5 mark each
5% Week 03
Due date: 24 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 24 Aug 2025
20 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Evaluation Discussion Board
Student submission to discussion board
5% Week 04
Due date: 31 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 31 Aug 2025
300 - 350 words (not exceed 350 words) AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz MCQ Exam
MCQ on the weekly lecture material. 10 questions worth 0.5 mark each
5% Week 05
Due date: 07 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 07 Sep 2025
20 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Evaluation Discussion Board
Student submission to discussion board
5% Week 06
Due date: 14 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 14 Sep 2025
300 - 350 words (not exceed 350 words) AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz MCQ Exam
MCQ on the weekly lecture material. 10 questions worth 0.5 mark each
5% Week 07
Due date: 21 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 21 Sep 2025
20 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Evaluation Submission Board
Student submission to discussion board
5% Week 08
Due date: 28 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 28 Sep 2025
300 - 350 words (not exceed 350 words) AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz MCQ Exam
MCQ on the weekly lecture material. 10 questions worth 0.5 mark each
5% Week 09
Due date: 12 Oct 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 12 Oct 2025
20 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Evaluation Discussion Board
Student submission to discussion board
5% Week 10
Due date: 19 Oct 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 19 Oct 2025
300 - 350 words (not exceed 350 words) AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz MCQ Exam
MCQ on the weekly lecture material. 10 questions worth 0.5 mark each
5% Week 11
Due date: 26 Oct 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 26 Oct 2025
20 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Evaluation Discussion Board
Student submission to discussion board
5% Week 12
Due date: 02 Nov 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 02 Nov 2025
300 - 350 words (not exceed 350 words) AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO4 LO5 LO1 LO2 LO3
Q&A following presentation, submission or placement hurdle task Q&A
Interactive oral assessment
15% Week 13
Due date: 03 Nov 2025 at 08:00

Closing date: 07 Nov 2025
Q&A ~ 10 mins AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz MCQ Exam
MCQ on the weekly lecture material. 10 questions worth 0.5 mark each
5% Week 13
Due date: 09 Nov 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 09 Nov 2025
20 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Presentation hurdle task Presentation of clinical information
Powerpoint Presentation
20% Week 13
Due date: 03 Nov 2025 at 08:00

Closing date: 07 Nov 2025
10-15 mins AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
hurdle task = hurdle task ?

Assessment summary

 Assessment Summary

There will be a weekly assessment based on the lecture material for that week.

1 There will be 7 MCQ short tests worth 5 marks. Each MCQ has 10 questions and is 20 minutes in length. The test can be taken at any time during the week up until Sunday 23:59 hours.

2. There will be 6 discussion boards requiring a comment of at least a 300 word to a maximum of 350 word response to a question raised by the lecturer. Each weekly discussion board is worth 5 marks. Please be aware that responses over 350 words will lose marks. 

3. There is a major assignment required from each student. The assignment has two separate tasks. The student is firstly to present live to the assessor over zoom, a 10-15 minute presentation of one of 4 key themes covered in the lectures. A powerpoint format is required. The student may select the theme. Rubric will be available to assist in the construction of the assignment.

Following this, the student and assessor will engage in a Q&A session relating to the presentation. The Q&A is used to assure the assessor that the student has the required knowledge of their material. This will be conducted over a period of approximately 10 minutes.  A diary will be made available to all students to book a time with the assessor across the entire exam fortnight. Times will be from 9am to 6pm each day - Monday to Friday.

A fail in the major assignment is a fail in the subject. Further details of the major assignment will be found in the subject canvas site

 

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

 

Distinction

75 - 84

 

Credit

65 - 74

 

Pass

50 - 64

 

Fail

0 - 49

When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

As per assessment policy, 7A (4,5): For every calendar day up to and including ten calendar days after the due date, a penalty of 5% of the maximum awardable marks will be applied to late work. (a) The penalty will be calculated by first marking the work, and then subtracting 5% of the maximum awardable mark for each calendar day after the due date. For work submitted more than ten calendar days after the due date a mark of zero will be awarded. The marker may elect to, but is not required to, provide feedback on such work.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Contrast Media ( 2 Lectures) Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 02 CT Imaging Parameters Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 03 Introduction to Trauma Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 04 Brain: Imaging Parameters Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 05 Brain: Bleeds and Strokes Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 06 Head and Neck: Vascular and soft tissues Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 07 Petrous Temporal Bone Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 08 Thorax: Imaging parameters and scan techniques Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 09 Thorax: Anatomy and Pathology Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 10 Pulmonary Angiogram Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 11 Abdomen: Renal, Liver and Spleen Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 12 Abdomen; Gastro-intestinal and Pelvis Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 13 Abdomen: Vascular Online class (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5

Attendance and class requirements

There are no attendance or class requirements for this unit of study. It is expected that you will log on to the Learning Management System (CANVAS) at least twice a week.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

There are no prescribed textbooks for this unit of study. Readings will be provided each week.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Apply knowledge of computed tomography theory and practice to revise routine and contrast-based examinations of the head, face, neck, and chest in unique clinical contexts.
  • LO2. Critically appraise local standards and best practice protocols to identify weaknesses, limitations, and opportunities for improvements.
  • LO3. Evaluate research literature to assess knowledge gaps and propose potential practice improvement.
  • LO4. Creatively utilise resources in order to reflect upon and communicate computed tomography concepts and practice with professional peers, patients, and the public, using appropriate tools, and strategies.
  • LO5. Engage (actively, ethically, and respectfully) across and between cultures and groups encountered in computed tomography practice.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes Competency standards
LO1
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
1A.3.c. Adjust relative radiation dose levels based on the range of patient/client presentations.
1A.3.d. Collaborate in the design and evaluation of CT protocols.
1A.3.e. Perform and evaluate contrast and non-contrast CT examinations of the body and, when appropriate, modify them to consider patient/client presentation and clinical indications.
Domain 2.1.g. Practice the basic principles underpinning bio-ethics in medical radiation practice and recognise and respond appropriately to ethical issues encountered in practice.
Domain 2.1.h. Exercise appropriate levels of autonomy and professional judgement in a variety of medical radiation practice settings.
Domain 5.4.d. Identify, confirm and implement methods of radiation management.
LO2
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
1A.3.c. Adjust relative radiation dose levels based on the range of patient/client presentations.
1A.3.d. Collaborate in the design and evaluation of CT protocols.
1A.3.e. Perform and evaluate contrast and non-contrast CT examinations of the body and, when appropriate, modify them to consider patient/client presentation and clinical indications.
LO3
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 4.1.b. Find, critically appraise, interpret and apply best available research evidence to inform clinical reasoning and professional decision-making.
Domain 4.1.c. Provide evidence-informed patient/client-centred care by carefully considering the purpose of the proposed examination/treatment, reviewing existing protocols and methods, reflecting on clinical challenges or experiences and integrating knowledge and findings into practice.
Domain 4.1.d. Recognise opportunities to contribute to the development of new knowledge through research and enquiry.
Domain 4.2. Identify ongoing professional learning needs and opportunities
LO4
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 3.1. Communicate clearly, sensitively and effectively with the patient/client and their family or carers.
Domain 3.1.f. Make appropriate adjustments to communication style to suit the particular needs of the patient/client including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Domain 3.2. Collaborate with other health practitioners.
LO5
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - MRPBA
Domain 3.1.e. Identify likely communication barriers specific to individual patients/clients and/or family/carers and implement strategies to avoid or overcome them.
Domain 3.1.f. Make appropriate adjustments to communication style to suit the particular needs of the patient/client including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

The Assessments for this UoS have slightly. There are now weekly tasks of either short MCQ tests or a response to a discussion board The final assignment is still an audio-visual 10-12 minute presentation of a theme that the student may choose from all lectures and readings. It will be due at the end of the examination period. The audio-visual assignment is aligned to the pedagogical approach regarding the continuity of the teaching methods in this subject.

Work, health and safety

This is an Online UoS and so there are no contact sessions on Campus. Should you have a problem which you would like to discuss with me or with which you need assistance during the semester please contact me.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.