Antony Perry
3 February 2017: Students studying medical imaging degrees at the University of Canberra in 2017 and beyond can access innovative three-dimensional imaging software and cutting-edge radiation technology in a brand new laboratory on campus.
The Medical Radiation Science Laboratory was officially opened yesterday by Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Nick Klomp and Member for Ginninderra Tara Cheyne MLA, who were joined by other University staff, local government delegates and industry partners at a ceremony on campus.
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Medical imaging students at the University of Canberra now have access to state-of-the-art facilities unavailable elsewhere in the ACT. Photo: Vanessa Lam.
The state-of-the art facility is the first of its kind in the ACT and surrounding region. It has been designed to help the next generation of radiographers gain valuable pre-clinical skills in a simulated setting.
Students will develop skills using simulation software, taking x-rays of model body parts with similar properties to humans and reviewing the images before they undertake real-life practical work.
The laboratory features a large flat-floor teaching space and four high-tech x-ray rooms, providing students specialising in medical imaging with access to technology unavailable elsewhere in the ACT.
Professor Klomp said the new facilities would ensure students are well prepared to succeed in their clinical placements and beyond.
“The University of Canberra is committed to producing high-quality health practitioners and the opening of this latest laboratory reinforces this promise,” he said.
“The University is constantly developing new and innovative ways to provide the best learning experience for our students. Providing students with access to this state-of-the-art learning facility will ensure Australia’s future health workforce is in good hands.”
The Medical Radiation Science Laboratory is equipped with sound and video recording technology and will be used for both education and research purposes.
Starting this year, students can choose from a Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science, a Master of Medical Imaging and a Graduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound.
Dean of the Faculty of Health, Diane Gibson, said the University was pleased to have added medical radiation science to its broad suite of allied health courses.
“Other related courses are planned for the next few years, targeting areas of workforce shortage for Canberra and our region,” Professor Gibson said.
Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science student Jackson Monck said he and his peers were eager to access the facilities when the semester begins in just over a week.
“The course has been great so far, but these facilities are really going to enhance our learning experience and build our knowledge and skillset,” Mr Monck said. “We’re all itching to get back to uni knowing that the new lab is ready for us to use.”
The Medical Radiation Science Laboratory is the latest health project to open its doors on campus as part of the University’s rapidly developing Health Precinct.
The Health Precinct, which is located along the northern corridor of the University, features the Health Hub, which opened in 2014. It is home to the University’s student-led clinics in physiotherapy, dietetics, exercise physiology, psychology, counselling and occupational therapy, as well as Ochre Health and other health services.
The University of Canberra Public Hospital, currently under construction, is due to open next year. A state-of-the-art cancer care centre, a residential aged care service and child care centre, and a private hospital are also planned as part of this growing precinct.
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