Master´s Programme in Health and Technology - Specialisation in Radiography Programme description

Increasing globalisation of the labour market and rapid social changes make it increasingly more important to have international professional experience, language and cultural knowledge. Internationalisation contributes to raising the quality of education and strengthens the academic community on the programme, at the same time as it prepares the students to become global citizens and acquiring new perspectives.

The programme’s focus on multicultural and global issues prepares the students for professional work in a multicultural society. International specialist literature is used extensively in the programme, which gives students access to English specialist terminology and relevant knowledge about current international trends.

Internationalisation takes place through activities on the home campus and through exchange programmes between students and staff at OsloMet and foreign educational institutions.

OsloMet has exchange agreements in place with universities and university colleges in Europe. Exchanges may be relevant:

• in the fourth semester, in connection with the course PMED2110 Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Communication (20 credits).
• in the sixth semester, in connection with the course PMEDPRA30 Clinical Studies C, Placement in the Ambulance Service (10 credits) and PMED3900 Bachelor’s Thesis (15 credits).

Students can only go on an exchange if the partner institution offers courses in subject areas corresponding to those covered at OsloMet in the semester the exchange applies to.

The institution will also receive students from foreign educational institutions in the spring semester. Incoming students may for example take the following course combinations:

• PMED3010 Assessment and Treatment of Sick and Injured Patients, Part 2 (15 credits) and PMED3900 Bachelor Thesis (15 credits)
• PMED1410 Assessment and Treatment of Sick and Injured Patients, Part 1 (25 credits)

It may also be relevant to offer these courses in combination with courses related to other study programmes at the Faculty of Health Sciences.

Nordplus has also established cooperation through the Nordparamedics network, in which student exchanges of up to two weeks are possible in the sixth semester. Reference is otherwise made to the criteria that apply to student exchanges and the information about stays abroad.

The courses PMED1410 Assessment and Treatment of Sick and Injured Patients, Part 1 and PMED3010 Assessment and Treatment of Sick and Injured Patients, Part 2 will normally be taught in English. Other courses may also be offered in English for international students as needed. The students can decide whether to write their bachelor’s thesis in English or Norwegian. Students who go on exchanges must write their thesis in English if the exchange is in a country outside Scandinavia.

Different forms of assessment are used that are adapted to the learning outcomes of the different courses in the programme. The forms of assessment used are intended to support learning and document that the students’ competence is adequate in relation to the applicable learning outcomes. The students will receive advice and supervision and have their performance assessed during the programme. It is important and necessary to assess students’ knowledge and skills often, so that they receive feedback on whether their performance is in line with the programme’s requirements and whether they have achieved the learning outcomes.

The assessment of exams and clinical training is carried out in accordance with the applicable rules set out in the Act relating to Universities and University Colleges, the Regulations relating to Studies and Examinations at OsloMet and the Guidelines for Appointment and Use of Examiners at OsloMet.

The forms of assessment are described in the individual course descriptions. All exams taken will be stated on the diploma, along with the title of the student’s bachelor’s thesis.

Exams

Most courses conclude with an exam. The assessment is based on the learning outcomes for the course, and what is assessed is whether the student has achieved the stipulated learning outcomes. The grades used are either pass/fail or letter grades on a scale from A to F, with A being the highest grade and E the poorest pass grade. The grade F means that the student has failed the exam.

Most courses have required coursework that must be approved before the student can take the exam. See the course descriptions for more details.

Resit and rescheduled exams are carried out in the same manner as the ordinary exam unless otherwise specified in the course description. In the case of resit or rescheduled exams in courses with group exams, it may in special cases be applicable to take the resit/rescheduled exam individually.

For exams where a percentage of the exam papers are selected for assessment by an external examiner, the external examiner’s assessment must benefit all the students. In such cases, one external and one internal examiner will first grade the selected papers. The internal examiner then continues grading the remaining papers together with another internal examiner. The assessments from the first part are summarised to serve as guidelines for the assessments carried out by the two internal examiners.

Grades awarded for written exams can be appealed, cf. Section 11-10 of the Act relating to Universities and University Colleges. It is not possible to appeal the grades awarded for oral and practical exams. For a group exam, the result of an appeal will only have consequences for the candidates who submitted the appeal. This means that all members of the group do not have to participate in the appeal.

Assessment of placement in the ambulance service

The placement in the ambulance service is assessed as pass/fail. The assessment is based on the learning outcomes for the course, the student’s specification of the learning outcomes and the formative assessment. The formative assessment, which means the assessment of the student’s knowledge, skills and suitability, is carried out during the placement period, and summarised half-way through and at the end of the placement period.

To pass the clinical training, the student must have met the compulsory attendance requirement. A minimum attendance requirement of 90% applies to clinical placement courses. The attendance requirement includes both the time spent at the clinical placement site and any teaching provided as part of the programme in relation to the clinical placement.

The following also applies to absence:

• less than 10% absence: The student can complete the clinical placement course as normal.
• Between 10 and 20% absence: The student can make up for the missed clinical placement time, provided that this is doable. This must be agreed with the training supervisor and the contact lecturer at the university.
• more than 20% absence: The student must normally retake the whole clinical placement course. This will result in delayed progress in the programme.

If the student exceeds the maximum limit for absence, the course will be registered as failed and count as an attempt.

If a student is awarded a fail grade for a clinical placement course twice, the student will normally have to leave the programme, cf. the Regulations Relating to Studies and Examinations at OsloMet, Chapter 5.

Suitability

Diplomas for the completed programme will only be awarded to graduates who are suited to practise the profession. A student who represents a potential threat to the physical or mental health, rights and safety of their patients and colleagues is not suited for the profession.

Suitability assessments are made on a continuous basis throughout the study programme and will be included in the overall assessment of the students’ professional and personal suitability for work as a health care worker. Students who demonstrate little ability to master the paramedic profession must be informed of this at the earliest possible stage of the programme. They will be given supervision and advice on how to improve, or be advised to leave the programme. Special suitability assessments are used in exceptional cases, cf. Regulations to the Act Relating to Universities and University Colleges, Chapter 7.

Programme description:

Approved by the Academic Affairs Committee at the Faculty of Health Sciences on 9 December 2020.

Most recent amendments adopted by the Academic Affairs Committee at the Faculty of Health Sciences 11 December 2024.

The programme description applies to students starting the programme in 2025.

The overall learning outcomes for the Master’s Programme in Health and Technology fully cover the description of master’s degree level (level 7) of the Norwegian Qualifications Framework.

A candidate who has completed their qualification should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The candidate

• has advanced knowledge in disciplines relating to their own specialisation and specialised insight into the topic of the master’s thesis
• has insight into technological developments in disciplines relating to their own specialisation and their importance for health services nationally and globally
• has thorough knowledge of philosophy of science traditions, research methods and the basis for research ethics of particular relevance to health sciences and their own field
• can apply knowledge in new areas in their own field and in interdisciplinary collaboration with other fields
• can analyse health science issues on the basis of the field’s history, traditions, culture, distinctive nature and place in society

Skills

The candidate

• can analyse and critically assess knowledge from different sources and apply this in a structured manner to formulate scholarly arguments
• can analyse existing theories, methods and interpretations in their own field and work independently on practical and theoretical problem-solving
• can write academic texts and present research results in accordance with applicable conventions in the field
• can work independently and in an ethically aware manner on a supervised research or development project
• can analyse and manage health-related data in an ethically sound manner and in accordance with relevant legislation
• can contribute to research, development of the field and innovation based on evidence-based knowledge, research-based knowledge and user participation

General competence

The candidate

• can analyse relevant issues in their own field and decide on suitable research design and choice of methods
• can analyse and discuss ethical issues relating to the use of technology in health services, at both the individual and system level
• can apply their own knowledge to new areas and in interdisciplinary cooperation to carry out complex tasks, processes and projects
• can communicate an extensive independent work and master scholarly forms of expression in the field, both orally and in writing
• can participate in discussions about professional issues and communicate about their own field in both scientific and popular science form
• can contribute to re-thinking and innovation in their own field and take part in interdisciplinary cooperation in technology and health science
• can contribute to the implementation of new technology in their own field and explore how technology can contribute to solutions that support sustainable communities

More detailed learning outcomes for the specialisations

Specialisation in assistive technology in health

The following additional learning outcomes apply to candidates taking the specialisation in assistive technology in health:

The candidate

• can critically assess the purpose and application of different types of assistive technologies throughout the lifespan at both individual and system levels in health promotion, prevention, treatment, and (re)habilitation.
• can develop, apply, and communicate complex interventions with assistive technologies in interdisciplinary collaboration and in their own field based on needs analyses and user involvement
• can critically evaluate ethical issues in the implementation and communication of assistive technologies
• can critically assess what facilitates and hinders successful sustainable implementation of assistive technologies

Specialisation in biomedicine

The following additional learning outcomes apply to candidates taking the specialisation in biomedicine:

The candidate

• has specialised knowledge about health and technology in a biomedical perspective
• has in-depth knowledge about normal and pathological molecular and cell biological mechanisms
• can critically assess and apply biomedical analysis methods in diagnostics and research and has advanced knowledge about statistical methods, quality assurance and quality control in the laboratory
• can discuss and convey relevant issues in the field and research relating to biomedicine

Specialisation in radiography

The following additional learning outcomes apply to candidates taking the specialisation in radiography:

The candidate

• has advanced knowledge of diagnostic imaging methods, treatment and radiation protection
• can apply, analyse and critically assess methods for diagnostics/treatment in the relevant modality
• has an in-depth understanding of the role of radiographers as active contributors to developments in radiography and the specialist health service’s use of technological methods in the relevant modality

Varied and student-active forms of teaching are used in the programme. Good learning outcomes are first and foremost dependent on the students’ own efforts. The number of hours allocated to structured teaching by the university will be relatively low. Own effort means both benefiting from teaching and academic supervision and following this up with independent work in the form of theoretical studies and, if relevant, practical skills training. Normal study progression demands a high level of self-activity. The most important work and teaching methods used in the courses in the programme are described below. The individual course descriptions state which work methods each course employs.

Web-based work and teaching methodsSeveral forms of digital learning resources are used in the programme, such as digital platforms, digital lectures, video clips, podcasts, tests and assignments. These resources can be used to prepare for teaching sessions, during seminars using the flipped classroom method, and as part of self-study. This form of teaching requires the students to come prepared for scheduled teaching sessions. Interaction may also take place digitally in the form of virtual meetings, webinars, workshops etc.

Self-study and student cooperation/group workLearning requires a high degree of own activity and self-study, including both individual work and cooperation with fellow students. Through activities such as exchange of ideas, presentations, discussions, written assignments and problem-based assignments, students will be encouraged to learn by conveying knowledge and experience, expressing their own opinions and, together, reflecting on their own attitudes, actions and understanding of the field. Students are encouraged to take the initiative to schedule and actively participate in study groups to promote learning.

Skills training/laboratory workDifferent forms of skills training or laboratory work may be included in the programme. Students will work on issues of relevance to the topic concerned, either individually or in groups, and will perform experiments, simulations or solve practical tasks that will demonstrate their theoretical understanding of different methods and techniques used in the field. They will also acquire the skills required to carry out the assignments in an independent manner.

Skills training may also include the use of digital tools to solve assignments or improve communication skills.

LecturesLectures are primarily used to introduce new subject matter, provide an overview of and highlight main elements and links within different topics, and also to convey relevant research-based issues and literature.

SeminarsSeminars emphasise dialogue and discussion between the lecturer(s) and students in order to stimulate students’ academic development. Oral student presentations and discussions are emphasised.

In connection with the master’s thesis, seminars are held where the theses are presented and discussed. The students receive feedback from their fellow students and teachers, which enables peer learning. Research-related issues, methods and academic supervision are among the topics discussed in the seminars. Seminars may also take place on digital collaboration platforms.

Projects, assignments and supervisionThrough project work, case studies, written assignments and the master’s thesis, students will formulate research questions for assignments that they work on over time, either individually or in cooperation with other students. They will learn theory and develop skills in using and referencing sources, analysis, discussion and written and oral communication. The primary purpose of this is to develop their ability to reflect critically, see elements in context and develop a deeper understanding of a subject.

Developing academic writing skills is a key aspect of all parts of the programme.

Supervision is an important component of the work on the master’s thesis. The supervision is intended to ensure that the project complies with principles of research ethics and help students to formulate research questions and ensure quality in the collection and analysis of data.

The increasing globalisation of the labour market and rapid social changes make it increasingly important to have international professional experience and knowledge of disciplines, language and culture. Internationalisation strengthens the academic community and promotes quality through international research collaboration, student and staff mobility and by highlighting international perspectives and challenges in teaching.

The students will gain access to specialist terminology in English through the syllabus, which comprises both textbooks and international research literature. Some of the courses will be taught in English and the programme will employ lecturers and guest lecturers with international experience.

The staff’s professional networks, research collaborations and cooperation with colleagues in other countries contribute to internationalisation. The programme is represented in international networks.

Courses adapted for incoming exchange studentsThe following courses have been adapted for incoming exchange students:

• HETEK4000 Interactions in Health and Technology (AUTUMN)
• HETEK4100 Theory of Science, Ethics and Research Methods (AUTUMN)
• MAATH4100 The Knowledge Base in Assistive Technology in Health (AUTUMN)
• HETEK4200 Monitoring, Activity- and Movement Analysis (AUTUMN)
• HETEK4400 Digital Health and Homecare (AUTUMN)
• HETEK4300 Bacteriology and Antimicrobial Resistance (AUTUMN)
• MABIO4600 Statistics, Quality Control and Quality Assurance (SPRING)
• MARAD4300 Medical Use of Radiation (AUTUMN)

Courses from HETEK can be combined with courses from other master’s programmes at OsloMet that are adapted for incoming exchange students.

Facilitation of outbound exchangesStudents taking the biomedicine specialisation who wish to take courses at an educational institution abroad as part of their master’s degree normally go on an exchange in the third semester. Students going on exchanges will be given an opportunity to write a master’s thesis worth 30 credits after the exchange stay. The students are responsible for finding relevant courses at partner institutions and must apply to have them approved in advance. An international coordinator is available to provide guidance on the choice of topic.

Master’s degree projectStudents taking the specialisations in assistive technology in health, biomedicine and radiography can complete their master’s project in full or in part at other educational institutions or with research groups abroad, and possibly also combine it with an elective course (10 credits). Incoming exchange students may also write their master’s thesis at OsloMet. Incoming and outbound exchanges in connection with master’s degree projects will depend on the availability of relevant assignments and supervisory capacity. Students can choose whether to write their master’s thesis in English or Norwegian. Outbound exchange students must write their thesis in English if the exchange is in a country outside Scandinavia.

Reference is otherwise made to the criteria that apply to student exchanges and the information about stays abroad.

Coursework requirements are all types of work, tests and compulsory attendance that are conditions for being allowed to take an exam. Required coursework is assessed as approved/not approved. Please see the course descriptions for more information about the coursework requirements that apply to each course.

The purpose of the coursework requirements is to:

• promote progress and academic development
• encourage students to seek out and acquire new knowledge
• facilitate cooperation and communication on health and technology issues

The programme mainly has coursework requirements in the form of compulsory attendance, various compulsory activities and written assignments.

Attendance and compulsory activities

Compulsory attendance or compulsory activities may be required in areas where students cannot acquire knowledge and skills simply by studying literature.

If a student exceeds the maximum limit for absence or fails to attend compulsory activities, the lecturer must assess whether and, if so, how, the student can compensate for the absence through e.g. an individual presentation or other written work. Absence that cannot be compensated for may lead to delayed progress in the programme.

Written assignments

Several courses have compulsory written assignments or reports as part of their coursework requirements. Written work that is not approved must be reworked before re-submission. If the work is not approved on re-submission, the student cannot take the ordinary exam/assessment.

Students are entitled to a third attempt before the resit/rescheduled exam. An assignment that is not approved the third time it is submitted may lead to delayed progress in the programme.

Different forms of assessment are used that are adapted to the learning outcomes of the different courses in the programme. The forms of assessment used are intended to support learning and document the students’ level of competence in relation to the expected learning outcomes.

The forms of assessment used in each course in the programme are described below. All exams taken and the title of the master’s thesis will be stated on the diploma.

In general, the following forms of assessment are used in the programme:

Home examTaken over a set period of time at the end of the course, normally with a set question/assignment text unless otherwise stated in the course description.

Project examTaken over the whole or large parts of the course, normally with a topic decided by the students themselves unless otherwise stated in the course description.

Oral examCan take place individually or in groups. It can either be an independent form of assessment or used to adjust the grade awarded for another exam.

Supervised individual examTaken at the university’s exam venues over a set number of hours.

Combined exam/assessmentForm of exam that combines written work and oral presentation, where both elements count towards the exam result.

The assessments are carried out in accordance with the Act relating to Universities and University Colleges, the Regulations relating to Studies and Examinations at OsloMet, and the Guidelines for Appointment and Use of Examiners at OsloMet.

AssessmentThe assessment is based on the learning outcomes for the course and the extent to which the student has achieved the stipulated learning outcomes. The grades used are Pass/Fail or a grade scale with letter grades from A to F, where A is the highest grade, E is the lowest pass grade and F is a fail. In connection with group exams, all students in the group are awarded the same grade.

Resit and rescheduled examsResit and rescheduled exams are carried out in the same manner as the ordinary exam unless otherwise specified in the course description. In special cases, resit and rescheduled exams in courses with group exams may be held as individual exams.

Appeals against gradesGrades awarded for written exams can be appealed. It is not possible to appeal the grades awarded for oral exams. In connection with group exams, the result of an appeal will only have consequences for the candidate(s) who submitted the appeal. The other students will keep their original grade.

Students can appeal against the grade set for the written part of the master’s thesis. If the grade is changed as a result of re-grading, the student must take the oral exam again.

Revised programme description approved by the Academic Affairs Committee of the Faculty of Health Sciences on 28 April 2022

Last amendments approved by the Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences on 23 May 2025

The programme description applies to students starting the programme in 2025.