Programming for Medical Imaging

Period (from – till ): 14 September 2026 - 13 November 2026 (BMS_P1_A)
Course coordinator : Dr. K.L. Vincken
Faculty
Dr. K.L. Vincken, UMC Utrecht/Imaging Division, lecturer
Renée Allebrandi, MA (course contact person)
Course description
In the area of medical imaging, it is necessary to create computer programs to process and analyse image data. This course deals with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills of working with (large) image datasets.

You will learn the basics of the file structures tto store medical image data, and how to write source code and create a computer program to process medical images efficiently. This includes debugging, and problem solving and maintenance of software.

The course includes algorithms and data structures used in medical image analysis. Modern programming techniques are used, such as Python and C++, while paying attention to efficient computer instructions and memory usage.

In total, the course contains 8 practical sessions on Friday.

Examination:

• Written exam: 60%
• Two computer assignments: 40%

The weights indicated above are applied to calculate the final mark. To pass the course the grade for each component must be a 5.0 or higher and the final mark must be an unrounded 5.5 or higher (Anglo-Saxon grade mark D).
Literature/study material used Slides, code and online material will be provided during the course.

Microsoft Visual Studio (free community edition)
Registration
Medical Imaging students are registered automatically for this course upon entering the Masterprogramme.
Other UU students can register for this course via Osiris Student. More information about the registration procedure can be found here on the Students' site.
Students from outside the UU or TU/E MI-track can register for this course by sending an email to mix@umcutrecht.nl or via EduXchange. Please include your name, student number, Master’s programme and the course code.
Mandatory
Yes, for MIMG students.

Optional for students in other GSLS Master’s programme:
Yes.

Prerequisite knowledge:
Basic computer skills

After completing the course the student:

1. Is able to participate in a multidisciplinary research environment
2. is able to create a computer program using Python
3. can debug source code and fix issues
4. has a basic understanding on how source code affects computer execution and memory
5. has knowledge on algorithms and data structures for medical image processing.

You will be enrolled for this course by administration of the programme of this course.