Connor, Diagnostic Radiographer
Diagnostic Radiographer
Diagnostic Radiographers use the latest technology to look inside peoples’ bodies to diagnose causes of illness and recommend treatments. They support almost every hospital department, making this a varied, exciting role at the leading edge of medicine.
Salary range | £24,000+ | |
Hours | 37.5 hours a week | |
Pattern | Usually regular hours, but some shift work may be needed |
Diagnostic Radiographer is a shortage specialism. Courses at English universities attract an additional £1,000 per year to study on top of the minimum £5,000 study grant. Learn more
Role details
Radiography is one of the most innovative aspects of healthcare. As a Diagnostic Radiographer, you’ll take images of the insides of patients to help diagnose conditions and advise on treatments.
You could use a CT scanner to make a 3D image for a surgeon, find yourself reassuring someone undergoing an MRI scan, or discuss ultrasound results with other healthcare professionals. Radiographers are a central part of a larger, multidisciplinary team who work with and advise colleagues from various departments.
As your career progresses, you could move into a specialist area such as X-ray, Mammography, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy, Computerised Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), or Nuclear Medicine.
You could also find yourself heading your own radiology team, managing budgets, staff and equipment.
Qualities needed
You enjoy learning about new technologies.
A good communicator, able to switch between talking to peers and patients.
A keen eye for detail and ability to interpret data.
Excellent observation skills, and safety-conscious.
“It’s about contributing to patients care, that’s what really energises”
Freddie, Diagnostic Radiographer
What makes being a Diagnostic Radiographer special?
It’s a fast, dynamic and collaborative career that can make a huge impact on peoples’ lives.
You’ll use advanced technology to diagnose conditions and support patient needs.
As part of a multidisciplinary team, you’ll deliver compassionate care through screening, monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment of patients.
There are lots of opportunities to specialise and become an expert in a certain field of radiography.
How to become a Diagnostic Radiographer
To become a Diagnostic Radiographer, you must first successfully complete a degree or a Masters in Radiography. It’s also possible to become a Diagnostic Radiographer through an Apprenticeship.
Duration
4 years full time
Once you’ve successfully completed your degree you must register with The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) before you can start practicing.
Entry requirements
- Five GCSEs (grades A-C), including English language, maths and science.
- Two or three A levels, including physics, chemistry or biology/human biology.
- Equivalent qualifications:
- A BTEC, HND or HNC which includes science.
- A relevant NVQ.
- A science-based access course.
- Equivalent Scottish or Irish qualifications.
Postgraduate Studies
It’s possible to gain a Masters in one to two years after successfully completing your degree.
Application period
There are opportunities to apply throughout the year, with September through to January being the busiest months. During February to October, UCAS Extra and Clearing applications are open, where universities look to fill in any course vacancies.
Keep in mind that individual universities may also set their own deadlines during this period.
Find a Diagnostic Radiography degree using the UCAS Course Finder
Apprenticeships
Training through an Apprenticeship is another way to become a Diagnostic Radiographer. You’ll need to apply for an apprentice position with a healthcare provider.
Apprenticeships offer the opportunity to earn while gaining a qualification. Your employer and the government will pay the tuition fees for your apprenticeship, meaning apprenticeships are not eligible for student finance.
Vacancies can be found on the NHS Jobs website and Find an Apprenticeship website
Freddie, Diagnostic Radiographer