Health & Social Care

Diagnostic radiography involves playing a key role in one of the fastest developing technical areas of the health sector. You could work in one of several sections within the hospital medical-imaging department and carry out a variety of imaging investigations, including ultrasound, CT and MRI scanning. You'll produce images to obtain or confirm a diagnosis, or be crucial in health screening, or you may be involved in therapeutic procedures like angioplasty. This course combines academic study with practice placements in imaging departments. You'll develop the knowledge, skills and experience for a rewarding career in diagnostic radiography. This course is approved by the Health Professions Council.

What you study

In Year 1 you are introduced to subjects such as anatomy, radiographic practice, X-ray production, appraising evidence and preparing for professional practice. You will spend 19 weeks in clinical practice where you will be working towards the achievement of first-year clinical competency.

The more technical aspects of radiography are covered in Year 2. You will explore ethical issues relating to the imaging of diverse patient groups and develop your research skills further. You will develop image interpretation and evaluation skills, and experience specialised modalities such as cross-sectional imaging. At the end of this Year you will complete two weeks’ clinical placement at your base hospital and, having completed Year 2 clinical competencies, negotiate a further four-week placement of your choice in a relevant imaging department.

In Year 3 you will develop a research proposal and explore the impact of the government agenda on the profession. You will further develop image interpretation and evaluation skills as required, and explore evolving imaging technologies. You will develop a portfolio which will evidence your professional development and clinical competence in preparation for first post competence.

How you learn

A variety of learning and teaching methods are used throughout the course. These include lectures, practical seminars, problem-based learning, small group work as well as practical laboratory sessions. Constructive feedback will be given throughout the course to enhance your learning opportunities and experiences in University and when in practice.

Whilst on placements you will be supervised by experienced clinicians and mentors. You will receive support from your University personal tutor who will visit you regularly. In order to gain diverse experience you should be prepared to travel for some placements.

How you are assessed

You will be assessed by a variety of means including assignment, examination, portfolio and observed practice. Assessment is carefully matched to module outcomes. Practice assessment is conducted by clinical mentors in a range of clinical situations against radiographic benchmark clinical competencies. Essential competencies must be met for this course which include:

• undertaking a range of radiographic examinations, adapting radiographic technique where appropriate within and outside the imaging department
• the ability to evaluate images critically to interpret the presence or absence of trauma or disease
• working as an operator, practitioner or referrer as local protocols demand, in accordance with the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations
• acting as a professional, collaborating with patients, clients and other healthcare practitioners to manage health care delivery
• keeping accurate and legible records.

Professional accreditation

On successful completion of the course you will gain eligibility to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council as a Diagnostic Radiographer.

Career opportunities

Radiographers are in demand in the UK and overseas within the NHS and private sector.

Entry requirements

A typical offer will be between 240-300 tariff points from three A levels, including one science subject, or equivalent qualifications. You must have five GCSEs at grade C or above including English language, mathematics and science or equivalent. You must also show evidence of relevant study within the last three years.

Key Criteria
Admission to the course is dependent upon completion of the following selection processes:

• academic entry requirements being met
• satisfactory and fully completed application form
• successful interview
• satisfactory references
• satisfactory health screening/risk assessment reflecting adherence to Regulations 3 and 19 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999)
• receipt of a satisfactory Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure.

You need to be aware that on completion of the course you will be required to declare any convictions, cautions or allegations to the relevant professional body prior to application for registration.

Work Shadowing
Applicants are encouraged to seek some work experience/shadowing before applying or are advised to research diagnostic radiography to gain an insight into the profession.

Department of Health Bursary
You must be eligible for a Department of Health bursary. Due to a change in the bursary application process it is now your responsibility to apply directly for your NHS bursary. Please go to NHS Student Bursaries website for more information and to download an application form.

Equivalent Qualifications
For all courses equivalent qualifications will be considered such as a QAA-recognised Access course together with GCSEs at grade C or above in English language and mathematics or a science subject, or equivalent modules undertaken as part of the Access course.

If you have a minimum of a second-class degree and are considering applying for an undergraduate course you may be eligible to apply for a master's degree in Diagnostic Radiography.

Supporting information for applicants

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More information

• Diagnostic RadiographyThird year undergraduates Claire Jackson and Carl Dalton discuss with admissions tutor Sally Abel how their clinical experiences have prepared them for their first post as a Diagnostic Radiographer.
• Postgraduate option
  If you already have a degree (second class or above) in a relevant subject you may be eligible for our accelerated MSc Diagnostic Radiography.
  PgDip/MSc Diagnostic Radiography (pre-registration)

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