Healthcare Careers

Diagnostic Radiography

What is it?

If you’ve ever had an X-ray taken, you’ll know something about diagnostic radiography.

A diagnostic radiographer produces images that can help work out whether someone is injured or has a disease.

X-rays can help show whether a bone is broken, for example. But there are lots more techniques. Together, they’re a vital part of 21st century medicine – just like the professionals who use them.

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanner can cost well over £1m. It creates amazing images from deep inside the body. Then there are CT scans, fluoroscopy, angioscopy, ultrasound…

Who gets to use all this? You’ve guessed. And as well as taking charge of the latest technology, you’re helping people every day of your working life. How cool is that?

(To find out about another kind of radiography, check out Therapeutic Radiography.)

What are the good bits?

• Challenging, technical and scientific
• In charge of millions of pounds’ worth of technology
• When you study Radiography at university, your tuition fees are paid
• Lots of jobs, plus the chance to go into teaching, management, research

What about pay?

£19,000 – £61,000

What skills and interests do I need?

• Interest in science and healthcare
• Caring personality
• Able to work independently and in teams
• Good communication
• Determination, motivation, dedication

What qualifications/training will I need?

After GCSE exams you need to stay on at school or go to college to study science. A levels, AVCEs and GNVQs are all acceptable. Then you go to university for three years to study Diagnostic Radiography (there’s a different course for Therapeutic Radiography).

Compiled with reference to:
www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
www.nobarriers2uni.org

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