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Radiographer

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Radiographers are healthcare professionals who use imaging technologies, such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, to help diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries. Their work is vital for identifying conditions ranging from broken bones to cancers. Most radiographers work in NHS hospitals, but some are employed in private healthcare or specialist clinics. The role involves working closely with patients, operating complex equipment, and collaborating with doctors and other medical staff. Radiographers must ensure the safety and comfort of patients, as well as maintain high standards of accuracy and confidentiality. Training to become a radiographer typically involves completing a university degree approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), followed by registration with the HCPC.

Radiographer

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Radiographers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £43,000 per year, depending on experience and specialism.

Job Openings

There are around 35,000 radiographers employed in the UK, with the NHS advertising hundreds of vacancies annually due to high demand.

Working Hours

Radiographers usually work 37.5 hours per week, and may be required to work shifts, including nights and weekends.

🚀 Careers in this path

Diagnostic Radiographer

Specialises in using medical imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans and MRI to help diagnose illnesses and injuries in patients.

Therapeutic Radiographer

Works with patients who have cancer and delivers targeted radiotherapy treatment to destroy cancerous cells while supporting patients throughout their treatment plan.

Mammography Radiographer

Focuses on operating mammography equipment to screen for and detect breast cancer, often working in breast screening units or clinics.

Achieve Required Qualifications

Obtain GCSEs or Equivalent

You will need at least five GCSEs at grades 4 to 9 (A to C), including English, Maths, and Science.

Science subjects are particularly important as a foundation for further study. Some schools may offer work experience opportunities in hospitals, which could be useful for your application later. Consider choosing subjects that emphasise biology, chemistry, and physics.

Complete A-levels or Equivalent

Study for A-levels, ideally including at least one science subject such as biology, physics, or chemistry.

Universities typically require A-levels or equivalent qualifications, such as BTECs in health and social care or applied science. Grades needed vary by institution but generally range from BBC to ABB. Check specific entry requirements on university websites.

Apply for an Approved Radiography Degree

Apply for a BSc (Hons) in Diagnostic Radiography or Therapeutic Radiography at a university approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Courses typically last three years full-time and include both academic study and practical placements in hospitals. You will learn about anatomy, imaging technology, patient care, and safety procedures. Entry is competitive, so gaining relevant work experience or volunteering in healthcare can strengthen your application.

Gain Practical Experience

Complete Work Placements

Undertake clinical placements as part of your university course to gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.

Placements are supervised by qualified radiographers and allow you to develop practical skills in patient care, equipment handling, and imaging techniques. You will rotate through different departments and may work with various imaging technologies.

Develop Professional Skills

Build communication, teamwork, and technical skills required for working in a busy hospital environment.

Radiographers need to reassure patients, explain procedures clearly, and work closely with other medical staff. During placements, focus on developing empathy, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. These will be assessed during your course and are essential for your future career.

Become a Registered Radiographer

Register with the HCPC

After graduating, register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to practise as a radiographer in the UK.

Registration is a legal requirement for working as a radiographer and ensures you meet professional standards. You will need to provide evidence of your degree and complete an application process. Maintaining registration involves engaging in continuing professional development.

Apply for Radiographer Roles

Seek employment in NHS hospitals, private clinics, or specialist centres as a newly qualified radiographer.

Most new radiographers start at Band 5 on the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale. Opportunities exist to specialise further, such as in MRI, CT, or ultrasound, or to move into education, research, or management roles with experience.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Radiographer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

🎓 View Apprenticeships

Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

University

You'll need to do a degree or postgraduate qualification approved by the Health and Care Professions Council to become a radiographer.

Your choice of degree course will depend on whether you want to work in diagnostic or therapeutic radiography.

You may be able to take a fast-track postgraduate qualification over 2 years if you're a health professional or have a relevant degree.

Extra student financial support may be available through the NHS Learning Support Fund.

You can also train as a radiographer in the armed forces. Find out more at:

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
  • 3 A levels, or equivalent, including at least 1 science
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

Apprenticeship

You may be able to do a Diagnostic or Therapeutic Radiographer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.

This takes a minimum of 36 months and is a mix of learning in the workplace and academic study at an approved university.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

Work

You can start as a radiography assistant and work your way up to assistant practitioner. With the support of your employer you may then be able to work and study part-time for a radiography degree and professional qualification.

Volunteering

Volunteering in a hospital may give you the chance to speak with radiography staff to help you decide whether you want to train as a diagnostic or therapeutic radiographer.

More Information

Registration

Career tips

You'll be expected to show an understanding of the NHS values when applying for jobs and training.

Further information

You can find out more about a career in radiography from Health Careers and The College of Radiographers.

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