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Radiographer

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Radiographers are healthcare professionals who use various forms of medical imaging to diagnose and sometimes treat illnesses and injuries. They operate equipment such as X-ray, MRI, and CT scanners to produce images of the inside of the body, which doctors use to help diagnose conditions or plan treatments. Radiographers work closely with patients, helping to position them for scans and ensuring their comfort and safety during procedures. They also maintain and operate complex imaging equipment and may be involved in specialised areas such as ultrasound or nuclear medicine. To become a radiographer in the UK, you typically need a degree in diagnostic or therapeutic radiography, which is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Radiographers often work in hospitals, but there are also roles in private clinics, research, education, and industry. The job can be physically and emotionally demanding, but it is a rewarding career that plays a crucial role in patient care and diagnosis.

Radiographer

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Starting salaries for radiographers in the NHS are usually between £28,407 and £34,581 (Band 5), with experienced staff earning up to £43,742 (Band 7) as of 2024.

Employment Opportunities

There are over 36,000 registered radiographers in the UK, with strong demand in both NHS and private healthcare sectors.

Working Hours

Most radiographers work around 37.5 hours per week, often on a shift basis, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.

🚀 Careers in this path

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MRI Radiographer

A specialist who operates magnetic resonance imaging scanners to create detailed images of the inside of a patient’s body for diagnosis and treatment.

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Mammography Radiographer

A professional who focuses on performing mammograms, which are specialised X-rays used to detect breast cancer and other breast conditions.

Diagnostic Ultrasound Practitioner

An expert who uses ultrasound equipment to produce images of organs, tissues, and blood flow inside the body, often working in areas such as obstetrics or vascular imaging.

Achieve the Right Qualifications

Complete GCSEs

Obtain at least five GCSEs at grades 4 to 9, including English, Maths, and Science.

Good GCSE grades in Science, especially Physics and Biology, are important. These will prepare you for the necessary A-levels or equivalent qualifications required for university entry. Some colleges may also consider BTEC or similar qualifications in Applied Science.

A-levels or Equivalent

Study A-levels, focusing on subjects like Biology, Physics, or Chemistry, or take a relevant Level 3 BTEC in Applied Science.

Universities usually expect at least two or three A-levels, with at least one in a science subject. Alternatively, a Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Applied Science may be accepted. Check entry requirements for the specific universities you are interested in.

Apply for a Degree in Diagnostic or Therapeutic Radiography

Apply for an approved undergraduate degree in radiography, which typically takes three years.

Look for courses approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). These degrees include both academic study and practical placements in hospitals. You must apply through UCAS and may need to attend an interview as part of the selection process.

Gain Practical Experience

Complete Work Placements

Undertake clinical placements as part of your university course to gain hands-on experience in hospitals or clinics.

Placements are arranged by your university and are an essential part of your training. You will work under supervision, learn to use imaging equipment, and interact with patients and healthcare teams. This experience helps build your confidence and skills.

Develop Patient Care Skills

Practise communicating with patients and colleagues during your placements.

Radiographers must be able to explain procedures clearly and sensitively to patients, some of whom may be anxious or unwell. Working in a team and having excellent communication skills are important parts of the role.

Register and Start Your Career

Register with the HCPC

Apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council after completing your degree.

You cannot work as a radiographer in the UK without HCPC registration. The application process involves submitting evidence of your qualifications and good character. Once registered, you can use the protected title 'Radiographer'.

Apply for Radiographer Jobs

Look for entry-level positions in NHS hospitals or private clinics.

Most vacancies are advertised on NHS Jobs or hospital websites. There are two main types of radiographers: diagnostic (imaging to diagnose conditions) and therapeutic (using imaging to support cancer treatment), so choose roles that match your interests and training.

🎯 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

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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

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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.

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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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