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Radiographer

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Radiographers are healthcare professionals who use imaging techniques, such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, to help diagnose and treat patients. They work closely with doctors and other healthcare staff to produce high-quality images that allow for accurate diagnosis of injuries or illnesses. Radiographers also play a key role in patient care, ensuring safety and comfort during procedures. Most radiographers work in hospitals, though some work in clinics or private practices. The role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of medical technology. To become a radiographer in the UK, you usually need a degree in diagnostic or therapeutic radiography approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Radiographer

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Radiographers in the UK typically earn between £28,000 and £43,000 per year, depending on experience and banding within the NHS.

Job Openings

There are over 35,000 registered radiographers in the UK, and the demand for radiographers is expected to grow by 9 percent between 2023 and 2030.

Work Settings

About 90 percent of radiographers work in NHS hospitals, with the remainder employed in private healthcare or research institutions.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Mammography Radiographer

A radiographer who specialises in using imaging equipment to screen for and diagnose breast diseases, such as breast cancer.

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MRI Radiographer

A radiographer who operates magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create detailed images of patients’ organs and tissues for diagnosis.

Paediatric Radiographer

A radiographer who focuses on imaging procedures for children and young people, tailoring techniques to suit younger patients’ needs.

Complete Relevant Education

Achieve GCSEs or Equivalent

Obtain at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, Maths, and Science.

Strong GCSE results in science subjects are important as they form the foundation for further study in healthcare. Physics and Biology are particularly relevant for radiography. Some schools may offer work experience placements in healthcare settings, which can also be beneficial.

Study for A Levels or Equivalent

Complete A Levels, with at least one science subject such as Biology, Physics, or Chemistry.

Many universities require A Levels in science subjects for radiography courses. Alternative qualifications like BTEC in Health and Social Care (with science modules) may also be accepted. Check entry requirements for specific universities to ensure you are on the right track.

Apply for a Degree in Diagnostic Radiography

Apply to a university offering a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) approved degree in diagnostic radiography.

Radiography degrees typically last three years full-time and combine academic study with clinical placements in hospitals. Entry is competitive, so relevant work experience or volunteering in healthcare can strengthen your application.

Gain Practical Experience

Complete Clinical Placements

Undertake clinical placements as part of your degree to gain hands-on experience with imaging equipment and patient care.

Clinical placements are a core part of radiography degrees and allow you to work alongside qualified radiographers in NHS or private hospitals. You will develop practical skills, learn to use specialist equipment, and build confidence in patient interactions.

Develop Patient Care Skills

Learn effective communication and compassionate care when working with patients.

Radiographers often work with patients who are anxious or unwell. Being able to explain procedures clearly and provide reassurance is essential. Many placements and university modules will focus on developing these interpersonal skills.

Register and Start Work as a Radiographer

Register with the HCPC

Apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to practise as a radiographer in the UK.

Registration with the HCPC is legally required to work as a radiographer. You will need to provide evidence of your approved qualification and may need to complete additional requirements if your degree was obtained outside the UK.

Apply for Radiographer Positions

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

Newly qualified radiographers can find roles across the UK. Opportunities for further specialisation exist in areas such as MRI, CT, or ultrasound. Continuing professional development is encouraged throughout your career.

🎯 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

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.

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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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