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Radiographer

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Radiographers are healthcare professionals who use imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound to help diagnose and treat patients. They work closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff mainly in hospitals, but also in private clinics and community settings. There are two main types of radiographers: diagnostic radiographers, who focus on identifying injuries and diseases, and therapeutic radiographers, who specialise in treating illnesses like cancer with radiation. The role involves working with advanced technology, caring for patients, and ensuring the safe use of radiation. Good communication skills and attention to detail are important for this career.

Radiographer

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Radiographers in the UK typically earn between £28,407 and £42,618 per year, depending on experience and banding within the NHS.

Job Market

There are approximately 34,000 registered radiographers in the UK, with ongoing demand due to advances in medical imaging and an ageing population.

Entry Requirements

To become a radiographer, you usually need a degree in diagnostic or therapeutic radiography, and registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

🚀 Careers in this path

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Diagnostic Radiographer

Specialises in taking images of the inside of the body using X-rays, MRI, and CT scans to help diagnose illnesses and injuries.

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Therapeutic Radiographer

Focuses on planning and delivering radiation treatment to patients with cancer, working closely with oncologists and other healthcare professionals.

Sonographer

Uses ultrasound technology to create images of organs, tissues, and blood flow, often working in areas such as pregnancy scans or cardiac imaging.

Achieve Entry Qualifications

Complete GCSEs and A-levels or Equivalent

Obtain at least five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including English, Maths, and Science. Progress to A-levels, focusing on subjects such as Biology, Physics, or Chemistry.

These subjects are important because they provide a strong foundation for understanding the scientific principles behind radiography. Some colleges may accept equivalent qualifications such as BTECs or Scottish Highers. Check specific requirements for the university courses you are interested in.

Gain Healthcare Experience

Try to get some work experience or voluntary work in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital or care home.

This experience will help you understand what it is like to work in a healthcare environment and can make your university application stronger. Contact your local hospitals or GP surgeries to see if they offer work placements or shadowing opportunities.

Complete Accredited Degree

Apply for a Diagnostic Radiography Degree

Apply for and complete a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) approved degree in diagnostic radiography.

Most courses last three years full-time and include both academic study and clinical placements in hospitals. Some universities offer degree apprenticeships, which combine work and study. You can apply through UCAS, and NHS funding may be available.

Register and Start Your Career

Register with the HCPC

After completing your degree, register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to practise as a radiographer.

Registration is a legal requirement for all practising radiographers in the UK. The HCPC will check your qualifications and may require evidence of your training and good character.

Apply for Radiographer Roles

Begin applying for radiographer positions within the NHS or private sector.

Look for job adverts on NHS Jobs, hospital websites, and professional bodies like the Society of Radiographers. Once employed, you may also choose to specialise in areas such as MRI, CT, or mammography as you gain 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

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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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