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Radiography and medical technology

Radiography and medical technology explore the intricacies of the human body, so your expertise becomes a vital tool in diagnostics, contributing to better healthcare.

Radiography and medical technology are essential to modern healthcare, offering an understanding of imaging techniques, diagnostic procedures, and technology in medical settings.

Studying this subject teaches you the skills to operate cutting-edge medical equipment, including X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRI devices. Common career paths include radiographers,  medical imaging specialists, and healthcare administrators with opportunities to specialise in areas like mammography, nuclear medicine, or cardiovascular imaging.

As technology continues to advance, professionals in radiography and medical technology play a crucial role in integrating innovative solutions that enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient care.

The impact you could make
  • Contribute to advancements in healthcare that save lives and improve overall well-being.
  • Help healthcare institutions become more efficient, cost-effective, and capable of providing higher -quality care.
  • Contribute to the development of more affordable and portable imaging solutions, that help under-served populations.
What you could study
  • Academic and professional practice
  • Radiotherapy in practice
  • Anatomy
  • Diagnostic imaging
  • Medical ethics
  • Medical law
  • Diagnostic technology and physics
  • Oncology
  • Radiation physics
  • Complementary image systems
  • Radiography research

Study options

Options to study in this field include:

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Example module
"I really like imaging science principles and research methods, learning about how exactly different imaging machines work and different ways to research key information really intrigues me."
Second year diagnostic radiography and imaging student at University of Hertfordshire
Example assignment
“I really enjoyed interpretation of CT head images and being able to identify patient’s pathologies on the images I took.”
Second year diagnostic radiography and imaging student at Cardiff University

Subjects it's useful to have studied first

Some radiography and medical technology courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects.

Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Maths
Hard skills you'll develop
  • Radiographic imaging techniques
  • Radiation safety
  • Image interpretation
  • Medical terminology
Soft skills you'll develop
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Attention to detail
  • Stress management skills
  • Professionalism

Careers: Where it can take you

Find out more about your career prospects from studying radiography and medical technology. The following information is based on a typical medical radiographer role.

Available jobs
36,957 vacancies in the past year
6.29% growth over next eight years
Average salary
£39,565
Up to £58,583

What is a… military radiographer?

Radiographers don’t just work in hospitals. A military radiographer serves in the armed forces, combining their expertise in radiography with a commitment to supporting military personnel. Trained to operate advanced medical imaging equipment, such as X-ray and CT scans, they play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and illnesses within the military healthcare system. Often deployed to various locations worldwide, including combat zones and field hospitals, they work under demanding conditions. Their service reflects a unique dedication to both the principles of military duty and the wellbeing of those who serve.

Getting in: Entry requirements

Find out more about what you'll need to study radiography and medical technology at university or as an apprenticeship.

Average requirements for undergraduate degrees

Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from radiography and medical technology applicants.

A levels
ABB
Scottish Highers
BBBB
Vocational
BTEC DDM
Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma or SQCF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative

Considering an apprenticeship?

Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a normal job. Here’s what you need to know:
  1. Deadline

    Apprenticeships don't follow the same deadlines as applying to uni, the deadline is down to the employer.
  2. Where to apply

    You apply directly through the employer.
  3. No limits

    You're not restricted to one apprenticeship application; you can do as many as you like.
  4. Apply to university and apprenticeships

    There's nothing stopping you applying to university through UCAS, while also applying for apprenticeship vacancies.
  5. Find out more

Explore further

Go deeper into topics around radiography and medical technology with the following.

  1. In2STEM summer programme

    In2STEM offers the opportunity for 16-19 year olds to build skills and learn more about STEM subjects, with a mix of in-person and online activities.

  2. Radiologist Dr Vivienne Eze – The Savvy Doctor

    Follow radiologist Dr Vivienne Eze as she documents her life and insights as a doctor specialising in diagnostic imaging.

  3. Keep up to date with the latest news

    You'll find all the latest news and research on The Society of Radiographers website.
72% of students
studying radiography and medical technology would recommend the subject to others
(UCAS subject guide survey 2023)

Application advice

Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our application advice will help you get ahead in your radiography and medical technology journey.

Skills, experiences, and interests to mention
  • Your academic achievements, particularly in science will be really important to highlight for this subject.
  • Write about experiences that demonstrate your ability to convey complex information clearly.
  • You’ll need to be detail-oriented to ensure the accuracy and precision of imaging so think about instances from your academic or work experiences where attention to detail was critical.
  • Express your eagerness to continue learning and staying updated on advancements in radiography and medical technology.
  • Why are you passionate about pursuing a career in radiography and medical technology? Connect your personal experiences and values to your desire to contribute to the field.
 

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