How to become a diagnostic radiographer

What is a diagnostic radiographer?

Diagnostic radiographers play a key role in large medical teams. Using the latest imaging technology, they take high-quality images of the inside of the body. These images are used to diagnose and monitor illnesses or injuries so patients receive the correct treatment. 

To work in the NHS, diagnostic radiographers must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). 

Starting your career as a diagnostic radiographer

Choosing subjects at school

To get on a college or university course that could lead to a career as a diagnostic radiographer, useful subjects include: 

• Human Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Maths
• English

Speak to your guidance teacher about subjects offered at your school.

College and university

You'll need a degree to become a diagnostic radiographer. Most universities accept a wide range of qualifications, giving you the option of applying directly from school or going to college first. At college, you could do an HNC in a science-based subject before applying to university to do an undergraduate programme. 

The degree programme you choose must be approved by the Health and Care Professions Council.

You should contact individual universities to find out about specific entry requirements.

Widening access

Widening participation supports adult learners who want to go to university. If you’re an adult with few or no qualifications, you could get into higher education through the Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP). Many universities also provide access programmes to help you get the degree entry qualifications you need. 

Pre-registration undergraduate degree programmes

Three universities in Scotland offer degree courses in Diagnostic Radiography or Diagnostic Imaging: 

• Glasgow Caledonian University 
• Queen Margaret University 
• Robert Gordon University 

Pre-registration undergraduate programmes take 4 years full-time. 

Pre-registration Diagnostic Radiography postgraduate programmes

If you already have relevant qualifications and healthcare experience, you can do a postgraduate diploma or master's in Diagnostic Radiography. Pre-registration postgraduate programmes usually take 2 years. 

Get to know the role

As a diagnostic radiographer, you’ll take images using different imaging techniques, such as: 

• x-rays 
• ultrasound 
• fluoroscopy 
• CT
• MRI
• nuclear medicine 
• angiography 
• mammography 

Your expert knowledge and skills would be used to identify injuries and illnesses, including cancers or coronary artery disease. 

Learning and development

During your career, you'll have to keep your skills and knowledge up to date with Continuing Professional Development (CPD). The Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR) provides courses, conferences and seminars where you can exchange ideas and update your skills. 

Career progression 

You may choose to specialise in a particular type of imaging, such as MRI or sonography. Some diagnostic radiographers work with specific patient groups, such as:

• breast screening
• children
• stroke patients
• cancer patients

You could also move into management, either within radiography services or general management. There is also the option to consider a career in research, education, or within the independent sector. 

Professional bodies

When you become a qualified diagnostic radiographer, you must register with the HCPC to work in the NHS. You can also join the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR).