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A day in the life
- Prepare and reassure patients before scans
- Operate X-ray, CT, MRI or radiotherapy equipment
- Position patients safely to get clear images
- Follow radiation safety procedures
- Work with doctors and other healthcare staff
Your career roadmap
Every milestone from school to senior. Track progress as you complete each stage.
- 1Usually 2 years; adult study varies
GCSEs / school qualifications
educationBuild foundations in English, maths and science for further study towards diagnostic radiography.
- 2Usually 2 years; Access courses often 1 year
A levels / equivalent
educationStudy Level 3 subjects that prepare you for anatomy, imaging science and patient care at university.
- 3Usually 3 years full-time, sometimes 4; postgraduate routes often 2 years
Diagnostic Radiography degree
qualificationComplete an HCPC-approved diagnostic radiography programme combining imaging science, patient care and supervised clinical learning.
- 4Integrated throughout the degree, not an additional stage
Clinical placement
experienceUndertake compulsory supervised clinical placements during your degree, developing imaging, patient positioning and radiation safety skills.
- 5Processing times vary; allow time before starting registered work
HCPC registration
certificationApply to the HCPC after completing your approved qualification, providing the required identity, qualification and declaration information.
- 6Often several years before senior progression
Diagnostic Radiographer
roleWork as a registered diagnostic radiographer, producing images, supporting patients and following imaging safety procedures within your competence.
- 7Varies by experience, specialty and vacancies
Senior / specialist radiographer
roleDevelop expertise in areas such as CT, MRI or interventional imaging, often alongside supervision, teaching or service coordination responsibilities.
- 8Usually several years of further development; varies by role
Advanced / leadership role
roleTake on advanced clinical practice, reporting, research or imaging service leadership, supported by relevant experience and further education.
Skills you'll build
- HCPC-approved Diagnostic Radiography degree
- HCPC-approved Therapeutic Radiography degree
- Diagnostic or Therapeutic Radiographer degree apprenticeship (Level 6)
- HCPC registration
- Society of Radiographers membership
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