BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging

Key information

Typical offer:
Entry requirements
Fees: See below
Full details
UCAS code: B821
Institute code: H36
Work placement option
Find out more

The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.

UCAS points	A Level	BTEC
112-120	BBC - BBB	DMM- DDM

UCAS	A Level	BTEC	Access Course Tariff	IB Requirement
120 - 128	BBB - ABB - Should include B points or above from a Science based subject inc. Maths, Chemistry, Biology or Physics, Sociology, Psychology, PE or Electronics. Extended project qualification will be accepted in the points calculation	DDM - Extended diploma in Applied Science with a minimum of DDM profile or Extended diploma in Health and Social Care with minimum of DDM profile to include a minimum of distinction grades in the following mandatory units: Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care, Human Lifespan Development and Enquiries into Current Research in Health and Social Care	Access diploma should be Health care or science based A minimum of 45 credits at level 3 of which at least 24 credits are graded at distinction and 21 credits graded at merit	120-128 points where 2 subjects have been studied at higher level, 1 of which is a science at grade H5 or above

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language, Mathematics and Science.

Previous Degree: Honours degree with a minimum 2:2 classification.

All offers will be subject to the applicants demonstration of the NHS constitution’s “Values and Behaviours” and knowledge of the career during a selection presentation, occupational health screening and the Disclosure and Barring Services (DBS) checks. You can view the full NHS Constitution for England on the Government website: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-nhs-constitution-for-england

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any one band.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.

For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.

Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

All applicants will be subject to fraud and Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and Occupational Health (OH) Screening on commencement of the programme.

Professional accreditations

As a Diagnostic Radiography graduate you will be eligible to apply for registration with Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Why choose this course?

Study image interpretation modules with specialist radiographers
Gain experience in our onsite CT scanner and X-ray rooms
We have over 25 years experience graduating radiographers

Develop clinical skills during time in our dedicated university imaging labs and spending time on clinical placement working with qualified practitioners.
Study with other health professions. Interprofessional modules taught reflect the multi-professional, team approach in healthcare today.
Excellent Career Prospects. 95% of graduates are in work or doing further study 15 months after the course (Graduate Outcomes, 2019/2020).

What's the course about?

Diagnostic radiographers play a vital role in healthcare by producing patient centred imaging services for the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and disease. Our BSc (Hons) in Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging delivers the knowledge and clinical experience you require to become a skilled and competent diagnostic radiographer and reflects the rapidly changing face of healthcare in the UK.

This is a full-time three year vocational degree where Radiography students will learn a wide range of subjects to enable our graduates to be safe and confident practitioners, able to deliver high quality care to patients. You will learn human anatomy, physiology and pathology, using radiographic images, along with an understanding of the equipment used to image patients. During your training you will develop excellent communication skills and learn to work in a team environment putting the needs of the patient at the centre of everything you do. In addition, you will acquire an appreciation of research methods with respect to diagnostic radiography and the importance of evidence-based practice in relation to the profession.

The degree is delivered with student spending time each year at the University campus studying and gaining practical experience at our affiliated NHS hospitals developing where students become competent in the knowledge and skills they have been learning.

Your main campus is College Lane  

This is where the creative arts, science and health-related subjects are based. This means you’ll share the campus with future nurses, scientists, artists and more. You can use the common rooms to relax with friends, work out in the 24-hour gym or have a drink in our on-campus pub or cafes. We also have restaurants for you to eat in or grab something on the go. Our Learning Resources Centres are open 24/7, which means you can study whenever suits you best. Want to pop over to the other campus? You can take the free shuttle bus or walk there in just 15 minutes.   

What will I study?

You will be taught by our team of highly qualified academics who are all registered practitioners with postgraduate and teaching qualifications. Each year you will study five modules designed to promote learning through a variety of activities including lectures, seminars and tutorials.

We have the benefit of our own dedicated X-ray rooms and CT scanner on campus to enhance clinical skills education and state of the art computer laboratories used for image evaluation and interpretation teaching.

In year 1 and 3 there is the opportunity for shared lectures and seminars during the inter-professional modules allowing you to collaborate and learn with student on other health profession programmes at the university.

All your modules will be supported through a web-based learning platform aimed to guide you through your journey as a student. This is a mobile friendly platform which is design with the student in mind with interactive maps to show you around when you first arrive, and access to timetable, teaching resources and assessment details. In addition, it will provide you with access to all the news, events and services in the wider university community.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Introduction to Professional Practice	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module provides a foundation for students to appreciate their role within the wider context of health and social care. In undertaking this module students will also gain an understanding of the academic standards required for undergraduate study in higher education. An introduction to the skills for research, the importance of personal and professional development, reflection, life-long learning, and the need to maintain a record of learning, will be key components of the module. The module will introduce students to the relevant legislation and regulatory body standards required for clinical practice. The concepts of client/customer care in relation to patient/service user interactions will be explored. The rationale for and benefits of inter-professional working are explored to improve understanding of a range of professional roles and encourage co-operative learning and working.
Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging Practice	30 Credits	Compulsory
The module provides the basis for students to undertake clinical practice and will explore the X-ray techniques required for imaging the skeletal system, chest, and abdomen. The concepts of professional behaviours, including communication and patient care, will be examined alongside image acquisition and evaluation. Safe working practice in the imaging department and orthopaedic theatre environment will be discussed.
Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology - Foundations & Appendicular Skeleton	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will develop knowledge and understanding of structure, function, and disease of the appendicular skeletal system as relevant to diagnostic radiographers. This module introduces students to key anatomical and pathological concepts and common anatomical terms, including the planes and regions of the body required for radiographic imaging technique. Anatomy and physiology of the living cell will provide the foundation for understanding tissue and organs. Students will be introduced to the principles of homeostasis, and how this is affected within disease processes including knowledge of pathology and tumour spread.
Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology - Chest, Abdomen, Spine, and Pelvis	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the structure, function and diseases of the spine and pelvis as relevant to diagnostic radiographers. Chest and abdomen structure and disease will be examined in relation to structures visible on X-ray images
Principles of Radiation Science and Technology	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will introduce and develop knowledge related to the properties and characteristics of X-rays, their production, and interactions with matter. It will also include radiation protection principles and introduce the current radiation protection regulations, exploring the radiographer's responsibilities as an operator in reviewing the appropriateness of pre-set exposures and applying suitable accessory equipment and technology such as AEC and grids, and setting exposures. The design of a general x-ray room will be explored, in relation to technical components, power generation and the X-ray tube. Digital methods of image acquisition including computed radiography and direct digital radiography will be discussed. Evaluation of image quality for determining optimum exposure will be considered in relation to contrast, resolution, artefacts, and exposure indices.
Applications of Radiation Science and Technology	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will introduce students to managing risk by applying the principles of justification, optimisation, and limitation. There will be further focus on radiation safety and radiation protection regulations with consideration of the responsibilities of the employer, referrer, practitioner, and operator. Practical radiation protection measures will be explored. Equipment which utilizes the X-ray tube will be examined. Quality assurance processes will be explored.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Developing Professional Practice	30 Credits	Compulsory
In this module the student will be introduced to a wide range of skills that will underpin their clinical practice and professional development. The module provides an opportunity for students to develop skills that can be applied to the work environment to enhance the service user experience, including the importance of interprofessional working practice. The principles of psychosocial theories relating to radiographic imaging of patients will be explored. The importance of resilience and personal and professional boundaries in relation to work life balance will be developed.
Complex Imaging Practice	30 Credits	Compulsory
Students will develop knowledge and skill in complex radiographic imaging of the gastrointestinal, urinary, reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, and central nervous systems, including associated endocrine organs. The use of CT, MRI, Radionuclide imaging, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy and Mammography and Interventional Radiography will be analysed in relation to guidelines and protocols for imaging. X ray examinations of the skull, facial bones and dental, and theatre examinations will also be discussed. Students will develop an understanding of the use of contrast agents used within the imaging modalities. In addition, students will develop professional and safe practice within these areas of imaging.
Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology - Systems 1	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will enable students to develop detailed knowledge and understanding of the structure, function, and disease of the cardiovascular, central nervous, respiratory systems, and associated endocrine organs. This will include the processes of blood and lymph circulation, gaseous exchange, and regulation of the body. The bony anatomy of dental, skull and facial bones will be discussed.
Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology - Systems 2	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will enable students to develop detailed knowledge and understanding of the structure, function, and disease of the gastrointestinal, urinary, and reproductive systems (including breast), along with associated endocrine organs. In addition, the processes of digestion and absorption, urine production, excretion and pregnancy and foetal development will be discussed.
Advanced Imaging Science and Technology	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will introduce the principles, knowledge and skills related to the safe use of magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, radionuclide imaging, positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography and hybrid imaging. Quality assurance and maintenance of diagnostic imaging equipment will be introduced. The module content will also cover safety and risks associated with the related imaging modalities in relation to IRR 2017, IR(ME)R 2018 and The Basic Safety Standards (2016).
Research Methods - Diagnostic Radiography & Imaging	15 Credits	Compulsory
In undertaking this module students will develop their research skills by learning about the available approaches for research enquiry, with emphasis on their application to medical diagnostic imaging and evidence-based practice. These approaches include quantitative and qualitative research strategies, audit, and literature reviews. Students will explore the research process including developing a suitable research question, choosing research methods, data collection and data analysis. The module will also introduce students to evaluating and critiquing published research evidence.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Developing Autonomous Imaging Practice	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will enable students to consolidate knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of diagnostic imaging in preparation for transition to autonomous clinical practice as a band 5 diagnostic radiographer. This will include being able to adapt to diverse patient presentations, including vulnerable groups and those with complex medical needs and pathways. Students will demonstrate the ability to undertake a CT head examination. In addition, students will reflect on their practice and adapt their practice in areas of uncertainty and emergency situations.
Transition to Professional Practice	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will develop knowledge of interprofessional working practice to improve service user experiences. It will also explore the structure of the NHS and the current policies and drivers impacting on imaging services. Current developments in radiographic practice, business continuity and sustainability will be discussed to provide a wider context of working in healthcare. Key skills for employability and preparation for graduation as a band 5 radiographer will be included.
Preliminary Clinical Evaluation 1	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module builds upon the student's previous knowledge and capability in image appreciation, critique and evaluation of radiographic anatomy and pathology. Skills relating to preliminary clinical evaluation will be introduced. Pattern recognition and mechanisms of injury for the appendicular skeleton will be explored. An understanding of a band 5 radiographer's scope of practice relating to preliminary clinical evaluation will be explored. This module will provide the students with a foundation of knowledge relating to image interpretation, allowing them to provide a coherent and technical written evaluation of images relating to first post competence.
Application of Research in Health	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will explore the principals of ethics and bias to include, validity, rigour, and reliability. Students will enhance their knowledge of critical evaluation of research evidence and its application to practice.
Preliminary Clinical Evaluation 2	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module builds upon the student's previous knowledge and capability in image appreciation, critique and written evaluation of radiographic anatomy and pathology. Skills relating to clinical evaluation and descriptive report writing will be introduced. Pattern recognition and mechanisms of injury for the pelvis and vertebral column will be explored. This module will provide the students with a foundation of knowledge relating to image interpretation, allowing them to provide a coherent and written evaluation of images relating to first post competence. In addition, the module will enable students to comment on image appearances of chest, (including NG tube placement and escalating concerns) abdomen and CT head images.
Exploration of Special Interest in Imaging Practice	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will further develop their understanding of theory and practice in a chosen area. They will analyse the role of imaging in diagnosis, management and treatment of injury and disease.

Work placement

Radiography departments within hospitals normally provide a number of imaging modalities including computed and digital X-ray examinations, computed tomography ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear medicine. Clinical experience
blocks are positioned in the yearly timetable to fit around when specific topics are being taught within the curriculum. Here you will gain the opportunity to put into practice the theoretical knowledge you have gained through study.

The radiography courses at the University of Hertfordshire are supported by over 30 affiliated hospital sites located in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, London, East Midlands and South Central regions. You will be allocated
a base NHS trust for the duration of the course where you will undertake practice placements and there will also be opportunities for elective placement to more specialist facilities to allow every student to gain experience of a wide range of injuries and
pathologies, whilst meeting the needs of diverse patient types. Some hospitals may be within commuting distance for you, but you may also be allocated a hospital that will require you to move to on-site accommodation.

Students will be supported during clinical placements by their personal tutor who will regularly visit their hospital site. All our affiliated hospitals have an experienced member of staff who will coordinate your hospital placements and
act as a link to the university to ensure students can achieve their placement learning outcomes.

Check out our student blogs

Alumni Stories

Gabby Caroleo

Meet Gabby. Gabby was working as a Radiology Department Assistant at her local hospital but wanted to become a radiographer. She fulfilled her ambition by studying at Herts and is now working in a job she loves.

Read more stories BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging

Current job	Senior Radiographer
Year of graduation	2020
Course of study	BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging

Fantastic facilities

Gabby was working as a Radiology Department Assistant at her local hospital before she decided to study the BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging course at Herts. She loved her job but when she watched radiographers at work, she knew that is what she wanted to be.

Gabby chose Herts after attending an open day with her family. She says, ‘The equipment they have there, such as CT scanners and X-ray rooms, blew us away. The lecturers I met were all kind, supportive and enthusiastic too.

‘Herts is also close to my home and everyone I had spoken to who studied there loved it. They couldn’t recommend the course enough!’

Achieving her ambitions

Gabby fulfilled her ambitions and is now a Senior Radiographer in the cardiac catheterisation laboratory at the Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Gabby says, ‘Herts prepared me well for this role. Staff were supportive during the entire course, and they gave me more confidence and helped guide me in what I wanted to do. Everyone at Herts, from the lecturers to the people on my course, were lovely.’

Gabby’s advice

Gabby’s advice to current and future Herts students is to, ‘Enjoy every moment. Take every opportunity and accept all the support offered to you. Every lecturer wants you to succeed and they will always help you get to where you want to be – never be afraid to ask for help!’

Alumni Stories

Isio Orogun

Meet Isio. Isio's drive to help people led her to the BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging course at Herts. She is now a Senior Radiographer in the NHS, with ambitions to become a Sonographer.

Read more stories BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging

Current job	Senior Radiographer
Year of graduation	2021
Course of study	BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging

An enriching job

Isio’s drive to help people led her to the BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging course at Herts. She says, ‘Radiography has the perfect balance between providing patient care and using jaw-dropping technology. I enjoy working alongside doctors and nurses to get to the root of a patient’s illness or symptoms, and I find the job enriching.’

Herts is not too far from London, where Isio lives, but far enough away from home that she could get the full university experience. ‘Herts has amazing nightlife, and the campuses are modern, with lots of activities and fun things to do there.’

Isio came to Herts on our Performance Sport Programme scholarship. She is a sprinter who competes in 100m and 200m at a county level, and she has also been a national champion in 200m.

Isio’s favourite memories

One of Isio’s favourite memories from her time at Herts is when she hosted a Christmas dinner and games night with friends in her campus accommodation. Isio says, ‘We all cooked different things and feasted over a few nights before we all went home for Christmas. The vibes were great, the music was great, and we got into a few heated arguments during the games. All in good fun!

‘During our degree, we would often reserve rooms in the library and study together for hours. We would then treat ourselves to dinner in the Galleria. If we had a good study session, we might have even treated ourselves to a movie in the cinema.’

Her next steps and advice

Isio is now a Senior Radiographer in the NHS. She believes her time at Herts prepared her well, as she went on placement during her course to large hospitals that allowed her to expand her knowledge of healthcare. She also took part in several group projects at Herts involving different disciplines, such as nursing, paramedic science, and midwifery.

Isio says, ‘After a few years developing my skills in the NHS, I’d like to do a postgraduate course and become a Sonographer, where I can do ultrasound scans.

‘My advice to current and future Herts students is to enjoy being a student while it lasts. Make sure you balance your academic studies with other parts of life. Your studies are crucial, but make time to socialise, relax, and look after yourself. And don’t hesitate to seek support or delegate tasks if you start to feel overwhelmed.

‘I’d also recommend attending events, seminars, and workshops outside your area of study. Networking with professionals and engaging with the broader academic community can enrich your university experience and help you secure a job.’

What's next for my career?

Upon successful completion of our BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography degree, you will belong to a well-respected profession, which is at the forefront of modern medicine with an interesting and rewarding career ahead of you.

The NHS has a grading structure that allows for career advancement and recognition as your skills and knowledge progress. Your degree will have provided you with a wealth of graduate skills which will enable you to move into area of specialist practise with in radiography including image interpretation, CT, interventional radiology, ultrasound imaging, MRI and nuclear medicine. You may also choose to develop your career in leadership and management, in research, teaching or industry or as a practitioner in a private setting.

Radiographers trained in the UK are recognised as being among the best in the world providing graduates with international opportunities throughout their career.

Our graduates, once registered as diagnostic radiographers, are able to practise in a range of healthcare settings, in a variety of locations nationally and internationally. The profession is constantly evolving and as a radiographer you'll be able to extend your scope of practice into specialist imaging areas including ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, among others. You'll also have the opportunity to be involved in research and / or education and training of radiographers.
View our Alumni profiles

Gabby Caroleo Isio Orogun

Course fact sheets
BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging	Download

Programme specifications
BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	n/a
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes
Course length	Full Time, 3 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

Apply using the links below:

2024

Start Date	End Date	Link
23/09/2024	31/05/2025	Apply online (Full Time)

2025

Start Date	End Date	Link
23/09/2025	31/05/2026	Apply online (Full Time)
22/09/2025	31/05/2026	Apply online (Full Time)

2026

Start Date	End Date	Link
21/09/2026	31/05/2027	Apply online (Full Time)

Fees and funding
Fees 2024
UK Students

Full time
- £9250 for the 2024/2025 academic year
EU Students

Full time
- £15500 for the 2024/2025 academic year
International Students

Full time
- £15500 for the 2024/2025 academic year
NHS Funding for UK/EU Students

Students studying on nursing, midwifery or allied health professional courses funded by Health Education England will have access to the same student loans support package and support for living costs as other students.

You could also benefit from the NHS learning support fund if you study an eligible nursing, midwifery, or allied health course. If eligible, the different kinds of support you could get include a training grant, parental support, money back for travel and temporary accommodation whilst on placement, and financial hardship (which you won’t need to pay back).

For more detailed information on the scholarships and/or bursaries available, please visit our fees and funding page and the NHS learning support fund website.

Compulsory
- Accommodation costs during clinical placements - indicative prices are: £230-£560.
Eligible students for an NHS Bursary can claim all, or part depending on circumstances. International and Irish students who are not eligible for an NHS Bursary cannot claim it (in this case the figures quoted are top-end and depend upon placement venue and distance travelled).
- Transport to clinical placements (students can claim if eligible for NHS Bursary and travel costs). £600 max.
Optional

Society of Radiographers student membership. Indicative fee in the first year is £163.

*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Book a campus tour

Get info and updates

BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging

Key information

Typical offer:

Fees: See below

UCAS code: B821

Institute code: H36

Work placement option

Additional requirements

Why choose this course?

What's the course about?

Your main campus is College Lane

What will I study?

Check out our student blogs

Student Blogs

Alumni Stories

Meet Gabby. Gabby was working as a Radiology Department Assistant at her local hospital but wanted to become a radiographer. She fulfilled her ambition by studying at Herts and is now working in a job she loves.

Fantastic facilities

Achieving her ambitions

Gabby’s advice

Alumni Stories

Meet Isio. Isio's drive to help people led her to the BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging course at Herts. She is now a Senior Radiographer in the NHS, with ambitions to become a Sonographer.

An enriching job

Isio’s favourite memories

Her next steps and advice

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2024

2025

2026

Fees 2024

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

NHS Funding for UK/EU Students

Compulsory

Optional

Other financial support

Living costs / accommodation

Your main campus is College Lane  