Diagnostic Radiography

Diagnostic radiography is the healthcare profession responsible for producing and interpreting medical images that are essential for diagnosing injury and disease. Radiographers use a range of imaging technologies including X-ray, CT scanning, MRI, ultrasound and fluoroscopy, working as autonomous practitioners and as part of multidisciplinary clinical teams. The role requires both scientific and technical knowledge and the patient-centred skills to work sensitively with people who are often unwell, anxious or in pain.

It is a profession that combines science, technology and human care in a way that few other healthcare roles do.

At the University of Suffolk you will study this three-year full-time programme, which prepares you for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council and practice as a qualified diagnostic radiographer. The programme integrates academic study of the imaging sciences, anatomy, pathology and patient care with substantial supervised clinical placements in NHS and other healthcare settings, where you will apply your developing knowledge and skills with real patients under the guidance of experienced practitioners. Suffolk's connections to NHS imaging departments in the East of England provide a strong clinical environment.

The typical entry tariff for this programme is around 120 UCAS points.

You will develop proficiency in the technical and positioning skills required to produce diagnostic quality images across a range of anatomical areas, alongside the ability to evaluate image quality, recognise pathological features and communicate effectively with patients and clinical colleagues. The profession is regulated, and the degree leads directly to professional registration.

Diagnostic radiography graduates work primarily in NHS imaging departments, though private healthcare and occupational health settings also recruit radiographers. Career progression leads to advanced practitioner and consultant radiographer roles, reporting radiography, management and education. Some graduates pursue postgraduate study in specialist imaging modalities, radiotherapy, nuclear medicine or clinical education.