How to become a radiographer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You'll need to do an approved degree or postgraduate qualification, which allows you to register with the Health and Care Professions Council. You'll need registration to work.
Before you apply for a course, you'll need to think about whether you want to work in diagnostic radiography or therapeutic radiography. Visiting a radiography department at your local hospital may help you decide.
If you're a health professional or a graduate with a relevant first degree, you may be able to take a fast-track postgraduate qualification over 2 years.
You may be able to get additional student financial support through the NHS Learning Support Fund.
You can also train as a radiographer in the armed forces. You can find out more at:
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 3 A levels, or equivalent, including at least 1 science
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a diagnostic or therapeutic radiographer degree apprenticeship.
This typically takes 36 months to complete as a mix of learning in the workplace and academic study at an approved university.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You can start as a radiography assistant and work your way up to assistant practitioner. At this level, your employer may give you the opportunity to work and study part-time for a degree and a professional qualification to become a radiographer.
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Registration
- you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
Career tips
When applying for degree courses and apprenticeships, you'll be expected to show an understanding of how NHS values apply in your work.
Further information
You can find out more about a career in radiography from Health Careers and the The College of Radiographers.