What does a radiographer do?
Radiographers use different kinds of radiation to treat ill or injured patients. There are two kinds of radiography:
- diagnostic – where you use radiation to find out what injury or illness someone has.
- therapeutic – where you use different kinds of radiation to treat an illness or injury.
You’ll need good communication skills as you’ll be dealing with a variety of patients. Strong analytical skills are also important.
What do I need to do to become a radiographer?
To become a radiographer, you’ll need a degree which is approved by the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC).
To do a degree in diagnostic or therapeutic radiography you usually need at least five GCSEs (A-C), including English, maths and a science, plus three A levels (including a science subject).
Relevant level 3 vocational courses (e.g. BTEC National Diploma science) may be accepted – check with universities.
Academic route
- Three A levels, including a science subject
Vocational route
- Relevant level 3 vocational course, e.g. BTEC National Diploma science
Essential qualifications
- HCPC approved degree, e.g. a degree in radiography
Where to find out more
Where could I be working?
You’ll be working indoors, usually in a hospital, with highly technical equipment. You will usually be working shifts and you may be working for a private clinic or hospital, or the NHS.