How to Become a Radiographer in the UK
Are you considering a career in radiography? Learn more about this in-demand profession right here.
Radiology is one of the most innovative fields in the healthcare industry. Radiologists (medical doctors trained to interpret medical images) rely heavily on radiographers to diagnose diseases, injuries, and various other issues and provide the necessary treatment. Since the discovery of the first X-ray, radiology has grown significantly in the last few decades to include other imaging technologies such as the CAT scan, MRI, fluoroscopy, and angiography. Learn how to become a radiographer and find yourself in one of the most rewarding and highest-paying medical jobs in healthcare.
As a radiographer you will be using cutting-edge technologies and directly helping others. Furthermore, radiographers are in high demand due to a growing staffing shortage in the UK which means it's an ideal time to enter this rewarding occupation.
What is Radiography?
Radiography is an imaging technique used to provide images of the body's bones, tissues, and organs. It is categorised into two classes- diagnostic (used for analysis and diagnosis) and therapeutic (used to help deliver treatment.) There are many different imaging methods used in radiography, including:
- X-ray
- Ultrasound
- Fluoroscopy
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Angiography
- Computerised tomography (CAT scan)
What Does a Radiographer Do?
Diagnostics Radiographer
This type of radiographer works directly with the patient. They use a range of different methods and equipment to capture images of organs, limbs, bones, and other parts of the body. These images are used to diagnose, assess and treat diseases and injuries.
In this role, you'll typically work in the radiology and imaging departments of an NHS or private hospital, although most diagnostic radiographers work for the NHS. You could also work within the operating theatre, emergency department, intensive care, or neonatal unit. Working in a private clinic, GP surgery, or hospice is also possible.
Some of your daily tasks could include:
- assessing patients to determine which radiographic technique to use
- performing various radiographic exams to produce high-quality images
- supervising patients and staff in radiation areas
- providing support and reassurance to patients
- assisting radiologists and surgeons with more complex radiological exams.
Therapeutic Radiographer
This type of radiographer plans, administers and provides aftercare of radiotherapy treatment to patients with cancer and other conditions such as blood disorders and thyroid disease. They work closely with patients before, during, and after treatment, helping them cope with side effects and providing support. You'll typically work in an NHS or private hospital within the radiotherapy department in this role.
Some of your daily tasks could include:
- planning a course of treatment with a team of radiographers, oncologists, and medical physicists.
- explaining treatment and processes to patients
- administering radiation treatment safely and accurately
- assessing and monitoring patients through treatment and follow-up
- keeping accurate, digital patient records
How to Become a Radiographer
There are specific requirements to become a radiographer. First, you'll need to obtain the necessary radiographer qualifications. To practice as a diagnostic or therapeutic radiographer, you must register with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC.) You'll have to complete an HPC-approved radiography training programme at either undergraduate or postgraduate level to register. To apply for an undergraduate course, you'll need some GCSEs, including English, maths, and science, and A Levels, including physics, chemistry, or biology.
If you already have a degree in a health or science-related subject, you may be able to take an accelerated postgraduate diagnostic training programme. Courses typically take two years to complete.
Another route you can take to learn how to become a radiographer is to complete a degree apprenticeship in diagnostic or therapeutic radiography. The HCPC-approved apprenticeship usually takes three years to complete and combines workplace learning and academic study at an approved university. To apply, you'll need GCSEs and A Levels, or equivalent.
If you prefer to work your way up, you could start as a radiography assistant and eventually advance to assistant practitioner. After that, your employer may allow you to work and study part-time to become a qualified radiographer.
To work with children and vulnerable adults, you'll also need to pass enhanced background checks, including the Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check.
In addition to your qualifications, it's essential to have the following skills:
- excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- attention to detail and good observation
- sensitivity and understanding
- active listening and concentration skills
- IT skills and confidence in using new technologies
- ability to work alone and as part of a team
- organization and decision-making
How Much are Radiographers Paid in the UK?
Under the Agenda for Change NHS pay scales, radiographer salaries start on Band 5 and range from £25,655 to £31,534 per year. However, your salary depends on your experience and credentials and will vary regionally, with wages usually highest in Greater London. Non-NHS pay rates are often negotiated on an individual basis.
With experience, you could advance to a senior level position such as radiography team leader, sonography specialist, or consultant practitioner and achieve a Band 7 to Band 8c salary of between £45,057 and £75,874. Working in the NHS, you'll have access to a pension scheme, health service discounts, and 27 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
How to Apply for Radiographer Jobs
Are you confident about how to become a radiographer? If you are, then you can start applying for jobs. First, you'll need to make sure that your CV is updated and that you tailor a cover letter to each job application.
Radiographer jobs are in high demand within the NHS, and there are plenty of job vacancies across the UK. Depending on your location, you may want to consider roles in:
Sign Up for Monster and Get Ready to Start Your Radiographer Career
Now that you know how to become a radiographer, you can focus on applying for jobs. Get started today by creating a free Monster profile where you'll be able to upload your CV and have recruiters find you online. We'll also send you frequent personalised job alerts to match you with the right employer.