School of Health and Wellbeing

BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography

BSc (Hons) Full-time 3 years

Shape the future of healthcare through a dynamic diagnostic radiography degree that combines advanced technology, immersive clinical learning and exceptional employability opportunities.

Shape the future of healthcare through a dynamic diagnostic radiography degree that combines advanced technology, immersive clinical learning and exceptional employability opportunities.

Award
BSc (Hons)
Start date(s)
13 September 2027
UCAS Code
B821
Course specifications
Course length
Full-time (3 years)
Campus location
University: Walsall Campus
UCAS points calculator

Why choose this course?

From the moment you join, you become part of a close-knit, supportive learning community with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a teaching team who are deeply invested in your success. Our curriculum is shaped by current clinical practice, enriched with contemporary research, and designed to give you the confidence and competence to thrive in real world radiography settings

Key features that make this course distinct:

  • Personalised learning in a supportive cohort
    Our intentionally sized cohorts ensure you receive individual attention, meaningful peer relationships, and tailored academic and pastoral support.
  • Exceptional clinical placement opportunities
    We offer a wide range of industry aligned placement experiences across diverse clinical environments, helping you build confidence and adaptability while learning from professionals across the radiography sector.
  • Strong graduate employability
    Our graduates progress into rewarding roles, supported by a reputation for producing capable, confident, and practice ready allied health professionals.   
  • A highly experienced and committed teaching team
    You will be taught by experts who bring specialist knowledge, active clinical involvement, and a genuine passion for student learning and development.
  • A diverse and enriching student community
    You will learn alongside peers from a wide range of backgrounds, enriching discussions, perspectives, and your overall learning experience.
  • Cutting edge practical learning using VR simulation and advanced skills facilities
    Our innovative use of virtual reality and modern equipment gives you access to realistic scenarios and extended practice time that exceeds what most traditional programmes can offer. 
  • Interprofessional learning opportunities
    Working alongside service users and students from other allied health disciplines prepares you for the collaborative, multidisciplinary nature of modern healthcare.

Together, these elements create a learning environment that supports your academic, professional, and personal growth empowering you to become a confident, compassionate, and capable radiographer.

Innovative VR Enhanced Radiography Training Enhanced Radiography Training

Our blended learning approach integrates VR simulation with in-clinic teaching delivered by clinical academics. This allows you to become familiar with radiography environments before, during, and after your placements strengthening your skills and confidence. This approach gives you enhanced exposure to radiographic practice, whether in virtual or real clinical settings.

Key Features of VR Radiography Training

  • Virtual Xray Room Simulation
    A detailed 3D model of an X‑ray suite allows you to explore and practise procedures in a safe, controlled environment.
  • Safe, independent skill development
    You can practise patient positioning, equipment handling, and setting exposure factors (kVp, mAs) without any radiation risk. You can repeat scenarios as often as needed to refine your technique.
  • Immediate, meaningful feedback
    The system provides instant evaluation of image quality, accuracy, and exposure settings, helping you learn faster and more effectively.
  • Remote access for flexible learning
    You can log in from home and continue developing your skills on your own device extending practice opportunities beyond the classroom.

What happens on the course?

Our BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography (subject to HCPC approval of this course) programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing you for a rewarding career in modern healthcare. Through evidence-based learning, innovative teaching and extensive clinical experience, you will develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to practise as a safe, compassionate and competent diagnostic radiographer.

Teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, practical workshops, simulation, virtual reality learning, image interpretation activities and case-based discussions. These experiences help you develop essential professional skills, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, clinical reasoning and evidence-informed decision-making.

The course is structured to support your learning at every stage, helping you build confidence in the fundamentals before progressing to more advanced imaging techniques, patient management and clinical decision-making. We use a spiral curriculum, meaning key concepts are revisited throughout the programme with increasing complexity, enabling you to deepen your understanding and apply learning in a range of clinical contexts.

Practice-based learning is embedded throughout the course, allowing you to apply academic knowledge in real healthcare environments. Across the programme, you will complete a minimum of 1,200 hours of clinical placement and 120 hours of simulation, gaining valuable experience across a variety of imaging settings while working alongside multidisciplinary healthcare teams.

Digital technologies are integrated throughout your studies, including virtual reality, simulation and contemporary imaging systems. You will also develop the digital, research and professional skills required for modern radiographic practice, preparing you to meet the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency and begin your career with confidence.

Placements on the course

We have strong partnerships with healthcare providers across the West Midlands, giving you access to a wide range of high-quality clinical placement opportunities that support both your professional development and future career prospects. Placements are organised and allocated by the University, with individual circumstances considered wherever possible.

Practice-based learning is a vital part of becoming a diagnostic radiographer. Before each placement, you will be fully prepared through academic study, simulation and practical skills development. During your placements, you will work alongside experienced radiographers and multidisciplinary teams, applying your learning in real clinical environments while developing the knowledge, skills and professional behaviours required for contemporary radiographic practice.

Throughout your placement journey, you will be supported by both clinical practice educators and University academic staff, who will help you maximise you’re learning and achieve your potential. Across the programme, you will complete a minimum of 1,200 hours of clinical placement, providing extensive experience across a variety of imaging settings and helping you develop the competence and confidence required for professional registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and employment as a diagnostic radiographer.

Employability on the course

Diagnostic radiographers are essential to the delivery of safe, effective and patient-centred healthcare, playing a key role in the diagnosis, monitoring and management of disease and injury. As demand for diagnostic imaging services continues to grow, radiographers are increasingly recognised as vital members of multidisciplinary teams, contributing to timely diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.

Our programme develops graduates who are not only clinically competent, but also professionally grounded, adaptable, digitally capable and prepared for the future of healthcare. Throughout the course, you will develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to practise safely and effectively, while gaining experience in clinical decision-making, communication, leadership, research and evidence-based practice.

Professionalism is embedded throughout the curriculum. You will learn to meet the expectations of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and Society of Radiographers (SoR), demonstrating accountability, ethical practice, patient-centred care and effective teamwork in both university and clinical settings. As you progress through the programme, you will develop a strong professional identity and the confidence needed to transition successfully into employment.

On successful completion of the programme and registration with the HCPC, you will be able to work across a wide variety of healthcare settings within the NHS and independent sector.

Potential Career Paths

Upon registration with HCPC you can undertake role as diagnostic radiographer in the NHS or private health care.

Career opportunities are continually evolving and include specialist and advanced practice roles such as:

CT Radiographer, MRI radiographer, Interventional radiographer, Nuclear Medicine radiographer, Monography, paediatric radiographer, sonographer, PET-CT Radiographer, Reporting Radiographer and Consultant Radiographer.

Future opportunities also exist in leadership and management, education, research, service development and digital healthcare, enabling you to shape and influence the future of diagnostic imaging throughout your career.

 

 

Additional Information

Everything you need to know about this course!

Upon completion of our programme, you will be able to:

Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of imaging science, anatomy, physiology, pathology and image formation, applying this knowledge to diagnostic radiographic practice across a range of clinical settings.

Critically evaluate and apply evidence-based practice, research and technological developments to support safe, effective and person-centred imaging services.

Perform and adapt diagnostic imaging procedures, selecting appropriate techniques and technologies to meet the needs of diverse patients while optimising image quality and radiation safety.

Apply clinical reasoning and professional judgement to make informed decisions, recognise abnormal findings, and contribute effectively to patient pathways and multidisciplinary care.

Exhibit professional and ethical practice in accordance with the HCPC Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics, demonstrating accountability, compassion, cultural awareness and effective communication.

Work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating leadership, teamwork and interpersonal skills that support high-quality patient care and service improvement.

Engage in reflective practice, lifelong learning and professional development, developing the adaptability, digital capabilities and resilience needed for careers in diagnostic radiography, advanced practice, leadership, research and education.

 

Location Mode Sep intake Fee Year
Home Full-time £9790 per year 2026-27
International Full-time £17600 per year 2026-27

The University is committed to a transparent fee structure, with no hidden costs, to help you make an informed decision. This includes information on what is included in the fee and how fees are calculated and reviewed.


If a tuition fee is not showing, we may not offer this intake for this course. Please check the start date information on the course finder for start dates.

You must have:

  • A minimum of 3 GCSEs at grade 4/C + in an English-based subject, Mathematicss and Science (covering all three areas: Biology, Chemistry and Physics, or Combined Science) or equivalent qualifications (e.g. Key Skills Level 2/ Learn Direct Level 2/ Functional Skills Level 2/GCSE Equivalency tests).

Please note we do NOT accept GCSE Short Courses or GCSE Equivalence Tests from other institutions or organisations.

English language requirements for International applicants require a minimum overall IELTS of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in any element.>.

PLUS EITHER

  • 120 UCAS points
  • A Levels: grades BBB from three A Levels, including a Science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics) at grade B or above (excluded subjects: Psychology, General Studies, Critical Thinking and Extended Project)
  • T Levels:  Merit (equivalent to 120 UCAS points) or higher in Science or Health and Science
  • BTEC National Diploma: at a DM in a Applied Science, alongside one A Level in Biology, Chemistry or Physics at grade B or above.
  • BTEC QCF Extended Diploma: at grade DDM in Applied Science - Should the BTEC subject not be in Applied Science or a related Science subject, it will be considered alongside an A Levels in Biology, Chemistry or Physics at grade B or above)
  • Access to HE Diploma (60 credits): of which a minimum of 45 must be at Level 3 (120 UCAS point equivalence, minimum 15 credits at Merit or Distinction) in a Health or Science subject (Access courses must include Biology content or Access to Medicine, Diagnostic Radiographer or Applied Science )
  • Use the UCAS Tariff calculator to check your qualifications and points

    If English is not your first language, evidence of proficiency must be dated within the last two years, evidencing achievement of IELTS with an overall band score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each element.

     

    If you've got other qualifications or relevant experience, please contact The Gateway for further advice before applying.

     

    In addition, You will need to demonstrate that, on entry to the programme, you have capability for digital and technological literacy to meet course outcomes. Evidence of your digital literacy and technological literacy capability is linked to the online application process.

     

    Other Requirements

    Those meeting the above entry criteria and successfully shortlisted on their personal statement will be invited to a selection day.  The selection day will consist of a number of tasks to identify teamwork, communication and adaptiveness.

    The University will make reasonable adjustments for any candidate who has a disability recognised under the Equality Act, 2010 but we ask that you contact the University in advance to enable us to make adjustments.

    You must bring with you photographic evidence of your identity e.g. passport or new style driving licence. If these are not available, alternative documents, such as a current College or Work ID are acceptable.  You can bring other forms of ID to the interview but you will require a full set of ID for the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks. Please check the DBS website to ensure you have the correct identification.

    Read further information regarding interview preparation

     

    Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) Checks

    Due to the professional nature of this course and the potential that this will include work with vulnerable adults and children you are also required to complete an enhanced  Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check to provide evidence of good character.  Students will not be able to commence placement until satisfactory occupational health and DBS checks have been completed,   which must be completed prior to commencement of the programme.   You will be expected to meet the costs associated with the DBS clearance process.

    Health Screening (Declaration of Health)

    All  students  accepted  on  to  the  course  are  required  to  pass  an advanced occupational health screening. This will include the requirement to undergo any necessary blood tests and immunisations as part of a conditional offer. The cost of the health screening is covered by the University, except for any evidence from health or general practice services which is required (i.e. a letter from your GP).

    If you have accepted a Conditional Offer made by the University of Wolverhampton you will receive correspondence asking you to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. The charge for this will be a DBS fee of £40.00 and a £6.00 ID check service fee. You will also need to complete an occupational health assessment questionnaire prior to starting the course.

     

    References & Personal Statement

    Satisfactory references are a condition of the programme.  This will normally be from your educational institution,   work or voluntary experience.  The University reserves the right to request an additional reference.

    Applicants will also be required to provide a satisfactory personal statement.

     

    The University offers help and advice for personal statements and it can be found on our web site.

     

    Voluntary or work experience

    You must demonstrate that you have had some personal, voluntary or work experience in a customer care/health related field or situation. We would regard this as anything that involved attending or working with people or patients in need of caring services. It does not have to be full time but should demonstrate that you have had some exposure to this type of experience where you are able to demonstrate and/or develop your caring and compassionate aptitude towards those in need of care.

     

    Previous Study

    Please note we will not accept applicants onto our professional courses who have been unsuccessful on professional courses at other institutions of higher education

    Please note than an offer of a place at the University does not guarantee eligibility for student funding. To confirm that you meet the residency criteria go to www.gov.uk/student-finance/who-qualifies or telephone SFE on 0300 100 0607.

    Applicants who are classed as ‘overseas’ for fee purposes ukcisa will still be considered as long as their country of domicile is the United Kingdom and do not require Tier 4 sponsorship or are in the UK on a Tier 2 visa.

    Please note than an offer of a place at the University does not guarantee eligibility for student funding. To confirm that you meet the residency criteria go to www.gov.uk/student-finance/who-qualifies or telephone SFE on 0300 100 0607.

Self-funding:

If you intend to self fund, you might want to take advantage of the University’s scheme to pay by instalments: see How to pay.

Gateway.


Your employer, embassy or organisation can pay for your Tuition fees:

If your employer, embassy or organisation agrees to pay all or part of your tuition fees; the University will refer to them as your sponsor and will invoice them for the appropriate amount.

We must receive notification of sponsorship in writing as soon as possible, and before enrolment, confirming that the sponsor will pay your tuition fees.


Financial Hardship:

Students can apply to the Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund for help with course related costs however this cannot be used for fees or to cover general living costs.


Bursaries and Scholarships:

In addition the University also offers a range of Bursaries and Scholarships packages

You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Please note that this course does not attract the NHS Learning Support Fund

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

Online

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