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Undergraduate course

Diagnostic Radiography BSc (Hons)

Develop knowledge, skills and techniques underpinned by ever-evolving, cutting edge technology. Your learning will prepare you for a successful and rewarding future in radiographic healthcare practices.

Nursing students on the occupational therapy ward

Join a course that sits at the intersection of public health, scientific knowledge and cutting edge technology, including the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in clinical practice. Become part of a community of forward thinking healthcare practitioners. Your learning will focus on developing your knowledge of the scientific principles that underpin Diagnostic Radiography. Upon successful completion of the course, you'll be able to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for the protected title of Diagnostic Radiographer.

Pending approval by the HCPC and Society of Radiographers.

  • Health and care professions council logo

York campus

  • UCAS code – B821
  • Duration – 3 years full time, 6 years part time
  • Start date – September 2025, September 2026
  • School – School of Science, Technology and Health

Minimum entry requirements

120 UCAS Tariff points including a Science based subject

3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language, Maths and Science

Tuition fees

UK 2025 entry £9,535 per year full time

International 2025 entry £14,700 per year full time

Application Support Session

Tuesday 21 January 2025, online

Book a place on our UCAS January Deadline Application Support Session. You'll hear from our Admissions team, get guidance on your application and be able to ask us questions about York St John.

Book Application Support Session

Course overview

Start a professional course where you'll gain the skills, competencies and professional behaviours needed for a future in allied health practices. We place a strong emphasis on the in depth scientific principles that will shape your learning. You will delve into the physics of Diagnostic Radiography and imaging, anatomy and pathophysiology, techniques, and safety.

Through your scientific knowledge, you will be prepared to conduct a wide range of radiographic examinations. Our commitment to practical learning experiences ensures that you'll spend invaluable time in a clinical setting, building the solid foundation for your radiography career.

The course has a focus towards ethical and professional conduct, so you'll be prepared academically, ethically and professionally. Your lecturers and supervisors are professionals in their field and work to keep developing the course, in step with their commitment to keeping pace with the evolving healthcare landscapes.

We are proud that this course includes Ultrasonography, with a special focus on the abdomen and obstetrics and gynaecological ultrasound. With practical experience, based on optical simulation, you'll be prepared to perform detailed and accurate ultrasound examinations in clinical practice. Due to the increasing demand for Sonographers, these additional skills will enhance your career prospects and allow you to make a substantial impact in patient care.

You'll have use of our bespoke imaging suite, established to support extensive hands on experience in small student groups. Our imaging suite consists of:

  • State of the art AI powered 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging scanner
  • Ceiling mounted digital X-ray machine
  • Stationary and portable ultrasound machine
  • Functional near infrared spectroscopy machine
  • Eye tracking device
  • A range of anthropometric body phantoms

The course is pending approval by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the College of Radiographers (CoR)

Course structure

Year 1

Our academic year is split into 2 semesters.

In your first year you will study:

  • 4 compulsory modules that are spread across semesters 1 and 2

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module has been designed for you to gain an understanding of a range of methods. These include:

  • Plain X-ray
  • Ultrasound
  • Fluoroscopy
  • Mammography (including breast tomosynthesis and elastography)
  • Computed Tomography
  • Radiation Protection

You'll gain expertise in the physics behind these methods, like the operation of imaging equipment, and the importance of patient and staff safety. As well as knowledge, you'll critically evaluate these key areas underlying each imaging method.

Credits: 40

Compulsory module

On this module, you'll investigate the relationship between human anatomy and pathophysiology and how they relate to radiological imaging. You'll learn to recognise normal anatomical structures, identify common pathologies, and apply this knowledge to radiographic imaging. This is where you will build a strong foundation in radiological anatomy and pathophysiology. With this, you'll be able to identify normal and abnormal findings on radiographic images, contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of patients, and maintain ethical and professional standards in your practice.

Credits: 40

Compulsory module

The aim of this module is to equip you with the knowledge and skills required to perform radiographic procedures safely and accurately, ensuring the highest quality of patient care. Upon completion of this module, you'll know how to:

  • Perform radiographic procedures with competence
  • Prioritise patient safety
  • Maintain ethical and professional standards of practice

You'll have the knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to healthcare teams and provide high quality patient care.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module is a work-based learning module. It provides the clinical practice learning experiences which are an essential part of the Diagnostic Radiography course. These experiences reflect your practice in general radiography with opportunities to explore alternative imaging methods.  

Year 2

In your second year you will study:

  • 1 compulsory module in semester 1
  • 2 compulsory modules in semester 2
  • 2 compulsory modules across semesters 1 and 2

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module covers two dimensional (2D), three dimensional (3D), and four dimensional (4D) imaging methods, including:

  • Plain radiography
  • Fluoroscopy
  • Ultrasound
  • Computed tomography (CT)
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Mammography

Within these methods, you'll explore:

  • Image formation
  • Pre- and post-processing
  • Visualization
  • Analysis
  • Enhancement
  • Common artefacts

You'll gain an in depth understanding of 2D, 3D, and 4D medical imaging processes. This will enable you to provide high quality diagnostic images across various imaging methods.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module, you'll develop the ability to critically evaluate, interpret and engage with scientific research papers effectively. Learn to identify the strengths and weaknesses of scientific articles and make informed decisions about the quality of research. You'll build a solid foundation for evidence based decision making. The aim of this module is for you to have confidence in conducting your own studies and critically assess and engage with scientific literature.

Credits: 40

Compulsory module

You'll focus on how to apply cross-sectional imaging techniques, These techniques include:

  • Computed Tomography (CT)
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Mammography
  • Interventional imaging procedures

You'll gain expertise in patient care, positioning, techniques, radiation safety, and the effective operation of specialized imaging equipment.

Upon completing this module, you'll be able to provide high quality patient care and maintain ethical and professional standards.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module focuses on how AI and MI are revolutionising diagnostic radiography, improving clinical workflow, image interpretation, and enhancing the radiographer's role in healthcare. You'll be introduced to the technological principles and applications of the following areas in imaging informatics. These include:

  • Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) systems
  • Radiology information systems
  • Voice recognition systems
  • Distribution of personal computers used for image deployment
  • Computer aided detection software
  • CD burners and scanners

You'll also explore the responsibilities for imaging informatics as a health professional. These include:

  • Designing networks
  • Managing databases
  • Acquiring and integrating technologies
  • Forecasting and monitor budgets
  • Developing training tools
  • Designing and maintaining quality assurance programmes

You'll also learn the fundamentals of AI and machine learning, explore their applications in medical imaging, and gain hands on experience with AI powered tools.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module is a work-based learning module. It provides the clinical practice learning experiences which are an essential part of the Diagnostic Radiography course. These practice experiences reflect your involvement and practice in specialised imaging procedures.

On this module, you'll apply your knowledge within a professional placement. Your learning scenarios will provide invaluable opportunities to understand the role of a Diagnostic Radiographer. In particular, you'll gain first hand experience in the fundamental practice of specialised imaging procedures. 

Year 3

In your third year you will study:

  • 2 compulsory modules in semester 1
  • 1 compulsory module in semester 2
  • 2 compulsory modules across semesters 1 and 2

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 40

Compulsory module

This module is your opportunity to investigate a specific topic of interest within radiography. You will conduct in-depth research to produce a dissertation. You will showcase your knowledge and investigation skills, combining such techniques as:

  • Primary research (for example, a survey, narrative research, case study) 
  • Secondary research (for example a literature review, critically appraised topic) 
  • Service evaluation 
  • Research proposal review 
  • Ethics and ethical submissions 

Your assessment will be split across a 5,000 word research article and a 15 minute verbal presentation, during which you will be required to defend the position you have reached through your research.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

Discover the procedures and skills surrounding abdominal ultrasound examinations. Your focus will be on the general anatomy and pathology of abdominal organs, including how to acquire and interpret ultrasound images of structures such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen. Understanding abdominal ultrasound is crucial for diagnosing various medical conditions, including liver disease, gallstones, pancreatic disorders, renal abnormalities, and abdominal masses. Mastery of this module will enable you to contribute significantly to patient care through accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module, you'll learn how to conduct ultrasound examinations related to female reproductive health and pregnancy. This modules covers foetal development, maternal anatomy, and common obstetric and gynaecological conditions.

You'll learn to evaluate the female reproductive system, including the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, for conditions such as fibroids, ovarian cysts, and infertility issues. From this, you'll discover how to measure foetal well-being, detect abnormalities, and monitor pregnancy progression. Proficiency in obstetrics and gynaecological ultrasound imaging will enable you to support women's health throughout various stages of life, from prenatal care to postmenopausal health. 

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module has been designed to prepare future radiographers to take on leadership roles, make informed decisions, and effectively manage resources within the healthcare and radiography context. You'll become equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in radiography leadership, management, and professional practice. 

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

Here is your opportunity further your knowledge in a professional setting, focusing on obstetrics and gynaecological ultrasound examinations. This means you'll be able to provide high quality patient care, maintain ethical and professional standards, and contribute effectively to healthcare teams in specialised imaging practice. 

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning

Your modules have been designed to future proof you as part of an emerging workforce. Through a combination of theory, practice and professional placement, you'll develop skills in:

  • Enquiry
  • Problem setting and problem solving
  • Research
  • Evaluation
  • Innovation
  • Entrepreneurial and management skills 

You will learn through different academic scenarios, including:

  • Lectures  
  • Seminars 
  • Individual and group tutorials  
  • Interactive workshops  
  • Visits and field trips
  • Guest speakers and visiting lecturers from service users, clinicians, service providers  

Assessment

Assessment types vary from module to module. Some of your assessments might include:

  • Portfolios
  • Presentations
  • Oral exams known as viva
  • Research or service evaluation proposals
  • Research articles
  • Service evaluation reports

There will also be other assessments that do not count towards your final grade but are an important part of developing your work. For each assessment you will have the chance to talk to a tutor about your work before submission. Each assessment will be marked and returned with feedback so you can improve your academic writing.

Placements

You will undertake professional placements at one of our partner organisations. These include:

  • York Hospital, York
  • Scarborough Hospital, Scarborough
  • Bridlington Hospital, Bridlington
  • Malton Community Hospital, Malton
  • The New Selby War Memorial Hospital, Selby
  • Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, Harrogate

Career outcomes

Your future with a degree in Diagnostic Radiography

This course will prepare you for a career as a Diagnostic Radiographer in a variety of professional settings. You will also develop diverse skills that can be used in a range of jobs. These include data collection and analysis, creative problem solving and communication skills.

This degree could be the first step toward your career as a:

  • Diagnostic Radiographer
  • Specialist Radiographer: CT Radiographer, MRI Radiographer, Ultrasound Practitioner, (Sonographer), Mammographer, Interventional Radiographer, Forensic Radiographer
  • Research Radiographer
  • PACS Administrator (managing Picture Archiving and Communication Systems in healthcare settings.
  • Application Specialist (providing training and support for imaging equipment and software for companies)
  • Medical Imaging Sales Representative (working with companies to market and sell imaging equipment or software)

Discover more career options on Prospects careers advice pages.

You could also progress onto a postgraduate degree and take your learning even further.

Whatever your ambitions, we can help you get there.

Our careers service, LaunchPad provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:

  • Employer events
  • LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
  • Workshops on application writing and interview skills
  • Work experience and volunteering opportunities
  • Personalised career advice

This support doesn't end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain experience and confidence to succeed. It's your career, your way.

Entry requirements

Qualifications

Minimum entry requirements

    120 UCAS Tariff points including a Science based subject

    3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language, Maths and Science

Calculate your UCAS Tariff points

The minimum entry requirements for this course are:

  • 3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language, Maths and Science

You also need 120 UCAS points from the following qualifications:

Qualification

Minimum Grade

A level (A2)

BBB (excluding General Studies)

BTEC Extended Diploma

Distinction, Distinction, Merit

International Baccalaureate

34 points

Access to Higher Education Diploma

45 credits at level 3

Previous study in Higher Education (HE)

Foundation Year that aligns with the with the learning outcomes for course

A combination of qualifications

120 UCAS points or higher

T Level

Merit in a Health and Science course

We do not accept Adult Numeracy or Key Skills instead of GCSE Maths. We do not accept Adult Literacy or Key Skills instead of GCSE English Language.

International students

If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.

Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.

If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 7.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.

International entry requirements

Additional requirements

For entry onto this course, you will also need:

  • A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
  • A satisfactory medical report

If you have previously been enrolled in a Diagnostic Radiography degree or any other health professional education course, you must submit a self declaration confirming that there are no previous fitness to practice concerns. This is a requirement of the College of Radiographers (CoR).

Interview

If we think your application is outstanding, we will invite you for an interview. We do not interview every applicant. Find out more about the Diagnostic Radiography interviews, what you will need and what you can expect on the day.

Terms and conditions

Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.

Fees and funding

To study for an undergraduate degree with us, you will need to pay tuition fees for your course. How much you pay depends on whether you live inside the UK, or internationally (outside the UK).

Tuition fees are reviewed annually and may be increased in line with inflation, prior to the start of each academic year, and subject to the fee cap set by the UK government. Such increases to fees will be at the Retail Price Index (RPI) forecast rate, as advised by the Office for Budget Responsibility and the Office for Students. The only exception to this would be where government legislation deems otherwise.

If a rise in the tuition fee becomes necessary, we will endeavour to inform you as soon as possible and we will explain the reason(s) for the increase. Any tuition fee increase will only be applied from the start of the next academic year and will not be applied 'in year'.

UK 2025 entry

The tuition fee for 2025 entry onto this course is:

  • £9,535 per year for full time study
  • £7,145 per year for the first 4 years if you study part time

These prices apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students

You can find out more about funding your degree by visiting our funding opportunities page:

Funding Opportunities

Placement year funding

If you choose to take a placement year, and your course offers it, you can apply for the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loan for your placement year. How much you are awarded is based on the type of placement being undertaken and whether it is a paid or unpaid placement. The tuition fee for your placement year will be reduced.

Tuition fees

    UK 2025 entry £9,535 per year full time

    International 2025 entry £14,700 per year full time

International 2025 entry

The tuition fee for 2025 entry to this course is £14,700 per year for full time study.

This price applies to all students living outside the UK.

Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a Student Visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.

Find out more about funding your degree:

International fees and funding

Additional costs and financial support

There may also be some additional costs to take into account throughout your studies, including the cost of accommodation.

Course-related costs

While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.

Study abroad

For more information on tuition fee reductions and additional costs for studying abroad, please visit our study abroad pages.

Accommodation and living costs

For detailed information on accommodation and living costs, visit our Accommodation pages.

Financial help and support

Our Funding Advice team are here to help you with your finances throughout your degree. They offer a personal service that can help you with funding your studies and budgeting for living expenses. 

For advice on everything from applying for scholarships to finding additional financial support email fundingadvice@yorksj.ac.uk.

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