Program Overview

Introduction to Diagnostic Radiography - BSc (Hons)

The Diagnostic Radiography course at Birmingham City University is a practice-based learning program that combines science, technology, patient care, and attention to detail. As a diagnostic radiographer, you will play a valuable role in a patient's pathway by providing imaging support for diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Course Overview

This course is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and accredited by the College of Radiographers (CoR). Upon successful completion of the course, you will be eligible to apply for registration with the HCPC as a diagnostic radiographer. The program is designed to provide a mixture of education in academic and clinical environments, with access to specialist teaching spaces, including a well-equipped x-ray suite, image viewing facilities, ward, and operating theatre.

What's Covered in This Course?

The course covers a range of topics, including:

• Human anatomy, physiology, and pathology
• Principles of radiation and imaging
• Patient care in the context of varying social and psychological needs
• Research evidence that forms the basis of current and emergent practices
• Application of research strategies to health and care practice

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the College of Radiographers (CoR) and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Why Choose Us?

• Our course is approved by the HCPC and accredited by the CoR.
• We are one of the largest centers for diagnostic radiography training in the UK, with strong links to NHS and private hospitals across the West Midlands.
• You will receive at least Ł5,000 a year in funding support as part of the NHS Learning Support Fund.
• You will have the opportunity to apply for a scholarship for exciting work experience placements abroad via our Go Abroad scheme.

Entry Requirements

Essential Requirements

• Standard offer: 120 UCAS Tariff points
• Accelerate offer: 104 UCAS Tariff points
• Applicants will also need to complete an interview for this course
• GCSE English Language or English Literature and GCSE Maths at grade C/4 or above

Qualification Requirements

• A Level: 120 UCAS Tariff points from three A Levels, with grades BBB (or equivalent)
• Pearson BTEC (Diploma / Extended Diploma/ Extended Certificate): 120 UCAS Tariff points
• T Level: Merit overall, with accepted subjects in Science
• Access to HE Diploma: Pass with 60 credits, with at least 45 credits at level 3 with 30 credits at Merit or Distinction
• OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications: 120 UCAS Tariff points, with accepted subjects in Science
• Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers): Minimum of 120 UCAS Tariff points, achieved in five Higher level subjects
• Scottish Higher / Advanced Higher: 120 UCAS Tariff points from three Advanced Highers (CCC) or two Advanced Highers (CC) plus two Highers (CC)
• Welsh Baccalaureate: 120 UCAS Tariff points, considered with two A Levels or equivalent level 3 qualifications

Fees and Funding

UK Students

• Annual tuition fee: Ł9,790 in 2026/27
• Part-time fees: Ł1,632 per 20 credits
• Funding support: At least Ł5,000 a year in funding support as part of the NHS Learning Support Fund

Course Structure

The course is designed to integrate theory and practice using a modular approach, with alternating blocks of academic study and clinical practice across all three years.

Year One

• Academic Skills and Knowledge (20 credits)
• Principles of Radiation Production and Protection (20 credits)
• The Chest, Abdomen and Pelvis (20 credits)
• Principles of Conventional Radiography (20 credits)
• The Appendicular Skeleton (20 credits)
• Introduction to Care and Professional Practice (20 credits)
• Clinical Placement in Diagnostic Radiography 1 (0 credits)

Year Two

• Considerations for Professional Practice (20 credits)
• The Axial Skeleton (20 credits)
• Radiographic Technologies and Imaging Principles (40 credits)
• Systems of the Body (20 credits)
• Further Academic Skills and Knowledge - Preparing for Research (20 credits)
• Clinical Placement in Diagnostic Radiography 2 (0 credits)

Year Three

• Advanced Academic Skills and Knowledge Research (40 credits)
• Adaptive Radiography and Advancing Technologies (40 credits)
• Preparation for Professional Practice (20 credits)
• Critical Thinking in Practice (20 credits)
• Clinical Placement in Diagnostic Radiography 3 (0 credits)

Clinical Practice

Clinical experience is gained through attending an allocated clinical placement rotation, with opportunities to develop clinical and care skills, radiographic technique, and professional aspects of practice.

Assessment

Assessment methods include examinations, assignments, presentations, case studies, in-person OSCE/VIVAs, and clinical assessments of competence.

Employability

Our graduates secure employment as diagnostic radiographers, with opportunities to specialize and develop skills in differing areas of practice.

Facilities and Staff

We have invested over Ł500 million in our facilities, including an upgrade to our Skills and Simulation facilities at City South Campus. Our staff are experienced professionals in the field of diagnostic radiography, with a passion for teaching and learning.