Program Overview

Introduction to the Higher/Degree Apprenticeship Diagnostic Radiographer Program

The Higher/Degree Apprenticeship Diagnostic Radiographer program is designed to equip students with the clinical skills necessary to practice as qualified diagnostic radiographers. This program is approved by the College of Radiographers (COR) and is typically completed over a period of three years.

About the Program

The program focuses on providing students with a broad knowledge base, including patient care and management, anatomy, physiology, professional practice, and digital technology. Students will develop the skills required to produce and interpret diagnostic images, using specialist imaging equipment to diagnose surgical, medical, or vascular conditions, cancer, and complex injuries.

Why Study for a Diagnostic Radiographer Apprenticeship?

Diagnostic radiographers play a critical role in the healthcare system, particularly during the initial diagnostic assessment of patients. They are responsible for obtaining and examining images of patients' bodies to aid in the diagnosis process. Due to the specialist expertise required and the pressures on healthcare services, diagnostic radiographers are in high demand.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet specific entry requirements, including:

• Tariff points: 120
• GCSE: Grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics or equivalent
• A-level subjects: Grade C in a Science subject
• Relevant subjects: Biology, Applied Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Health and Social Care, Mathematics, Physical Education, Physics, Psychology, Applied Science, Science (Biology route), Science (Chemistry route), Science (Physics route), Science in Society, Sociology, Sport and Physical Education, Sports Studies
• EDEXCEL (BTEC) Diploma: Minimum of five units in a Science subject
• Access: 15 Level 3 credits at Merit in a Science subject
• Baccalaureate IB: Minimum Grade 5 in a Higher Level Science subject
• Irish Highers: H2 in a Science subject
• T Levels: Science

Applicants must also be employed in a role relevant to the skill, trade, or occupation they are being trained for, with a commitment to complete at least six hours per week of off-the-job learning activity within their normal contracted working hours, supported by their employer.

Structure

The program integrates practical experience and clinical practice with underpinning theory. Students will be assessed through exams, presentations, patient examinations, and coursework.

Content

The program covers a range of topics, including:

• Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Physiology (Diagnostic Imaging Practice)
• Foundation of Imaging Science and Technology
• Fundamentals of Radiographic Imaging Technique
• Patient Care, Fundamentals of Diagnostic Imaging in the Clinical Context
• Radiographic Imaging Practice 1

In the second year, students will study:

• Professional Behaviour and Health Psychology
• Informing Practice through Research and Inquiry (Diagnostic Imaging Practice)
• Applications of Diagnostic Imaging Equipment
• Health Psychology and Wellbeing for Radiographers
• Intermediate Imaging Theory
• Radiographic Imaging Practice 2

In the final year, the focus will be on:

• Healthy Futures
• Research and Evidence in Practice (Diagnostic Imaging Practice)
• Professional Development and Employability
• Radiographic imaging Practice 3
• Skills for Informing Radiography Practice

Learning and Teaching

The program is delivered through a mixture of online distance learning and assessed placement activity. Students will spend one day per week undertaking online distance learning and complete two days a week working in their current role, applying their learning in practice. The rest of their time will be spent on assessed placement activity in clinical settings within their own workplace.

Features

The program leads to a BSc(Hons) Diagnostic Radiography degree and is approved by the College of Radiographers (COR). Upon completion, students will be eligible to apply for registration by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which is required to practice as a registered Diagnostic Radiographer.

Careers

Throughout the program, students will gain a deep understanding of the science underpinning effective diagnosis, applied to a range of clinical settings in their workplace. They will train as confident, autonomous radiographers, offering strong clinical skills and strong interpersonal skills. The program prepares students for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and lifelong learning opportunities, including the potential to develop their specialism further by studying a Master's degree in a dedicated field.

Conclusion

The Higher/Degree Apprenticeship Diagnostic Radiographer program at UWE Bristol is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to practice as qualified diagnostic radiographers. With its strong focus on clinical practice, underpinned by theoretical knowledge, this program is ideal for those seeking a career in this demanding yet rewarding field.