Diagnostic Radiography BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

The University of Derby's BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography program is a three-year, HCPC-accredited degree designed to equip students with the professional skills, practical experience, and technological know-how necessary for a career as a diagnostic radiographer. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and extensive clinical placements, graduates are prepared for registration as diagnostic radiographers and have excellent employment prospects in a field with a significant shortage of professionals.

Program Outline

Diagnostic Radiography BSc (Hons) - University of Derby

Degree Overview:

This program is a 3-year full-time BSc (Hons) degree designed to prepare students for a career as a diagnostic radiographer. The course is accredited by the College of Radiographers and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), making graduates eligible to register as diagnostic radiographers upon completion. The program aims to equip students with the professional skills, practical experience, and technological know-how necessary for success in the field.

Objectives:

• Develop professional skills, practical experience, and technological know-how.
• Prepare students for registration with the HCPC as a diagnostic radiographer.
• Build technical and interpersonal skills through clinical placements.
• Gain hands-on experience in a purpose-built diagnostic imaging suite and an immersive simulation environment.
• Provide an inspiring learning experience delivered by qualified health professionals.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Anatomy and Physiology 1: This module covers the foundations of structural, functional, and cross-sectional human anatomy.
Students will explore anatomical systems like the cardiovascular, lymphatic, endocrine, urinary, and gastrointestinal systems. The module also includes an exploration of the gross anatomy of the brain, preparing students for more detailed study in later years.
• Developing Professional Practice 1: This module focuses on developing professional skills and understanding the role of a radiographer within the healthcare system.

Year 2:

• Principles of Radiographic Imaging 2: This module builds upon the knowledge gained in Year 1, exploring advanced imaging techniques and their applications.

Individual Modules:

• Anatomy and Physiology 1: This module covers the foundations of structural, functional, and cross-sectional human anatomy.
Students will explore anatomical systems like the cardiovascular, lymphatic, endocrine, urinary, and gastrointestinal systems. The module also includes an exploration of the gross anatomy of the brain, preparing students for more detailed study in later years.
• Developing Professional Practice 1: This module focuses on developing professional skills and understanding the role of a radiographer within the healthcare system.
• Principles of Radiographic Imaging 2: This module builds upon the knowledge gained in Year 1, exploring advanced imaging techniques and their applications.

Assessment:

• Exams: Exams are used to assess students' understanding of theoretical concepts.
• Assignments: Assignments are designed to assess students' ability to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Presentations: Presentations allow students to demonstrate their communication skills and ability to present complex information clearly.
• Clinical Placements: Students are assessed on their clinical skills and professional conduct during their placements by qualified radiographers.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, group activities, practical work, seminars, and simulations.
• Faculty: The teaching team consists of qualified health professionals with experience in clinical or community settings.
Many hold external roles with hospitals, the College of Radiographers, the Health and Care Professions Council, and other universities.
• Unique Approaches: The program incorporates an instructional e-learning resource of radiographic techniques, allowing students to practice positioning skills outside the classroom.
The program also utilizes electronic clinical portfolios to help students reflect on their clinical experience and prepare for continuing professional development.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates are eligible to register with the HCPC as diagnostic radiographers and can pursue careers in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and research institutions.
• Opportunities: There is a significant shortage of radiographers in the UK, leading to excellent career prospects for graduates.
• Outcomes: The program has a high employability rate, with 95% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months of completing the course.

Other:

• Clinical Placements: Clinical placements are an integral part of the program, making up roughly 50% of the curriculum.
Students are allocated to placements primarily in the East Midlands.
• Partnerships: The University has strong links with employers across the health and social care sector, providing students with opportunities to attend guest lectures by leading professionals.
• Flexibility and Choice: Students can tailor their degree to match their specialist interests and career plans through a three-week elective placement in Year 3.
• Support: Students receive personal academic tutoring to help them get the most out of their studies and achieve their academic and professional goals.

• UK Fees - £9,250 per year (2024/25)
• International Fees - £14,900 per year (2024/25)