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Medical (diagnostic) radiographers operate x-ray machines, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and other imaging devices for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, assist in the diagnosis of injuries and diseases and are involved in intervention procedures such as the removal of kidney stones. They operate under the supervision of senior staff. Therapeutic radiographers specialise in the planning and administration of radiotherapy treatment for patients with cancer.

Main tasks

  • Carries out post-treatment reviews and follow-ups.
  • Explains treatment to patient and management of any side effects.
  • Calculates radiation dosage and maps volume to be treated.
  • Plans course of treatment with clinical oncologists and physicists.
  • Maintains records of all radiographic/therapeutic work undertaken.
  • Positions patient and operates x-ray, scanning or fluoroscopic equipment.
  • Decides length and intensity of exposure or strength of dosage of isotope.
  • Verifies identity of patient and ensures that necessary preparations have been made for the examination/treatment.
  • Assesses patients and interprets clinical requirements to determine appropriate radiographic treatments.
  • Uses a range of imaging devices for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£50,735.27

Average earnings

£34,204.00

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Customer and Personal Service

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Medicine and Dentistry

Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.

Computers and Electronics

Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Psychology

Knowledge of human behaviour and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioural and affective disorders.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 3 3%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 10%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 66%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 21%
Level 8 (Doctorate) 0%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.