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Diagnostic Radiography (Degree Apprenticeship) BSc(Hons)

2026-27

How to apply

Note: Prospective apprentices must consult with their employers to initiate the application.

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Overview

This apprenticeship course provides learners the opportunity to study on the Diagnostic Radiography Degree Apprenticeship BSc(Hons) whilst being employed by and working in an NHS Trust. The apprenticeship programme is designed to help you become a competent, confident and autonomous practitioner with the knowledge and skills to pursue a successful diagnostic radiography career. Learning from experienced radiographers and gaining real-world experience in a variety of healthcare settings, you’ll provide crucial healthcare services to millions of people

In line with the apprenticeship model, the course is designed to support a training in practice approach. You will already be recruited by an NHS Trust and be employed by them for the duration of your apprenticeship. They will sponsor you throughout the course and enable you to transfer your learning to your job role. You'll spend the majority of your contracted hours working for your NHS employer, and in the remainder of your contracted hours you'll be supported to attend the Diagnostic Radiography Degree Apprenticeship BSc(Hons) course, learning alongside traditional route BSc(Hons) diagnostic radiography students.

You'll participate in theory-based modules and practice-based modules which will include clinical practice placements. You'll apply your new knowledge, skills and behaviours within the clinical practice placements, progressively taking more responsibility for contributing to and leading in the care of patients during screening, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of illnesses or injuries.

If you’re thinking of studying an apprenticeship course or are an employer looking for an apprenticeship for your employees, you’ll also find useful information on our Degree Apprenticeship webpages.

Why study Diagnostic Radiography (Degree Apprenticeship) BSc(Hons)

Radiographers in the UK work under regulation of the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and after successfully completing this course you would be eligible to apply to join the HCPC register and work as a Diagnostic Radiographer.

The team of experienced radiographers, and other staff across our National Health Innovation Campus, will support you to reach the high-level of professional aptitude modern interdisciplinary clinical settings require. The campus’ new Emily Siddon building’s imaging and simulator suites will enable you to develop the technical expertise to operate diagnostic systems safely. Throughout your study, your vital communication, care, and teamworking skills will benefit from regular encounters with service users, carers, in-practice professionals, and other health students.

Our excellent links with local healthcare providers (private and NHS) - including a co-located community diagnostic centre provides placement opportunities for you to practically reinforce what you learn.

The University of Huddersfield has the highest Apprenticeship Qualification Achievement Rate (QAR) among Higher Education Institutions in England.*

Our 2023/24 QAR was 87.6% and coupled with our Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rating displays the excellent learning experience for apprentices and their employers at the University of Huddersfield.

*Excludes providers with fewer than 100 apprentices.

Entry requirements

ABB-BBB at A Level including a relevant science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Human Biology or Applied Science) and excluding General Studies. If you are studying Science A Level, the endorsement for practical work is essential and a requirement for entry to our degree course.

128-120 UCAS tariff points from a combination of Level 3 qualifications, excluding General Studies, and including one of the following: A Level Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Human Biology or Applied Science, BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/National Extended Certificate/Diploma in Applied Science, Applied Human Biology, Medical Science or Biomedical Science or a Level 3 Applied Diploma in Medical Science. If you are studying Science A Level, the endorsement for practical work is essential and a requirement for entry to our degree course.

Merit in T Level . Health or Healthcare Science.

DDM in BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma. in Applied Science, Medical Science or Biomedical Science.

  • Access to Higher Education Diploma with at least 45 level 3 credits at Merit or above, 30 of which must be passed at Distinction, including at least 15 at Distinction in a relevant Science.
  • 128-120 UCAS tariff points from International Baccalaureate qualifications including a relevant science at Higher Level at grade 6.

In addition you will:

  • Be at least 18 years old to work with radiation in a healthcare setting in the UK, individuals need to be at least 18 years old at the start of the course. This is due to legal and safety considerations related to radiation exposure.
  • Be employed in a Diagnostic Radiography setting and supported by your employer to undertake the course.
  • Be employed in a role relevant to your apprenticeship at least 30 hours per week in England (and have at least 50% of your working hours in England).
  • Have lived in the EEA for the past 3 years and currently reside in the United Kingdom.
  • Be paid more than the Apprenticeship National Minimal Wage.
  • Have an understanding of the Diagnostic Radiography profession.
  • Have GCSE English Language or Literature and Maths at grade 4 or above, or grade C if awarded under the previous GCSE grading scheme, or Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English.
  • Be ‘eligible’ as outlined in ESFA’s Funding Rules.

You will need to complete a Rehabilitation of Offenders form and have a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and occupational health clearances. We arrange these as part of the application process. You will be required to sign a self-declaration at the start of each year and at the end of the course. All police contact during the course must be reported to the course leader as a matter of urgency and may lead to suspension or termination. We will request an Overseas Police Check if you have lived in a country outside of the UK for 6 months or more (whether continuously or in total) in the last 10 years before applying to us and whilst aged 18 or over.

You will also be required to complete an Initial Needs Assessment.

Offers will be subject to an interview and references. Please note all the information provided in support of your application may be checked and must be verifiable as a true record.

If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum requirements of an English Language qualification. The minimum of IELTS 7.0 overall with no element lower than 6.5, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our International Entry Requirements page. If you have alternative qualifications or do not meet the IELTS requirement we also offer a range of Pre-Sessional English Programmes.

Applications are reviewed on merit and other suitable experience and qualifications will be considered. For further information please see the University's minimum entry requirements.

Course Detail

Anatomy, Physiology and Pathologies 1

This module provides basic knowledge and principles related to the anatomy and physiology of the human body in the context of radiographic practice. You’ll have the opportunity to develop an understanding of a range of essential concepts related to normal/abnormal anatomy and physiology that underpin radiographic practice. You'll be introduced to the structure and function of the systems within the human body to support in relevant clinical practice, as well as explore common pathologies linked directly to your level of clinical practice.

Imaging of the Thorax and Abdomen

This module provides the opportunity to gain knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the thorax and abdomen, as well as develop your image interpretation skills via practical sessions, simulations and group-work. You will gain more detailed knowledge of pathologies of the thorax and abdomen, a basic understanding of cross-sectional anatomy of the thorax and abdomen in preparation for progression into Year 2 and rotations into cross-sectional imaging modalities.

Introduction to Imaging Science and Technology

In this module you'll be introduced to the fundamental sciences used in Diagnostic Radiography including the physics of radiation, management and radiation protection of an individual being exposed. You'll also study current UK legislation for the use of ionising radiation.

Preparation for Radiographic Practice

This module provides you with the opportunity to develop an understanding of the role of the Diagnostic Radiographer. The focus will be on patient-centred care, professionalism and communication skills whilst also being introduced to basic radiographic techniques and imaging equipment required to carry out radiographic examinations of the appendicular skeleton and chest. You'll also explore preparation and justification of exposures in a practical setting.

Professional Development and Research 1

This module involves a multidisciplinary team-based learning approach, where you'll work with occupational therapy, physiotherapy, podiatry students and speech and language therapy students. It will introduce you to the role of research and evidence-based practice exploring different research methodologies and the concept of ethics within healthcare research. You'll have the opportunity to develop transferable skills in literature searching using electronic databases, academic writing and referencing. You'll also explore lifelong learning, reflective practice and continuing professional development that underpins the essential skills needed to understand registration requirements for your specific professional and regulatory body.

Radiographic Practice-Based Learning 1

Through this Practice-Based Learning module you’ll have the opportunity to work in a clinical setting. You'll complete and be assessed on placement hours demonstrating evidence-based radiographic techniques, anatomical knowledge and value-based care. This will involve working as part of the multidisciplinary team under the direct supervision of qualified clinicians.

Anatomy, Physiology and Pathologies 2

In this module you'll have the opportunity to build on the knowledge and principles of anatomy and physiology gained in Year 1. You'll expand this knowledge by learning about the axial skeleton, cross-sectional and foetal anatomy. You'll also build on existing knowledge and understanding of body systems, and normal/abnormal anatomy and physiology that underpin radiographic practice. You'll also be introduced to pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to support in clinical practice.

Developing Imaging Science and Technology

In this module you'll have the opportunity to build on the theory from Year 1 and expand your knowledge by learning about the science and technology of different types of imaging equipment, such as, Computed Tomography (CT) including an introduction to PET scanning, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Ultrasound (U/S), Fluoroscopy, Dual Energy Absorbimetry (DEXA) and Intervention. You'll learn about the safe operation of the different imaging technologies along with the Quality Assurance (QA) processes used in imaging departments in order to ensure service-user safety.

Radiographic Image Interpretation and Preliminary Clinical Evaluation

This module helps you to further develop your pattern recognition skills by applying anatomy, physiology and pathology knowledge to image interpretation for a range of examinations. You'll utilise the University's Picture, Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) lab to facilitate the image interpretation sessions. You'll also be introduced to the role of the reporting radiographer, participate in reporting sessions and develop the discussions related to imaging and the radiographic findings. These skills will help you develop to your knowledge and understanding of this role and how it supports advanced practice and contributes to patient-centred care.

Radiographic Practice-Based Learning 2

Through this clinical placement module you'll have the opportunity to expand your scope of practice and demonstrate your radiographic techniques, the adaptation of radiographic technique, anatomical knowledge and patient care skills. This will involve working as part of the multidisciplinary team under the direct supervision of qualified clinical staff. Along with reinforcing your general radiography skills you'll also gain experience of other imaging modalities.

Research 2

This module provides the opportunity to build on your knowledge of research from Year 1 and prepares you to undertake an area of research in Year 3. You’ll explore data collection and analysis in relation to methods which are currently used in research and evaluation of practice.

Advancing Imaging Science and Technology

This module builds on the theory from Year 1 and 2, helping you to gain a deeper understanding of new imaging technology, the changing role of the radiographer and how that supports the diagnosis of patients. The learner will develop their knowledge on PET scanning and the function of Radionuclide Imaging, Coned Beam CT and the use of hybrid imaging techniques and their safe use in a clinical practice.

Advancing Radiographic Practice and Image Interpretation

This module will support you by advancing your knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology by reviewing and discussing more complex imaging from clinical practice. You'll continue to technically assess images and apply your pattern recognition skills to support a clinical diagnosis for multiple imaging modalities in preparation for employment. You'll also learn about advanced practice within diagnostic radiography and the associated responsibilities. This module aims to support you in your transition from student or apprentice radiographer to a HCPC-registered Diagnostic Radiographer. You'll have the opportunity to practice a range of radiographic techniques, adaptation of techniques and prepare for the use of different imaging equipment. You will also gain a basic awareness of the principles of forensic imaging in diagnostic radiography. You'll undertake critical reflective practice and explore different career development opportunities prior to graduation, including current models of leadership within the NHS and peer support for other students.

Enterprise, Employability and Leadership

In this module you'll gain an understanding of how health and social care is influenced, shaped and provided in the UK. You'll explore how leadership at all levels of an organisation is key to transforming and providing quality person-centred care. This module will help you to prepare for future employment and your career progression. It aims to equip you with the skills and mindset necessary for sustained growth, adaptability and leadership throughout your career.

Radiographic Practice-Based Learning 3

Through this final practice-based learning module you'll have the opportunity to build on and expand your scope of practice and demonstrate your radiographic techniques, the adaptation of radiographic technique, anatomical knowledge and patient care skills. It will help you gain the skills and knowledge to be able to perform basic CT and MRI examinations whilst also having been involved in other imaging modalities such as Ultrasound and Intervention. These skills will prepare you for your clinical practice as a qualified Diagnostic Radiographer.

Research 3

This is a multidisciplinary module which follows on from Research 2. You'll undertake a small-scale research project related to an interdisciplinary research environment. You’ll work in a multi-professional group, with other health professional students on a defined topic area with a named supervisor. You’ll also be involved in data collection. Your research proposals will be subject to the necessary ethical approvals within the University.

Plus, an End Point Assessment

This is a new course. Contact time and independent study percentage information is being calculated. In the meantime, please email study@hud.ac.uk if you have any questions.

An average of approximately** 20% of your employment time will be spent engaging in off-the-job learning which comprises a combination of activities including seminars, group work, practical experience, lectures, staff or student lead tutorials, case-based tutorials, virtual learning, role play, clinical practice, reflection and placement, as well as the University’s virtual learning environment. Where possible, patients with a history of variety of conditions will support your learning by sharing their experiences.  The remainder of your time will be spent in employment applying your learning to your job.  You’ll be supported throughout your studies by your module tutors and personal academic tutors who will also liaise with your employer at regular, pre-agreed intervals in line with current apprenticeship funding rules and guidance. Assessments take place through a variety of coursework, practice/competency-based learning and examination, in the form of written assignments, presentations, observed assessment of practical skills (OSCE), multiple choice assessments and peer evaluation. Your module specification/course handbook will provide full details of the assessment criteria applying to your course.  You will also complete an end-point assessment at the end of your apprenticeship which will comprise of a demonstration of professional practice and a 90 minute professional discussion.

**Based on current core and compulsory modules. 

Calculated using data from the academic year 2024/25, as of November 2024.

Teaching

The teaching year for most courses normally starts in September with breaks at Christmas and Easter, finishing with a main examination/assessment period around May/June. Teaching on other courses including professional courses, postgraduate taught, research, distance learning and apprenticeship may have other start dates including January and May. All start dates can be found on each course page and term dates are also available. Students on a full-time course may have to attend every day of the week. Students who choose to study a full-time course on a part-time basis will generally attend modules at the same time as our full-time students. Timetables are normally available one month before registration.

Our courses are taught at our University campus and you can expect that your lectures and seminars will be held face to face, except in cases of emergency or if specifically stated otherwise in the module description.

Feedback

Feedback (usually written) is normally provided on all coursework submissions within three term time weeks – unless the submission was made towards the end of the session in which case feedback would be available on request after the formal publication of results. Feedback on exam performance/final coursework is available on request after the publication of results.

Progression

You may progress to the next stage of your course or research degree, subject to meeting University assessment criteria and professional, statutory or regulatory body guidelines.

  1. The University of Huddersfield has been rated Gold in all three aspects of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023. We were the only university in Yorkshire and the Humber and the North West to achieve Gold ratings in all three aspects of the TEF among those announced in September 2023. In fact only 13 Universities, out of the 96 that were announced in September 2023, were Gold in all three ratings.

  2. Our teaching staff rank first in England for the proportion with higher degrees and teaching qualifications, as well as being top five for those holding doctorates (HESA 2025). So you’ll learn from some of the best, helping you to be the best.

  3. We are joint first in the country for National Teaching Fellowships, which mark the UK’s best lecturers in Higher Education, winning a total of 23 since 2008 (2024 data).

  4. We won the first Global Teaching Excellence Award, recognising the University’s commitment to world-class teaching and its success in developing students as independent learners and critical thinkers (Higher Education Academy, 2017).

At Huddersfield, you'll study the Global Professional Award (GPA) alongside your degree* so that you gain valuable qualities and experiences that could help you to get the career you want, no matter what your field of study is. On completion of the Award, you'll receive a GPA certificate from the University of Huddersfield, alongside the specialist subject skills and knowledge you gain as part of your degree, which may help to set you apart from other graduates.

Giving students access to the Global Professional Award is one of the reasons the University won ‘Best University Employability Strategy’ award at the National Graduate Recruitment Awards 2021. Find out more on the Global Professional Award webpage.

*full-time, undergraduate first degrees with a minimum duration of three years. This does not include postgraduate, foundation, top-up, accelerated or apprenticeship degrees.

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Important information

When you enrol as an apprentice learner of the University, your study and time with us will be governed by a framework of regulations, policies and procedures, which form the basis of your agreement with us. These include regulations regarding the assessment of your course, academic integrity, your conduct (including attendance) and our disciplinary procedure. It is important that you familiarise yourself with these as you'll be asked to agree to them when you join us as an apprentice. You'll find a guide to the key terms here, along with the [hud.ac/fw3) where you'll also find links to the full text of each of the regulations, policies and procedures referred to.

Although we always try and ensure we deliver our courses as described, sometimes we may have to make changes for the following reasons:

Changes to a course you have applied for but not yet started

If we propose to make a major change to an apprenticeship course that you have applied for, then we will tell you and your employer as soon as possible so that you can decide whether to withdraw your application prior to enrolment.

Although we always try and run all the courses we offer, we may occasionally have to withdraw a course you have applied for or delay your course start date if we consider this reasonably necessary, for example if there are not enough applicants to ensure you have a good learning experience. Where this is the case we will notify you and your employer as soon as reasonably possible. In such instances, we will work with you and your employer to agree a deferred start date, or cancel your application and, if appropriate, provide information regarding other local apprenticeship providers.

Changes to your course after you enrol as an apprentice

We will only make major changes to the core curriculum of a course or to our services if it is necessary for us to do so and provided such changes are reasonable. A major change is a change that materially changes the services available to you, or the outcomes, or a significant part, of your course, such as the nature of the award or a substantial change to module content, teaching days, classes, type of delivery or assessment of the core curriculum.

For example, it may be necessary to make a major change to reflect changes in the law or the requirements of the University’s regulators; to meet the requirements of an updated version of the apprenticeship standard relevant to your course; to meet the latest requirements of a commissioning or accrediting body; to improve the quality of educational provision; in response to student, examiners’ or other course evaluators’ feedback; and/or to reflect academic or professional changes within subject areas. Major changes may also be necessary because of circumstances outside our reasonable control, such as damage or interruption to buildings, facilities or equipment.

In exceptional circumstances, we may, for reasons outside of our control, be forced to discontinue or suspend your course. Where this is the case, a formal exit strategy will be followed and we will notify you and your employer as soon as possible about what your options are, which may include being provided with individual teaching to complete the award for which you were registered or claiming an interim award and exiting the University.

If a major change affects your course, we will notify you and your employer as soon as possible and will carry out suitable consultation with affected apprentices. If you and your employer reasonably believe that the proposed change will cause you detriment we will work with both of you to try to find an appropriate solution. Where one cannot be found we will provide reasonable support to assist you with transferring your remaining apprenticeship learning to another training provider if you and your employer wish to do so.

Termination of employment

As your employer is funding your apprenticeship course, you must remain in relevant employment for the duration of the course until you have completed your end point assessment. Under the apprenticeship rules, if you are made redundant and you have completed 75% of the practical period or have less than 6 months left, then you may complete the course. Otherwise, unless you find alternative relevant employment within 12 weeks of the date you are made redundant, then you'll be withdrawn from the course.

The Office for Students (OfS) is the principal regulator for the University. The ESFA is the principal regulator for your apprenticeship course.