Radiographer

Career path and progression

With experience, you could become a sonography specialist, radiography team leader or consultant practitioner.

You could also take further qualifications to specialise in:

• counselling and palliative care
• the use of certain techniques or equipment
• working with specific groups of patients
• research and teaching

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of medicine and medical procedures
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of biology
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• active listening skills
• concentration skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Physics - Radiographers work with X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, and other imaging technologies that are all based on physics principles like radiation, sound waves, and magnetic fields. Understanding how these forms of energy interact with the human body is essential for producing clear, accurate images and delivering safe treatments.
• Biology - Radiographers need a thorough understanding of human anatomy and physiology to know exactly where to position patients and how to interpret the images they produce. This knowledge is also crucial for therapeutic radiographers who plan radiation treatments targeting specific areas of the body.
• Mathematics - Radiographers calculate radiation doses, exposure times, and treatment plans that must be precise to protect patients and staff. They also use mathematical skills when interpreting measurements from scans and ensuring imaging equipment is calibrated correctly.

Also relevant

• Chemistry - Radiographers sometimes work with contrast agents and radioactive substances used to make certain body structures show up more clearly on scans. Understanding how these chemicals behave in the body and how radiation interacts with matter at a molecular level supports safe and effective practice.
• Psychology - Radiographers work with patients who may be anxious, in pain, or receiving difficult diagnoses, so understanding human behaviour and emotions is important. Therapeutic radiographers in particular support patients through long courses of cancer treatment, where empathy and communication skills really matter.
• Computer Science - Radiographers use sophisticated digital imaging systems, picture archiving software, and treatment planning technology on a daily basis. Understanding how these systems process and store data helps them troubleshoot issues and get the most out of the technology they rely on.
• Design and Technology - Radiographers operate complex equipment and need to understand how imaging and treatment machines are designed and function. Practical problem-solving skills – such as positioning patients correctly using specialist accessories and adapting setups for different procedures – are part of everyday work.
• English Language - Radiographers write clear, accurate reports on their findings and communicate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. They also need to explain procedures to patients in a way that is reassuring and easy to understand, especially when people are worried about their health.