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MSc diagnostic radiography

For those who are currently or have done this course what are your opinions? Is it worth it or should i try to go through an apprenticeship programme to become a radiographer. Also what work experience is needed ?

Reply 1

ali302

Reply 2

normaw

Volunteer Section Leader, Clearing and Applications Advisor

Original post by ali302

It's worth it if you want to be guaranteed a job at the end of it. I presume you mean a pre-reg masters which is essentially a two-year version of the three-year undergraduate course? If so, once you qualify you'll be able to apply for band 5 jobs in the NHS.

To apply you would need some public-facing work/volunteering experience (care sector would be ideal but even bar/restaurant work is fine) to show that you can communicate with the general public. You should also apply to your local hospital for a day's shadowing experience in the radiography department so that you understand what the job involves.

Apprenticeships are hard to come by but you would be paid while training. If it is a pre-reg masters, then (with SFE) you should be eligible for undergraduate funding so you would get both tuition fee and maintenance loans. If you study a course at a uni in England, then you would be eligible for the annual training grant of £6k per year through the NHS Learning Support Fund:

https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/nhs-learning-support-fund-lsf

Reply 3

mackers_ire

Currently in the 1st year of this course. It is VERY intense in the 1st semester, with a new anatomical region being studied every week, e g. Upper limb, lower limb, pelvis, etc. We've been essentially told that we are covering in the 1st semester what would only be covered by the 2nd year of the BSc. But with the various bits of funding you take home about £17k a year, which is more than you would likely get from an apprentice salary after tax and national insurance, and you are not tied to a specific employer for several years after qualification (unlike an apprentice).

The other advantage is that some unis do placement as a single block only in summer, with the rest of the year following a normal academic calendar (so you're not trying to work on assignments whilst doing placement).

Be aware that these views are specific to my uni, and others may vary in their structure.

UNI PROS: not tied to a specific employer; take home same or more than an apprentice; often only 2 years rather than 3-4 for most apprenticeships; closer to a traditional student experience.

Apprentice PROS: guaranteed job with that employer; very familiar with that department and their equipment; no travelling elsewhere for placements at different providers.