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Official Diagnostic Radiography Applicants Thread 2025

If you're applying to uni for Diagnostic Radiography for 2025 entry, this is the place to introduce yourself to fellow applicants, ask questions and share your experience of applying so far:

Undergraduate or post graduate course?
Which universities are you hoping to apply for?
Work/shadowing experience?
Anything else?

Share as little or as much as you are comfortable with.

Please don't share details of interview questions on the forum - it gives those who follow you an unfair advantage.

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(edited 12 months ago)

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Reply 1

Hello everyone.
I'm currently in the middle of my Access to Radiography course (brain surgery slowed me down. Oops!) and am aiming for 2025 entry in Diagnostic Radiography. Looking at Plymouth or Exeter and currently unsure whether to go for the DR with Ultrasound or not!
I'm a rather mature student, at 42 currently (eek) and have been working at the local hospital as a Senior HCA on a surgical ward for years. So, I know the workings of the hospital, have met many radiographers (poor sods!), know the NHS values, I have fab patient care and work with varying professionals. So, that's something. Right?! Just need to arrange some actual shadowing time.

Reply 2

Ps Please excuse the seriously unimaginative username 😂
Original post
by Rad25
Hello everyone.
I'm currently in the middle of my Access to Radiography course (brain surgery slowed me down. Oops!) and am aiming for 2025 entry in Diagnostic Radiography. Looking at Plymouth or Exeter and currently unsure whether to go for the DR with Ultrasound or not!
I'm a rather mature student, at 42 currently (eek) and have been working at the local hospital as a Senior HCA on a surgical ward for years. So, I know the workings of the hospital, have met many radiographers (poor sods!), know the NHS values, I have fab patient care and work with varying professionals. So, that's something. Right?! Just need to arrange some actual shadowing time.

Welcome to the forum. You're one of our 'younger' mature students - we've had a student in his 50s who retrained as a therapeutic radiographer. :smile:

Reply 4

I’m an A level student, have three days work shadowing experience and currently deciding where to apply. Trying to get a range of options to give me best chance of receiving an offer. Looking at Worcester as one choice as entry requirements very slightly lower and it’s close to home - note that it’s a new course though. Anything I should consider on that? Anybody on here got any experience of Worcester?

Reply 5

Original post
by Rad25
Hello everyone.
I'm currently in the middle of my Access to Radiography course (brain surgery slowed me down. Oops!) and am aiming for 2025 entry in Diagnostic Radiography. Looking at Plymouth or Exeter and currently unsure whether to go for the DR with Ultrasound or not!
I'm a rather mature student, at 42 currently (eek) and have been working at the local hospital as a Senior HCA on a surgical ward for years. So, I know the workings of the hospital, have met many radiographers (poor sods!), know the NHS values, I have fab patient care and work with varying professionals. So, that's something. Right?! Just need to arrange some actual shadowing time.


Hey, I’m wanting to do a radiography access course too since I was lacking in my science grades. Just want to know if your doing it online at learndirect, because I’m supposed to enrol this week and I’ve seen mixed reviews which is making me overwhelmed as I’m not sure if they are liable

Reply 6

Original post
by bluee00
Hey, I’m wanting to do a radiography access course too since I was lacking in my science grades. Just want to know if your doing it online at learndirect, because I’m supposed to enrol this week and I’ve seen mixed reviews which is making me overwhelmed as I’m not sure if they are liable

Hiya, yes I am. There are two things I haven't been happy with, although the second one wouldn't effect you.

1.

The length of time it can take them to mark assignments varies. They introduced a 'fast track' system where you can pay £20, per assignment, to have it marked within a day or two. When that box flashes up it tells you your assignment is otherwise due to be marked in a week or so (gives dates). I swear it's gotten longer just to try and get you to fast track.

2.

They changed the syllabus/awarding body, without notifying me and I only discovered it when I tried submitting a 3000 word report that my tutor had given good feedback on and told me to submit. System wouldn't let me as the course had changed and needed upgrading to the new one...one with different modules and assignments. Even had to go back to module 1 and do the new version (pointless, completely pointless, the original had more purpose and it was only prep!) so I could then resubmit previously marked work, submit the 3000 word report in a 'grace period' and wait for it all to be marked separately, again, so I can keep going.

I was seriously fed up!

Reply 7

Original post
by Rad25
Hiya, yes I am. There are two things I haven't been happy with, although the second one wouldn't effect you.

1.

The length of time it can take them to mark assignments varies. They introduced a 'fast track' system where you can pay £20, per assignment, to have it marked within a day or two. When that box flashes up it tells you your assignment is otherwise due to be marked in a week or so (gives dates). I swear it's gotten longer just to try and get you to fast track.

2.

They changed the syllabus/awarding body, without notifying me and I only discovered it when I tried submitting a 3000 word report that my tutor had given good feedback on and told me to submit. System wouldn't let me as the course had changed and needed upgrading to the new one...one with different modules and assignments. Even had to go back to module 1 and do the new version (pointless, completely pointless, the original had more purpose and it was only prep!) so I could then resubmit previously marked work, submit the 3000 word report in a 'grace period' and wait for it all to be marked separately, again, so I can keep going.

I was seriously fed up!


That’s awful, no but why did they change it if it was better before. I swear I think they’re going to try doing the same to me to get money and drag the course but I want to finish in 6-7 months max. Do they change it yearly or something and do you think the content was of any use as I’ve read that people have had to find their own materials because the content was worded incorrectly and wasn’t enough.

Reply 8

Original post
by bluee00
That’s awful, no but why did they change it if it was better before. I swear I think they’re going to try doing the same to me to get money and drag the course but I want to finish in 6-7 months max. Do they change it yearly or something and do you think the content was of any use as I’ve read that people have had to find their own materials because the content was worded incorrectly and wasn’t enough.

So, they changed it because the new one is apparently better tailored to prepare for diagnostic radiography and the skills required. The modules don't seem too different but the assignments have changed and there are some differences in the course. The only bit that is totally useless is the first unit. On the previous version of the course you had to research unis and the courses and provide written research comparing them to help you choose. You also had to submit a first draft personal statement. All of which is useful. In this version you just had to quickly write in the box what course you want to do and what uni and copy and paste a statement saying you understand blah blah blah and have looked into what you need. That's just a waste of time 😂

The new assignments include a mix of illustrated and academic reports, more presentations than before, and things like producing posters, hand outs for people and answering specific shorter questions. Before it was mainly reports etc, I think. The one I got the grace period on, to submit the work I'd just completed, has changed from the 3000 word illustrated report (cell biology) to 4 different tasks - make a handout for someone who'd missed a lecture, answering some revision questions to practice exam style questions write, write a short illustrated revision guide on cell division, and write an outline for a magazine article.
I did get annoyed and tell them there was no way on earth I was doing that stuff when I'd just written a 3000 word report with a tonne of extra reading! That's when they looked into it and found out there was a grace period for the original syllabus!

There is less info now, it seems. But to be fair, you do need to research and learn independently. So I think that's actually fair, being spoon fed won't get you anywhere really. The new version doesn't give so much info, you don't have boxes telling you what all specific terms mean, there's no glossary so you have to find out yourself what things and terms are if it doesn't tell you. All the information for assignments ISN'T in the learning materials. I think that's a good thing.

The way I see it is, you need a fair amount of distinctions (and the rest at merit) to do radiography degrees. You won't (or shouldn't- if you look at studeco you'll see some people who apparently got distinctions for work that looks crap, full of spelling mistakes and just pretty much copied and pasted from learning materials!!!!) get that if you aren't going further than just what your provider tells you.

Maybe this new awarding body will be moderating people better? Radiography is competitive, so the less people getting distinctions for crap work the better 😁😂

Reply 9

Oh, some of the modules have changed. So there is a bit more tailored physics and they've added 'Chemistry of drugs and medicines' etc.

I did look at some other online ones, when I was in a huff about the surprise syllabus change 😂 and they seem to have an awful lot of psychology based modules. I get that it's a patient facing role etc, but I'm not sure that's the best prep? But then I come from patient facing role anyway and I've had some absolute crackers at work 😂 have loads of experience dealing with, understanding and working with people. I could probably write a book on experiences tbh, and some docs...well 😳🤣

Reply 10

Original post
by Rad25
Oh, some of the modules have changed. So there is a bit more tailored physics and they've added 'Chemistry of drugs and medicines' etc.
I did look at some other online ones, when I was in a huff about the surprise syllabus change 😂 and they seem to have an awful lot of psychology based modules. I get that it's a patient facing role etc, but I'm not sure that's the best prep? But then I come from patient facing role anyway and I've had some absolute crackers at work 😂 have loads of experience dealing with, understanding and working with people. I could probably write a book on experiences tbh, and some docs...well 😳🤣


I don’t mind psychology but chemistry 😭😭 nah chem gets on my nerves. I get that it’s self study to get ppl ready for uni so it’s not meant to be easy but they shouldn’t just change the flipping syllabus inbetween and then say it’s not their fault because it technically is as they didn’t tell u beforehand, it’s their job to clarify if the things like that could happen as it would affect the learner, everyones got a specific timeframe in mind that they want to finish something and it would be affected.

Reply 11

Original post
by Rad25
Oh, some of the modules have changed. So there is a bit more tailored physics and they've added 'Chemistry of drugs and medicines' etc.
I did look at some other online ones, when I was in a huff about the surprise syllabus change 😂 and they seem to have an awful lot of psychology based modules. I get that it's a patient facing role etc, but I'm not sure that's the best prep? But then I come from patient facing role anyway and I've had some absolute crackers at work 😂 have loads of experience dealing with, understanding and working with people. I could probably write a book on experiences tbh, and some docs...well 😳🤣


That’s really making me rethink this whole thing because I’m aiming to be done by June and if they decide to do that then there’s no point wasting any time cos il be stuck here for another year. Btw can you remember when they changed the syllabus like around what time, was it this year?

Reply 12

Original post
by bluee00
That’s really making me rethink this whole thing because I’m aiming to be done by June and if they decide to do that then there’s no point wasting any time cos il be stuck here for another year. Btw can you remember when they changed the syllabus like around what time, was it this year?

It was a week ago! I sent many many emails fuming about it 😂 They claim they emailed everyone to let them know but clearly didn't, I'm not the only one!
I can't imagine they'll do it again, at least not for a while. I originally aimed to have finished before now and was going to apply through clearing, but my illness and brain surgery got in the way, so now planning to get moving and be finished by the 30th June deadline for result availability. I'll finish before then though :smile:

For the chemistry bits, I'd advise getting an A Level Chemistry book. That way you have the guidance right there and you can easily find anything else you need to from what you've read in it. I bought a CPG A Level Year 1 & AS Chemistry book for AQA on amazon, used, for £5 with prime delivery.

Another thing, kinda relating to that, when I signed up at the beginning of the year they had 'Further Reading' lists for every module. They removed those a couple of months later, so no sign posting anymore, although they will sometimes signpost to a webpage. I have noticed a lot of students are using just youtube videos or BBC bitesize are their references and 'further reading'. I can't bring myself to do that and have been using journal articles, books etc. Videos are fine for helping understanding but I'm not sure what I make of it if people are now using that as their main sources of info? Is this a thing now? Is the world changing that much?

I swear if I see anyone referencing a TikTok I'm vacating the planet...

Reply 13

I’m currently thinking about diagnostic radiography as a change of career. I’m 23 with 2 children and think the stability and clear progression would be good for both me and my family.

I’m currently looking at Uni of Salford as the main one but also Bradford too. The subject interests me and I think that this would be so good, but what scares me a little is all the science behind everything. I appreciate this is part of the job and am willing to learn but it does make me slightly anxious.

Is there anything or any advice about what I could do to help me prepare for an application (i.e. volunteering, work experience)? Would an access course be worthwhile? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! :smile:
Original post
by bjohnstone1
I’m currently thinking about diagnostic radiography as a change of career. I’m 23 with 2 children and think the stability and clear progression would be good for both me and my family.

I’m currently looking at Uni of Salford as the main one but also Bradford too. The subject interests me and I think that this would be so good, but what scares me a little is all the science behind everything. I appreciate this is part of the job and am willing to learn but it does make me slightly anxious.

Is there anything or any advice about what I could do to help me prepare for an application (i.e. volunteering, work experience)? Would an access course be worthwhile? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! :smile:


Level three qualifications (A,levels, Btecs, etc.) are the usual entry requirements. However, if it is more than five years since you took them, you probably need to speak to the admissions departments at both unis. An Access to HE diploma is a good route to take if more recent study is needed and it is widely accepted by healthcare courses.

Unis like to see both shadowing experience (of a radiographer in a hospital setting) and public-facing work/volunteering experience to show that you are comfortable dealing with the general public. Contact local hospitals to arrange a day or half a day of shadowing.

The following thread is worth a read regarding the science involved in the job:

https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=5978982

Also, have a look at therapeutic radiography (radiotherapy) as an option as the shift patterns might fit into family life better (usually M-F between 8 am and 6 pm). It is another job that will offer you stability and good career progression options as there is a national shortage of radiotherapists. Liverpool and Sheffield Hallam are the closest unis to offer the course.
Original post
by bjohnstone1
I’m currently thinking about diagnostic radiography as a change of career. I’m 23 with 2 children and think the stability and clear progression would be good for both me and my family.
I’m currently looking at Uni of Salford as the main one but also Bradford too. The subject interests me and I think that this would be so good, but what scares me a little is all the science behind everything. I appreciate this is part of the job and am willing to learn but it does make me slightly anxious.
Is there anything or any advice about what I could do to help me prepare for an application (i.e. volunteering, work experience)? Would an access course be worthwhile? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! :smile:

Good morning @bjohnstone1 🤗

How are you?

Great to hear you're currently looking at Bradford as well! Like @normaw said below, it would be worthwhile speaking to our admissions department and the one at Salford. You can contact our admissions team on [email protected]

You can also contact the faculty admin specifically, who may be able to put you in direct contact with the academic, on [email protected].

I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other enquiries about studying at Bradford and the student life in general and I'll do my best to help. :smile:

Becky

Reply 16

Original post
by normaw
Level three qualifications (A,levels, Btecs, etc.) are the usual entry requirements. However, if it is more than five years since you took them, you probably need to speak to the admissions departments at both unis. An Access to HE diploma is a good route to take if more recent study is needed and it is widely accepted by healthcare courses.
Unis like to see both shadowing experience (of a radiographer in a hospital setting) and public-facing work/volunteering experience to show that you are comfortable dealing with the general public. Contact local hospitals to arrange a day or half a day of shadowing.
The following thread is worth a read regarding the science involved in the job:
https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=5978982
Also, have a look at therapeutic radiography (radiotherapy) as an option as the shift patterns might fit into family life better (usually M-F between 8 am and 6 pm). It is another job that will offer you stability and good career progression options as there is a national shortage of radiotherapists. Liverpool and Sheffield Hallam are the closest unis to offer the course.

Thank you for this. There’s some really useful information that I can use! 😁

I do have a level 3 business administration and level 4 sports psychology awards but I will definitely get in contact with both uni admission teams.

I really appreciate the advice you have given and will definitely take it into consideration!

Reply 17

Original post
by University of Bradford
Good morning @bjohnstone1 🤗
How are you?
Great to hear you're currently looking at Bradford as well! Like @normaw said below, it would be worthwhile speaking to our admissions department and the one at Salford. You can contact our admissions team on [email protected]
You can also contact the faculty admin specifically, who may be able to put you in direct contact with the academic, on [email protected].
I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other enquiries about studying at Bradford and the student life in general and I'll do my best to help. :smile:
Becky

Hi Becky,

Thank you for your response! I’m sure the email addresses you have provided will be of great use and I will get in touch with the relevant team/s hopefully 😁

Out of curiosity, do you have any open days coming up as I feel this would be very beneficial for me?
Original post
by bjohnstone1
I’m currently thinking about diagnostic radiography as a change of career. I’m 23 with 2 children and think the stability and clear progression would be good for both me and my family.
I’m currently looking at Uni of Salford as the main one but also Bradford too. The subject interests me and I think that this would be so good, but what scares me a little is all the science behind everything. I appreciate this is part of the job and am willing to learn but it does make me slightly anxious.
Is there anything or any advice about what I could do to help me prepare for an application (i.e. volunteering, work experience)? Would an access course be worthwhile? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! :smile:

Hello there,

It is great that you are looking at new possibilities and we are excited that Salford is on your radar. Like it has been mentioned by other people in this thread, it may be beneficial to talk to our course enquiries team. You can have a really good chat with them about all the worries you have.

To email our course enquiries teams it would be [email protected] they take up to five days to respond to any email.

You can also give them a call on 0161 295 4545 between the hours of 10am and 4pm, Monday - Friday.

Best of luck with everything,
Matt ~ Uni of Salford Rep
Original post
by bjohnstone1
Hi Becky,
Thank you for your response! I’m sure the email addresses you have provided will be of great use and I will get in touch with the relevant team/s hopefully 😁
Out of curiosity, do you have any open days coming up as I feel this would be very beneficial for me?

Hey @bjohnstone1 😀

We actually have an open day this Saturday if you can make it! You can find the open day schedule and book your place here 🤗 You'll be able to chat to the academics who'd be teaching you then and ask any questions, chat to current students on the course about their experience, and find out more about applying to study here.

If you can't make this date, we have another open day on Saturday 16 November which you can book onto here.

I hope this helps, and good luck with everything no matter which uni you choose, I wish you all the best! :smile:

Becky

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