Study radiography abroad

Radiography, often referred to as diagnostic radiography, is the practice of using radiation to produce high-quality images that are used to help diagnose and treat injuries or diseases.

As a professional radiographer, you will be at the forefront of healthcare. You’ll learn about the anatomy and physiology of the human body, along with the skills to use medical imaging equipment such as x-ray, CT scanning, MRI scanning, and ultrasound.

Choosing to study radiology abroad means you could gain access to the best programs and medical equipment in the world. Different countries have different healthcare systems, so it’s worth doing your research before you choose where to study, especially if you want to work abroad after graduation.

You can study radiography abroad at a range of different levels, and the qualifications on offer differ from country to country. For example, in the UK you can study diagnostic radiography as a BSc at bachelor’s level, or as a PgDip (Postgraduate Diploma), PgCert (Postgraduate Certificate), or MSc at postgraduate level.

If you want to study radiography in the US, you can take an associate degree, or a BSc or BHS (Bachelor of Health Science) at bachelor’s level. If you go to a liberal arts college, you can study radiography as a major subject over four years, alongside other minor subjects. You can also study a master’s over two or three years, and some universities also offer doctorate programs.

Teaching methods will include lectures and tutorials, but you’ll also spend a lot of time in practical sessions. Some of the best universities will have top of the range simulators and training suites where you can practice using the latest technology. Many programs assess you through practical exams on placement and written assignments.

The structure of each radiography program will be different depending on the country and university you attend, but most include some time spent on placement in hospitals. The course content will also vary, but core subjects and modules can include:

• Anatomy and physiology for radiography
• Professional practice and patient care
• Research methods
• Radiographic science
• Advanced imaging technologies
• Clinical supervision
• Image interpretation

Most radiography students study the subject with the aim of becoming a radiographer after graduation. If this is your aim, make sure you choose a program that will give you a qualification that will allow you to practice. Some of the careers you could go into with a radiography degree include:

• Radiographer
• Sonographer
• Mammographer
• Clinical reporter
• Clinical radiologist
• Clinical scientist
• MRI technician

Although radiography can be seen as a vocational degree, it’s worth thinking about exactly what role would be best for you. Most programs will include a lot of time spent in placement, which is a great opportunity to see what it’s like to work in radiography.