MSc Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging (Pre-Registration)

Why choose Herts?

Excellent reputation. We have over 25 years’ experience graduating radiographers.
Fantastic facilities. You'll develop your practical skills in our imaging suite, using imaging simulation software.
Strong employment prospects. Our pre-registration course enables you to become a radiographer in two years.

Funding available*

Work placements offered

UK and international applicants should normally have achieved a 2:1 in an honour’s degree in a science or health related subject.

Applicants must have GCSE equivalent qualifications which include: English language grade 4/C, maths grade 4/C and science grade 4/C.

All offers will be subject to the applicant’s demonstration of the NHS constitution’s “Values and Behaviours” and knowledge of the career during a selection presentation, occupational health screening and the Disclosure and Barring Services (DBS) checks. Read the full NHS Constitution for England on the Government website.

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any one band.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry onto your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.


Institution code	H36
School of study	School of Health and Social Work
Course length	Full Time, 2 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Employability

Careers

Upon successful completion of MSc Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging (pre-registration), you’ll belong to a well-respected profession. You’ll have the opportunity to work at the forefront of modern medicine with an interesting and rewarding career ahead of you.

Radiographers trained in the UK are recognised as being among the best in the world. Graduates have international opportunities throughout their career.

Our graduates, once registered with the HCPC as diagnostic radiographers, practise in a range of healthcare settings, in a variety of locations nationally and internationally. The profession is constantly evolving and as a radiographer, you'll extend your scope of practice into specialist imaging areas including ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, among others. There are also opportunities to be involved in research or develop skills in management or education.

Work placement

Radiography departments within hospitals normally provide imaging modalities including computed and digital X-ray examinations, computed tomography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear medicine. Clinical experience blocks are positioned in the yearly timetable to fit around when specific topics are being taught within the curriculum. Here you will gain the opportunity to put into practice the theoretical knowledge you have gained through your academic study.

The radiography courses at the University of Hertfordshire are supported by over 30 affiliated hospital sites located in East Midlands, East of England, Thames Valley and London.

You will be allocated a base NHS trust for the duration of the course where you will undertake practice placements. There will be opportunities for elective placement to more specialist facilities to enable you to gain experience of a wide range of injuries and pathologies, whilst meeting the needs of diverse patient types. Some hospitals may be within commuting distance for you, but you may also be allocated a hospital which will require you to move to on-site accommodation.

Students will be supported during clinical placements by their personal tutor who will regularly visit their hospital site. All our affiliated hospitals have a designated clinical co-ordinator who acts as the link to the University to ensure students can achieve their placement learning outcomes.

Professional Accreditations

As a Diagnostic Radiography graduate you will be eligible to apply for registration with Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

About the course

Diagnostic radiographers play a vital role in healthcare by producing patient centred imaging services for the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and disease. This course is ideal for you if you already hold a degree and wish to gain the knowledge and clinical experience needed to become a skilled and competent diagnostic radiographer. Graduates will study the skills, knowledge and competencies to be eligible to apply for registration as diagnostic radiographers with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and be eligible for membership of the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR).

This is a two-year vocational master’s degree which aims to produce competent and forward-thinking radiographers. You'll develop critical thinking, decision making and research skills, enabling you to work effectively and collaboratively. You'll gain the expertise and confidence needed to instigate and support change in a dynamic modern healthcare system. Our graduates will be evidence-based practitioners who will provide a high standard of diagnostic imaging and patient care.

The degree is delivered in a blended learning style, offering theoretical sessions, online and on campus. You'll develop your practical skills using the clinical skills suite and gain hands-on experience in clinical departments in the NHS.

Why choose this course?

You have a degree already and wish to become a diagnostic radiographer in a two-year course and gain a master’s qualification.
You want to learn through a skilled, knowledgeable and experienced academic and clinical team.
You're excited by potential opportunities to practice internationally with a recognised UK qualification.
The University of Hertfordshire was ranked 1st in the East of England for Medical Technology and Bioengineering (2023 Complete University Guide).

What will I study?

Taught over 2 years, MSc Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging covers a broad subject base. You’ll learn about radiation physics, anatomy, physiology, pathology, radiographic techniques, psychology, sociology, leadership and research skills. You’ll be taught by academic leaders in the field of diagnostic radiography and imaging. Our expert staff have worked or continue to work in specialist clinical roles or advanced practice such as X-ray examination reporting.

Student radiographers become clinical practitioners by studying modules designed to promote a detailed knowledge and understanding of the theoretical principles of radiography. In addition, you’ll undertake supervised clinical placements in order to gain competency in the clinical placement environment.

You’ll learn key knowledge and skills. Every step of the way you’ll deepen your critical thinking, evaluation and reflection skills. Benefit from our dedicated virtual learning environment which holds resources and guides you through your learning journey. We have adopted a “blended” approach to learning. This means you’ll be taught in various ways including lectures, directed self-study, research exercises, small group-based learning workshops, work-based activity and interesting tutorials. We also use online learning platforms such as MS teams and Zoom for interactive e-learning, with self-tests and image-viewing quizzes.

Practical clinical training will take place in our skills suite. You’ll train in specialist rooms with a CT scanner, using theatre digital imaging equipment and general x-ray units. We also have ultrasound training rooms and state of the art computer laboratories used for image evaluation and interpretation teaching. By using simulation software you’ll practice your skills for your clinical placement, in a safe environment.

Our partner placement sites including some renowned hospitals in the East Midlands, East of England, London and Thames Valley areas. Each of our partner hospital sites will have a dedicated clinical coordinator who will supervise students on clinical practice. The University of Hertfordshire will also provide a lecturer who will be directly involved in your clinical tuition and be available as a ‘link’ back to the university while you are away on clinical placement.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Imaging Practice 1	30 Credits	Compulsory
The module provides the basis for students to undertake practice within the clinical environment. Throughout the module students will begin to develop their clinical skills and apply knowledge in areas of patient preparation, communication, care and after care. General imaging techniques and the assessment of radiographic technique demonstrated in images will be explored and supported with simulation within the X-ray labs, so that students may develop skill and confidence. Students will learn how to safely take X-rays, how to evaluate their images, and how to ensure that every contact counts, for the patients and carers. More complex imaging such as those undertaken in theatre and X-ray will also be covered. This forms the basis of activity that will take place on clinical placement. The emphasis is on safe practice, working within current legislations inherent within diagnostic imaging.
Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for Imaging Professionals 1	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module forms the initial foundations of anatomy, physiology, and pathology knowledge development for imaging professionals. Students will explore fundamentals of anatomy and pathological processes. Understanding these core principles is essential for the student as they will apply to a range of pathologies across the programme, and beyond. Students will examine the detailed anatomy of the appendicular and axial skeletal system as well as the respiratory system. They will learn how to understand X-ray images (radiographs) of these regions, and will also explore cross sectional images (such as CT and MRI) as appropriate. Physiology and pathology of the skeletal system and respiratory system will also be explored. Students will develop understanding of how these pathologies will affect the patient and might appear on imaging. Assessment of normal and abnormal anatomy, related to the systems covered, as demonstrated on a range of medical images will be included.

Level 7

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Leadership, Management and Advancing Professional Practice	15 Credits	Compulsory
The focus of the module is to prepare students for their first employment with regards to their professional roles and responsibilities and to the professional statutory and regulatory body requirements. It explores the principles of management and leadership and the importance of interprofessional collaboration in patient and service user care. The module also explores the concepts of teamworking, mentorship, clinical governance and service improvement and health promotion and education, as well as explore contemporary developments in radiography.
Independent Research	30 Credits	Compulsory
The focus of this module is for the students to experience applied research methodologies through the completion of a research activity such as a project, systematic review, service evaluation or clinical audit. The module builds on the students' knowledge of research and will include critical analysis of sources drawing on a range of research methodologies and incorporation of evidence into practice. Students will undertake qualitative and/or quantitative research studies which will enable the students to critically discuss issues surrounding data collection, measurement, and clinically applicable outcome measures. This module will prepare students for future participation in radiography research and audit, Students will be equipped to undertake systematic reviews of published literature and analyse primary research data.
Commencing Professional Practice	30 Credits	Compulsory
The aim of this module is to develop evidence-based practice and lifelong learning in health and social care. The module will incorporate preparing for level 7 study and will build on the students previous knowledge of research methodologies and further develop their research skills to facilitate the students' understanding of the philosophy behind evidence-based practice in health care. The role of professional and regulatory bodies in the provision of healthcare services will be explored alongside the key principles of being an autonomous and accountable professional working in an interprofessional environment. The module content will introduce students to the context of the hospital environment, relevant legislation and mandatory training required for clinical practice. The concepts and complexities of client/customer care in relation to patient interactions in multiple contexts will be explored.
Science for Imaging Professionals 1	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will investigate the production of X rays and their interaction with matter will be explored with respect to image production and radiation protection. The physical principles behind radiographic equipment will be explored to allow students to apply their knowledge of the X-ray tube design to conventional imaging, dental imaging, fluoroscopy, theatre and mobile equipment, mammography and computed tomography. Exposure factors and their impact on image production will be considered in depth. It will also consider radiation protection principles, and the radiographer's responsibilities according to radiation protection regulations including IR(ME)R 2017, IR(ME) Amendment Regulations 2018, and IRR 2017. The importance of stringent quality assurance systems will be emphasised, and students will be able to practice these within the X-ray labs. Medical informatics, IT systems and Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) are all fundamental to diagnostic radiography and will be explored in this module.
Imaging Practice 2	30 Credits	Compulsory
Students will further develop their understanding of the theory and practice in diagnostic imaging and will explore current developments and research in imaging. They will analyse the role of imaging in the diagnosis, management and treatment of pathology enabling them to recognise the importance of critical evaluation of diagnostic imaging modalities. Legislation and guidelines impacting on diagnostic imaging practice (e.g. NICE guidelines) will also be studied. Throughout the module, students will develop their clinical skills and knowledge and understanding in areas of uncertainty, trauma and medical and surgical emergency situations and decision making and critical thinking in the choice of diagnostic imaging modalities.
Science for Imaging Professionals 2	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will prepare students for working within a range of modalities in radiography by enabling development of understanding of key scientific principles and safety. Within the module, students will explore a range of imaging modalities (CT, MRI, US, RNI, hybrid imaging, PET and DEXA). Students will develop a deep understanding of how these work and will examine the key components of the equipment used within each modality. Image quality and optimisation this will be explored, so that students will be able to rationalise their practice on placement. Students will consider in depth the safe operation of the equipment and explore their roles and responsibilities regarding this. Safety legislation and guidance will be explored in relation to the modalities covered.
Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for Imaging Professionals 2	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module continues the development of anatomy, physiology, and pathology knowledge for imaging professionals, and focusses on the thorax, abdomen, pelvis and head regions. Students will examine the complex anatomy of the thorax, abdomen, pelvis, and head regions. Students will build a deep understanding of the relationships between the organs and structures contained within these regions, in order to identify these on a range of X-ray and cross-sectional images in different anatomical planes. Students will explore the anatomy, physiology of the related systems. This will include the nervous, cardiovascular (including blood), lymphatic, digestive, genito-urinary (including reproductive) and endocrine systems. Common and identifiable pathologies of these systems will be included. Students will appreciate the relationship between pathology and physiological and anatomical changes, and how these present in the patient and relevant clinical tests. Assessment of normal and abnormal anatomy as demonstrated on a range of medical images will be included.
Preliminary Clinical Evaluation 1	15 Credits	Compulsory
This is the first of two preliminary clinical evaluation modules and builds on the students' previous knowledge and capability in image appreciation and evaluation of the appendicular skeleton anatomy and pathology, providing an introduction to the skills required to undertake preliminary clinical evaluation of these regions. Students will develop further skill and confidence in identifying and describing common injuries and pathologies in radiographs (X-ray images) of the upper and lower limb, and shoulder girdle within this first of two preliminary clinical evaluation modules. Pattern recognition and other skills relating to clinical evaluation and descriptive report writing will be introduced. Students will develop an understanding of the medico-legal issues surrounding the topic of image reporting, and a radiographer s scope of practice relating to preliminary clinical evaluation, according to Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR) expectation. Mechanisms used to measure diagnostic accuracy are also included in this module.
Preliminary Clinical Evaluation 2	15 Credits	Compulsory
This is the second of two preliminary clinical evaluation modules and builds on the students' previous knowledge and capability in image appreciation and evaluation of the axial skeleton, chest, abdomen and CT head anatomy and pathology, providing an introduction to the skills required to undertake preliminary clinical evaluation of these regions. Pattern recognition and other skills relating to clinical evaluation and descriptive report writing of the axial skeleton (including spine and pelvis) will be explored. Students will also develop further confidence and appreciation of common pathologies of the chest, and abdomen, as seen on X-ray. CT of the head will be explored to enable students to appreciate and describe commonly encountered head pathology and trauma.

Further course information

Course fact sheets
MSc Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging (Pre-Registration)	Download
MSc Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging (Pre-Registration)	Download

Programme specifications
MSc Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging (Pre-Registration)	Download
MSc Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging (Pre-Registration)	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	n/a
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes

Student experience

At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible. We offer a range of support services including; student wellbeing, academic support, accommodation and childcare to ensure that you make the most of your time at Herts and can focus on studying and having fun.

Your main campus is College lane

This is where the creative arts, science and health-related subjects are based. This means you’ll share the campus with future nurses, scientists, artists and more. You can use the common rooms to relax with friends, work out in the 24-hour gym or have a drink in our on-campus cafes. We also have restaurants for you to eat in or grab something on the go. Our Learning Resources Centres are open 24/7, which means you can study whenever suits you best. Want to pop over to the other campus? You can take the free shuttle bus or walk there in just 15 minutes.

Find out about how we support our students

You can also read our student blogs to find out about life at Herts.

Funding and fees
Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Fees 2024
UK Students
Full time
- £9250 for the 2024/2025 academic year
EU Students
Full time
- £18950 for the 2024/2025 academic year
International Students
Full time
- £18950 for the 2024/2025 academic year
Fees 2025
UK Students
Full time
- £9535 for the 2025/2026 academic year
EU Students
Full time
- £19100 for the 2025/2026 academic year
International Students
Full time
- £19100 for the 2025/2026 academic year
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University's Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed "When tuition fees change"), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet
How to apply

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2025
Start Date End Date Year Location Link
19/01/2026 31/01/2027 1 UH Hatfield Campus Apply online (Full Time)
2026
Start Date End Date Year Location Link
19/01/2027 31/01/2028 1 UH Hatfield Campus Apply online (Full Time)

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MSc Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging (Pre-Registration)

NHS Learning Support Fund

Why choose Herts?

Funding available*

Work placements offered

Careers

Work placement

Professional Accreditations

About the course

Why choose this course?

What will I study?

Further course information

Student experience

Other financial support

Fees 2024

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Fees 2025

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Living costs / accommodation

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2025

2026