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Why study diagnostic radiography at Sydney

Discover why a career in diagnostic radiography could be right for you, and how the University of Sydney can get you there
Diagnostic radiographers are healthcare professionals who specialise in producing high-quality medical images of the inside of the body to help diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries.

1. Two pathways available

After completing high school

If you’ve completed high school and meet the minimum ATAR score, you can apply to study for our Bachelor of Applied Science (Diagnostic Radiography).

This is a four-year, full-time degree where both Physics and Mathematics Advanced are assumed knowledge.

This means that you’ll need to have studied both of these subjects at high school.

If you haven’t completed these subjects, you can choose to take a bridging course prior to starting this degree.

Additionally, prior study of Biology and Chemistry is also recommended.

Changing careers

If you've already gained a bachelor’s degree, you can apply for the Master of Diagnostic Radiography as a postgraduate student.

This program is a two-year full-time degree and is open to graduates from backgrounds in health, and non-health related fields.

This degree is one of our Graduate Entry Masters courses (GEM) which provides an accelerated pathway to a professional health qualification in two years of full-time study.

2. World-class teachers and facilities

You’ll learn from academics who are passionate educators that are committed to providing the best learning experience for their students.

Added to this, you’ll join a leading university, ranked 27th in the world for Life Sciences and Medicine (QS Subject Rankings 2024) and top 20 globally (QS World University Rankings 2025).

You’ll benefit from studying with us at our new Susan Wakil Health Building. This facility features clinical simulation teaching areas with advanced state-of-the-art imaging equipment, research facilities, a multi-service clinic and a new library.

3. Get real world experience

An essential component of both the Bachelor of Applied Science (Diagnostic Radiography) and Master of Diagnostic Radiography degree is the clinical placements that you’ll undertake.

These hands-on experiences are essential for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

Throughout your studies you’ll undertake clinical placements in medical imaging facilities across public and private settings.

When undertaking your clinical placements, you’ll work alongside fellow students and medical professionals, fostering a multidisciplinary learning environment.

4. Gain professional accreditation

Upon completing either the Bachelor of Applied Science (Diagnostic Radiography) or the Master of Diagnostic Radiography you’ll be eligible to register with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia.

This registration is essential for attaining the title of ‘Diagnostic radiographer’, a protected title in Australia.

Please refer to the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia for further information.

5. A career in demand

Diagnostic radiographers are essential members of any healthcare team. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a university graduate looking for a new career, your skills will be in demand in this dynamic healthcare field.

A career in diagnostic radiography can be extremely rewarding and varied, offering opportunities to work with advanced medical technology while also playing a crucial role in patient care.

Diagnostic radiographers work in many different employment settings including major metropolitan imaging departments and smaller regional clinics.

Added to this, there are avenues for research, such as forensics and the development of innovative medical technologies.

23 July 2024

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