Medical imaging professionals (diagnostic radiographers) are responsible for producing high quality medical images using various technologies and types of radiation to monitor and diagnose injuries and illnesses. Their work includes general radiography such as x-rays, fluoroscopy, theatre or emergency imaging.

As a medical imaging student, you will learn in fully functioning x-ray suites on-campus, where you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience. Further practical experience is gained during over 1,750 hours of clinical placements, complemented by an in-depth theoretical component taught by our award-winning teachers.

With a suite of state-of-the-art imaging facilities located on-campus, it’s easy to see why this degree is so highly regarded both nationally and internationally.

High achieving students may be considered for the Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Honours) (Medical Imaging) program in the third year.

What you'll need

Students who undertake activities where interaction with patients/the public is required for their degree, such as field or clinical placements/visits and in University clinics and gyms, must demonstrate they meet mandatory pre-placement conditional requirements. These include criminal history clearance, a Working with Children Check and immunisation requirements. Please visit the Clinical Placement Unit for information on key requirements, and to access the full student checklists.

All students enrolled in a program leading to professional registration must be registered with the relevant National Board. The registration process is undertaken by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) with the University providing notification to AHPRA following enrolment in the program.

What you'll learn

Throughout your degree you will learn how to produce optimal images, which involves using complex equipment whilst caring for patients and working across a variety of locations.

During your first year you will focus on basic sciences at the core of the study and practice of medical radiation science. You will cover a range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, pathology and radiation physics. These core subjects offer an introduction to medical radiation and the scientific principles surrounding it.

Applying these concepts to professional practice occurs through clinical placements, which begin in your second year and continue through third and fourth year.

Throughout your degree you will take part in regular pre-clinical preparation workshops to further extend your skills as you move into advanced areas of practice.

In Australia, growth for medical radiation science professionals has been on the rise with career prospects continuing to look very strong, with an expected 11,000 job openings over the next five years.1 You should enjoy working with people, with technology, helping sick or injured people, working a variety of hours, be interested in the human body, being challenged by new ideas and being part of a team.

Medical imaging professionals work in a variety of settings, including:

• hospitals
• private practices
• the Defence Force
• medical equipment companies
• research and development.

You may also gain employment in specialist areas such as:

• ultrasound: produce detailed images of the body in real time to diagnose and monitor a range of health conditions
• interventional: medical imaging technique used to visualise blood vessels
• magnetic resonance imaging: operate MRI scanners to create 3D images of a patient’s body tissues, which are then used to diagnose illness and disease
• computed tomography: operate CT equipment to produce cross-sectional images of a patient’s bones, organs and tissues.

1Australian Government Department of Jobs and Small Business, 2023 Small Business Projections.

Professional accreditation and recognition

Graduates are eligible to apply for general registration with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA).