Gain eligibility to apply to the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC) for professional registration as a diagnostic radiographer on completion of this MSc. You’ll discover the radiographic techniques and imaging technologies required to conduct patient x-rays and scans on a course underpinned by team-based and problem-based learning.
Introduction
If you want to work as a diagnostic radiographer, x-raying and scanning patients in an NHS or private setting, this pre-registration MSc combines the academic knowledge and clinical learning experience you’ll need.
The programme will immerse you in the theory and practice of a comprehensive range of radiographic techniques needed for first post competencies working in the modern healthcare sector.
You’ll build awareness of anatomy, physiology and pathology and gain experience working with radiographic and cross-sectional images. You’ll also achieve an understanding of radiological science which is associated with medical imaging and radiation protection.
An introduction to research methods in health care will highlight the importance of evidence-based practice in diagnostic radiography.
You’ll develop into a diagnostic radiographer with the skills, knowledge and understanding required for safe and ethical practice. This expertise will be underpinned by a caring approach to patients, providing care in a professional, culturally sensitive and emotionally intelligent manner, with the ability to identify potential improvements in service delivery.
On completion of the course, you’ll be eligible to apply for professional registration with the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC). This registration is required to work as a diagnostic radiographer in the UK.
Who is this course for?
We are looking for science graduates, or those with degrees in related subjects, such as psychology. You should be a caring, empathetic person who is energetic and wants to make a difference to people’s lives.
What you'll learn
How to deliver safe, effective and professional practice as a diagnostic radiographer
Diagnostic imaging techniques
Knowledge and understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathology
Radiographic and contrast imaging procedures
An understanding of radiological science and radiation protection
Advanced imaging techniques including ultrasound and nuclear medicine
How to make informed decisions about diagnostic image quality and patient dose
Key skills and methodologies for healthcare research
Professionalism and role development in radiography
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one
Compulsory modules
Clinical and Professional Practice (DRAD403)
Credits: 20 /
Semester: whole session
This is the first of two modules that relate to Clinical Practice and Professionalism. This module combines personal and professional development with the first practice placement experience which takes place over 14 weeks during Year 1. The student will be introduced to the importance of professionalism, skills and attitudes in preparation for first post competencies and lifelong learning. The clinical practice experience enforces the university-based learning to ensure the student will meet the Health and Care Professions Council Standards of Proficiency for Radiographers for safe and effective practice.
This module will also enable students to develop their clinical knowledge and skills in the university and clinical environments. Within this module, diagnostic imaging techniques of the chest, abdomen, appendicular and axial skeletons will be taught, practised and assessed at University and undertaken whilst on clinical placement. During their placement the student will undertake imaging techniques of the chest, abdomen, appendicular and axial skeleton (lateral skull, facial bones and dental techniques), under close supervision.
The learning and teaching strategy for this module will take a student centred approach and will consist of university based lectures, tutorials, practicals, simulation and supportive online resources. The practical tutorials and simulation will take place in the Rose Thompson imaging lab and Florence Nightingale clinical simulation suite. Practice placements will facilitate the supervised practice and consolidation of skills, related to communication, patient-centred care and radiographic practice. The module will be assessed by three components: assessment of radiographic imaging techniques and patient care, reflective writing assignment, to demonstrate personal development/patient-centred care and assessment of clinical practice using the ‘Practice Assessment Record and Evaluation’ (PARE). In preparation for these assessments, the student will also be provided with formative feedback relating to academic and professional practice.
Musculoskeletal and Soft Tissue Imaging Systems 1 (DRAD402)
Credits: 20 /
Semester: semester 2
This module is the first of the anatomy/patho-physiology and image interpretation modules in the Diagnostic Radiography Post-Graduate Pre-Registration Masters programme.
On successful completion the student will have developed knowledge of anatomy, patho-physiology and image interpretation of the skeleton, thoracic and abdominal cavities and their associated organs.
The module will be delivered using ‘Team Based Learning’ (TBL) and image viewing tutorials using both projection radiography (x-ray) and cross-sectional images, covering normal radiographic anatomy and common pathologies of the skeleton, thoracic and abdominal cavities. Teaching sessions in the Human Anatomy Resource Centre (HARC) contribute to this module and enable the student to visualise the anatomical body parts, giving a clearer understanding.
The module will be assessed via 2 on-campus written examinations.
The content of this module is delivered in the first teaching block, prior to clinical placement where students have the opportunity to apply this knowledge over the summer period.
Radiographic Science and Imaging Technologies (DRAD401)
Credits: 20 /
Semester: semester 2
This Year 1 module provides a solid theoretical foundation in radiologic science to allow the student to make informed decisions about diagnostic image quality and patient dose. This module also provides a working knowledge of radiation protection and the relevant legislative framework in order to work safely in the clinical environment. This module also introduces a range of ionising and non-ionising imaging technologies used in radiography.
The module will be delivered via lectures to provide a theoretical foundation, while sessions using radiographic simulation software will demonstrate the application of the concepts to medical imaging. Tutorials will allow consolidation of the concepts covered in the lectures. The blended learning approach will be enhanced with a range of interactive educational technologies (e.g. Kahoot) to facilitate e-learning made available on the VLE. In addition to the ongoing formative quizzes in the VLE, a revision session will be available towards the end of the module to help students prepare for the assessment. The final assessment will be an electronic exam.
Musculoskeletal and Soft Tissue Imaging Systems 2 (DRAD404)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module is the second of the anatomy, patho-physiology and image interpretation modules in the Diagnostic Radiography Pre-registration Masters programme. It also includes some radiographic procedures related to imaging these anatomical areas.
On successful completion, the student will have developed an understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathology of the central and peripheral nervous systems, skull, facial bones and dentition. Additionally they will be introduced to contrast imaging procedures of the cranial, thoracic and abdominal cavities.
The module will be delivered using ‘Team Based Learning’ (TBL) and image viewing tutorials, using both projection radiography (x-ray) and cross-sectional images , covering normal radiographic anatomy and common pathologies of the cranial, thoracic and abdominal cavities
Teaching sessions in the Human Anatomy Resource Centre (HARC) contribute to this module.
The module will be assessed via 2 on-campus written examinations.
The content of this module is delivered in the second teaching block, after clinical placement.
It prepares the students for the forthcoming radiographic techniques of year 2.
Research Methods in Healthcare Practice (HEAL417)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module will enable students to develop a research proposal for either a review of evidence, empirical project, clinical audit or service evaluation that will contribute to the development of evidence-based healthcare practice.
The module is aimed at graduates from a range of different disciplines/subjects who have a range of knowledge and experience of research methods at undergraduate level and are looking to develop their research knowledge and skills further and prepare for a masters level research project in their own area of clinical practice e.g. diagnostic radiography, mental health nursing, occupational therapy or physiotherapy. The likely range of research skills in students from different undergraduate programmes is recognised and this module is designed to raise them all to the appropriate master level in the subject.
At the end of this module, students will be able to understand and appropriately critique the elements of ‘the research journey’ from conception of research question, through development of a proposal. They will be both consumers and producers of research who will meet the requirements of the standard of proficiency, for each profession, as laid down by the Health and Care Professions Council and the requirements of each professional body for evidence based practice.
The proposal produced in this module will then be undertaken as the students’ dissertation in the final year of their pre-registration master programme.
The syllabus for this module is aligned to the Curriculum 2021 Hallmarks and demonstrates active learning and authentic assessment, designed to create students with greater confidence to understand research evidence, contribute to that evidence and be able to develop research in their own area of professional practice.
The module delivery will use a blended approach with face to face and online delivery supported with synchronous and asynchronous lectures, quizzes and profession specific interactive discussion boards and tutorials.
The assessments for this module will be a Research Proposal. The assessments can be tailored to focus on the student’s area of interest and area of speciality and will include consideration of the ethical requirements of the selected project.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Year two
Compulsory modules
Dissertation: Healthcare Practice (HEAL418)
Credits: 45 /
Semester: whole session
This module comprises the dissertation for the preregistration healthcare programmers. It will enable students to undertake a piece of empirical research, a service evaluation/audit or a review of evidence in their chosen field of interest.
Advanced Imaging Techniques and Multimodality Imaging (DRAD501)
Credits: 20 /
Semester: semester 2
This Year 2 module will prepare the learner for their second year practice placement block.
It incorporates anatomy, physiology and pathology of the reproductive and endocrine systems, the visual and auditory systems, not covered in earlier modules, and their radiographic appearances using more complex imaging techniques including ultrasound and cross-sectional imaging. The student will also learn the theory of more advanced imaging procedures including adaptive trauma techniques, theatre imaging, and computed tomography (CT) scanning techniques. There will be an element of practical work relating to CT scanning, in preparation for the Year 2 placement block.
Students will learn about the role of the radiographer in management of major incidents, and within the operating theatre team, including the importance of time management and communication skills. Students will broaden their knowledge of the clinical application of advanced imaging techniques, including ultrasound, nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance (MRI), computed tomography (CT), through the opportunity to explore imaging of a selected medical condition.
Delivered in semester 1 of year 2 of the programme (Semester 2 of academic year 2023-24), the module adopts a student-centered, blended approach to learning combining e-learning and lectures with interactive sessions using team-based learning and formative activities, and practical training in the CT scanner suite. Through this blended approach using directed learning, practical training and informed discussion, this module promotes the development of ‘life-long learners’ equipped with the knowledge, skills and competencies relevant to diagnostic radiography graduates.
This module will build upon the knowledge of anatomy, pathology, professionalism and image interpretation gained from previous modules DRAD403 and DRAD404, in preparation for post qualification practice, and enhance the student’s decision-making skills when reviewing visual information from medical images. This will enable them to make informed clinical judgements and decisions and communicate these to referrers of imaging examinations.
The module will be assessed via electronic examination, and a verbal presentation related to diagnosis of a selected medical condition using advanced imaging techniques.
Professionalism, advanced practice and imaging services (DRAD502)
Credits: 25 /
Semester:
This 25 Credit M-level module will explore issues of professionalism and role development in preparation for graduation and employment in a first-post either in the NHS (Band 5 Diagnostic Radiographer) or private organisational setting. The module builds on the clinical practice from Year 1 of the MSc, and imaging modalities and associated anatomy and pathology in both Year 1 and Year 2. The module will facilitate critical exploration of both the entry level and advanced roles radiographers can undertake. Teaching will be a mixture of online and synchronous on-campus lectures with quiz based formative tests, and group work in order to explore service user experiences of health-care in addition to group workshops to provide peer-feedback on the written assignment.
Assessment consists of an online portfolio and an essay on the role of the radiographer in advanced practice.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
Team-based learning, problem-based learning and research-connected teaching are central elements of the programme.
You’ll be taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, practical workshops, simulations, clinical placements and independent study.
A range of interactive digital tools will also be used.
How you're assessed
A variety of authentic assessments provide the opportunity to demonstrate your clinical competence.
There are exams which involve a mix of seen and unseen tasks, multiple choice questions, short-answer exercises, medical image viewing assessments and anatomical diagrams which need to be annotated.
You’ll also produce a research proposal and complete a research project which is submitted in the form of a journal.
Weekly assessments in clinical practice will review your performance and ensure you receive regular feedback.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Your experience
Diagnostic Radiography students at the University of Liverpool benefit from the School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing experience in delivering more than 100 years of teaching across practical and professionally focused programmes.
Healthcare partners across the North West provide exciting placement opportunities which allow you to bring your studies to life by gaining a breadth of patient-focused practical experience in a region with a particularly diverse population, providing an invaluable insight to future roles.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
An exciting place to study
Major centre for education and research in health sciences
State-of-the-art facilities
Opportunities for in-depth study and development of advanced clinical skills
Flexible programmes for postgraduate study
Active research environment
Provides specialist training with taught and clinical placement components.
Graduates in diagnostic radiography are a vital part of modern health care and in high demand both in the UK and abroad.
Successful completion of the programme confers eligibility to apply for professional registration as a qualified diagnostic radiographer with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
You will also be eligible to become a member of the Society and College of Radiographers.
You’ll be capable of challenging current clinical practice with an evidence-based approach and have the expertise to drive improvements in radiology services and patient-centred care.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Upon successful registration with the HCPC, you’ll be eligible to apply to work as a band 5 diagnostic radiographer in either the NHS or private sector. There is an excellent chance of immediate post-qualification employment.
Your future career plans could involve undertaking post-registration qualifications with the HCPC in preparation for advanced and consultant practice. This could lead to opportunities to specialise in areas including medical ultrasound, computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, radionuclide imaging or mammography.
You could alternatively choose to pursue a managerial qualification, such as an MBA, or consider PhD study and a potential career in academia as a radiography educator or researcher.
Some radiographers also take up the opportunity of progressing into the business side of radiography in the private sector and become sales reps or product specialists.
99% of Allied Health Professions and Nursing students from the University of Liverpool find their main activity after graduation meaningful.
Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£9,250
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£29,100
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
You should include a personal statement of no more than 700 words in support of your application. This should reflect on your understanding of the profession and relevant qualities valuable to a healthcare professional.
You will normally need a 2:1 honours degree, or above, or equivalent in a relevant subject, such as biological sciences, physics, psychology or health sciences.
Applicants with a 2:2 honours degree will be considered, subject to providing details of recent relevant experience or further study. Non-health related degrees and professional qualifications may also be accepted, with each application considered on its own merits.
GCSEs in Mathematics, English Language and a Science at a minimum of grade 5 or C or above are required.
You should demonstrate a good understanding of the scope of diagnostic radiography practice, including an awareness of the various settings a diagnostic radiographer might work in. This could preferably be indicated by observation experience of diagnostic radiographers working in a variety of clinical areas, or by other experience which can be related to the skills and qualities required to work in a radiography environment.
Experience in a paid or voluntary capacity working with the general public, children, older persons or people with special needs will also help to strengthen your application.
You should include a personal statement of no more than 700 words in support of your application. This should reflect on your understanding of the profession and relevant qualities valuable to a healthcare professional.
An interview forms part of the selection process. The interview follows the values-based recruitment (VBR) process and you will be expected to demonstrate the relevance of the NHS’ values and pertinent skills required to work in diagnostic radiography.
Please note: meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee a place on the programme as competition is high. You are encouraged to present the strongest possible application.
Declaration of criminal background
You will understand that as a health sciences student, and when you qualify, you will be asked to treat children and other vulnerable people. We therefore need information about any criminal offences of which you may have been convicted, or with which you have been charged. The information you provide may later be checked with the police.
If selected for interview you will be provided with the appropriate form to complete.
Health screening
The University and the School of Health Sciences has an obligation to undertake health screening on all prospective healthcare students. Any offer of a place to study is conditional on completion of a health questionnaire and a satisfactory assessment of fitness to train from the University’s Occupational Health Service. This will include some obligatory immunisations and blood tests. Please visit the Higher Education Occupational Practitioners website for further information.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MSc, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5. Please note, your IELTS test must have been sat and completed in person and not online.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
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