Bachelor of Medical Radiation (Medical Imaging/Nuclear Medicine/Radiation Therapy)
- Program overview
- What will I study?
- What does it take?
- Who will employ me?
- Special requirements
- Detailed program information
- Student testimonials
- More information for future students
- More information relating to this program
- Frequently Asked Questions
Program overview
The Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science prepares students for careers as medical imaging professionals (also referred to as diagnostic radiographers), nuclear medicine technologists or radiation therapists. The area of specialisation is selected when applying through SATAC for entry into the program and employment of graduates is only available within the chosen specialised area.
Medical imaging professionals are responsible for producing diagnostic
images with various types of radiation, including x-rays, whilst ensuring
the patient is safely exposed to radiation.
Nuclear medicine technologists use short-lived gamma-rays that emit
radioactive tracers to investigate trauma and disease such as cancer, heart
disease and brain disorders.
Radiation therapists plan and deliver optimal treatment to cancer patients
according to a radiation oncologist’s prescription.
What will I study?
During the first two years of the program students focus on the basic sciences which underpin the study and practice of medical radiation. Topics include anatomy, physiology, pathology, radiation physics, psychology and an introduction to research. The third year is focused on the acquisition and application of professional knowledge and skills in the student’s selected specialisation. A comprehensive clinical practice program commences in this year which continues until graduation. The final year includes studies in the specialist areas of medical radiation and rostered clinical practice consolidates skills previously acquired as students also move into advanced areas of practice prior to graduation as accredited practitioners. Years three and four must normally be completed on a full-time basis.
The program has a strong practical and industry focus. Students are required
to complete ten weeks of professional work experience during vacation
periods to be eligible for graduation and hence professional accreditation.
Depending on the speciality area chosen, students may be required to
undertake a minimum four-week clinical placement outside Adelaide in a rural
or interstate location. Students complete approximately 1800 hours of
clinical placement during the program.
An Honours stream is available for high achieving students in the final year
of the program.
What does it take?
Medical radiation students should enjoy
helping and working with people, have an interest in science and must have
good perspective and analytical skills. They need to be attentive and able
to work with a high level of accuracy.
They also require the ability to develop a high level of technical and
communication skills in order to effectively interact with other health
professionals and a variety of patients. The ability to work effectively
both as part of a team and independently is an essential quality.
Who will employ me?
Graduates can expect to be employed in
hospitals and private practices as medical imaging professionals, nuclear
medicine technologists or radiation therapists, according to their selected
speciality. They may also work in the defence forces or have the opportunity
to move into industry in areas such as quality control and metals testing
and pharmaceutical companies. Graduates may also select a career in research
following the completion of a higher degree such as a PhD.
Graduates are eligible for employment overseas
where their qualifications, training and experience are highly regarded.
With some further experience, graduates may be employed by equipment
manufacturers and development specialists. Graduates have good employment
prospects, and will enter a field in which the demand for professionals has
increased in recent years. An ageing population requiring increased medical
radiation services, together with the continuing introduction of hi-tech
equipment ensures strong demand for future graduates.
Special requirements
A first aid certificate is required before students undertake clinical practice. Some work placements require a current driver’s licence and special vaccinations.
Detailed program information
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Student testimonials
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More information for future students
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More information relating to this program
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