FAQs

Therapeutic radiography is a specialised branch of healthcare focused on treating cancer using radiotherapy. Therapeutic radiographers plan and deliver precise radiotherapy treatments while supporting patients emotionally and physically throughout their cancer journey.

Therapeutic radiography is a highly rewarding career because:

• You play a vital role in treating cancer and improving patients’ quality of life.
• It combines science, technology, and compassionate care.
• There’s a high demand for therapeutic radiographers in the UK and worldwide.
• It offers excellent opportunities for career progression and specialisation.

To start your career, you’ll need:

• GCSEs: Five at grade 4 or above, including Maths, English, and Science.

• A-Levels: At least two, preferably in science subjects such as Biology, Physics, or Chemistry. Equivalent qualifications, such as a BTEC in Applied Science or an Access to Higher Education Diploma in a health-related subject, are also accepted.

• A BSc (Hons) in Therapeutic Radiography, which is a three or four-year degree programme accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

OR

• A MSc pathway for people who have already completed a degree in relevant subjects, such as biosciences, biomedicine, physics, chemistry, biology.

OR

• A therapeutic radiography apprenticeship where you work in a radiotherapy department, gaining ‘on the job’ training, under the supervision of qualified professionals; whilst studying part-time towards a BSc (Hons) in Therapeutic Radiography.

• Starting salaries in the NHS are £28,407 to £34,581 per year (Band 5).
• With experience and additional responsibilities, you can earn £35,392 to £50,056 per year (Band 6 or 7).
• If you are an apprentice, starting salaries are circa £24,000 per annum.
• Advanced roles, such as Consultant Therapeutic Radiographers, can pay more than £60,000 per year.
• In addition to salary, there are many benefits to working in the NHS such as pension and parental leave.

Yes! Accredited university programmes include clinical placements in hospitals, where you’ll gain hands-on experience working with real patients and advanced radiotherapy equipment.

The apprenticeships are very much hospital based so you will be learning on the job, alongside (mainly virtual) university studies.

• Empathy and compassion: To support patients during challenging times.
• Attention to detail: To ensure precise treatment planning and delivery.
• Teamwork: To collaborate with oncologists, physicists, and other healthcare professionals.
• Technical aptitude: To operate and understand complex medical equipment.

As a Therapeutic Radiographer, you can specialise in areas like:

• Research
• Clinical education
• Oncology site specialist eg Breast Specialist Radiographer, Head and Neck Specialist Radiographer
• Dosimetry (radiotherapy planning)
• Pre-treatment specialist
• Management
• Consultant Radiographer in a certain area of practice or Advanced Clinical Practitioner

8. Is financial support available while studying?

Yes! Many students are eligible for financial assistance, including:

• NHS Learning Support Fund: Up to £5,000 per year, which doesn’t need to be repaid.
• Additional support for childcare or travel costs.
• Standard student loans for tuition and living expenses.

A typical day involves:

• Taking CT images of patients as part of their pre-treatment.
• Checking plans are safe for treatment.
• Operating advanced equipment to deliver radiotherapy.
• Supporting and reassuring patients during treatment.
• Monitoring patients’ progress and managing side effects.

Applications are made through UCAS, where you can search for accredited BSc (Hons) programmes in Therapeutic Radiography. Look at university websites or attend university open days to learn more about course content and entry requirements.

Yes, you can pursue a career in therapeutic radiography through an apprenticeship! Degree apprenticeships in therapeutic radiography are a fantastic alternative to the traditional university route, allowing you to gain hands-on experience while earning a salary and achieving the qualifications needed to become a registered therapeutic radiographer.

A therapeutic radiography apprenticeship is a work-based training programme where you:

• Work in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital, under the supervision of qualified professionals.
• Study towards a BSc (Hons) in Therapeutic Radiography at a university, typically on a part-time basis.
• Gain clinical experience and academic knowledge simultaneously, equipping you for professional registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

• Earn While You Learn: You’ll receive a salary (from £24,000) from your employer while completing your degree.
• No Tuition Fees: Your employer covers the cost of your education, so you graduate debt-free.
• Real-World Experience: Gain hands-on skills in a clinical setting, preparing you for the demands of the job.
• Path to Registration: Upon completion, you’ll be eligible to register with the HCPC as a qualified therapeutic radiographer.

The exact requirements for apprenticeships vary by employer and training provider, but you’ll typically need:

• GCSEs: At least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths, English, and Science.
• A-Levels or Equivalent: Relevant qualifications such as A-levels in science subjects (eg Biology, Physics or Chemistry) or a BTEC in Health and Social Care or Applied Science.

Some employers may also consider relevant work experience in healthcare as part of the entry criteria.

A therapeutic radiography apprenticeship usually takes 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on the programme and employer.

• NHS Jobs Website: Many apprenticeships are offered through NHS trusts.
• https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk: Search for therapeutic radiography degree apprenticeships in your area.
• University and Employer Partnerships: Some universities collaborate directly with healthcare providers to offer apprenticeship pathways.

After successfully completing the apprenticeship, you will:

• Graduate with a BSc (Hons) in Therapeutic Radiography.
• Be eligible to register with the HCPC as a therapeutic radiographer.
• Start your career in the NHS, with opportunities to specialise or progress into advanced roles.

If you’re interested in combining practical work experience with academic study, a therapeutic radiography apprenticeship could be the perfect pathway for you!

Explore opportunities near you and start your journey towards a fulfilling healthcare career. Contact us today!

If you do not get accepted onto your preferred BSc degree course, you may be accepted onto a one-year Foundation course. Please check with the individual university if they offer this Foundation course.

Yes – an MSc in Therapeutic Radiography can be taken after completing a BSc in another subject area and is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Applicants are normally expected to have a 2:1 honours degree in a relevant subject such as anatomy, human biology, biomedical science and psychology. However this list is not exhaustive and applicants with other subjects will be reviewed on an individual basis.