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Peninsula Medical School

BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography with Integrated Foundation Year

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UCAS tariff 32
UCAS course code B822
Institution code P60
Duration

4 years

(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth

If you want to study diagnostic radiography but don't currently qualify for entry to year one of the undergraduate course, this course is designed for you. The foundation year builds confidence and develops practical, academic and study skills to provide a firm basis to progress and succeed on to either of the diagnostic radiography courses. Begin your journey towards a career in radiography, a core diagnostic healthcare role, helping patients get the treatment they need.

Progression

Meeting the relevant entry requirements at the end of your foundation year will enable you to progress to stage 1 of the BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography or BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography with Foundation Ultrasonography course. These courses are approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and, once you have graduated, you will be eligible to apply for HCPC registration as a diagnostic radiographer.

Your career as a healthcare professional starts here

The first-class new home for our healthcare teaching and research providing students with skills to meet the needs of 21st century careers.

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InterCity Place

A unique new learning space where undergraduate and postgraduate students from the largest breadth of health disciplines in the South-West learn together under one roof, with expert practitioners.
Medical students using the Anatomage table clinical
Plymouth Integrative Health and Social Care Education Centre (PIHC)

Experience an interprofessional learning environment across our health programmes that will prepare you for life as a healthcare professional.
First choice for health
Become a healthcare professional of the future

Collaboration across the schools helps students to learn with, from and about each other, gaining the real-world experience employers seek.

Careers with this subject
Diagnostic radiographer utilise the latest technology to look inside the body to identify causes of illness, safeguarding patients by utilising radiation regulations. They operate a range of imaging technology to capture, interpret and report findings. They compare image results pre- and post-treatment, and work closely with doctors and specialists to inform treatment.
Diagnostic Radiographers work with a wide range of conditions to help other clinicians develop treatment plans for patients. They use a range of imaging techniques to identify:
  • Fractures and breaks
  • Cancers
  • Internal injuries or conditions
  • Heart and lung health
  • Brain injuries
  • Stroke
  • Multi-sclerosis
  • Eye, ear or throat issues
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Arthritis
  • Tumours
  • Joint damages
  • Scoliosis
  • Soft tissue damage
  • Stomach conditions
  • Accidents.
Within the radiography profession there are a multitude of job opportunities. You could work in the NHS, within the public or private sector. For example:
  • NHS hospitals
  • Specialist departments such as radiology and A&E
  • Outpatients departments
  • Operating theatres
  • Armed Forces
  • Veterinary practices
  • Private practice
  • GP surgeries
  • Education and academia
  • Research
  • Leadership roles
  • Voluntary roles

Key features
  • Offers an alternative entry route to Diagnostic Radiography for those whose academic potential has been adversely affected by educational and social factors.
  • The integrated foundation year is specifically designed to make the transition to a BSc as smooth as possible, with dedicated learning outcomes tailored to your profession. You will also have the opportunity to experience the assessment methods you will encounter in years one, two and three.
  • Prepare for patient-centered shared care by learning in an inter-disciplinary team alongside students from biomedical sciences, medicine and dental therapy and hygiene.
  • Delivers shared teaching with the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science with Foundation Year to raise academic standards in science and facilitate collaborative learning.
  • Direct enrolment onto Stage 1 of the BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography or BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography with Foundation Ultrasonography programmes subject to meeting the relevant entry requirements at the end of your foundation year.
  • Your learning will be supported by dedicated study skills sessions and academic tutors, helping you get the most from your studies.
Successful completion of the integrated foundation year entitles you to progress to year 1 of the BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography or BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography with Foundation Ultrasonography. You need to achieve a mean of 60% across the 120 credits in order to progress and pass the suitability screening at the experience days.

Course details

  • Foundation year

  • Teaching will be delivered across a mixture of shared and bespoke core modules. Shared modules are delivered in collaboration with the School of Biomedical Sciences. For information about the remaining three years of this course, please refer to:
    BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography
    BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography with Foundation Ultrasonography
    Placements in clinical areas do not start until you progress to Year 1 of either of our BSc (Hons) courses.

    Core modules

    BHCS001
    Infection, Immunity and Therapeutics 20 credits

    This module will provide an introduction to microbiology and the human immune system. Students will learn the fundamental biology relating to bacteria, helminths, viruses and fungi. And also develop an understanding of how our immune system has evolved to combat infection. The module will also explore methods to control microbial contamination and therapeutic strategies to prevent disease.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS002
    Current Developments in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences 20 credits

    This module examines the role of science in addressing key contemporary issues in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences. The module aims to take an integrative approach, aiming to develop in students both a critical appreciation of the ways in which issues in Human Biology can be approached and resolved, and to develop an understanding of the skills and attributes needed for effective study of such issues at undergraduate level.

    100% Practicals

    FMD001
    Molecules to Cells 20 credits

    This module introduces key concepts involved in cell regulation including genetic inheritance, metabolism and protein expression. The important role of enzymes in the control of biochemical pathways will be introduced, as will an introduction to cell signalling. Cellular organisation within different tissues will also be outlined, enabling students to recognise links between structure and function. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    FMD002
    Introduction to Human Physiology 20 credits

    This module will provide a foundation of knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Using example systems, it will emphasise relationships between structure and function and examine homeostatic regulation in these systems. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.

    50% Practicals

    50% Examinations

    FMD004
    Interdisciplinary Learning and Team Based Learning (Enquiry learning) 20 credits

    This module is designed to enable learners to develop key skills required for working in multidisciplinary teams. Students will be encouraged to work with their colleagues to manage tasks and tailor learning according to their own particular discipline

    100% Coursework

    FDR002
    Learning Skills for Diagnostic Radiography

    This module is designed to enable learners to adapt to the learning environment of higher education by developing an independent, reflective and managed approach to learning, study skills, mathematical skills and aspects of diagnostic radiography practice.

  • Year 2

  • Core modules

    RAD423
    Foundations of Healthcare Practice and Professionalism in Diagnostic Radiography 20 credits

    This year-long module consolidates learning using an enquiry-based learning approach. The small group facilitated setting allows students to apply their learning from taught modules to clinically relevant scenarios. The module will also provide an introductory framework for healthcare science practice, being the major vehicle for the understanding, acquisition and development of the theoretical, practical and personal attributes necessary for a healthcare science practitioner.

    75% Coursework

    25% Practicals

    RAD424
    Clinically Applied Radiography 20 credits

    This module will provide an overview of the role of diagnostic radiographers within the wider healthcare team. It will establish the diagnostic radiography professional regulations into the programme learning. Radiographic technique, clinical skills and application of medical physics will also be learned using simulation techniques.

    60% Examinations

    40% Clinical exams

    RAD425
    Medical Imaging Science 1 20 credits

    This module forms an introduction to the radiobiological principles on which the practice of diagnostic radiography is based. This includes physics and image formation on commonly used radiographic equipment. This module will also cover relevant legislation and rules that govern radiographic practice.

    100% Examinations

    RAD426
    Medical Imaging Science 2 20 credits

    This module forms an introduction to the radiobiological principles on which the practice of diagnostic radiography is based. This includes physics and image formation on commonly used radiographic equipment. This module will also cover relevant legislation and rules that govern radiographic practice.

    100% Examinations

    RAD427
    Human Biology 1 20 credits

    This module will introduce students to core human science topics and understanding of the principles of pathophysiology of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems of the body required later for image interpretation and patient care. These will include anatomy, physiology, and other relevant biomedical sciences applied to radiography training.

    100% Examinations

    RAD428
    Human Biology 2 20 credits

    This module will introduce students to core human science topics and understanding of the principles of pathophysiology of the musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems and human head and neck of the body required later for image interpretation and patient care. These will include anatomy, physiology, and other relevant biomedical sciences applied to radiography training.

    100% Examinations

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:

BSc Hons Diagnostic Radiography with Integrated Foundation Year programme specification 7036

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

32

Please note the following information concerning entry requirements for this course:
  • None of the typical offers listed below are necessarily the threshold for interview selection. Other factors including the number of applications received may influence the threshold for interview selection.
  • All applicants must meet both the academic and non-academic entry requirements (non-academic entry requirements only apply to 2024 entry) in order to be considered.
  • We are only able to consider Level 3 qualifications completed within five years of the start of the application cycle. For example, qualifications completed since 2016 would still be valid when applying in September 2021.
Academic Entry Requirements
GCSEs
Applicants need to achieve GCSE passes (grade C/grade 4 or higher) in the following subjects:
  • English Language
  • Mathematics
Plus one of the below Level 3 qualifications
Level 3 qualifications must include the equivalent of one A Level in one of the following subject:
Biology/Human Biology; Chemistry; Computing; Design and Technology; Electronics; Environmental Studies; Geography; Geology; Maths/Pure Maths/Further Maths; Life and Health Sciences; Physical Education; Physics; Psychology; Science (applied); Statistics.
GCE A level
A minimum of 2 A levels to include at least one pass in a Science subject.
BTEC Extended Diploma/National Extended Diploma (13 units)
PPP in a Science related subject.
BTEC Diploma/National Diploma (8 units)
MP in a Science related subject.
Access to Higher Education Diploma
Pass an Access to Higher Education Diploma in a relevant subject, such as Science, Combined Studies, Natural Sciences or Nursing.
International Baccalaureate
24 points overall to include English, Mathematics and one Science subject.
GNVQ and AGNVQ
Passes in Science subjects.
Other UK Qualifications
Applications from students with non-standard qualifications, including those without Science qualifications at Level 3, are welcomed and are assessed on an individual basis. This programme is also suitable for those returning to study who can offer work or other related experience in place of formal qualifications. Please note that the GCSE criteria outlined above, or equivalent qualifications, are essential.
Military veterans
Applications from military veterans are welcomed and each application is assessed on an individual basis, as we realise that some military courses are not externally validated.
International Applicants
We welcome applicants from outside of the UK, however, you must be able to demonstrate that you meet both the academic and non-academic entry requirements of this programme.
International applicants need to meet the equivalent admissions criteria described for home students as outlined above. Applicants applying with overseas qualifications should contact the Admissions Team at meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk. All teaching at our school is in English, so if you are an international applicant you must have one of the following English Language qualifications. If you are unsure whether your English Language qualification is suitable, please contact meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk:
If English is your first language, we will accept your home country’s equivalent of a GCSE grade A/8 in English Language providing it is at Level C1 or above according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
  • GCSE or IGCSE grade A in English Language
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) band 7.0 or above with no element below 6.5 taken within 12 months prior to entry. The University will no longer accept the IELTS indicator (online test). All applicants will have to take the IELTS test at an approved centre.
We know that university life is a challenge for any student but especially when you are a long way from home. You will find us friendly and supportive. We pride ourselves on being friendly and supportive, and have a nominated academic tutor to coordinate the induction and academic support provided to international students. International student advice also provide support and can assist you with any non-academic issues affecting international students. There are also student welfare support and counselling services, wardens and student health centres on hand if you need them.
Students who have an offer of a place should apply under for a Student (formerly Tier 4 General Student) visa. Further information is available on the UK Border Agency's website.
Selection and admissions process
Applications should be made through UCAS by the published deadline. This is typically the 15th January.
All decisions on applications are made by the Admissions Advisory Panel, which consists of academics, clinicians and senior members of the administrative team.
The University of Plymouth Medicine and Dentistry Admissions Team process applications as follows:
1. Shortlisting for interview– Applicants are considered for interview based on relevant academic qualifications and non-academic criteria alone. We do not currently consider personal statements or work experience when selecting for interview
The Admissions Advisory Panel consider many factors when choosing who will be invited to attend an interview, including the number of places available on the course and the number of applications received, alongside the academic profiles of all of our applicants
2. Interview – Successful applicants are invited to attend an interview process. We use Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) as the format for our interviews, please see our medicine and dentistry selection and admissions process
Following interviews, candidates are ranked based on the score achieved and the top performing applicants are offered a place on the course
3. Offer – Offers are made via UCAS. Within all offers, candidates are required to complete a series of health and police checks, full details of which are communicated to firm offer holders by the Admissions Team.
Practising as a doctor requires the highest standards and we take seriously our commitment to only enrol and teach students with the integrity required of the profession. Full details can be found on our Student Conduct and Fitness to Practise page.
The University is supportive of students with special needs and disabilities. Applicants are encouraged to disclose any needs or disability so that appropriate adjustments can be made in learning support and their individual needs met. A comprehensive procedure is in place involving Student Services and the Admissions team to ensure that all applicants are treated equitably.
The Diagnostic Radiography programmes follow the guidance for Occupational Practitioners when providing adjustment for students in regulated professions.
The Faculty of Health has an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee . The webpage associated with this committee has a link you can access for more information and support.
Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this programme.

Student Conduct and Fitness to Practise

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £18,100 £18,650
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

*UK Government announcement on tuition fees

Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.

Additional costs

Placements
All students within the Peninsula Medical School will spend time in placements away from university. The South West is a largely rural region, which often requires students to travel longer and further distances than may be expected when universities are in largely urban areas. In many cases students will stay away from home for the period of that placement time. Most students are eligible for reimbursement of additional travel and accommodation costs over normal daily travel costs. This support is part of the Learning Support Fund administered through the NHS Business Services Authority. International students are not eligible for support from the Learning Support fund and will need to fund their placement accommodation and travel.
Further information
More details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Health additional costs

How to apply
All applications must be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
Applicants may wish to consider our School of Biomedical Science courses for their other UCAS choices.
The UCAS code for the Faculty of Health is P60 PLYM.
For more information contact the Admissions Team:
Admissions Team
Faculty of Health
The John Bull Building
Plymouth Science Park
Plymouth
PL6 8BU
Tel: +44 1752 583222 Fax: +44 1752 517842
Email: meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Key features

Diagnostic radiography student in a computer lab (square)
Train using advanced medical imaging technology
A side view of a nurse checking an x-ray.
Benefit from close relationships and training with our hospital partners
Radiography. xray x-ray. radiographer. 
Develop empathic, technical and professional healthcare skills
A hospital CT scanner.
Train alongside students from other health professions

Health students to receive annual £5,000 payment*

The Government is issuing health students on courses from 2020 a payment of at least £5,000 a year, which they will not have to pay back. A further £3,000 of funding a year is available for eligible students.
*Whilst this payment is not applicable to the foundation year, it is relevant on progression to either of the BSC (Hons) courses.

As a trained diagnostic radiographer you’ll use x-ray and ultrasound machines, plus other forms of the latest imaging technology, to acquire images to help with the diagnosis of illnesses and injuries across a range of hospital departments.

 
 

I found Diagnostic Radiography to be the perfect combination of science, technology, and healthcare

“My favourite part of the course was how early on we were involved in taking part in multidisciplinary learning. This is such a huge part of working as a radiographer, and learning alongside other professions from the get-go massively contributed to my own professional growth.
You are able to undertake clinical placements in a variety of areas, allowing you to widen your experience in not only different imaging modalities, but different clinical settings and geographical locations, and you are thoroughly supported throughout. I would 100% recommend studying this course to any potential future students.”
BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography student Gemma Tracy in graduation robes
Gemma, BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography graduate 
 
 

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