University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The program combines foundational biomedical sciences, professional clinical practice and imaging physics with advanced study in diagnostic medical imaging modalities. Core topics include human anatomy and physiology, radiation physics and protection, image acquisition and processing, radiographic technique, patient care and professional practice. Clinical education is delivered through supervised placements in teaching hospitals and imaging centres where students gain hands-on experience in general radiography and in advanced modalities such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and specialist imaging procedures.

The honours component comprises a research-led year in which you undertake a supervised research project, advanced coursework in research methods and statistics, and extended clinical or laboratory experience. The honours year is designed to develop skills in critical appraisal, research design, data analysis and scientific communication, positioning graduates to pursue higher research degrees or roles that require evidence-based decision making.

• Typical subjects: Anatomy and physiology for imaging; Radiation physics and protection; Radiographic practice and technique; Image interpretation and quality; CT and MRI principles and practice; Clinical placements; Research methods and honours thesis.
• Structure: Coursework and clinical placements across the undergraduate years, followed by an honours year combining a research thesis, advanced coursework and further clinical experience.
• Clinical training: Placements are undertaken in public and private hospitals and imaging centres under the supervision of registered medical imaging practitioners.

Entry requirements

Entry to the Bachelor program typically requires completion of the university's standard admissions criteria for undergraduate degrees, often including an ATAR or equivalent for school leavers and consideration of tertiary pathways for mature-age applicants. Admission into the honours year normally requires completion of the bachelor degree in Medical Radiation Science (or equivalent) with a specified level of academic performance (a minimum grade point average). Applicants must meet professional suitability checks and health requirements before clinical placements.

• Academic: Completion of the relevant bachelor degree in medical radiation science or equivalent; honours entry requires a competitive GPA from prior study.
• Health and safety: Immunisation clearance and police check are required to participate in clinical placements.
• Professional suitability: Demonstrated communication skills, ethical conduct and the ability to meet clinical placement requirements are expected.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to work as registered medical imaging practitioners in hospitals, private imaging centres and specialist clinics. Common roles include diagnostic radiographer and specialised positions operating CT and MRI equipment. The honours research experience also opens pathways into research, academic positions, clinical education and leadership roles within imaging departments.

Many graduates pursue postgraduate study, such as clinical masters or doctoral research, or obtain advanced practitioner credentials in subspecialty imaging areas. Clinical registration with the national regulator for medical radiation practitioners is required to practise clinically in Australia; graduates should familiarise themselves with registration and continuing professional development requirements.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers strong clinical partnerships with major hospitals and imaging centres, providing diverse placement opportunities and exposure to contemporary imaging technology. The program integrates practical clinical training with a rigorous research-based honours year, enabling students to develop both hands-on clinical competence and critical research skills.

Students benefit from dedicated teaching staff who are experienced practitioners and researchers, access to simulation and imaging facilities, and a university environment that supports interdisciplinary collaboration across health sciences. The honours pathway is particularly well suited to students who intend to continue into postgraduate research or take on advanced clinical and leadership roles in medical imaging.