Diagnostic Radiography Degree Apprenticeship

Entry requirements

A-levels

BBC (112 UCAS points) including a B in biology, human biology, physics or chemistry.

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma DMM in Applied Science or Health and Social Care.

International Baccalaureate

26 points with three subjects at a higher level including a science.

Access to HE Diploma

Pass with 60 credits overall. Science or health studies. Must include level 3 units in biology. At least 45 credits at level 3, with 30 credits at merit or distinction.

GCSE

Grade 4 (C), or above in a minimum of five subjects including English language, maths and science.

Applicants will be considered on an individual basis in line with the University of Brighton Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.

Modules

Year 1

• Introduction to Diagnostic Radiography
• Radiation Physics
• Foundations of Professional Practice in Diagnostic Radiography
• Introduction to Anatomy, Physiology and Pathophysiology
• Work Based Learning

Year 2

• Research Methods in Healthcare
• Science and Technology in Diagnostic Radiography
• Professional Practice in Diagnostic Radiography
• Applied Anatomy, Physiology and Pathophysiology
• Work Based Learning

Year 3

• Image Interpretation
• Enhanced Professional Practice in Diagnostic Radiography
• Work Based Project
• End Point Assessment (EPA)
• Work Based Learning

Core skills

Upon completion of the programme, apprentices will be equipped to:

• perform a diverse range of radiographic examinations on patients presenting with a range of complexities
• understand key factors influencing the delivery of high quality, patient focussed care in the field of radiography 
• evaluate the effectiveness of radiographic examinations
• demonstrate knowledge of the limitations of practice and when to refer for assistance
• effectively use verbal and non-verbal communication skills for interactions with patients and fellow healthcare professionals 
• function as an autonomous practitioner and effective member of a multidisciplinary team

• synthesise and apply legislation, local rules and guidelines to individual practice
• demonstrate the attitudes and behaviours commensurate with the professional role of the radiographer
• practice within the ethical boundaries of healthcare and maintain a safe working environment 
• critically evaluate clinical evidence and research and make recommendations to inform practice 10.
• engage in reflective practice and take responsibility for own learning and development to plan and implement progressive change.

Teaching and assessment

With support from the employer, apprentices are required to spend 20% of paid working hours on studies and be able to evidence this. This is a statutory requirement for apprenticeships and the funding is conditional on this being met. Off-the-job learning includes activities which have not previously been a part of the role or furthers apprentices development into new areas.

The apprenticeship will be taught alongside the BSc and MSc courses which will diversify knowledge through sharing of experiences.  A learner focussed approach to education is underpinned by a variety of teaching methods which include (but are not limited to);

• key-note lectures from subject specialists or expert patients
• facilitated workshops
• learner-led case-based group work
• seminars or webinars
• presentations using a range of media
• pre-recorded content
• guided independent study.

A range of assessment strategies are employed throughout the programme with the aim of helping apprentices with different learning styles to succeed. Individual assessment strategies include:

• clinical assessments and examinations
• oral examinations
• professional development portfolios
• theory assessments
• essays
• reports
• literature reviews
• case studies
• written examinations
• practical assessments.

At every level of study, one module offers a choice between two assessment options, allowing individuals to choose their preference and maximise their opportunity to meet their potential.

Employer and apprentice commitments

In order to deliver the programme, the employer undertakes to:

• conduct a workplace induction and set out a contract of employment
• provide an appropriately qualified workplace mentor to support the apprentice
• attend apprentice's progress review (twice a year) 
• ensure that an Occupational Health Screening and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check has been undertaken by the employer
• release apprentice for scheduled off-the-job learning
• have an Apprenticeship Agreement in place from the start of the programme.

Throughout the programme, apprentices will:

• attend the workplace for the agreed pattern as set out in the employment contract 
• record all training sessions and off-the-job learning 
• attend scheduled university learning sessions and complete all assessments as required by the university and End Point Assessment Organisation
• behave in a safe and responsible manner at the workplace and university
• engage with regular progress reviews 
• complete, throughout the apprenticeship, a professional development portfolio.

Facilities

The University of Brighton has a wide range of facilities to support the learning of our health students which enable students to develop their skills in real-life scenarios.

For this new course we will be creating a Clinical Imaging Suite for our diagnostic radiography students which will include:

• X-ray table and tube
• PACS/DICOM image store
• Clinical imaging simulation software

Fees and funding information for apprentices

Course fees

As an apprentice the cost of your learning programme is covered by your employer through their Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS) account.

Student finance

Higher and degree level apprentices are not eligible for any element of student finance. This is because they receive a salary instead of the student loan package. However, if you are experiencing any financial difficulties, please contact the Student Advice Service on 01273 642 888.

Learning support

Apprentices studying at Higher and degree level may be able to access funding in relation to additional support but this is available through the university and not Disabled Students Allowance. Apprentices may also be able to apply for Access to Work funding for work-based equipment and software. Please contact the Disability and Dyslexia team on 01273 643 799.