Start Date
February

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
IBRS

SATAC Code
414341 (Internal)

Study as
Full-time

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (Grades-based): NA
View Guaranteed Entry Info
2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 90.00
TAFE/RTO: Adv Dip
View full entry requirements

Degree overview

  • Study Medical Radiation Science with a specialisation in nuclear medicine.
  • Develop the skills to safely prepare and administer radioactive substances, operate state-of-the-art equipment, diagnose and treat diseases, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
  • Graduate accredited with South Australia's only medical radiation science suite from a university with more than 50 years of allied health education.
  • Get real-world experience with more than 1,400 hours of clinical placements as part of your studies.
  • Work with industry-standard equipment on-campus, including fully functioning x-ray suites, and specialised equipment.
  • Learn from experienced academics with clinical experience, and from a curriculum with above world-class research in medical radiation science.1
  • Study with South Australia's no.1 university for graduate careers.2
  • UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities,3 we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

1Results in Clinical Sciences - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 2ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23– Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities. 3Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

Nuclear Medicine student.jpg

Unleash your unstoppable career in the rewarding and highly specialised field of nuclear medicine.

As a professional nuclear medicine technician, you will be responsible for preparing and administering radioactive substances to patients to evaluate the function of an organ and diagnose and treat disease. You will also work as part of an interprofessional team to deliver life-changing outcomes for patients.

We offer South Australia’s only degree to become an accredited nuclear medicine professional, and will prepare you to confidently join the workforce through a mixture of practical, theoretical, and industry learning.

High achieving students may be considered for the Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Honours) (Nuclear Medicine) program in the third year, where you’ll complete a research project and become prepared for a career in academia.

What you'll need

Students who undertake activities where interaction with patients/the public is required for their degree, such as field or clinical placements/visits and in University clinics and gyms, must demonstrate they meet mandatory pre-placement conditional requirements. These include criminal history clearance, a Working with Children Check and immunisation requirements.

Please visit the Clinical Placement Unit for information on key requirements, and to access the full student checklists.

All students enrolled in a program leading to professional registration must be registered with the relevant national board. The registration process is undertaken by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) with the University providing notification to AHPRA following enrolment in the program.

What you'll learn

What you Learn

Nuclear medicine technologists need to know how to confidently prepare and administer radioactive substances (radiopharmaceuticals) to evaluate the function of an organ or body system and diagnose and/or treat diseases. Throughout your degree, you’ll learn how to work with radioactive substances, and complement your clinical skills with valuable interpersonal skills such as communication and collaboration.

During your first year, you’ll focus on basic sciences at the core of the study and practice of medical radiation science. You’ll cover a range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, pathology and radiation physics. These core subjects introduce you to the scientific principles surrounding medical radiation.

You’ll apply these concepts to professional practice through clinical placements, which begin in your second year and continue through your third and fourth years.

Throughout your studies, you’ll take part in regular pre-clinical preparation workshops to further extend your skills as you move into advanced areas of practice.

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Aboriginal Health: Culture, Community and Country HLTH 1063 4.5
Human Anatomy 100 HLTH 1020 4.5
Human Physiology 100 BIOL 1049 4.5
Introduction to Medical Radiation Practice RADY 1017 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Pathology for Medical Radiation MEDI 2006 4.5
Human Physiology 101 BIOL 1050 4.5
Physics for Medical Radiation 100 PHYS 1017 4.5
Medical Radiation Human Anatomy HLTH 1026 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Fundamentals of Pharmacology PHAR 2019 4.5
Physics for Medical Radiation 200 PHYS 2006 4.5
Nuclear Medicine Studies 1 RADY 2010 4.5
Human Anatomy 201 (Gross and Sectional) RADY 2008 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Nuclear Medicine Clinical Practice 1 RADY 2013 4.5 Note(s): 2,6 Rule(s): 2
Nuclear Medicine Studies 2 RADY 3022 4.5
Physics for Medical Radiation 300 PHYS 2007 4.5
Introduction to Evidence Based Practice and Research in Health Sciences HLTH 1049 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Advanced Evidence Based Practice HLTH 3057 4.5
CT and PET Imaging RADY 3032 4.5
Nuclear Medicine Studies 3 RADY 3023 4.5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 7
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Nuclear Medicine Studies 4 RADY 3024 4.5
Nuclear Medicine Clinical Practice 2 RADY 3038 9 Note(s): 2
Specialised Medical Radiation RADY 4023 4.5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Nuclear Medicine Clinical Practice 3 RADY 4039 9 Note(s): 2
Nuclear Medicine Clinical Practice 4 RADY 4040 9 Note(s): 2
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Nuclear Medicine Professional Entry Practice 1 RADY 4043 9 Note(s): 2
Nuclear Medicine Professional Entry Practice 2 RADY 4044 9 Note(s): 2

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week. 

Assessment

Assessment

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include: 

  • group assignments
  • quizzes
  • essays
  • case studies
  • examinations
  • presentations
  • oral presentations
  • project

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Nuclear Medicine)

Nuclear Medicine.jpg

UniSA’s industry-led teaching methods offer you extensive practical learning opportunities, coupled with the support and mentoring from award-winning teaching staff and academics.

With the only degree of its kind offered in South Australia, UniSA gives you valuable hands-on experience using state-of-the-art imaging facilities on campus. You’ll study a curriculum informed by above world-class research in medical radiation science,1 and learn in-demand specialist skills.

Further practical experience is gained during more than 1,400 hours of clinical placements in Adelaide metropolitan, rural and interstate settings, ensuring you graduate career ready.

You’ll graduate with eligibility to register with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA).

1Results in Clinical Sciences - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Real-world connections

You’ll learn from experienced medical radiation professionals both on-campus and during work placements.

You’ll complete more than 1,400 hours of work placements in real-world environments, providing a valuable opportunity for you to put your skills into practice, and build valuable industry networks and relationships.

Throughout your studies, clinical specialists will also come on-campus to teach you about current technologies and practices such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Imaging.

We host regular university-wide alumni eventsemployee master classes and employment expos in Australia and overseas.

Career outcomes

Your career

Medical radiation professionals are in high demand across South Australia and interstate,1 with strong application into international industry. You may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals and private clinics, medical equipment companies, or can continue into research.  

A successful nuclear medicine professional should enjoy working with people and technology, helping sick or injured people, working a variety of hours, be interested in the human body, being challenged by new ideas, and being part of a team.

Upon graduating, you’ll be eligible for registration with APHRA and can work as a:

  • Nuclear medicine technologist: prepare and administer radioactive substances to evaluate the function of an organ or body system to diagnose and treat disease.

 Through further postgraduate study or on-the-job training, you may upskill into roles like:

  •  Sonography: produce detailed pictures of the body in real time to diagnose and monitor a range of health conditions.
  • Interventional radiologist: use a medical imaging technique to visualise blood vessels.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologist: operate MRI scanners to create 3D images of a patient’s body tissues, which are used to diagnose illness and disease.
  • Radiographer / radiology technologist: operate CT equipment to produce cross-sectional images of a patient’s bones, organs and tissues.

1 Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021.

Professional accreditation and recognition

Graduates are eligible to apply for general registration with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA).

Industry facts

chart-people

Employment for medical imaging professionals in Australia is projected to increase by 14.7% by November 2026.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

job-listings

To November 2026, healthcare and social assistance is projected to make the largest contribution to employment growth in Australia – an increase of 301,000 jobs.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

buildings-city

Healthcare and social assistance has been the primary provider of new jobs in the Australian labour market since the 1990s.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

How to apply

Applying to study with us:

  • Go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply.
  • You will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application.

Preferred Pathways

Option 1:
Direct Entry
Option 2:
Undergraduate Pathway
Apply for your preferred degree directly via SATAC
Choose one of the following degrees and complete at least 18 units of study (four courses) and then apply for your preferred degree via SATAC at the next available intake using your competitive Grade Point Average (GPA).
Bachelor of Medial Radiation Science (Nuclear Medicine)
Bachelor of Human Movement OR
Bachelor of Health Science (Public Health) OR
Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

Please note that all pathways are competitive and no guaranteed due to limited places. A competitive Grade Point Average (GPA) and other entry criteria (including prerequisites) apply. For more information, visit unisa.edu.au/study or contact our Future Student Enquiries Team at unisa.edu.au/enquire or on (08) 8302 2376.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including

Deferment

This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Your study experience and support

Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Student services

Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

  • academic counselling
  • personal counselling
  • social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • career services and mentoring
  • Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your study spaces

As a nuclear medicine student, you’ll have access to industry-standard, on-campus computer software packages for image manipulation.

You’ll also be able to experience a range of on-campus spaces including modern lecture theatres, collaborative teaching rooms, and relaxed student lounges.

Your study spaces

Your program director

I have over 20 years of professional experience in local and international clinical practice as well as in academia. I’m interested in the application of innovative learning and teaching methodologies within the clinical and academic learning environments, and how these environments interconnect.

Ms Cristina Blefari

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Ms Cristina Blefari
Portrait image for Ms Cristina Blefari

Ms Cristina Blefari

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.

    The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.

    There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.

    If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.

    You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.

    If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying

  • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

    Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

    Undergraduate

    The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.

    Postgraduate

    Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.

    As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central. 

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.

More FAQs

What others are saying

Nuclear Medicine is a specialised area, but this degree still covers a wide range of topics. I hope to become a nuclear technologist and undertake research, possibly in the development of nuclear medicine departments in third world countries.

Jenna La Dru

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Nuclear Medicine)

Jenna La Dru

Jenna La Dru

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Nuclear Medicine)