Study Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging) at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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International students

Start date
February

Campus
City East

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
IBRS

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 41,700 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

Admissions
Student Profile

English Language Requirements

IELTS total [7.0]
IELTS reading [7.0]
IELTS writing [7.0]
IELTS speaking [7.0]
IELTS listening [7.0]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
088578G

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.

Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.

Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:

Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points

Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.

OR
Higher education study

Complete or partially complete a recognised higher education program at Bachelor or higher level at a recognised higher education institution, or
Complete a Diploma level program at a recognised higher education institution

OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Advanced Diploma level or above

OR
Work and life experience

Qualify for Special Entry, or
Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past

Essential requirements for admission

Prerequisites

None

Assumed Knowledge

None

English language entry requirements

In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:

English language test

IELTS total [7.0]
IELTS reading [7.0]
IELTS writing [7.0]
IELTS speaking [7.0]
IELTS listening [7.0]

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)

Admission Requirements by Country

Bangladesh HSC	5
Canada High School (OSSD)	90
Eynesbury FSP	415
German Abitur	1.8
Kenya KCSE (average)	A
Malaysia STPM (best 3)	12
Malaysia UEC	20
Norway GPA	5
Pakistan HSSC	90
Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3)	12
Sweden GPA	18
UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board	12
Vietnam	9.5
Australia	93
IB (best 6)	35
USA SAT (1600)	1465
India (best 4) State Board	95
India (best 4) Central Board	85
HKDSE	22
Nepal NEB	3.41

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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Degree overview

Study South Australia’s only medical radiation science degree, specialising in medical imaging.
Learn in fully functioning x-ray suites on campus.
Prepare to work across general radiography practice including x-ray, fluoroscopy, theatre or emergency imaging.
Gain hands-on experience when you complete clinical placements as part of your studies.
Study at a university with above world-class research in medical radiation science.¹
Work with specialised equipment and computer systems to analyse patient data.
Join the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers².
UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people³. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities⁴, 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 2020-22, Health Services and Support – Overall Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities. ³UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. ⁴Ranked #52, 2023 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

Medical Radiation Science Medical Imaging student using campus facilities

This is the only degree of its kind in South Australia, preparing you for a rewarding career in the highly specialised field of medical imaging.

Start your unstoppable career as a professional diagnostic radiographer, responsible for producing high quality medical images using various technologies and types of radiation to monitor and help diagnose injuries and illnesses.

High achieving students may be considered for the Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Honours) (Medical Imaging) program in the third year.

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

Medical imaging professionals are responsible for producing high quality medical images using various technologies and types of radiation to monitor and help diagnose injuries and illnesses. Their work includes general radiography such as x-rays, fluoroscopy, theatre or emergency imaging.

Throughout your degree, you’ll learn how to produce optimal images using complex equipment while caring for patients. You’ll also 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 third and fourth years.

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

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)
Human Physiology 101	BIOL 1050	4.5
Medical Radiation Human Anatomy	HLTH 1026	4.5
Pathology for Medical Radiation	MEDI 2006	4.5
Physics for Medical Radiation 100	PHYS 1017	4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Applied Psychology	BEHL 1005	4.5
Physics for Medical Radiation 200	PHYS 2006	4.5
Human Anatomy 201 (Gross and Sectional)	RADY 2008	4.5
Medical Imaging Studies 1	RADY 2009	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Medical Imaging Clinical Practice 1	RADY 2012	4.5	Note(s): 2,6	Rule(s): 2
Medical Imaging Studies 2	RADY 3010	4.5
Introduction to Evidence Based Practice and Research in Health Sciences	HLTH 1049	4.5
Physics for Medical Radiation 300	PHYS 2007	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
Medical Imaging Studies 3	RADY 3011	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 7
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Medical Imaging Studies 4	RADY 3012	4.5
Medical Imaging Clinical Practice 2	RADY 3036	9	Note(s): 2
Specialised Medical Radiation	RADY 4023	4.5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Medical Imaging Clinical Practice 3	RADY 4033	9	Note(s): 2
Medical Imaging Clinical Practice 4	RADY 4034	9	Note(s): 2
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Medical Imaging Professional Entry Practice 1	RADY 4037	9	Note(s): 2
Medical Imaging Professional Entry Practice 2	RADY 4038	9	Note(s): 2

Rules & notes

Rules

1. To undertake field/clinical placements students are required to have current criminal history and screening checks as published by the Clinical Placement Unit (unisa.edu.au/CPU). These checks will list disclosable court outcomes that may prevent field / clinical placement involvement and subsequently may prevent completion of the program.

2. Students must successfully complete a "Provide First Aid" course before they will be able to commence RADY 2012 Medical Imaging Clinical Practice 1.

3. Students are required to satisfy the standard of dress and behaviour prescribed by institutions in which clinical placements are undertaken. Failure to satisfy such requirements may prevent students from completing the program.

4. Maximum credit allowed - normally up to two thirds of the total units of the program.

5. The program requires participation in practical classes where manual skills are practiced. Essential learning activities in some classes may require that students partially remove their clothing to a level that is appropriate to the learning activity. Students may also be asked to act as subjects for their peer group members. If a student is unable to meet these requirements they may be at risk of being unable to successfully complete course objectives and assessments and progress through the program.

6. Participation is required in practical classes and clinical placements where students are required to physically handle people including lifting and supporting people with disabilities.

7. Students who do not maintain continuous enrolment in this program after commencing work integrated learning placements, or are returning from a period of absence of more than 12 months will be required to undertake a competency assessment and/or recency training at an upfront cost, in addition to the program tuition fees. This is to ensure students have maintained competency in the required skills to protect the safety of the public during work integrated learning arrangements.

Notes

1. Students will enrol in the medical imaging specialty at the commencement of the program. Transfer to other specialty streams (nuclear medicine or radiation therapy) is only permitted within the bounds of available clinical placements and, where necessary, will involve ranking by academic performance in the first year.

2. The clinical courses (Medical Imaging Clinical Practice 1-4, Medical Imaging Honours Clinical Practice 4, Medical Imaging Professional Entry Practice 1-2 and Medical Imaging Honours Professional Entry Practice 1) form a significant part of the program and students are required to be reasonably fit to successfully undertake these components.

3. Students will be required to complete a clinical placement at a rural or regional location.

4. Students will be required to undertake clinical practice courses at scheduled periods across all seven study periods.

5. Attendance requirements apply to the clinical components of the program. Students enrolled in courses with a clinical component will need to attend on a full-time basis for the duration of the courses.

6. Students will be required to undertake a Certificate of Mandatory Notification before commencing RADY 2012 Medical Imaging Clinical Practice 1.

7. This Elective is a free elective to be selected by the student.

8. Normally students who achieve a credit level or above in the courses which make up the first and second years of the program may be considered for the Honours program. A quota of places is offered each year to applicants in an academically ranked order. An invitation to undertake Honours will normally be made towards the end of the second year of the program.

9. Students may be required to complete an interstate clinical placement.

10. Students are strongly encouraged to study full-time. Students seeking part-time study must discuss this with the Program Director prior to enrolment. Part-time students are normally expected to complete the program in eight years.

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

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.

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.

Why Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging)

Medical Radiation Science Medical Imaging students checking x-rays

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 science¹, 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. Work placements give you the opportunity for you to put your skills into practice, and build valuable industry networks and relationships.

Clinical specialists will also come on campus to teach you about current technologies and practices.

We host regular University-wide alumni events, employee master classes and employment expos in Australia and overseas.

Career outcomes

Your career

In Australia, growth for medical radiation science professionals has been on the rise with career prospects continuing to look strong.¹

To be successful in this field, you 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.

Medical imaging professionals work in diverse settings, such as:

hospitals
private practices
the Defence Force
medical equipment companies
research and development

With further study or training, you can also gain employment in specialist areas such as:

ultrasound: produce detailed images of the body in real-time to diagnose and monitor a range of health conditions
interventional medical imaging: a technique used to visualise blood vessels
magnetic resonance imaging: operate MRI scanners to create 3D images of a patient’s body tissues, which are then used to diagnose illness and disease
computed tomography: operate CT equipment to produce cross-sectional images of a patient’s bones, organs and tissues

¹Australian 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

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

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

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

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

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

UniSA College Diploma in Health (Allied Health and Human Performance)
SAIBT Diploma of Health Science

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

SAIBT Diploma of Health Science

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

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

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. 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 lots 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

Our international 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:

career advice and mentoring
help with student visas and health cover
personal counselling
academic counselling
fees and finance help
common rooms
prayer rooms
security officers
accommodation services
as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. 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.

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.

Your study spaces

Medical Imaging graduate Laura Lukic.jpg

As a medical imaging student, you’ll learn in on-campus medical imaging facilities, including fully functioning, state-of-the-art x-ray suites with associated software packages.

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

Your program director

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

Ms Cristina Blefari

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How to apply?

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
Is there a closing date for applications?

There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

More FAQs

What others are saying

I completed a rural placement in Port Lincoln where I thoroughly enjoyed working in the hospital and living independently. It helped me to experience what medical imaging is like in the clinical environment.

Georgina Key

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging)

Georgina Key

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging)

Working in ultrasound is really rewarding. I get to play the role of the detective in the patient’s journey. I’m taking the images and working with the radiologist to form a diagnosis.

Laura Lukic

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging)
Diagnostic Radiographer | Women’s and Children’s Hospital

Laura Lukic

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging)
Diagnostic Radiographer | Women’s and Children’s Hospital

It would be my dream to make a lasting contribution to the advancement of the radiography field. I am passionate about research and how modern healthcare practice must be underpinned by the best evidence. I want to discover the answers to questions we don’t even know exist yet.

Georgia Williams

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging)

Georgia Williams

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging)

I chose to study medical imaging because I could follow my passion for sciences and technology but also work closely with people. It's amazing to think that we are utilising radiation that is undetectable to the human eye to create images that can possibly save someone’s life.

Jenny Han

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging)