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Full curriculum

Access to HE Diploma (Radiography): complete syllabus

Become the practitioner behind the diagnostic image, the calm presence at the centre of urgent care. The Access to HE Diploma (Radiography) prepares adult learners for diagnostic and therapeutic radiography degrees. Level 3, awarded by OCN London, 100% online, up to 144 UCAS points, no exams.

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15 units · 0 lessons · 60 total credits · 12 to 18 months

← Back to qualification overview
Unit 1 · 3 credits · Level 3

Academic Skills for Higher Education

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Structure a well-referenced academic essay
  • Apply Harvard referencing to journal articles and books
  • Manage a 12-month self-directed study timetable

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 2 · 6 credits · Level 3

Human Anatomy and Physiology

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Identify major bones, joints, and anatomical landmarks on a diagram
  • Describe the structure and function of the cardiovascular system
  • Explain the anatomical basis for standard radiographic projections

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 3 · 6 credits · Level 3

Physics of Medical Imaging

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Explain how X-rays are produced and interact with tissue
  • Compare image formation across X-ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound
  • Discuss radiation dose concepts and ALARP principles

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 4 · 6 credits · Level 3

Pathology for Radiographers

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Identify common radiographic appearances of fractures
  • Describe the imaging features of pneumonia and pleural effusion
  • Outline the role of imaging in cancer staging

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 5 · 3 credits · Level 3

Radiation Protection and Safety

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Summarise the key duties under IR(ME)R 2017
  • Apply ALARP principles to a clinical scenario
  • Identify groups at particular risk from ionising radiation

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 6 · 3 credits · Level 3

Introduction to Oncology and Radiotherapy

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Explain the cell cycle and mechanisms of radiation-induced cell death
  • Describe external beam and brachytherapy treatment techniques
  • Identify the therapeutic radiographer’s responsibilities in treatment delivery

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 7 · 3 credits · Level 3

Research Methods in Healthcare

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Distinguish between quantitative and qualitative methodologies
  • Critically appraise a published radiography study
  • Outline the ethical principles governing health research

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 8 · 3 credits · Level 3

Professional Practice in Radiography

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Apply HCPC Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics to scenarios
  • Explain informed consent in the context of medical imaging
  • Describe the roles of the imaging multi-disciplinary team

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 9 · 3 credits · Level 3

Sociology and Psychology of Health

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Discuss social determinants of health and imaging access
  • Apply communication strategies to a patient anxious about MRI
  • Identify health inequalities relevant to cancer screening attendance

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 10 · 3 credits · Level 3

Medical Terminology and Image Interpretation

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Decode radiological terminology from a clinical report
  • Use correct anatomical and directional terminology
  • Identify normal anatomical structures on a chest X-ray diagram

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 11 · 3 credits · Level 3

Mathematics for Medical Science

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Perform calculations using scientific notation and exponential values
  • Apply unit conversions relevant to radiation dose (Gy, Sv, mSv)
  • Interpret a simple dose-area product calculation

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 12 · 3 credits · Level 3

Digital Health and Imaging Technology

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Explain the workflow from digital image acquisition to PACS storage
  • Identify current AI applications in radiology reporting
  • Discuss data governance requirements for patient imaging data

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 13 · 3 credits · Level 3

Patient Care and Clinical Skills

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Apply infection control principles to the radiography environment
  • Identify the signs of a contrast media adverse reaction
  • Explain safe patient positioning principles for radiographic examination

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 14 · 3 credits · Level 3

Ethics and Law in Healthcare

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Apply the Mental Capacity Act 2005 to an imaging consent scenario
  • Explain the duty of candour under NHS Regulations 2014
  • Outline GDPR requirements for patient imaging records

Lesson list coming soon.

Unit 15 · 6 credits · Level 3

Extended Research Project

Learning outcomes (3)
  • Construct a focused research question from radiography literature
  • Conduct a structured literature search using academic databases
  • Write and present a 3,000-word evidence-based research project

Lesson list coming soon.

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Access to HE Diploma (Radiography) curriculum & syllabus | Lift College | Lift College