Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Assisting and Caring for Others Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
•   Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
•   Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
•   Handling and Moving Objects Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
•   Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

Working Life

In the HSE Diagnostic Radiographers are part of a clinical workforce called Health & Social Care Professionals, who work together with medical and nursing colleagues as a team in the delivery of clinical, therapeutic and social care.

The main focus of diagnostic radiography is to identify and monitor injuries, diseases and trauma, using a variety of modalities, including X-Ray, Computed Tomography (CT), Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Under S.I.256 of 2018 Radiographers have both referrer and practitioner status in terms of medical exposures of ionising radiation.

Radiography is one of the most innovative aspects of healthcare - you will use advanced technology to look inside patients' bodies and understand the root causes of their illness, and consult with colleagues on diagnosis and treatment plans.

Diagnostic radiographers use a range of techniques to achieve a high-quality diagnostic image with aids in the diagnosis of an injury or disease. An important aspect of their role is to provide this service in a safe, accurate and controlled manner so as to limit the radiation exposure risk to the patient.

Diagnostic radiographers are able to undertake most investigations but may later specialise in one particular area. Diagnostic radiographers use a range of imaging technology:

• X-ray - looks through tissues to examine bones, cavities and foreign objects
• Fluoroscopy - images the digestive system providing a real-time image.
• CT (Computed Tomography) - which provides cross-sectional views (slices) of the body
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) - builds a 2D or 3D map of the different tissue types within the body
• Ultrasound - well known for its use in obstetrics and gynaecology. Also used to check circulation and examine the heart
• Angiography - used to investigate blood vessels.

Diagnostic radiographers provide a service for most departments within the hospital including, accident and emergency, outpatients, operating theatres and wards. Close liaison and collaboration with a wide range of other health care professionals is therefore vital.

X-rays and ultrasound are just two of the imaging techniques used by diagnostic radiographers to look at injuries or disease, or monitor changes inside the body. While most diagnostic radiographers carry out a range of procedures, they may specialise in techniques such as computerised tomography scanning, or magnetic resonance imaging which uses magnetic field and radio frequency waves to produce cross-sectional images of the body.

Sonography/ultrasonography

Ultrasound is used in various settings in a hospital, including abdominal scanning and breast ultrasound. Ultrasound imaging is the use of high frequency sound in excess of human hearing to produce images of structures of the human body that may be observed on a screen. These images may subsequently be transferred to photographic film, paper, video or a CD forming part of the patients' record of their examination although most are now stored digitally in Picture Archiving and  Communication Systems (PACS). 

There are no direct entry routes into ultrasound. Most sonographers train as a radiographer then undertake an approved post-registration course, offered by higher education institutions. The courses are a minimum of one academic year and prepare sonographers clinically and academically for practice. Normally a pre-requisite for acceptance is access to a clinical department with supervised practice for students.

Where Will I Work

Diagnostic radiographers work mainly within the radiology and imaging departments of hospitals but may also work in surgeries/clinics. 

The HSE is the biggest employer in Ireland for this occupation. Further information from the HSE on the duties and skills for this occupation can be found here. 

Apart from the HSE you may work in private healthcare, in companies that manufacture and distribute medical imaging equipment and in academic and research institutions. 

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Review and evaluate developed x-rays, video tape, or computer-generated information to determine if images are satisfactory for diagnostic purposes.
• Operate or oversee operation of radiologic or magnetic imaging equipment to produce images of the body for diagnostic purposes.
• Position patient on examining table and set up and adjust equipment to obtain optimum view of specific body area as requested by physician.
• Process exposed radiographs using film processors or computer generated methods.
• Use radiation safety measures and protection devices to comply with government regulations and to ensure safety of patients and staff.
• Position imaging equipment and adjust controls to set exposure time and distance, according to specification of examination.
• Explain procedures and observe patients to ensure safety and comfort during scan.
• Determine patients' x-ray needs by reading requests or instructions from physicians.
• Key commands and data into computer to document and specify scan sequences, adjust transmitters and receivers, or photograph certain images.
• Take thorough and accurate patient medical histories.

Further Information

• Radiographer, diagnostic- from: GradIreland

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

 Social

The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.

CORU Requirements

There are a variety of study routes for students wishing to pursue a career in the health and social care professions. However, not all courses lead to the direct path of being able to practise in Ireland once qualified. In Ireland, if you want to practise as a Radiographer - Diagnostic, you must be registered with CORU, - Ireland's regulator of health and social care professionals.

One of the functions of the Registration Boards at CORU is to approve and monitor education and training programmes. The purpose of regulating education and training programmes is to ensure that all graduates entering the Register meet the necessary standards and have the knowledge and skills required for public protection. This ensures the delivery of safe and effective practise to the benefit of the service user.

What does this mean when selecting a course to study in Ireland?

This is the current list of Approved Qualifications to work as a Radiographer - Diagnostic. If you achieve one of these qualifications, you are eligible to apply for CORU registration.

What about studying abroad, and practising in Ireland once qualified?

If your professional qualification is awarded outside of Ireland and you want to register and work in Ireland, the process is a little more complex. You must first apply to have that qualification recognised by the Registration Board for your profession.

To be eligible to apply for recognition of your international qualification, you must have completed professional training, which gives you eligibility to practise your profession in the country where you were awarded the qualification.

The Registration Board will assess your qualification as well as any other relevant qualifications and work experience for compliance with the standards required for practising in Ireland.

If you are unsure about health and social care regulation, CORU is happy to help with any questions. You can contact CORU at [email protected]

There are multiple entry routes to the Radiography profession:

• Undergraduate BSc in Radiography 
• NFQ Level 8 Course in Science or a Health Sciences related discipline plus MSc in Diagnostic Radiography 

Radiographers are required to be registered with CORU, the regulatory body for Health and Social Care Professionals. 

Click here for Information on Approved Qualifications and Registration with CORU.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: radiography, biomedical science, nursing, occupational therapy, speech therapy, anatomy

• Bachelor of Science (Hons) Radiography UCD 

Search for CAO Courses

Mature Entry

All candidates are required to apply through CAO. Mature Entry is for those that are 23 years of age or older by 1st January in the year of entry. Mature entry route is based on applying for a course via www.cao.ie by 1st February. Applicants may be required to sit an assessment test or attend an interview. 

Places are limited and mature applicants must satisfy the minimum entry requirements for the programme and will also be assessed based on each Colleges [RPL] Recognition of prior learning.

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).

Example search terms include: diagnostic radiography, computed tomography, ultrasound, fertility ultrasound, gynaecological pregnancy ultrasound, medicine, health, research.

Graduates with a science or healthcare related undergraduate degree (at minimum 2.1 level) may be considered for the following postgraduate courses. Graduates from other disciplines may also be considered.

• MSc Diagnostic Radiography (TCD)
• MSc Diagnostic Radiography (UCC) 
• Graduate Entry Diagnostic Radiography (UCD) 

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Career/ Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world. 

In the HSE you could progress your career as a Senior Radiographer or as a Clinical Specialist in a specific area such as CT, MRI, Ultrasound, Nucleur Medicine, PET/CT.

Further information on clinical, management and educational pathways for career progression in the HSE is available here.

The HSCP Office is responsible for Leadership, Education and Continuing Professional Development of HSCPs working the the HSE. There are many ways of deepening your skills pertinent to your role as a Radiographer within a specific setting. This can be achieved, for example, through postgraduate training or clinical courses.

HSeLanD  the Irish Health Services's online learning and development portal offers an array of training and development opportunities delivered either online or in a classroom setting.

Apart from the HSE there are career opportunities in private healthcare, as an application or sales specialist for companies that manufacture and distribute medical imaging equipment and in teaching, clinical education and research.

Further information is available from Irish Institute of Radiography and Radiation Therapy (IIRRT)

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €41k - €74k

Salaries vary based on employer (state / private), location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
HSE.ie/ Indeed/ Talent.com

Last Updated: July, 2024

This occupation has been identified as a Job in Demand by the most recent National Skills Bulletin.

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Psychologists, Pharmacists, Opticians (including dispensing opticians), Dental practitioners, Medical radiographers, Podiatrists, Health professionals n.e.c., Health services and public health managers and directors, Social services managers and directors, Health care practice managers.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2024).

Employment growth for this occupation was above the national average, although employment levels have declined annually since 2021. Employment was spread across a large number of roles, with low numbers in employment in each making it difficult to determine any changes in individual occupations. Overall, 69% were female, a quarter were in part-time roles and there was a slightly higher than average share who were aged 55 years and over.

Online job adverts (Eurostat/CEDEFOP) were primarily for health services and public health managers/directors, and to a lesser extent, pharmacists. Employment permits issued were mainly for radiographers, but also included cardiac physiologists, dentists, psychologists and pharmacists.

Evidence of shortages is difficult to determine for these roles due to the small numbers employed.

• Public Appointments Service

  • Chapter House, 26/30 Abbey Street Upper, Dublin 1, D01 C7W6
  • (01) 858 7400 or Local: 1890 44 9999
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Health Service Executive (HSE)

  • Dr Steevens' Hospital, Steevens Lane, Dublin, 8
  • 041 685 0300
  • Click Here

• Irish Institute of Radiography and Radiation Therapy (IIRRT)

  • 28 Milbrook Court, Kilmainham, Dublin 8
  • (01) 679 0433
  • [email protected]/ [email protected]
  • Click Here

• CORU - Regulating Health & Social Care Professionals

  • Infinity Building, George’s Court, George’s Lane, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 E98Y
  • (01) 293 3160
  • [email protected]/ [email protected]/ [email protected]
  • Click Here