Radiotherapy is used in the management of approximately half of patients diagnosed with cancer. It works by utilising radiation at high energies to destroy cancer cells so that a patient can either be cured or have their symptoms alleviated.

This course will enable you to graduate as a therapeutic radiographer eligible for state registration. Therapeutic radiographers are the key clinical practitioners responsible for delivering radiotherapy. You will develop skills related to planning and accurate delivery of radiotherapy using a range of specialised technical equipment. You will also develop the vital skills to manage the psychological, social and emotional factors experienced by patients with cancer, their families and loved ones. Because most cancer patients will be treated with a range of modalities (including surgery, chemotherapy and hormone therapy) you will learn about the management of cancer from a holistic perspective. For some learning of core health care values and concepts, this will be alongside other health care practitioners.

Practical experience is a key component of the programme, so your university-based studies will be regularly integrated with clinical practice placements in a range of approved placement sites. 

Work placement

Graduate with invaluable work experience alongside your degree and stand out from the crowd.  

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a work placement sandwich year. It’s a chance to explore career possibilities, make valuable contacts and gain sought after professional skills.  

Our dedicated Careers and Employment team are here to help guide you through the process.

If you take up a work placement between your second and third year of study, at the University of Hertfordshire you’ll pay no tuition fee for this year. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it. 

What's next for my career?

Successful completion of this radiotherapy and oncology course leads to an honours degree and eligibility to apply for state registration with the Health and Care Professions Council as a Therapeutic Radiographer.

Radiotherapy provides excellent career prospects with the opportunity for continuous career development and opportunities to work in various specialties such as advanced practice, education, research and as an application specialist. The qualification is also recognised by other countries around the world providing prospects to work abroad.

99.6% of our Health and Social Work graduates went on to employment or further study within 6 months according to the latest national Destination of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey.

The entry level for newly graduated therapeutic radiographers is band 5 on the Agenda for Change pay scales for NHS health professionals. Most graduates can expect to progress to band 6 within 2 years of commencing their first band 5 post.