Radiography - Level 3 Access to Higher Education

Radiography - Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma

If you are aged 19 or over and want to study Radiography, Medical Imaging, or a related allied health profession at university — but do not have the traditional qualifications — this Access to Higher Education Diploma provides a direct pathway into higher education.

Validated by OCN London, this Level 3 Diploma (60 credits) is widely recognised by universities across the UK and equips you with the scientific knowledge, academic skills and professional understanding needed to apply for radiography and imaging science degrees.

Delivered at Angel Campus, the course blends face-to-face practical learning in our science laboratories with online sessions to support adult learners returning to education. You will also be assigned a personal tutor who will guide you through your studies and help you prepare your UCAS application.

Did you know?
If you complete an eligible university degree after your Access course, your Advanced Learner Loan for this Diploma will be written off by Student Finance England.

**Pending approval from OCN London to deliver this diploma at the Angel campus**

You will study a combination of science, medical imaging knowledge, academic skills and professional practice, building a strong foundation for radiography degrees.

Core topics include:

• Human Biology and Anatomy – cells, tissues, systems, musculoskeletal structure, physiology
• Medical Physics and Imaging Science – radiation physics, waves, energy, imaging technologies, introductory diagnostic imaging
• Professional Practice in Radiography – patient care, communication, safety, legal and ethical considerations
• Scientific and Academic Skills – data analysis, lab work, research methods, academic writing, referencing
• Applied Radiography Project – an extended assignment focusing on a topic within diagnostic imaging, radiotherapy or imaging science

Practical sessions and simulation-based activities will support your understanding of imaging processes and scientific concepts.

You will need to:

• Have at least four GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English and Maths
• Ideally, hold a GCSE in Science (highly recommended)
• Demonstrate strong motivation, reliability and the ability to study full-time
• Attend an interview to confirm suitability for the course

Experience in a healthcare, volunteering or imaging-related setting is helpful but not essential. We welcome applications from mature learners exploring a career change into healthcare professions.

Assessment is continuous throughout the year and may include:

• Written assignments and academic reports
• Laboratory and practical tasks
• Presentations
• Examinations and timed assessments

All work is internally assessed and externally moderated by OCN London. Independent study each week is essential to prepare for university-level science and radiography study.

You may require standard study materials, such as a scientific calculator, relevant textbooks, and basic laboratory equipment, as advised.

Adults - Access to Higher Education

This course may be free if you meet certain conditions:

• If you are not working or have a low income. You need to show proof of your income or benefits.
• If you are aged 19-23 and you do not have a full Level 3 qualification (a full L3 is the equivalent of two A-levels at A* - E grade). You need to show us proof of any qualifications you already have.
• Residency rules apply. You need to show you have permission to live, work and study in the UK without conditions, and live in London If you live outside London, you need to pay fees.
• There are some exceptions, such as certain visa types.

Check here which documents you need to show us, and which visa types are allowed.

If you do not meet the residency rules, you can still enrol on the course but you may have to pay some fees. All applicants are fee-assessed during enrolment.

If you are not eligible for a free or reduced-cost course, you need to pay the full fee yourself, or apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.

If you have to pay for your course, and decide to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan (ALL), the residency rules are different: https://www.gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan.

Some courses have additional costs, such as for specialist materials and trips.

Many of our students are eligible for financial support. See here for details.

 Upon successful completion of this Diploma, you can apply for a range of university degree programmes, including:

• BSc (Hons) Radiography (Diagnostic Imaging)
• BSc (Hons) Radiotherapy and Oncology
• Medical Imaging, Medical Physics or Allied Health Profession degrees

 This qualification provides a strong scientific foundation, understanding of imaging practice, and the academic readiness valued by radiography admissions teams.