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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Radiography in Diagnostics 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
91792  Bachelor of Radiography in Diagnostics 
ORIGINATOR
Nelson Mandela University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Curative Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  480  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2034-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification is to develop a competent learner who has a thorough grounding in the knowledge and skills required for the Diagnostic Radiography profession and who has gained experience in applying such knowledge and skills in the appropriate workplace context.

This qualification enables the learner to competently apply an integration of theory, principles, proven techniques, practical experience and appropriate skills to the solution of well-defined and abstract problems in the selected field of Diagnostic Radiography. The learner should become a reflective practitioner and a life-long learner in his or her profession, thereby benefiting the community and society.

Skills in management and research will also be demonstrated allowing the holder of this qualification to work independently and in a supervisory capacity within the health care team.

Successful completion of this qualification will enable the learner to register with the relevant Professional Council as a Specialist Radiographer.

Rationale:
The imperative of this learning programme arises from the proposed introduction of the National Health Insurance (NHI) programme, which is expected to result in a requirement of a large number of health professionals including radiographers. This new qualification is required for the following two reasons:

Diagnostic radiography is one of the identified scarce skills in South Africa and is vitally important to the effective diagnosis and management of disease within the NHI programme. The qualification would be beneficial as a radiographer with an understanding of deep theoretical and wide knowledge in diagnostic radiography would be required. Radiographic imaging in general plays a key role in understanding complex biological systems and is dependent on interdisciplinary fields (e.g. physics, human biology, computer sciences) to extract that information.

Diagnostic Radiographers work in close collaboration with radiologists in the health care team. In the South African setting, however, there are a limited number of radiologists to service the population of the country. This shortage of radiologists has resulted in a change in the type of radiographer required for the South African health system. This radiographer would be required to perform general radiography, limited computed tomography (CT), supervised fluoroscopy and limited magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as is currently the case. Furthermore, this new cadre of health professional would be required to perform limited unsupervised fluoroscopic studies, do image interpretation of selected examinations, assist with and administer contrast media, perform advanced CT and MRI examinations and apply quality management techniques relevant to diagnostic radiography.

The qualification will increase accessibility and the number of well-qualified, competent and independent radiography graduates. These graduates will be able to play a leadership and a supportive role in the multidisciplinary health care team in both the public and private health services of the Province and the country. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
This qualification may be achieved in part through the recognition of relevant prior learning and prior experience as a practitioner in another field of radiography. Providers are required to develop structured and accredited means of the assessment of individual learners against Exit-Level Outcomes of the Qualification on a case-by-case basis. Recognition of Prior Learning will be applied on an individual basis and will be conducted following the institutions' accredited RPL policy. Such procedures and the assessment of individual cases are subject to moderation by independent assessors.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's studies with Mathematics.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational) NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's studies with Mathematics.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, with endorsement and a pass of Mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at NQF Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 114 Credits:
  • Anatomy and Physiology l, 18 Credits.
  • Pathology l, 12 Credits.
  • Applied Physics, 12 Credits.
  • Academic literacy, 12 Credits.
  • Professional Practice l, 8 Credits.
  • Radiographic Procedures l, 24 Credits.
  • Clinical Radiographic Practice l, 12 Credits.
  • Imaging Technology l, 16 Credits.

    Compulsory modules, Level 6, 126 Credits:
  • Anatomy and Physiology ll, 12 Credits.
  • Pathology ll, 12 Credits.
  • Academic Literacy and Research, 12 Credits.
  • Professional Practice ll, 12 Credits.
  • Radiographic Procedures ll, 24 Credits.
  • Clinical Radiographic Practice ll, 24 Credits.
  • Radiation Science, 12 Credits.
  • Imaging Technology ll, 18 Credits.

    Compulsory Module, Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Anatomy and Physiology lll, 18 Credits.
  • Research Principles (Methods and Statistics), 24 Credits.
  • Management Principles, 12 Credits.
  • Radiographic Procedures lll, 24 Credits.
  • Clinical Radiographic Practice lll, 12 Credits.
  • Imaging Technology lll, 18 Credits.
  • Imaging Analysis, 12 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 90 Credits:
  • Radiographic Department Management Strategies lV, 12 Credits.
  • Radiographic Procedures lV, 24 Credits.
  • Clinical Radiographic Practice lV, 24 Credits.
  • Research Project, 30 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 8, 40 Credits (Select two modules):
  • Advances in Computed Tomography Technology, 20 Credits.
  • Advances in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, 20 Credits.
  • Advanced Pattern Recognition, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Perform routine and specialised radiographic procedures to produce images of diagnostic quality.
    2. Access, organise and present information applicable to the radiography context to record, retrieve and communicate patient data.
    3. Evaluate the quality of routine and specialised radiographic images and perform image interpretation to identify normal and abnormal appearances.
    4. Plan, develop and apply total quality management appropriate to the diagnostic radiography context.
    5. Perform safe and effective patient care following the patient's needs and departmental protocol to provide quality service and to maintain the welfare of the patient.
    6. Apply the principles of human rights, ethics and relevant medical law which ensure the well-being of the patient.
    7. Apply the principles, specific knowledge, skills and values related to one of the chosen electives as listed.
    8. Conduct research. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Interpret request form for validity and knowledge of relevant radiographic terminology, anatomy, physiology and pathology to help in selecting appropriate techniques for the production of images necessary for providing diagnostic information to assist in patient management.
  • Select accessory equipment and imaging systems and appropriately utilise specific positioning techniques to ensure optimal exposure factors are selected and adapted to produce images of diagnostic quality.
  • Apply radiation protection and safety measures to each radiographic technique and procedure.
  • Prepare routine and specialised radiographic techniques and procedures with and without contrast media for, and performed competently.
  • Demonstrate aseptic techniques for routine and specialised examinations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Demonstrate information technology skills to record, retrieve and communicate patient data.
  • Compile data and present information scientifically.
  • Communicate Information technology within the radiographic context.
  • Select relevant information and evaluate it critically.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Evaluate radiographic images for diagnostic quality according to relevant evaluation criteria and also to ensure that the images conform to the medico-legal requirements.
  • Evaluate images for normal and abnormal radiographic appearances by applying integrated knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology.
  • Apply corrective measures to the radiographic techniques where necessary.
  • Communicate radiographic appearances to the referring health care professional to enable further patient management.
  • Exercise independent judgement and discretion in the performance of additional radiographic views where justified.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Demonstrate principles of quality assurance and quality control in the development of departmental protocols.
  • Select, order and maintain equipment and accessories within an available budget to provide an efficient and cost-effective service.
  • Develop and maintain communication and co-operation between all role players to provide optimal service.
  • Develop performance management strategies in a manner that shows an understanding of management principles and current relevant legislation.
  • Maintain departmental records and statistics following the departmental and professional council requirements.
  • Demonstrate integrated knowledge of management, technology and legislation in the ability to design and equip a new, or alter an existing, diagnostic facility.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Assess patient is assessed relevant to presenting clinical condition and appropriate action taken.
  • Show respect to the cultural and psychological diversity of patients to ensure a quality service is provided.
  • Give a simple but professional explanation of the radiographic procedures to the patient before, during and after the procedure to ensure the cooperation of the patient.
  • Apply optimal patient care before, during and after the procedure.
  • Demonstrate effective written, verbal and non-verbal communication skills during interaction with patients and health care team members.
  • Demonstrate skills and knowledge of first aid as and when applicable.
  • Recognise signs and symptoms of contrast media reaction, take appropriate action and demonstrate assistance in emergency medicine following such reactions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Recognise psychological, cultural and ethical considerations of the patient and their families and professionally acted upon them.
  • Protect and confidentiality maintains the rights of the patient, as entrenched in the Bill of Rights, the Patients Charter and relevant medical law.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Apply and integrate the principles and/or philosophy of the subject into related activities.
  • Apply the specialised techniques required to achieve the contextual objective.
  • Apply quality assurance principles to ensure optimal results within the context of the subject.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Demonstrate research principles and methodology in the field of Diagnostic Radiography research in the form of a research proposal and project.
  • Maintain relevance of the research in line with national needs and biomedical ethical policies and procedures.
  • Evaluate suitable resources and use them to facilitate the research project.
  • Present findings and conclusions in oral and written formats following established research practice.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The following methods of formative and summative assessment will be employed according to their suitability for individual modules:

    Formative Assessment:
  • Written tests.
  • Assignments.
  • Practicals.
  • Portfolios development.
  • Logbooks.
  • Clinical reports.
  • Case studies.
  • Presentations.
  • Group work.
  • Clinical placement assessment (clinical assessments in situ).

    Summative Assessment:
  • Written examinations.
  • Oral examinations.
  • Practical Assessments.
  • Portfolio development.
  • Logbooks.
  • Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The primary reason for designing this Qualification was to meet the needs of the South African community as identified by the National Department of Health. To ensure that this Qualification compatible with international standards. To evaluate the degree to which this Qualification is in line with international best practice it was compared to similar qualifications offered around the world. For this report, qualifications from Nigeria and Australia were selected.

    Nigeria as an African Country is on par with South Africa economically. Determining the comparability of this Qualification against one from Nigeria provided some indication of the possible employability of the qualifying students within the African continent. Nigeria offers Diagnostic Radiography qualifications which range from Certificates to Professional Degrees as well as Postgraduate courses such as Computed Tomography.

    University of Nigeria, Enugu campus offers a five year Bachelor of Science Degree in Medical Radiography. This is a full-time course and no part-time registration is allowed. The period of training is divided into three stages. The first year of study is the preliminary stage and focuses on Biological and Physical Sciences. The second year of study is the pre-clinical stage and focuses on Patient Care and General Hospital Practice. Learners are exposed to clinical training from the third to the fifth year of study. This last stage incorporates clinical and professional training.

    All courses offered for this Degree are compulsory except the Principles of Management and Histology/Histopathology (practical) courses. To be awarded the Degree, the learner must pass all subjects.

    Entrance requirements:
    Appropriate level pass of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board examinations with English, Mathematics, Physics, Biology and Chemistry. These requirements compare favourably with the South African Qualification except that, English does not form part of the requirements due to the language policies of some institutions. Chemistry is not a prerequisite to study Radiography but may be an advantage.

    Scope:
    The curriculum at the undergraduate level covers mainly Diagnostic Radiography, with an introduction to Medical Ultrasound, Radiotherapy, Nuclear Medicine and Computed Tomography. This scope is also similar to the way Diagnostic Radiography is offered in South Africa, except that Computed Tomography is not taught as an additional course, but forms part of the course. Advances in Computed Tomography have also been identified as an elective for the South African qualification.

    Stress areas or major subjects:
  • Medical Radiographic Physics.
  • Medical Radiographic Equipment Engineering.
  • Medical Radiographic Photography.
  • Imaging Processing and Optics.
  • Clinical Radiographic Procedures.
  • Hospital Practice and Healthcare System.
  • Medical Radiographic Anatomy and Physiology.
  • Other Medical Imaging Modalities.
  • Radiation Therapy Techniques.
  • Medical Radiographic Pathology.
  • Research Methodology.

    Even though this qualification does not specify which subjects or modules form part of the fundamental, core or electives, the distribution compares well with what has been proposed for the Bachelor of Diagnostic Radiography in South Africa, since they are both full-time courses, students need to pass all subjects to be awarded a degree and that clinical training is compulsory.

    The major difference is the duration of the study, learner exposure to the clinical environment and the subjects offered in the first year of study. The fact that completion of the research project is compulsory makes both qualifications comparable, professional degrees, after which the successful student may proceed to the Masters' Degree.

    Registration requirements: Qualified Radiographers register with the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria. The board participates in the development of Radiography curricula as offered by the various Education Institutions in Nigeria. This a similar to the South African situation where qualifications are developed through the participation of the Education Institutions and the members of the Professional Board for Radiography and Clinical Technology under the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Other institutions in Nigeria offer courses that may be at a level lower than that of the professional degrees.

    Federal School of Radiography, in Lagos Nigeria, offers a three-year Certificate. The course covers Natural Sciences, Anatomy and Physiology as well as Radiographic Equipment, Techniques, Principles of Radiotherapy and Radiographic Photography. This Qualification does not compare well with the three year National Diploma or Bachelor's Degree as currently offered in South Africa. It compares well with the one-year supplementary Diagnostic Radiography, which has since been discontinued by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

    Postgraduate Certificate courses such as Computer Tomography are offered by the Institute of Radiography of Nigeria. The examinations for this Certificate course are conducted by the Institute of Radiography in conjunction with the Association of Radiographers of Nigeria. This course is registered with the Radiography Board of Nigeria.

    These courses compare well with additional courses offered by the various Education Institutions in South Africa and registered with the HPCSA. The Education Institutions are required to apply for accreditation by the HPCSA before they can offer these additional courses. These Certificate courses registered with HPCSA are listed as electives for the Bachelor of Radiography Degree.

    Australia offers a four year Bachelor of Science (Medical Imaging) Degree at the Curtin University of Technology. This degree is similar to the Bachelor's Degree designed for South Africa in that both are full time and the learner must pass all courses to graduate. The difference lies in the course content. The programme offered at the Curtin University of Technology has a major Mathematical content, offered in the first and fourth years of study. From the program, there is no evidence of learners being introduced to research principles.

    The Curtin University of Technology has an Honours programme that offers successful learners the chance to do Research Methodology in one of the three speciality areas, namely; Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine or Diagnostic Radiography. This means that for learners to research Radiography, they will have to extend their study programme from four to five years. Extensive clinical training is done in the third and fourth year of study. This is not necessarily the situation with South African programmes; clinical training is scheduled to commence as early as the first year. The learners who complete the study program for the Bachelor of Science (Medical Imaging) in Australia are awarded a professional status through registration with the Australian Institute of Radiography.

    Conclusion:
    Most of the other African countries offer two to three-year qualifications. These countries do not have their examining or accreditation bodies. Most of the courses offered are either accredited by the United Kingdom or American organisations. Since Nigeria is a country that is well established with its regulatory authorities, it has proven to be a good example for comparison with the proposed Bachelor's Degree in Diagnostic Radiography for South Africa. It is therefore shown that the South African Qualification complies with international standards. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Radiation Therapy, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Nuclear Medicine Technology, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Diagnostic Ultrasound, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Radiography, NQF Level 9. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Recorded in 2015. 

    NOTES 
    All learners for this Qualification are required to be registered as learners by the relevant Professional Council for the duration of the period of study in an accredited clinical training centre with accredited mentorship.

    Registration of Assessors:
    Assessment is conducted by one or more internal assessors/examiners employed by the relevant provider as well as an external moderator appointed from industry/other academic institution.

    A practising Practitioner, registered with the relevant Statutory Health Council, with a Bachelor of Diagnostic Radiography, or equivalent, or higher, or appropriate research/teaching/academic/clinical experience in the category is appointed. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.