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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Diagnostic Radiography 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
96757  Diploma in Diagnostic Radiography 
ORIGINATOR
Central University of Technology, Free State 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Curative Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  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
2027-06-30   2029-06-30  

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 Diploma in Diagnostic Radiography is to develop learners who can demonstrate focused knowledge and skills in Diagnostic Radiography. Learners will gain experience in applying such knowledge and skills in a workplace context. They will also gain in-depth and specialisation of knowledge, together with practical skills and experience in the workplace.

Rationale:
This qualification was developed to train professionals with theoretical-, vocational- and industry-specific knowledge and skills in Diagnostic Radiography. The delivery of learning focused on the application of general theoretical principles as well as a combination of general and specific procedures and their application in diagnostic imaging. This qualification has a structured work-integrated learning (WIL) component.

This qualification enables the learner to enter several career paths and to apply their learning to particular employment contexts from the outset. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) involves presenting a Portfolio of Evidence of previous learning and experiences. Learners have to apply for RPL via the Department of Graduation and Assessment and follow the institution's RPL policy.

The following procedure forms part of the policy:
  • The learner completes the prescribed RPL form obtained from Assessment and Graduation services (AGS) of the CUT, FS.
  • They then submit the completed form to AGS.
  • The appropriate HOD with expert/experts in the field assesses the application.
  • They will make a recommendation regarding the application.
  • The relevant HOD meets with the chairperson of the faculty RPL Committee to evaluate the document and check for completeness of the documentation. The HOD presents the signed document/s with a recommendation to EXCO for final discussion and approval.
  • EXCO's decision is then sent to AGS for implementation and to communicate the outcome to the applicant.
  • A successful applicant can then apply for a specific qualification using RPL results.
  • Learners need to provide sufficient evidence that state that the learner has the required competencies and outcomes of the qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate without endorsement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at NQF Levels 5 and 6 totalling 420 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at Level 5, 300Credits:
  • Advanced Digital Literacy, 6 Credits.
  • Anatomy and Physiology I, 24 Credits.
  • Basic Digital Literacy, 6 Credits.
  • Academic Literacy and Communication Studies, 12 Credits.
  • Personal Information Management, 0 Credit.
  • Radiographic Practice I, 24 Credits.
  • Clinical Radiographic Practice I (WIL), 24 Credits.
  • Radiographic Pathology I, 12 Credits.
  • Physics and Chemistry, 12 Credits.
  • Image Recording, 12 Credits.
  • Anatomy, 24 Credits.
  • Physiology, 12 Credits.
  • Psychodynamics of Patient Management, 12 Credits.
  • Radiographic Practice II (D), 24 Credits.
  • Clinical Radiographic Practice II (D) (WIL), 24 Credits.
  • Image Recording II, 24 Credits.
  • Radiation Physics II, 24 Credits.
  • Radiographic Pathology II, 24 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 120 Credits.
  • Radiographic Practice III (D), 36 Credits.
  • Clinical Radiographic Practice III (D), 48 Credits.
  • Radiation Science III (D), 24 Credits.
  • Radiographic Management III (D), 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply scientific knowledge and skills to perform and adapt diagnostic techniques, applicable to the clinical presentation, for the optimum benefit of the patient.
    2. Assess the radiographic quality and pattern recognition.
    3. Care for the patient responsibly and effectively to ensure the welfare and safety of the patient is maintained.
    4. Apply appropriate health and safety regulations, ethical principles, guidelines and codes of practice in the performance of radiography to ensure personal and public safety.
    5. Utilise theoretical knowledge of management practice to manage human, technological and other resources to ensure optimally and cost-effective quality radiographic services.
    6. Access, utilise and communicate information applicable to the radiographic services. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Perform routine and specialised radiographic procedures with and without contrast medium.
  • Select the correct technique and position the patient correctly.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of CT, MRI and vascular.
  • Render appropriate assistance during CT, MRI and vascular studies.
  • Apply for radiation protection and safety measures.
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge of anatomy, anatomical relationships and cross-sectional anatomy.
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge of physiology.
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge of pathology.
  • Select and appropriately utilise imaging systems.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of equipment and use accessory equipment of imaging systems.
  • Use the correct exposures factors.
  • Appropriately apply image manipulation.
  • Select and use image recording media appropriate to the technique.
  • Evaluate images for diagnostic value.
  • Produce images of optimal quality.
  • Store and retrieve digital images effectively.
  • Operate equipment in a safe manner.
  • Effectively apply appropriate radiation safety.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Read and assess the request form appropriately.
  • Clinically assess the patient before each examination commences.
  • Evaluate radiographic images for quality and positioning, and if necessary, take and apply corrective measures.
  • Recognise the need for possible additional views.
  • Recognise and take appropriate action to ensure that the required patient information meets medico-legal requirements.
  • Recognise normal and abnormal radiographic appearances and take appropriate action.
  • Provide information relevant to radiological diagnosis and provide patient management.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the pathophysiology.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge and understanding of human behaviour in a culturally diverse environment.
  • Demonstrate appropriate responses to the patient's physical and emotional needs within the ethical code of practice.
  • Prepare the patients for specialised contrast examinations.
  • Communicate the nature and requirements of the examinations to the patient.
  • Demonstrate expertise in limiting radiation exposure to patient, self and others.
  • Acknowledge the psychological diversity of the patient.
  • Consider the clinical condition of the patient.
  • Protect the patient's rights to quality care.
  • Practice professional ethics.
  • Exercise discretion and judgement.
  • Take responsibility for professional decisions.
  • Demonstrate professional behaviour at all times.
  • Uphold the patient's rights, following the legislature of rights.
  • Report unethical and illegal professional activities to the appropriate authorities.
  • Understand and apply the process of informed consent.
  • Patient care is optimally performed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge and understanding of relevant legislature to the radiographic context.
  • Guide and manage performance according to relevant safety regulations.
  • Maintain good work ethos.
  • Develop department radiation protection protocols.
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge and understanding of the physical and biological effects of radiation.
  • Use equipment in keeping with radiation protection and quality control principles.
  • Adhere to ethical and legal requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Make effective decisions regarding the patients.
  • Organise examinations effectively.
  • Perform departmental administration optimally.
  • Maintain communication and co-operation between patients and stakeholders.
  • Manage all resources cost-effectively.
  • Explain an appropriate budget.
  • Implement time management.
  • Resolve the conflict between role-players.
  • Manage human resources within the appropriate legislation.
  • Develop human resources.
  • Maintain good communication with all role-players.
  • Undertake supervision and instruction of learners.
  • Promote the profession of radiography.
  • Apply mechanisms for stock control.
  • Maintain resources in a cost-effective manner.
  • Keep the working environment neat and clean at all times.
  • Keep and maintain patient records and department statistics.
  • Maintain equipment and consumables responsibly.
  • Control and manage financial costs effectively.
  • Demonstrate awareness of entrepreneurial opportunities.
  • Prepare a strategic plan for the department.
  • Maintain quality assurance.
  • Identify the elements required for quality control.
  • Monitor equipment and procedures continuously.
  • Implement efficient and cost-effective quality assurance programs.
  • Ensure client and patient satisfaction.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Use database and spreadsheet software.
  • Select relevant information from appropriate sources.
  • Gather, interpret and present data.
  • Present the information scientifically.
  • Use information technology effectively.
  • Communicate effectively using information technology.

    Integrated Assemessment:
    The qualification provides for sufficient practical applications of knowledge, skills and attitudes across modules.

    Formative Assessment Comprises:
  • Written or oral tests.
  • Work Integrated Learning - Completion of Logbook.
  • Simulations.
  • Mentors.
  • Tutors.
  • Assignments.
  • Peer evaluation.
  • Case studies.
  • Portfolios.

    Summative Assessment Comprises:
  • Written or oral examinations.
  • Projects.
  • Portfolio of Evidence. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification compares favourably to the following international qualifications:
    The innovative polytechnic institution of Nanyang, the Queensland University of Technology and the British Colombia Institute of Technology in Canada. This Diploma in Diagnostic Radiography aims to equip learners with the knowledge and skills required of an entry-level practitioner who is capable of the expert use of radiation systems to image a variety of diseases. The learners will also be creative problem-solvers and team-players, equipped with transferable skills that will enable them to gain employment and acceptance into qualification and professional development qualifications. These objectives are similar to the South African Diploma in Diagnostic Radiography. 

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Cognate Diploma, NQF Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Health Sciences in Diagnostic radiography, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    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 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Central University of Technology, Free State 


    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.