Discipline of Medical Radiation Sciences

Established in 1988 as the School of Medical Radiation Technology, the Discipline's name was changed to the School of Medical Radiation Sciences in 1999 and then to the Discipline of Medical Radiation Sciences in 2007, to better reflect its emphasis on scientific investigation of a wide range of medical radiation fields. There are three streams in the Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) course; Diagnostic Radiography, Nuclear Medicine and Radiation Therapy. All of the health professions in the Discipline combine close patient contact and good communication skills along with the use of technology, to maximise the results for the patient and provide high quality patient care. Postgraduate study is available by research and coursework in all the Medical Radiation Sciences fields; some is offered by off-campus or distance education mode. Graduate Diploma and Master of Health Science (Medical Sonography) are available for those wishing to practise as Sonographers.

During the undergraduate course, students are given the opportunity to gain experience in the practice of their discipline whilst on clinical placements. Students visit centres which are part of both the public and private sector. During these placements they have the opportunity to develop an understanding of the career path they have chosen and it's place in the modern medical environment.

Qualifications gained from the Discipline of Medical Radiation Sciences are recognised world wide and many of our graduates work in diverse parts of the world. The courses stress the importance of developing a life long attitude to learning and provide graduates with a wide range of generic attributes. These skills allow them to not only develop within their chosen profession, but to branch into different careers as new opportunities present.

Nomenclature used to describe practitioners of the medical radiation disciplines varies due to state industrial awards, regulatory bodies, professional bodies, tradition and common community usage. Diagnostic Radiographers may also be referred to as Radiographers or Medical Imaging Practitioners. Radiation Therapists used to be called Therapeutic Radiographers and this term is still occasionally used. Nuclear Medicine Technologists may also be referred to as Nuclear Medicine Scientists and Medical Imaging Scientists or Practitioners. For many years practitioners of diagnostic ultrasound were referred to as (Medical) Ultrasonographers but now the term Sonographer is preferred. Within NSW all such practitioners working in Public Institutions are included in the category of Medical Radiation Scientists for industrial purposes. It is anticipated that over the next few years the diversity of names will be rationalised.