Health & Medicine
Radiographer
You use X-rays, CT and MRI machines to see inside the body.
- Starting salary
- R24 000 – R35 000
- Job demand
- Steady demand
- Key subjects
- Mathematics, Physical Sciences
What do they do?
You use X-rays, CT and MRI machines to see inside the body.
A day in the life
You position patients, operate imaging machines safely and produce images doctors rely on.
Skills you need
- Technology skill
- Precision
- Calmness
- Patient care
School subjects that help
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
How long does it take?
3 main steps after school, usually 3–6 years of study, plus practical experience.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2BSc/Diploma Radiography
- 3Community service
- 4Radiographer
Ways in: University degree · University of Technology · Professional registration. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- University of Johannesburg
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
- Nelson Mandela University
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R24 000 – R35 000
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R36 000 – R55 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R58 000 – R85 000+
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Get strong at physics
- • Learn how X-rays work
- • Ask a hospital about job shadowing
Try this career
Explain how an X-ray image is made, using a drawing.
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This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.