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Course details

Bachelor of Medical Imaging
NZQF Level 7

About the course

Combine your interest in science and technology with the rewards of working with people in a health setting.

Using x-rays and other equipment to take images of people's injuries and possible diseases you will learn how to perform radiography and understand how CT scanning, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, nuclear medicine, mammography, contribute to patient diagnosis and treatment.

You will also develop the communication skills needed to deal with patients in a compassionate way.

To meet the demanding standards the profession requires, our degree combines clinical practice with theory to make your training more valuable and assist with the transition from trainee stage to becoming a qualified Medical Radiation Technologist.

You will be on clinical placement for approximately 60 weeks during your studies. We have a wide range of clinical sites in cities around New Zealand.

To get an insight into medical imaging careers prior to your application for this programme you can make a request to take part in a work shadowing experience in the radiology department at the hospital.

In our most recent graduate survey, 93.3% of 2016 Bachelor of Medical Imaging graduates were in employment (Ara Graduate Outcome Survey, 2016).

Please note: As places are limited on this programme we strongly recommend applying as soon as you know you wish to study with us.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) which must include:

14 credits at Level 3 in each of:
English or an approved literacy* subject
science or mathematics (preferably physics or mathematics)
one other subject from the list of approved subjects* (preference given to physics, biology, chemistry and mathematics) and
Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)

Or
New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Medical Imaging Pathway or equivalent

Or
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

* NZQA approved subjects: see http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entrance

Alternative requirements

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.

Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace. Contact Ara for advice.

Additional requirements

In addition you need to:

Fill out and submit the Medical Imaging Additional Requirements document - found under Application Documents
provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee report(s)
meet various Health Authority requirements in order to participate in the clinical components of the programme. Currently, MRSA clearance is required by most clinical practice areas.
provide a first aid certificate (Red Cross Comprehensive or St John First Aid Level 2) which is current at the time the programme starts.
Consent to Disclosure of Information. Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form depending on their placement. The form will be sent to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Head of School. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website
you may be required to attend an interview if you meet academic entry criteria.

Your referee reports and interview (if required) should provide evidence of attributes required for a successful career in medical imaging.

English requirements

What if English is not my first Language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study. Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart .

OR

If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS, Pearson or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.

IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS test report form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.

What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?

The English Language requirements for this programme are higher than the minimum set by NZQA, therefore; applicants who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance may be required to provide evidence of English Language skills.

About the provider

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.

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