Medical Imaging
- Mar 20, 2023
- 6 min read
Updated: Mar 21, 2025
Medical Imaging is a non-invasive technique that uses advanced technology to create visual representations of the human body's internal structures. It helps doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions, such as broken bones, cancers, and heart disease. Common types of medical imaging include X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasound. By providing detailed images of the body's organs and tissues, medical imaging allows doctors to make more accurate diagnoses and develop more effective treatment plans.

1. Admissions Guide for Medical Imaging in Australia
This diagram provides a brief guide to the admission process for high school and university graduates who wish to study Medical Imaging in Australia.
2. Entry Requirements for Medical Imaging Studies in Australia
The table below provides an overview of the minimum entry requirements for international students who are interested in pursuing studies in Medical Imaging in Australia. The entry requirements are classified into academic and English language requirements. It is important to note that admission requirements may differ based on the institution. For comprehensive admission requirements, it is recommended to seek advice from an Australian Study Abroad Counselor (QEAC).
Qualification | Duration | IELTS | Academic Requirement |
Bachelor's degree | 4 years |
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Master's degree | 2 years |
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3. Specializations in Australian Medical Imaging
Please find below a table outlining a brief introduction to the four main specializations in the field of medical imaging in Australia.
Specializations | Introduction |
Nuclear medicine | This specialization involves the use of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat diseases. It uses a small amount of radioactive material to create images of organs and tissues inside the body, which helps doctors diagnose and treat various conditions such as cancers, heart disease, and other disorders. |
Diagnostic radiography | This specialization focuses on creating medical images of the inside of the body using various imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans. These images help doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions, from broken bones to cancers. |
Radiation therapy | This specialization involves the use of high-energy radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. It uses a variety of techniques, such as external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy, to target and destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. |
Sonography | This specialization involves using high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is commonly used to examine organs such as the heart, liver, and uterus, and is also used during pregnancy to monitor the growth and development of the fetus. |

4. Structure of Medical Imaging Courses in Australia
The following table provides an overview of the structure of a Medical Imaging course for international students in Australia. It outlines the key components of the course and briefly describes what each component covers. This information can be useful for students who are interested in pursuing a career in medical imaging and want to gain a better understanding of the different areas of knowledge and skills that they will acquire through the course.
Note: The components and course structure may vary depending on the institution and specific course.
Component | Description |
Foundations of MI | Introduces students to the basics of medical imaging, including anatomy, imaging modalities, and patient care. |
Physics of MI | Covers the principles of radiation physics and technology used in medical imaging, such as x-ray, MRI, and CT. |
Radiographic Science | Explores the practical application of radiographic science, including image production, analysis, and evaluation. |
Anatomy and Physiology | Focuses on the study of the human body's structure and function, including systems, organs, and tissues. |
Clinical Practice I | Provides students with hands-on experience in medical imaging settings under the supervision of licensed professionals. |
Medical Imaging Pathology | Examines the interpretation of medical images to detect and diagnose abnormalities and diseases. |
Medical Imaging Procedures | Covers the use of specific medical imaging procedures and techniques, including positioning, protocols, and patient care. |
Clinical Practice II | Builds on the skills and knowledge gained in Clinical Practice I, with a focus on more complex cases and procedures. |
Advanced Imaging Modalities | Covers more advanced medical imaging modalities such as PET, SPECT and Nuclear Medicine. |
Ethics in Medical Imaging | Explores the ethical considerations involved in the medical imaging profession, including patient confidentiality and consent. |

5. ASMIRT (Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy) Accredited Programs List
ASMIRT (Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy) is responsible for maintaining a list of accredited medical imaging and radiation therapy programs offered by different institutions across various states and territories in Australia. The accreditation process is designed to ensure that these programs meet the required standards for medical imaging and radiation therapy education and training in Australia. Prospective students or practitioners of medical imaging and radiation therapy who wish to practice in Australia are advised to consult this list to ensure that they enroll in an accredited program.
State/Territory | Institution | Program | Duration |
NSW | Charles Sturt University |
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NSW | University of Newcastle |
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NSW | University of Sydney |
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VIC | Deakin University |
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VIC | Monash University |
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VIC | RMIT University |
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QLD | Central Queensland University |
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QLD | Queensland University of Technology |
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ACT | University of Canberra |
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SA | University of South Australia |
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WA | Curtin University |
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6. Hierarchy of Medical Imaging Positions and Descriptions
The table below presents the various positions in the medical imaging hierarchy in Australia, ranging from Medical Imaging Assistant to Medical Imaging Technologist. As one moves up the hierarchy, the responsibilities and necessary skills increase, with higher positions requiring experience in team management and advanced medical imaging care.
Note: Positions and descriptions below may vary by medical imaging agency or organization.
Position | Description |
Medical Imaging Assistant | Assists medical imaging professionals in preparing patients, handling equipment, and ensuring quality control during procedures. |
Medical Imaging Technologist | Performs and analyzes medical imaging procedures and may be responsible for supervising Medical Imaging Assistants. |
Medical Imaging Supervisor | Manages a team of Medical Imaging Technologists and Assistants, ensures equipment is maintained and liaises with other departments. |
Medical Imaging Manager | Manages a medical imaging department and oversees the operations of Medical Imaging Supervisors, Technologists, and Assistants. |
Medical Imaging Specialist | Provides advanced medical imaging care and consults with physicians to diagnose and treat patients. |

7. Registration and Career Information for Medical Imaging in Australia
The table below outlines the process and future prospects for becoming a Medical Imaging Professional in Australia. It also includes information on employment size, projected job growth rates, average salaries, employee percentages, female employment rates, and the average age of professionals in this field in Australia.
Occupation | Medical Imaging Professionals (ANZSCO ID 2512) |
Job Type | Professionals |
Skill Level | Very high skill |
Unemployment Rate | Below average |
Employed | 18,200 |
Future Growth | 14.7% |
Weekly Earnings | N/A |
Full-Time Share | 67% |
Female Share | 71% |
Average Age | 37 |

8. Immigrating to Australia through Medical Imaging
The diagram below provides an overview of the general process for immigrating to Australia through the Australian Medical Imaging Program, including available visa options and Medical Imaging-related occupations.
Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) | Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) | Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 491) | Temporary Skill Shortage visa (Subclass 482) | Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 494) |
O | O | O | O | O |
Occupation | ANZSCO | List | Visa | Accessing Authority |
Medical Diagnostic Radiographer | 251211 | MLTSSL | Subclass 186 Subclass 189 Subclass 190 Subclass 482 Subclass 187 Subclass 491 Subclass 494 | ASMIRT |
Nuclear Medicine Technologist | 251213 | MLTSSL | Subclass 186 Subclass 189 Subclass 190 Subclass 482 Subclass 187 Subclass 491 Subclass 494 | ASMIRT |
Medical Radiation Therapist | 251212 | MLTSSL | Subclass 186 Subclass 189 Subclass 190 Subclass 482 Subclass 187 Subclass 491 Subclass 494 | ASMIRT |
Sonographer | 261313 | MLTSSL | Subclass 186 Subclass 189 Subclass 190 Subclass 482 Subclass 187 Subclass 491 Subclass 494 | ASMIRT |




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