Exeter University's 20 years of excellence

The University of Exeter is celebrating 20 years of teaching and research excellence in medical imaging.

In 2004, the university introduced the Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging (Diagnostic Radiography) to address the national shortage of radiographers within the NHS and the wider healthcare sector.

Since then, it has trained more than 1,000 radiographers, with active student placements in ten NHS trusts across Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, and Somerset.

The programme consistently ranks among the best in the country and produces outstanding radiographers to meet the NHS's needs.

Above: Image: The University of Exeter

Professor Karen Knapp, Head of Department of Health and Care Professions at the University of Exeter, said: “Nearly everyone who is admitted to hospital will require some form of imaging procedure, yet the NHS is facing a real shortage of radiographers. For the last 20 years, our programme has been training high-quality graduates to step into these roles, and we’re so proud of all they’ve achieved. We’re now celebrating how we’ve continued to innovate and grow in both research and education.”

The government has reportedly recognised the need for 25 per cent more clinical radiographers, which would mean training 4,000 more than are currently active.

In an attempt to meet this need, the university has launched the country’s first innovative degree apprenticeship in Diagnostic Radiography, allowing students to earn a salary while they become qualified.

Above: Image: The University of Exeter

The institution has also expanded its research with a variety of projects, including examining how routine x-rays can help detect early osteoporosis, new imaging techniques to plan radiotherapy for breast cancer, artificial intelligence to detect anomalies in scans more effectively, and innovations in both PET and CT scanning.

Chaleigh O’Brien, 38, who lives in Taunton, was among the first group of students to enrol on the programme in 2004, graduating in 2007. 

She said: “I chose Exeter’s brand-new Medical Imaging course because I wanted to be part of something pioneering and innovative—and I certainly wasn’t disappointed. Now I’ve come full circle—I'm now a lecturer and practitioner in medical imaging, and I love seeing how much things have progressed for our current students.”

Above: Image: The University of Exeter

Felicity Stringer, 38, who lives in Surrey, was in the same first group of students and now works at specialist veterinary referral practice, Fitzpatrick Referrals, for Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, also known as the Supervet. 

She said: “Right from the start, it was clear that this brand-new course was going to be special and different. Us students bonded through the common goal of wanting to become qualified radiographers, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of that wonderful group, supported by amazing staff. They were truly inspirational, guiding us students every step of the way. In my current role, I use skills for everything from imaging rabbits to bears. I still regularly use the values Exeter installed."

Hannah Grocutt, 36, who lives in Falmouth, Cornwall, was among the first students to take the Degree Apprenticeship programme.

Hannah took an access course while pregnant with her first child, who was two years old when she found out about the degree apprenticeship. 

“It was absolutely crucial for me to be able to work and support my young family while learning. Being part of this pioneering programme has been a dream come true. Through the inspirational mentorship of the tutors, I discovered my passion for research and that being a radiographer isn’t just about capturing images—it’s about being a vital part of a patient’s journey, providing comfort and reassurance.”