Radiography and Radiological Sciences remains one of the most respected and essential health sciences disciplines in Nigeria and the world at large. The field plays a crucial role in modern medicine through the use of imaging technologies such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, fluoroscopy, and various advanced imaging modalities that help clinicians diagnose, monitor, and treat diseases. Because of the increasing reliance on technological innovations in medicine, Radiography has become one of the most sought-after courses in Nigerian universities, especially among candidates who want to work in the medical field without studying Medicine and Surgery.This guide provides everything you need to know about studying Radiography and Radiological Sciences in Nigeria—from JAMB subject combinations and O’level requirements to Direct Entry pathways, duration, cut-off marks, postgraduate (M.Sc and PhD) requirements, and career opportunities for graduates. It also includes a detailed look at universities offering the course, the nature of the profession, academic expectations, and future specialization prospects.This article is designed to help JAMB candidates, parents, academic counsellors, and career seekers understand the full scope of the program and properly prepare for admission.

1. Introduction to Radiography and Radiological Sciences

Radiography is a branch of the health sciences that deals with the application of radiation (including X-rays and other forms of imaging energy) to diagnose, treat, and monitor diseases within the human body. Individuals trained in this field are known as Radiographers or Medical Imaging Scientists. They are different from Radiologists, who are medical doctors specialized in interpreting medical images and administering radiological treatments.The discipline combines knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, physics, chemistry, biology, technology, and medical ethics. Radiography students learn how to operate and maintain highly sophisticated imaging machines, manage radiation exposure, protect patients from unnecessary hazards, and produce high-quality images used by physicians.Some advanced fields within Radiography include:

• Diagnostic Radiography
• Therapeutic Radiography (Radiation Therapy)
• Ultrasound/Sonography
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Mammography
• Interventional Radiography
• Nuclear Medicine
• Radiation Protection and Medical Physics

The demand for radiographers continues to increase worldwide because medical imaging is essential in almost every aspect of clinical practice—from emergency medicine and orthopedics to oncology and obstetrics.

2. JAMB Subject Combination for Radiography and Radiological Sciences

To study Radiography in any Nigerian university, candidates must register the correct subjects in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Wrong subject combinations automatically disqualify candidates from gaining admission.

Mandatory JAMB Subject Combination for Radiography

1. Use of English (Compulsory)
2. Physics (Compulsory)
3. Biology
4. Chemistry

This subject combination is standardized across most Nigerian universities offering Radiography. It reflects the scientific and technical nature of the program.

Why These Subjects Are Required

• Physics: Radiography is deeply rooted in principles of radiation, energy, light, waves, and electromagnetic interactions, all of which fall under physics.
• Biology: Understanding the human body’s structure and function is essential for imaging and radiation treatment.
• Chemistry: Useful for understanding contrast media, radiation interactions, and biochemical processes.
• English Language: Required for all UTME candidates.

Aspiring radiographers must be scientifically inclined and comfortable with physics and mathematics.

3. O’level Requirements for Radiography

To qualify for admission into Radiography, candidates must have the correct WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB O’level subjects.

Required O’level Subjects (Minimum Five Credits)

1. English Language
2. Mathematics
3. Physics
4. Biology
5. Chemistry

These five subjects must be obtained in not more than two sittings.

Why These O’level Subjects Matter

The curriculum for Radiography is heavily science-based. Students must demonstrate strong foundational knowledge in science subjects before proceeding to advanced medical imaging courses.

4. Direct Entry (DE) Requirements for Radiography

Candidates who want to gain admission through Direct Entry into 200 level must meet the following requirements:

Acceptable Qualifications for Direct Entry

1. A’level passes in Physics, Biology, and Chemistry
2. OND or HND in related coursessuch as:
   • Medical Imaging
   • Radiography Technician Program
   • Biomedical Engineering
3. NCE with good grades in science disciplines
4. Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc) in related sciences
5. JUPEB or IJMB with required points in Physics, Chemistry, Biology

University Variations

Some universities may require:

• A minimum of 9–12 points in JUPEB
• A minimum of upper credit in ND/HND

Candidates should always check the individual university requirement before applying.

5. JAMB Cut-off Marks for Radiography and Radiological Sciences

Radiography is a competitive course, especially in universities like UNILAG, UNN, ABU, and UI. Therefore, cut-off marks are usually above average.

General JAMB Cut-off Mark for Radiography

• Minimum JAMB Score: 180–200 (general eligibility)
• Competitive/Top Universities: 230–260
• Recommended Target Score: 250 and above

Universities offering Radiography typically give priority to candidates with higher UTME scores, strong post-UTME performance, and good O’level grades.

6. Duration of the Course

The duration of studying Radiography in Nigerian universities is five (5) years.

Breakdown of the Programme Duration

1. 100 Level: General science courses
2. 200 Level: Core anatomical and physiological sciences
3. 300 Level: Introduction to radiography practice, clinical postings
4. 400 Level: Advanced imaging technology, clinical training
5. 500 Level: Intensive clinical rotations, research project, specialization

After completing university training, students must proceed to:

• One-year Internship in accredited hospitals
• Compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)

7. Universities Offering Radiography and Radiological Sciences in Nigeria

The following Nigerian universities are accredited to offer Radiography or Radiological Sciences:

Federal Universities

1. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
3. University of Calabar (UNICAL)
4. University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
5. Bayero University Kano (BUK)
6. Ahmadu Bello University Zaria (ABU)
7. Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) – Biomedical Imaging
8. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
9. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
10. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Medical Rehabilitation (with Radiography modules)

State Universities

1. Rivers State University (RSU)
2. Lagos State University (LASU)
3. Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) – Biomedical/Imaging options
4. Kaduna State University (KASU)

Private Universities

1. Babcock University
2. Igbinedion University
3. Madonna University (Elele Campus)

Universities may differ in course titles such as:

• Radiography
• Medical Radiography
• Radiography and Radiological Sciences
• Medical Imaging Science
• Diagnostic Radiography

8. Postgraduate Requirements for Radiography Graduates

Graduates of Radiography may pursue postgraduate education for specialization, research, or academic careers.

Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Radiography or related sciences
• A minimum of third class or lower credit (HND)
• Evidence of internship completion (for clinical PGD)

Master’s (M.Sc, MRad, MPH) Requirements

Candidates must possess:

• A Bachelor of Science in Radiography (B.Rad) or Medical Imaging
• A minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2)
• NYSC certificate
• Professional registration with Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN)

Master’s programs include:

• M.Sc in Diagnostic Radiography
• Master of Medical Imaging Science
• M.Sc Radiation Therapy
• M.Sc Ultrasound/Sonography
• Master of Public Health (MPH)
• Master of Clinical Radiation Physics

9. Doctoral (PhD) Requirements for Radiographers

To pursue a PhD, applicants must:

• Hold an M.Sc or MPhil in Radiography or related field
• Demonstrate research capability
• Provide academic transcripts, proposal, and references

Areas of doctoral specialization include:

• Radiation Physics
• Radiobiology
• Nuclear Medicine
• Advanced Ultrasound Imaging
• MRI Science
• Radiation Protection and Dosimetry
• Educational Radiography and Curriculum Development

PhD holders often become:

• University lecturers
• Researchers
• Medical physicists
• Consultants

10. Course Structure and What Students Study

Radiography is multidisciplinary. Typical courses include:

Year 1

• General biology
• Physics for medical sciences
• Chemistry
• General mathematics
• Communication skills
• Psychology

Year 2

• Human anatomy
• Human physiology
• Biochemistry
• Introduction to radiological sciences

Year 3

• Radiographic technique
• Radiation physics
• Basic clinical radiography
• Radiographic pathology

Year 4

• CT and MRI imaging
• Ultrasound
• Interventional radiography
• Radiotherapy principles
• Clinical postings

Year 5

• Advanced radiography practice
• Research project
• Specialization modules
• Radiation safety and protection

11. Skills Acquired by Radiography Students

Graduates develop competencies such as:

• Radiographic image production
• Radiation safety management
• Ethical handling of patients
• Clinical problem-solving
• Operation of imaging equipment
• Teamwork and communication
• Medical data interpretation
• Evidence-based practice

Radiographers are trained to work independently or collaboratively in hospital settings.

12. Career Opportunities for Graduates of Radiography

The career opportunities in Radiography are diverse and globally relevant.

Primary Career Paths

1. Diagnostic Radiographer
2. Therapeutic Radiographer (Radiation Therapist)
3. Ultrasound/Sonographer
4. MRI Technologist
5. CT Scan Technologist
6. Nuclear Medicine Technologist
7. Mammographer
8. Interventional Radiographer

Advanced and Specialized Roles

• Radiation Protection Officer
• Medical Physicist (with further training)
• Research Scientist
• Imaging Department Manager
• Radiology Consultant (with postgraduate specialization)

Academic and Research Careers

• Lecturer in universities
• Medical imaging researcher

Non-Clinical Careers

• Medical equipment sales and maintenance
• Healthcare administration
• Consultancy
• Health policy development

International Job Prospects

Radiographers are in high demand in countries such as:

• UK
• Canada
• USA
• Australia
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE

With additional certifications, Nigerian-trained radiographers easily secure international placements.

13. Salary Expectation for Radiographers

Salaries vary by sector.

In Nigeria

• Entry level in government hospitals: ₦120,000 – ₦250,000 monthly
• Experienced radiographers: ₦250,000 – ₦450,000
• Consultants and specialists: ₦500,000 – ₦1,500,000+

Outside Nigeria

• UK: £28,000 – £70,000 per year
• USA: $60,000 – $120,000
• Canada: CAD 55,000 – CAD 100,000

14. Why You Should Study Radiography

• High global demand
• High salary potential
• Exciting use of modern technology
• Opportunities for specialization
• Flexible career paths
• Contribution to life-saving medical decisions
• International mobility

15. Challenges Faced by Radiographers

• Radiation exposure risks (controlled by safety protocols)
• Long hours during emergencies
• High responsibility for patient safety
• Stressful clinical workload

Despite these challenges, Radiography remains highly rewarding.

Conclusion

Radiography and Radiological Sciences is one of the most technologically advanced and globally respected professions in the health sector. With correct JAMB subject combinations, strong O’level sciences, competitive UTME scores, and the passion to work with imaging technologies, students can build a successful career in a field that is at the heart of modern medicine. Whether your goal is to become a diagnostic radiographer, an ultrasound specialist, a therapeutic radiographer, a medical physicist, or a researcher, the field of Radiography provides endless opportunities for growth, innovation, and international mobility.