Health

How to Become a Radiographer in South Africa

Produce medical images to help diagnose and treat illness

APS 26–34
APS Range
R230k – R650k per year
Annual Salary (ZAR)
High
Job Demand
Realistic / Investigative
RIASEC Profile
About this Career

Radiographers produce medical images — X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasounds, and mammograms — used by doctors to diagnose conditions. Radiation therapists also use radiation to treat cancer. In South Africa, a BSc Radiography (4 years) is required at most traditional universities, or a BTech Radiography (4 years) at UoTs. HPCSA registration is mandatory.

What Does a Radiographer Do?

Radiographers position patients, operate imaging equipment, check image quality, follow radiation safety protocols, liaise with radiologists and doctors, and maintain patient records.

APS & Subject Requirements
Minimum APS
26 points
Typical APS Range
26–34 points
Required Subjects:
Mathematics (Level 5+), Physical Sciences (Level 5+), Life Sciences (Level 4+), English (Level 4+)
✗ Pure Mathematics is required — Mathematical Literacy is NOT accepted

Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.

Step-by-Step Career Roadmap
  1. Achieve APS 26+ with Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences. BSc Radiography at UCT, Wits, UP, UKZN, or BTech Radiography at TUT, CPUT, DUT.

  2. Complete the 4-year degree or BTech, including clinical training in X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, and mammography departments at hospitals.

  3. Register with HPCSA, complete community service, and work in public or private radiology departments. Specialist training in CT, MRI, or mammography boosts earnings significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions
What APS do I need for Radiography?
BSc Radiography requires APS 26–34. Mathematics and Physical Sciences are both required. Mathematical Literacy is not accepted.
What do radiographers earn in South Africa?
Government radiographers start at R230,000–R330,000. Private hospital radiographers earn R400,000–R650,000. MRI and CT specialists earn at the higher end.
Is Radiography a good career in South Africa?
Yes — imaging is critical to modern medicine and demand grows with population and technology investment. Experienced radiographers with specialist skills are in short supply.
Salary Range in South Africa (2026)
Starting Salary
R230k/year
Senior / Experienced
R650k+/year

Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.