Medical Radiation Science

Year-long Rural Immersion Program

University of Newcastle students can go rural for a semester or whole year of studies. Radiation therapy students can choose to complete their 4th year in Port Macquarie or Coffs Harbour. Diagnostic radiography students can undertake their 3rd or 4th year of studies based in Tamworth or Taree. Other locations may be available, on a case-by-case basis. Diagnostic radiography students may also gain additional clinical experience, with one day per week at either the local public hospital or private practice, as part of the academic program (in lieu of MRS laboratory sessions on the main campus).

When you’re not on placement, you’ll continue to complete your normal course work from your rural location. Our students will have access to close academic support, interprofessional and community engagement activities, and more.

Get a competitive edge in your career

The University of Newcastle Medical Radiation Science program has a long history of providing students with high-quality clinical placement and learning experiences. You’ll receive individualised support from exceptional clinical supervisors and our teaching team. Many of our graduates are now employed in hospitals and private practices across the region, elsewhere in NSW and interstate.

Some of our medical radiation science placement sites include:

• Tamworth Hospital
• North West Cancer Centre, Tamworth
• Manning Base Hospital, Taree
• Coffs Harbour Base Hospital
• Port Macquarie Base Hospital
• North Coast Cancer Institute, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour
• Moree District Hospital
• Castlereagh Imaging, Tamworth
• Tamworth Medical Imaging
• Mid-North Coast Diagnostic Imaging, Taree, Port Macquarie and Forster
• Active Medical Imaging

Funding support

You may be entitled to a scholarship or grant to assist your studies, such as Health Education and Training scholarships or the University of Newcastle’s Betty Josephine Fyffe Rural Health Scholarships. To find out more, talk with your university on application.

How to apply

Rural placement block: University of Newcastle students should nominate their desired placement locations through the university portal, “SONIA”. Each university has its own placement portal. If you are studying at another university, please consult your university for more information.

Year-long Rural Immersion Program (3rd or 4th year): Email
uondrh-placements@newcastle.edu.au to complete an online expression of interest form, then follow the instructions from the academic.

Once you have your placement (year-long or block), you will need to register with us via our placement portal to access community and accommodation support.