ULTRASOUND PROGRAM FAQ'S
Q: How does the B Rad Hons in Ultrasound work?
A: The course is offered part-time over two years. A block system will be followed for both theoretical classes and clinical training.
Q: Which are the approved clinical training facilities?
A: The list of approved clinical training facilities will be shared soon. The department is currently collaborating with the HPCSA, which is conducting inspections of facilities that have applied to train Ultrasound students.
Q: How many clinical training hours are required?
A: A minimum of 2,500 hours is required to achieve the necessary competencies.
Q: How much of the sonography scope will be covered?
A: The program covers the full scope of practice for an ultrasonographer, as outlined by the Radiography and Clinical Technology (RCT) Board of the HPCSA.
Q: The website states that the course is offered over one year. Why is this different?
A: While SAQA and CHE stipulate that Honours programs carry 120 credits, typically completed in one year, the B Rad Hons in Ultrasound includes clinical hours and a research component that cannot be completed in one year. Therefore, the program will run over a minimum of two years, provided students meet all the necessary requirements.
Q: Will students do practical rotations in private practices as well?
A: Yes. The program includes both public and private sector training. The block system allows for time to complete the required practical sessions.
Q: What does the program content include?
A: The program includes:
Clinical training aligned with the scope of the ultrasonographer.
Research methodology and project development.
Theoretical modules based on the HPCSA-approved curriculum.
Q: When will the yearbook and study guides be available?
A: The yearbook will be available at the beginning of 2026. Study guides will be provided to registered students only.
Q: How will practical training be conducted?
A: Training will follow a block system. Students will attend classes and complete practical training during designated periods to meet the required clinical hours.
Q: Will students have full ultrasonographer privileges upon completion?
A: Yes. Upon successful completion, graduates will be recognized as qualified ultrasonographers, with the ability to write formal reports and practice as practitioners.
Q: Must I apply to a clinical training hospital? Which ones are eligible?
A: A list of eligible facilities will be shared. Facilities must be approved by the HPCSA. The department is in the process of completing site inspections.
Q: Is research part of the program?
A: Yes. In the first year, students will be taught how to develop a research proposal and will submit it to ethics for approval. Data collection and analysis, followed by submission of the research report, will take place in the second year.
Q: Can students outside of Pretoria apply and complete clinicals in other provinces?
A: Yes. Students from outside Pretoria can apply. Clinical facilities outside the province can also apply for accreditation. Email Prof. Mable Kekana at [email protected] to initiate the application process. The Radiography Department will send you the HPCSA application form. Terms and conditions will apply.
Q: Can my clinical facility apply to become a training site?
A: Yes. Facilities can apply to become accredited training sites. Please send an email to [email protected] to begin the process.
Q: Will theoretical classes be offered online?
A: The University of Pretoria is a contact institution. While some classes may be offered online, most lectures, tests, and exams will take place on campus.
Q: Will I be able to practice as a sonographer after completing the program?
A: Yes. The program is designed to meet the full scope of practice for sonographers as defined by the RCT Board of the HPCSA.
Q: Is there a one-year full-time alternative for working individuals?
A: The program cannot be completed in one year due to the required 2,500 clinical hours and research component. A minimum of two years is needed, particularly for those who are employed in fields outside of ultrasound.
Q: Will I be able to register with the HPCSA after completing the course?
A: Yes. After successfully completing the two-year program and meeting all requirements, graduates will be eligible to register with the HPCSA as ultrasonographers.
Q: Is a research concept note required to apply for the Honours program?
A: No concept note is required at the application stage. Students will learn to develop a research proposal in the first year, submit it for ethics approval, and complete their research in the second year.
For information regarding the admission requirements based on your personal qaulifications, kindly access the postgraduate section.
What are the specialised fields in Radiography?
Diagnostic Radiography
The diagnostic radiographer is an essential member of the health team and is responsible for forming and capturing diagnostic images of a patient referred by a medical practitioner for a specific radiographic procedure. X-rays are used to form the image on film. X-ray procedures are of varying complexity and range from simple skeletal examinations to sophisticated high-technology examinations where different imaging modalities are used. In the latter cases, X-rays and computers may be used to produce images. Fractures, brain tumours, haemorrhages and blood clots are only a few of the medical problems diagnosed by these sophisticated devices. Diagnostics is offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Radiation Therapy
The therapeutic radiographer is involved in immobilisation and localisation procedures, accurate dosage planning and application of treatment by means of ionising rays to patients with tumours (usually malignant) according to the prescription of a radiotherapist (specialist medical practitioner).
The therapeutic radiographer is an important member of the therapeutic team. In addition to the application of treatment using sophisticated electronic equipment, the radiographer plays an important part by physically and emotionally supporting patients and their families during a course of radiation.
Nuclear Medicine
Personal characteristics of a radiographer include the genuine desire to help sick and injured patients. In the course of a day, many decisions regarding patient care are taken. Self-discipline, accuracy and responsibility will assist the radiographer in dealing with any situation. The radiographer should enjoy good health, since the work entails a lot of physical movement while supporting and assisting patients and manipulating the equipment.
What happens after I graduate?
The qualified diagnostic radiographer may be employed by the following organisations:
For career progression, for each category, there are opportunities to do master’s and doctoral studies
How do I get selected for the undergraduate course?
Only a limited number of students can be accommodated and selection is based on academic merit, the NBT and the Value-added Questionnaire. Other subjects that are useful during the period of study include Biology/Life Sciences and Physiology. Prospective students must submit proof of a visit to an X-ray department in the public and private sectors - this will also assist them in making the correct career choice. It is highly recommended that students be exposed to various examinations and procedures performed in the radiography Department.
The minimum requirements for admission are:
· Grade 12 National senior certificate for degree purposes
· English and another language Level 4: (50 – 59%)
· Mathematics Level 4: (50 – 59%)
· Physical Science Level 4: (50 – 59%)
· APS score of 25
· National Benchmark Test
Life orientation – Level 5 (60 -69%) – not calculated in APS
Preliminary selection is done in August and final selection is subject to successful matriculation results.
Closing date for application is 31 May
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