Bachelor of Medical Imaging
Combine your interest in science and technology with the rewards of working with people in a health setting.
Please note this qualification is pending NZQA approval.
Christchurch January 2027 intake
- Opening date: 15 July 2026
- Closing date: 17 August 2026
Application final outcomes will be released after: 1 October 2026
Please note:
- Only completed applications will be considered.
- Limited places available.
Using x-rays and other equipment to take images of people's injuries and possible diseases you will learn how to perform radiography and understand how CT scanning, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, nuclear medicine, mammography, contribute to patient diagnosis and treatment.
You will also develop the communication skills needed to deal with patients in a compassionate way.
To meet the demanding standards the profession requires, our degree combines clinical practice with theory to make your training more valuable and assist with the transition from trainee stage to becoming a qualified Medical Radiation Technologist.
You will be on clinical placement for approximately 60 weeks during your studies.
Placement locations for the January 2027 intake include:
- Christchurch, Timaru, Dunedin, Invercargill, Greymouth, Blenheim, Nelson, Wellington and Auckland (Middlemore).
- If your application is successful, you will be asked to provide three location options in preferential order (1–3).
- Ara cannot guarantee a placement in your first-choice location, as availability may vary depending on placement capacity.
Bachelor of Medical Imaging Information Booklet (PDF 2MB)
Fees for 2026
University Entrance as defined by New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA), which must include:
- 14 credits at Level 3 in each of:
- English or an approved literacy subject
- science or mathematics (preferably physics or mathematics)
- one other subject from the list of approved subjects* (preference given to physics, biology, chemistry and mathematics)
Or New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) Pre Health Pathway or equivalent
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
In addition you need to:
Consent to Disclosure of Information - Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form.
- The form will be sent by Ara to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Portfolio Manager. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
Meet various Health Authority requirements in order to participate in the clinical components of the programme. Currently, MRSA clearance is required by most clinical practice areas.
Provide a first aid certificate (Red Cross Comprehensive or St John's Workplace) which is current at the time the programme starts
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved New Zealand University Entrance?
- The English Language requirements for this programme are higher than the minimum set by NZQA, therefore; applicants who have achieved New Zealand University Entrance may be required to provide evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.5 Academic
- 6.5 Listening
- 6.5 Reading
- 6.5 Writing
- 6.5 Speaking
Limits on enrolment may be applied due to availability of clinical practice placements. Where the number of applications exceed the number of available placements, applicants may be waitlisted.
Preference may be given to priority groups in accordance with Ministry of Health workforce analysis and Ara’s commitment to inclusivity.
Funding assistance
If you experience financial hardship during your studies, you may be eligible for funding, scholarships, and awards to help you continue your education.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
This globally-recognised qualification enables you to register with the Medical Radiation Technologists Board to practice as a Medical Radiation Technologist (MRT) in public or private hospitals and health care facilities in New Zealand.
After one year's work experience in New Zealand, graduates can work as a MRT in the United Kingdom and Australian health systems
Study pathways
Postgraduate opportunities in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound and Mammography training positions are available (not available at Ara).
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
- Physics
Bachelor of Medical Imaging
Combine your interest in science and technology with the rewards of working with people in a health setting.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Degree |
| Code | CH3757 |
| Application close date | 17 August 2026 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 360 |
| Level | 7 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | $1,500 for Year 1 for texts (more may be required in Years 2 and 3); plus costs associated with clinical placement |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | CH3757-STRU |
Fees for 2026
Additional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
Consent to Disclosure of Information - Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form.
- The form will be sent by Ara to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Portfolio Manager. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
Meet various Health Authority requirements in order to participate in the clinical components of the programme. Currently, MRSA clearance is required by most clinical practice areas.
Provide a first aid certificate (Red Cross Comprehensive or St John's Workplace) which is current at the time the programme starts
See overview for moreCredit Recognition
Translate your knowledge from previous study into credits towards a new qualification.
Apply for credit recognitionDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 425 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 357 KB
- Medical Imaging Additional Requirements Form PDF, 815 KB
Area of Interest
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