Clinical Radiology is a run-through training programme typically completed over a period of five years. Trainees receive general radiology exposure during ST1-ST3 and an opportunity to undertake selected subspecialty modules during ST4 and ST5. As part of your core exposure, you will gain experience in plain films, CT, MRI, ultrasound and fluoroscopy, as well as some exposure to core subspecialties such as Paediatrics, Neuroradiology and Breast.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in Interventional Radiology (IR) then your training will take 6 years. IR trainees start within Clinical Radiology, completing ST1-ST3; they apply for IR training during ST3. If successful, they will begin having primarily IR sessions from ST4-ST6, with some Clinical Radiology sessions, such as CT, MRI and plain films, interspersed to maintain core competencies. This will remain the case even as an IR Consultant.
The exam pathway is the same for all trainees:
FRCR Part 1 – Consists of two papers, one on Physics and the other Anatomy.
– Expected to sit in ST1.
FRCR Part 2A – Consists of two papers. Both are single best answer format and cover all subspecialties within Radiology.
– Expected to sit in ST3.
FRCR Part 2B – Consists of three parts: long reporting cases, rapid reporting cases, and an oral viva exam.
– Can be sat at the end of ST3 (new option), or in ST4.
Once you have completed all your examinations and passed all your ARCP requirements, in your final year you will receive a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) at which point you will be able to apply for Consultant posts.
If you want to gain more experience following CCT, or want to live elsewhere for a short period of time then there are opportunities for Fellowships. The most commonly applied for are 12 months in duration and can be in the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
There are also opportunities for out-of-programme experiences, but these need to be discussed on a case-by-case basis with the Programme Director.
West of Scotland Radiology 