Medical illustrator

To work in any branch of medical illustration, you normally need a degree in a relevant subject like:

• photography
• graphic design
• illustration
• art and design
• film or video production

You can apply for a trainee position as a medical illustrator in a healthcare setting once you finish your degree.

As a trainee you could take a postgraduate qualification to specialise in:

• clinical photography
• graphic design for healthcare
• medical art

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

You can apply to do a postgraduate qualification in medical illustration and art if you're already working in healthcare and you have a relevant degree.

You might also start off as a medical photography assistant. You'll usually need a qualification in photography, which is equivalent to A level standard or higher, and be skilled in using image processing and editing software.

Registrations

you could register with the Academy for Healthcare Science to demonstrate your professional skills and competence

Career Tips

Medical illustration is a small and specialised field, and there's a lot of competition for vacancies. You'll improve your job prospects if you also have relevant work experience.

Contact your local university hospital or NHS trust's medical photography department to arrange a visit or some work shadowing.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You can join the Institute of Medical Illustrators for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further Information

You'll find more advice on careers and training in medical illustration and clinical photography through the Institute of Medical Illustrators and Health Careers .

As a medical illustrator, you could:

• record a patient's condition using a digital camera or video
• take photographs to monitor the effectiveness of operations and treatments
• capture 3D, infrared and ultraviolet images using specialist equipment
• produce anatomically correct drawings and illustrations
• work closely with different departments, such as dermatology, dental or ophthalmics
• photograph non-accidental injuries in forensic photography
• provide bereavement photography services for grieving families
• maintain accurate work records
• create resources for teaching and research purposes
• produce images and artwork for printed and online publicity materials

You could work in an NHS or private hospital or in a photographic studio.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.

You may need to wear protective clothing.