Career Plans of Final Year Radiography Students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Anambra State, Nigeria

Daniel Chimuanya Ugwuanyi; John Emenike Anieche

Authors

Daniel Chimuanya Ugwuanyi Department of Medical Radiography and Radiological Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus
John Emenike Anieche Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus

Keywords:

Career, Radiography Students, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Imaging Modalities

Abstract

The rapid increase observed in the population of Nigeria coupled with the development in the radiography profession has resulted to a strong demand for medical radiographers. This is expected to continue as the population ages. This study aimed to investigate the career plans of final year radiography students in Nigeria Universities. A cross-sectional survey study was adopted. Questionnaires were distributed to 160 final year radiography students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, College of Health Sciences, Okofia Nnewi Nigeria. A total of 150 questionnaires were received. The mean overall age of the students is 21-25 yrs (62.7%). Males composed majority 54% (n=81) of the study population. 117(78%) intends to practice medical radiography after graduation. The choice modality for specialization is ultrasonography with 30.9% (n=34). 35.5% (n=39) think that competition can stand as a barrier to practicing their desired specialty. 17(51.4%) want to venture into sales of radiographic equipment and consumables. 110 (94%) preferred to practice abroad. 13.9% chose radiography to save live/service to humanity. It was concluded that there should be provisions of the various imaging modalities for the students for training. Inclusion of career planning courses to help enhance students’ certainty of career plans and seminars relating to sales of radiographic equipment to the curriculum as most students have interest in it. This information can be used by educators to assist in retention strategies of radiography students.

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