Medical illustrator : Entry requirements

The profession is making each area of work more specialised and professionally recognised, so it is important to check with the relevant professional body about the required qualifications.

Relevant degree/HND subjects include:

• medical illustration;
• clinical photography (the University of Westminster  offers the only full-time undergraduate course in the UK);
• photography;
• graphic design/illustration.

If you are following a relevant, recognised course of study or training, you are entitled to join the Institute of Medical Illustrators (IMI) as a student member and enjoy all the benefits of full membership.

Clinical photographers need a degree in clinical photography. Details of undergraduate and postgraduate courses are available on the Institute of Medical Illustrators (IMI)  website. If you have a degree in a different photographic discipline, for example from the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP) , you can apply for a position as a trainee and take a one year part-time postgraduate certificate in clinical photography, while working. Either route will involve practical experience (work placements) and will make you eligible for professional membership of the Institute of Medical Illustrators (IMI). You will also be eligible for entry onto the register of the Committee for the Accreditation of Medical Illustration Practitioners (CAMIP) . This is a particular requirement for those working in close contact with patients.

Medical graphic designers, artists and web designers are expected to have a degree in design or other relevant media discipline. Some experienced designers transfer to the profession from the commercial sector.

Many videographers are qualified as clinical photographers and will gain registration through that route. Like clinical photographers, they work directly with patients and it is likely that registration in this field will be a requirement eventually for those who enter the profession by a different route.

Diplomates and graduates with qualifications in graphic design, illustration or photography should aim to find an employer willing to allow them to study part time for a graduate or postgraduate degree in medical illustration. Alternatively, diplomates should consider upgrading their qualification to a degree through further full-time study.

Entry without a degree or HND is not possible.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• a genuine interest in the scientific application of their skills and in the treatment of disease;
• time management and organisational skills;
• technical and/or creative, artistic ability;
• attention to detail and a methodical approach;
• a sensitive and tactful attitude and the ability to deal confidently with a range of people and quickly establish a rapport with the patients or health care professionals;
• an understanding of anatomy and biology;
• IT literacy, as each specialism involves substantial work on computers, both Apple Macs and PCs;
• a reasonable level of physical fitness, as you may be required to lift and carry equipment.

It will be essential to have a good portfolio of your work with examples of clear, detailed images. See the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP)  for information about student membership, making you eligible to attend their portfolio clinics, which are held at various locations.

Pre-entry experience such as a placement or project, perhaps as part of a degree course, would be very helpful, as would any experience of working in a caring capacity. It is a good idea to contact the medical illustration department in your local hospital and ask about visiting the department and possibly undertaking an unpaid placement.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.