Entry requirements, skills and interests (renal technology)

There is one entry point into renal technology:

• with two or three A2 or A-levels including science subjects and a good spread of GCSEs at A-C grade, to enter the NHS Practitioner Training Programme (PTP) by taking an accredited BSc degree in healthcare science (renal technology). Alternative or equivalent qualifications may be accepted by some universities, but you are advised to check with each university (or visit their website) before making an application.

It can be advantageous to have gained some experience of working in a relevant environment before applying for a place on a course or job vacancy. This could be experience of repairing and testing electronic equipment. You should always check with the course provider or employer to see what sort of experience is preferred or required. Use our course finder to search for accredited BSc (Hons) degrees in healthcare science.

Find out more about the training you’ll receive and registration for a career in renal technology.

• Skills, qualities and interests needed

  To work in renal technology you will need:

  • effective communication skills to be able to liaise with colleagues and also to advise and reassure patients
  • an interest in science and technology, a good academic background and an ability to update and test your knowledge against experience
  • to be comfortable using modern technology and complex equipment
  • meticulous attention to detail to produce highly accurate work even when under pressure
  • to be able to work as part of a team

  If you work in a role with responsibility for resources (such as staff, budgets or equipment) you'll need excellent leadership skills and be able to use your initiative within the remit of your job role.

  If you're applying for a healthcare science role or training position either directly in the NHS or in an organisation that provides NHS services you'll be asked to show how you think the NHS values apply in your everyday work. The same will be true if you're applying for a university course funded by the NHS.

  The NHS values form a key part of the NHS Constitution.

  Find out more about the NHS Constitution.