Mackay Base Hospital will offer support to students studying the new degree in Imaging Sciences through Central Queensland University Mackay from March 2011.

Director of Medical Imaging Services at the Mackay Base Hospital Greg Hodgkinson said the hospital supported the implementation of the program in Mackay.

"We will work with the private sector providers to offer whatever practical workplace experience we can," he said.

"As this new degree will be offered in Mackay, this will provide a new opportunity to retain students at local hospitals and facilities upon their completion of study."

Both public and private health facilities in Mackay will have the opportunity to support students in the medical imaging field which in turn assists patient care.

"At the end of the day patient care is paramount and we are here to assist patients through medical imaging services," Mr Hodgkinson said.