Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology

MCC student preparing the MRI simulator for brain scan setup.

Midwestern Career College’s Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology program prepares students with the general education, applied knowledge, technical skills, and work habits required for entry-level positions in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology field.

MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor or printed.

MRI has become a vital tool in medical imaging today. These detailed images allow physicians to better evaluate parts of the body and certain diseases that may not be assessed adequately with other imaging methods, such as x-ray, ultrasound or computed tomography.

If you’re looking to progress into a career that lets you work with high-tech, non-invasive modalities, this is a great career choice for you.

ARRT-approved MRI Education Program

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) recognizes Midwestern Career College’s Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology program as an approved educational program for ARRT’s magnetic resonance imaging certification and registration. Graduates of our program are eligible to sit for ARRT’s MRI certification exam. You can find MCC’s listing on the ARRT website here.

ARMRIT-accredited MRI Program

Midwestern Career College’s Associate of Applied Science MRI Technology program is programmatically accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT). 

What Do MRI Technologists Do?

MRI technologists play a vital role in the medical field by demonstrating competence and skill in the following areas:

• Operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners.
• Monitor patient safety and comfort, and view images of area being scanned to ensure quality of pictures.
• May administer gadolinium contrast dosage intravenously.
• May interview patient, explain MRI procedures, and position patient on examining table.
• May enter into the computer data such as patient history, anatomical area to be scanned, orientation specified, and position of entry.

What else does an MRI technologist do? Find out more about this career in the video below.

Certifications

Graduates of our program are eligible for national certifications:

• Registered MRI Technologist by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
• Certified MRI Technologist by the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT)
• National phlebotomist certifications from the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) and American Medical Technologists (AMT) (The AMT certification requires additional draws.)

Program Objectives

The objectives of the Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology program are to provide education and training to students so they possess the knowledge and skills required for employment as entry-level MRI technologists, and:

• To develop interpersonal skills for communicating with patients and medical professionals
• To develop critical thinking skills
• To help acquire skills that enable proper patient care
• To provide students with clinical skills and problem-solving abilities to practice in the magnetic resonance imaging field
• To produce graduates who will be competent in entry-level positions as an MRI technologist and who display appropriate behaviors as set forth by the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT) specifications and the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) Curriculum Guide
• To prepare students to take and pass the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT) and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examinations

Externship

810 hours of externship are required for program completion.

Career Outlook

MRI technology is a great career choice. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs are expected to grow 6% from 2022–2032.

The evolution of MRI applications continues to grow as the medical community finds new uses for this imaging tool. MRI exam volumes are continuously increasing, expanding career opportunities in hospital-based MRI departments and in a growing number of private MRI facilities.

Learn more about the career outlook for MRI technologists. Check out job listings in the Chicagoland area for MRI technologists on Indeed, Career Builder, Monster.com and Ziprecruiter.com

Curriculum

MCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology program follows the curriculum recommendations and guidelines of:

• American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT)
• American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
• American College of Radiology (ACR)

Disclosures

• • Consumer Information
  • U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
  • Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES), Illinois Virtual Labor Market Information System
  • The Occupational Information Network (O*NET)
  • Tuition and Fees

More on Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology
  • MRI Techs
  • MRI Students
  • About The MRI Technology Career

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