Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology
MCC student preparing the MRI simulator for brain scan setup.
Now enrolling for Fall 2026: The AAS in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology program at Midwestern Career College is currently accepting applications.
Exploring healthcare pathways? These hands-on programs offer different entry points into diagnostic imaging and patient care:
Clinical Medical Assisting – prepare for direct patient care and clinical support roles in medical settings.
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.
ARMRIT-accredited program: Midwestern Career College’s AAS in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology at the Chicago (LaSalle) and Naperville campuses has received the maximum 5-year accreditation from the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT), through 2030. Learn more about ARMRIT accreditation
Midwestern Career College’s Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging program at the Chicago Main (LaSalle) and Naperville campuses has received continued accreditation from ARMRIT, the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists. The accreditation, effective July 1, 2025 through July 1, 2030, is the maximum term awarded, confirming alignment with ARMRIT educational standards for MRI training.
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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. Both the Illinois and Ohio campuses are approved for ARRT. 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
For Illinois campuses, Midwestern Career College’s Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (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.
See MRI Training in Action
Watch how students at Midwestern Career College prepare for careers in MRI technology through hands-on learning.
Certifications
Graduates of our program are eligible for national certifications:
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. During the externship, students apply their MRI training in clinical environments, working alongside imaging professionals and healthcare teams. This experience reinforces patient positioning, imaging protocols, safety procedures, and workflow within active diagnostic settings.
MCC’s externship coordination team works directly with students to secure and manage clinical placements, helping ensure each student gains structured, relevant experience aligned with program outcomes.
What Does an MRI Technologist Do?
This CareerOneStop overview explains the role of MRI technologists, including imaging procedures, patient interaction, and work settings in modern healthcare.
Video: MRI careers overview — from CareerOneStop (external resource).
Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs are expected to grow 5% from 2024–2034, which is classified as faster than average.
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.
Projected Job Growth for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists (2024–2034)
All Occupations
~3%
MRI Technology
5%
Source: BLS.gov – U.S. Department of Labor data, 2024–2034.
Curriculum
MCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology program follows the curriculum recommendations and guidelines of:
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