{"id":127886,"date":"2023-05-11T05:23:51","date_gmt":"2023-05-11T05:23:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/businessyield.com\/?p=127886"},"modified":"2023-05-11T10:56:24","modified_gmt":"2023-05-11T10:56:24","slug":"mri-tech","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/businessyield.com\/careers\/mri-tech\/","title":{"rendered":"MRI TECH: Meaning, School, Jobs, Salary & How To Become One","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"

An MRI tech or magnetic resonance imaging technologist is in charge of operating MRI machines. They position patients, monitor them during procedures and ensure the machines work properly. If you’re interested in becoming an MRI technologist or love to care for patients by helping doctors view their organs, then you will enjoy this career. Yeah! Here we share how to become an MRI tech, including the school, jobs, salary, and more. So, continue reading!<\/p>

What Is MRI Tech? <\/span><\/h2>

An MRI tech is a medical professional who uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines to create diagnostic images. MRI techs or technologists are specially trained in the use of these machines and must be able to maintain them in peak operating conditions. <\/p>

MRI technologists must be able to troubleshoot any problems that may arise during an MRI procedure. In addition, they work closely with radiologists and other medical professionals to ensure patients receive the best possible care.<\/p>

Do MRI Techs Go to Med School? <\/span><\/h2>

No, MRI techs do not go to med school. MRI techs typically have a bachelor’s degree in radiologic science, and many have completed a one- or two-year MRI program. Some MRI techs may have a master’s degree in radiologic science. They may have a degree in radiologic technology, but they are not medical doctors.<\/p>

In other words, MRI techs must complete an accredited radiography program and obtain licensure or certification to practice. Additionally, they complete a bachelor\u2019s or master\u2019s degree in radiologic technology for career advancement opportunities.<\/p>

For instance, most new MRI technologists have a college diploma (particularly, a bachelor’s degree) in MRI technology and certification from The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Meanwhile, the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT) also offers certification, but it is not so popular.<\/p>

MRI Tech School <\/span><\/h2>

To become an MRI tech, you need to enroll in school to get a bachelor’s degree in radiologic science and earn jobs with a higher salary.Hence, below are the top 5 MRI schools:<\/p>

#1. Greenville Technical College<\/span><\/h3>

Greenville Technical College is one of the top MRI tech schools in the country. The school offers a two-year Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology degree, as well as a one-year certificate program. The tuition ranges from $2,389 to $4,705.<\/p>

#2. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS)<\/span><\/h3>

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) is another top MRI tech school. The school is fully virtual and the course lasts twelve (12) months. It is appropriate for employed technologists who want to learn a new technique to broaden their marketability. Additionally, it is for MRI-experienced techs who require initial certification and the fee is $415 per credit unit.<\/p>

#3. Casa Loma College<\/span><\/h3>

Casa Loma College is an online MRI tech school in Van Nuys, California. Their program for MRI technologists leads to an Associate of Science degree. The school has an accredited 22-month curriculum from the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Also, their fee is $35,772.<\/p>

#4. Galveston College<\/span><\/h3>

Galveston College is also an online MRI tech school. You can enroll in its two-semester course online or at the Galveston campus in Texas. In addition, their tuition is between $160 to $420 per credit unit.<\/p>

#5. East Tennessee State University<\/span><\/h3>

You can also enroll at East Tennessee State University. But before sitting for the ARRT exam, you must finish at least 312 hours of clinical MRI technician education. Their fee ranges from $11,220 to $12,810.<\/p>

How To Become An MRI Tech <\/span><\/h2>

Here are five simple steps to becoming an MRI technologist:<\/p>

#1. Get A Degree<\/span><\/h3>

You\u2019ll need at least an associate’s degree in radiologic technology, although many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor\u2019s degree.<\/p>

#2. Complete A Training Program<\/span><\/h3>

If you want to become an MRI tech, you will need to complete a training program. Most MRI technologist programs last between 12 and 24 months and include both classroom and clinical components.<\/p>

During your training, you will learn how to operate the MRI machine and interpret the images it produces. You will also learn about the different types of MRI scans and how to choose the right scan for each patient. You will also learn about the safety procedures involved in MRI scanning.<\/p>

#3. Earn Certification<\/span><\/h3>

While certification is not required, it can make you more attractive to employers and can help you advance in your career. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists offers certification in MRI technology.<\/p>

#4. Get License<\/span><\/h3>

Most states require MRI techs to be licensed by the state they work.  The requirements vary by state but generally include passing an exam and completing a set number of continuing education credits.<\/p>

#5. Find MRI Tech Jobs<\/span><\/h3>

Once you have all the necessary credentials, you can start searching for MRI tech jobs. MRI tech jobs are in high demand due to the large aging population. Hence, you can find job postings on online job boards, such as Monster, ZipRecruiter, and others.<\/p>

MRI Tech Salary<\/span><\/h2>

The MRI tech salary is one of the highest in the medical field. With an average salary of $82,743 per year, an MRI tech can earn a great wage while helping people. Therefore, the job outlook for MRI Techs is expected to grow by 14% in the next ten years, making it a great career choice for those looking to enter the medical field.<\/p>

Pros And Cons Of Being An MRI Tech<\/span><\/h2>

Some people may view working as an MRI technologist as a good career choice while others may view it as a not-so-desirable job. Here are some pros and cons of being an MRI tech:<\/p>

Pros<\/strong><\/h3>

Below are some of the pros:<\/p>