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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows us to take a noninvasive look inside the human body, helping to detect diseases, diagnose illnesses, and check treatment progress. MRI techs operate the technology and assist medical professionals in the scanning process.
In this guide, we go over the process of becoming an MRI tech. We'll look at what qualifications you need to break into the field and how MRI tech programs can prepare you for a successful career in healthcare.
Why Become an MRI Tech?
- You can become an MRI tech in a relatively short period of time — usually just two years.
- You'll take on a valuable and rewarding role in the medical field.
- You can work in a variety of locations and healthcare facilities.
- You'll be at the forefront of new advances in the medical imaging field.
- You can reap the benefits of an in-demand profession with plenty of job security.
Explore Our Featured Healthcare Programs
How Does Accreditation Work for MRI Tech School?
During your school and program search, be sure to take a look at accreditation. Accreditation functions as a school and program quality verification process. It can also affect financial aid, transfer credits, and future employment.
At the institutional level, accreditation should come from accrediting agencies recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and/or U.S. Department of Education.
At the programmatic level, prioritize MRI tech schools that have been accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
Did You Know?
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Medical professionals across the country perform about 30 million MRI scans each year. -
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 7% growth in MRI technologist jobs between 2021 and 2031. -
Top industries for MRI techs include hospitals, medical and diagnostic libraries, and doctor's offices.
Top MRI Tech Programs
Read About Our Methodology Here
#1 The Best MRI Tech Programs
Galveston College
Galveston, TX - 4 years
- Campus
Galveston College offers a high-quality certificate in magnetic resonance imaging to learners in Galveston, Texas. The program develops a broad knowledge base sufficient for most entry-level positions. Certificate graduates can also pursue additional education through associate or bachelor's programs.
The certificate highlights specialized skills with a professional focus. The program focuses on knowledge specific to the field rather than general education. Certificate-seekers may have access to online enrollment options, allowing them to work full time while in the program.
Institutional resources are available to students in the certificate program. Services in academic assistance, financial aid, and library access are all commonly available. Learners can also take advantage of free tutoring from the college's writing center.
Galveston College at a Glance:
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Certificate Programs: 24
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 69%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 9%
#2 The Best MRI Tech Programs
Forsyth Technical Community College
Winston-Salem, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Forsyth Technical Community College offers a high-quality associate in magnetic resonance imaging at its Winston-Salem, North Carolina, campus. Program candidates prepare for entry-level positions in the field by developing introductory knowledge. Graduates may also continue their studies in a bachelor's program.
The curriculum helps enrollees build specialized skills relevant to the workplace. Degree-seekers may have access to online enrollment options, allowing them to work full time while in the program.
Enrollees can take advantage of institutional resources both on campus and online. Academic counseling, access to libraries, and financial aid services are commonly available. The school has a writing center where students receive free tutoring.
Forsyth Technical Community College at a Glance:
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Certificate Programs: 67
Total Online Certificate Programs: 11
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 72%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 75%
#3 The Best MRI Tech Programs
Greenville Technical College
Greenville, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Greenville Technical College is a college in Greenville, South Carolina, that offers a top-rate certificate in magnetic resonance imaging. Candidates gain introductory knowledge that prepares them for entry-level careers in the field. Further opportunities may be available by pursuing an associate or bachelor's degree.
Certificate-seekers gain specialized skills tailored for the workplace. Students focus their studies on specific MRI knowledge rather than general education. Online enrollment may make it possible for full-time workers to complete the program.
Institutional resources like library access, financial aid, and academic advising are all commonly available to learners. Students who need additional support can also visit the school's writing center for free tutoring.
Greenville Technical College at a Glance:
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Certificate Programs: 52
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 91%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 21%
#4 The Best MRI Tech Programs
Community College of Baltimore County
Baltimore, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Community College of Baltimore County offers a top-ranked certificate in magnetic resonance imaging. Program enrollees prepare for entry-level career opportunities by developing an introductory understanding of the subject. Graduates may also continue their studies, earning an associate or bachelor's degree.
The program features a professional focus in the specialized skills it develops. Students focus on learning specific skills for the workplace rather than general education requirements. Online enrollment options may allow learners to complete their certificate while maintaining full-time employment.
Enrollees can take advantage of institutional resources like academic counseling, access to libraries, and financial aid services. Students also have access to free tutoring services through the college's writing center.
Community College of Baltimore County at a Glance:
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Certificate Programs: 51
Total Online Certificate Programs: 18
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 78%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 18%
#5 The Best MRI Tech Programs
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
One of Michigan's best certificate in magnetic resonance imaging programs is available through Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Enrollees prepare for entry-level careers by developing an introductory understanding of the subject. Graduates who do not immediately enter the workforce can obtain an associate or bachelor's degree.
Certificate-seekers develop specialized skills with a focus on the workplace. Students focus their studies on specific MRI knowledge rather than general education. Online enrollment options may allow learners to complete their certificate while maintaining full-time employment.
Students can access many online and in-person resources. Library access, financial aid, and academic advising are all commonly available to learners. The college's writing center offers free tutoring to students.
Grand Rapids Community College at a Glance:
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Certificate Programs: 44
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 68%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 20%
How Much Do MRI Techs Make?
Your MRI tech salary will vary depending on your experience, credentials, employer, and location. In May 2021, MRI techs earned a median annual salary of $77,360, according to the BLS.
The top 10% of MRI techs earned more than $100,870 — that's over $33,000 higher than the median annual salary for MRI techs.
The highest-paying state is California, where MRI techs earned a mean annual salary of $108,580 in May 2021. By contrast, MRI techs based in Mississippi earned an average of just $58,810.
Use the map below to learn more about MRI tech salary expectations by state.
How to Become an MRI Tech: 3 Steps
Ready to get started on your healthcare journey? Follow these three easy steps to become an MRI tech in no time.
Step 1: Choose an Accredited MRI Tech School
Most MRI tech jobs require you to have an associate degree.
When comparing MRI tech programs, consider accreditation, location, tuition, and curricula, among other factors. MRI tech programs typically last around two years, though accelerated options can expedite the time it takes to earn your degree.
Prioritize MRI tech programs that have been accredited by JRCERT.
In addition, look into what type of facilities the school has and what type of training it provides. For example, you might find additional value in schools with simulation labs and state-of-the-art technology.
Step 2: Complete All MRI Tech Coursework and Training
While MRI tech programs can vary somewhat in their course offerings, you can typically expect to take classes covering basic anatomy, medical terminology, and how to perform MRIs.
The courses you can take at an MRI tech school may include:
- Anatomy
- Image production and analysis
- Medical ethics
- Medical terminology
- Pathology
- Patient care
MRI tech programs often include in-class clinical training that covers examination procedures and MRI technology.
You'll also get hands-on training through practicums, which take you to medical sites like hospitals and doctor's offices. There, you'll observe and learn imaging techniques and practices while working directly with patients.
Step 3: Get Certified
While certification as an MRI technologist isn't always necessary, most states require radiology techs — and sometimes MRI techs — to be certified or licensed. Many employers prefer to hire MRI techs who are certified.
Certification generally involves graduating from an accredited MRI tech school and passing a certification exam.
You can get MRI tech certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists.
You might also consider getting certified in an area related to MRI technology. ARRT, for example, offers the following certifications:
- Sonography: Commonly known as ultrasounds, sonography is another form of diagnostic imaging that uses sound waves.
- Computed Tomography: CT scans are advanced types of X-rays used to create cross-sectional images of body tissues.
- Nuclear Medicine Technology: In this form of medical imaging, technologists use radioactive chemicals to produce reactions in the body that translate into visual representations.
Frequently Asked Questions About MRI Tech Jobs
While similar, MRI technology is not quite the same as radiology technology. Both fields involve creating images to help doctors diagnose and treat conditions, but they use different equipment.
Radiology techs typically operate X-rays, computed tomography, and mammography equipment, whereas MRI techs work specifically with MRI scanners.
MRI techs need to know how to operate MRI equipment and how to properly care for patients. They also need strong math skills for radiation and magnetic resonance calculations and physical stamina for handling long hours and maneuvering patients.
Other helpful skills include communication and advanced knowledge of medical procedures.
Yes, MRI techs are in demand. The aging population and increase in chronic diseases makes MRI techs necessary for our healthcare system.
The BLS projects the addition of 3,000 MRI tech jobs between 2021 and 2031. That works out to a 7% job growth, faster than the average projected growth rate of 5% for all occupations in the next decade.
Yes, being an MRI tech can be challenging. As with many healthcare careers, you'll work on your feet for long periods of time and may need to work overtime or get called in for emergencies.
As an MRI tech, you'll also encounter radiation and infectious diseases that require careful care and safety precautions.
Yes, some MRI techs earn six figures. If you were in the top 10% of earners in May 2021, for example, you would have made more than $100,870, according to the BLS.
Both state and place of work can influence how much money you make. Some MRI techs earn over $100,000 working in outpatient care centers. California, Alaska, and Hawaii were the top-paying states for MRI techs in May 2021, with mean annual salaries above $100,000.