Guide to Becoming an MRI Technician or Radiographer

By: Andrew Colucci, MD

Last Updated: Dec 10, 2018

MRI technicians use cutting-edge technology to create high-definition, three-dimensional pictures of organs and tissues inside the body. These images are among the most powerful diagnostic tools available and are particularly useful for studying the brain, heart and muscles as well as certain kinds of cancers. A skillful MRI tech produces high-resolution images that allow physicians to diagnose with pinpoint accuracy.

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MRI scanners create powerful magnetic fields that line up certain atomic nuclei within the body. When stimulated by radio waves, these nuclei produce rotating magnetic fields that can be converted into images. Technicians have a nuanced understanding of the physics behind this process that allows them to create pictures with excellent contrast and clarity. They also rely on their expertise in human anatomy to position the patient and target the body structures to be studied.

Unlike X-ray radiography, MRI does not produce ionizing radiation nor damage vulnerable DNA and cells. However, since an MRI scanner is essentially a giant high-powered magnet, technicians must adhere to strict safety procedures when working with their scanner and perform routine maintenance to keep it in peak condition.

In addition to providing scientific and technical expertise, these professionals work closely with patients. While open MRI machines are becoming more common, most models still require patients to lie in a narrow tube for up to 40 minutes, which leads to anxiety, claustrophobia or even panic for some patients. The support of a calm and caring technician makes all the difference in the patient’s experience. Techs also ensure that patients follow safety procedures and may administer contrast agents by mouth or injection to enhance the quality of the images.

Once a study is complete, the technician consults with a radiologist to examine the images, answer questions and plan additional studies as needed. The radiologist makes the diagnosis and communicates it to the patient’s physician. As vital players on the health care team, MRI techs take great pride in producing the high-quality images physicians need to diagnose and treat with confidence and accuracy.

Hover over any state to explore local income and job growth data.

According to the US Department of Labor, MRI techs earn a median annual wage of $67,720. The middle 80% of wage earners earn between $46,690 and $94,550. Salaries tend to be highest in large metropolitan areas. Techs working in private doctors’ offices and diagnostic centers earn a slightly higher median income than those who work in hospitals.

Most techs work full time, and their schedules may include overnight, weekend and holiday shifts. Hospitals and diagnostic centers are expected to remain the largest employers of MRI techs. However, as technology advances and smaller, more portable scanners become commercially available, a growing number of physicians’ offices also employ these professionals.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment of MRI technologists to grow by 9% between 2014 and 2024 - faster than average growth - due largely to the aging population’s increased need for health care services. Federal laws have also increased the number of insured people, which should lead to increased demand for the services of MRI techs.

In some states and certain situations, MRI technicians are able to train on the job. These kinds of positions are most common in healthcare workforce shortage areas. But in most cases, you will have to attend an accredited program in order to become an MRI tech. Requirements vary from state to state. Most typically, students choose an associate degree, though some enroll in accredited certificate programs. Still others choose a bachelor’s degree route to enhance their appeal to employers. Make sure your chosen path is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology or the Commission on Accreditation of the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists.

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If you already have an unrelated undergraduate degree, there are also accredited certificate programs that allow you to forego an additional degree as long as you satisfy certain prerequisites.

MRI programs include extensive hands-on training in a variety of clinical settings. Newly hired technicians complete a period of on-the-job training during which they shadow an experienced mentor.

Most states mandate do not mandate licensure of MRI techs, but many require certification. Even if you live in a state that doesn’t require it, employers in that state likely will try to hire certified job applicants. Certification requirements vary, but usually include graduation from an accredited program and passage of a knowledge exam. MRI technicians are eligible for certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and the American Registry of MRI Technologists.

Skilled MRI techs have opportunities to specialize in an area of interest such as pediatrics, cardiac, neurological or intraoperative imaging. Some go back to school to train as nurses or nuclear medicine technologists. Supervisory or managerial roles are also options for experienced MRI professionals.

There are a few scenarios in which earning an associate degree is the baseline requirement for being an MRI tech:

• Your state requires ARRT certification in order to practice. (Even in states where this is not a requirement, certification can still make a big difference when it comes to getting hired.)
• Your state requires an associate degree or higher in order to practice

Technically you can major in any subject, so long as your school is accredited by an ARRT-recognized agency. But if you hold a degree in a field other than MRI technology, see the certificate program section for more information about additional requirements.

Probably the fastest ways to become a certified MRI technician is to obtain an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree from an ARRT-approved MRI technology program. These can be found at 2-year colleges and career schools across the country. Some programs have articulation agreements with universities that make it easier for graduates to earn a bachelor’s degree.

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Associate level coursework in MRI technology covers:

ARRT-approved programs also include a directed practice component in which students care for real-life patients under supervision.

Earning a Bachelor of Science in radiologic technology (BS, BSRT, BSRS) is a good idea if you’re interested in leadership, management, teaching, or research.

Some bachelor’s programs offer a dual concentration option, which allows you to study more than one imaging modality. Having multiple certifications can make it a lot easier to find a job after graduation. To avoid hassles when you take your certification exam, verify that the program you choose is approved by ARRT.

Bachelor’s-level students usually spend 2–3 years taking general education classes and radiologic technology prerequisites. Some programs allow students to complete this phase of the curriculum at a 2-year or liberal arts college.

The final 1–2 years of the bachelor’s program cover radiologic sciences, MRI technology, and fieldwork. This part of the curriculum strongly resembles an associate degree program. Courses at this level may include:

Some schools also offer bachelor’s degree completion programs for techs who already hold an associate degree.

MRI technician certificate programs are generally best for working radiologic technologists who want to develop skills in a new modality. These students have already completed the prerequisite classes and met ARRT’s associate degree requirement.

Some certificate programs accept students with no previous education or experience in the medical field, such as those with unrelated degrees. If you go this route, you will probably need to take prerequisites before applying to the MRI technology certificate program. Remember, you must hold an associate degree in order to qualify for ARRT certification.

The certificate-level curriculum emphasizes MRI science and clinical experience. Expect to take:

Some states and many employers require MRI technicians to be certified before practicing.

The most recognized credential for MRI technicians is ARRT’s RT(R) (MR). There are two pathways to certification:

• Hold an associate degree, complete an ARRT-approved training program in MRI technology, and pass ethics and knowledge exams
• Meet the requirements for postprimary certification, which include clinical experience in a variety of procedures and documented continuing education

ARRT-certified MRI technicians can pursue postprimary certification in sonography. This requires a combination of experience, continuing education, and passing an exam.

Some states and localities also recognize the American Registry of MRI Technologists (ARMRIT) as a certifying agency. To become credentialed, candidates must graduate from an ARMRIT-approved training program OR meet experience requirements, and then pass an exam.