3 Steps To Become an MRI Technologist

MRI technologists are responsible for running MRI machines and taking internal images of patients.

MRI machines can be tricky to use and even dangerous, so MRI technologists need specialized training and, in some cases, certification and licensure.

Keep reading to learn more about what MRI technologists do and how to become one.

What Is an MRI Technologist?

An MRI technologist is a type of radiologic technologist who uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to create images of the inside of the body.

MRI machines use large magnets and radio waves to produce images of internal structures of the body, such as blood vessels, bones, muscles, and organs.

These images can then be used by a physician to diagnose medical problems or check on a patient's medical conditions.

The job duties of an MRI technologist typically include:

• administering contrast dye to patients as necessary
• answering patient questions about procedures
• capturing the images requested by the physician
• helping patients stay relaxed during the MRI procedure
• maintaining and troubleshooting MRI equipment
• operating MRI equipment
• preparing patients for MRI scans

MRI technologists are not responsible for making diagnoses, but they may notice things on the MRI images and bring them to the physician's attention.

The majority of MRI technologists work in hospitals, but they can also work in settings like medical and diagnostic labs, physicians' offices, and outpatient care centers.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics expects demand for MRI technologists to grow by 8% by 2032, which is faster than the average occupation.

Steps To Become an MRI Technologist

To become an MRI technologist, you'll need to complete an MRI technology education program. You may also need certification and a state license.

We've broken down all the steps for you below.

Step 1: Complete an MRI Technology Education Program

The first step to becoming an MRI technologist is to graduate from an MRI technology educational program. These programs are offered in several forms.

Students can earn a two-year associate degree in MRI technology or in radiologic technology with a specialization in MRI.

Four-year radiologic technology bachelor's degree programs are also available. These are usually degrees in radiologic sciences or biology with a concentration in MRI.

Students who have already earned a degree in a related field can also look at MRI certificate programs. These usually take less than a year to complete.

Educational programs for MRI technology usually cover topics like:

• anatomy and physiology
• MRI physics
• MRI procedures
• MRI technology
• patient care and ethics

Most of these programs include traditional courses as well as lab work and clinical practice, which gives you hands-on training in using MRI machines.

You can find accredited MRI technology programs through the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (AMRIT) and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

Step 2: Pursue MRI Technologist Certification

While certification isn't necessary for all MRI technologists, some states require or accept it for licensure, and some employers may prefer or require it.

There are two primary bodies for MRI certification in the United States: The American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists and The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists

The American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists is an organization that recognizes qualified MRI specialists and promotes high standards of patient care and safety.

To qualify for this certification, you'll need to have documented clinical experience and/or a formal MRI technology education. You'll also need to pass an exam.

The exam has 225 multiple-choice questions. It covers the following topics:

• magnetic resonance physics, including electromagnetism, nuclear alignment, signal generation, and molecular formation
• clinical applications, including pulse sequences, tissue characteristics, enhancement agents, and contrast agents
• bioeffects, safety, and patient care, including screening forms, magnetic field strength, thermal injuries, and peripheral nerve stimulation
• magnetic resonance cross-sectional anatomy, including brain, renal and femoral arteries, cervical/thoracic/lumbar spine, and abdomen

Applicants can take their exam through a PSI testing site near them or via online proctoring. Four hours are allotted for the exam.

Once you've earned your radiology certification, you'll need to renew it every three years. The renewal process includes completing 24 MRI continuing education credits.

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists is an organization that certifies and registers professionals in a range of radiologic disciplines, including MRI technology.

To qualify for MRI certification, you'll need to have graduated from an accredited MRI technology program, meet the ethics requirements, and pass the certification exam.

The MRI certification exam consists of 200 scored questions. They cover the following content categories:

• patient care, which consists of patient interactions and management
• safety, which consists of MRI screening and safety
• image production, which consists of physical properties of image formation, sequins parameters and options, and data acquisition, processing and storage
• procedures, which consists of neurological, body, and musculoskeletal questions

This is a computer-based test that must be taken at a Pearson Vue testing center. The test itself lasts 210 minutes. Including the tutorial and survey, the appointment lasts 230 minutes.

Applicants who don't pass the exam can retake it twice before needing to requalify. Those who do pass will need to renew their certification annually.

To renew, you'll need to fulfill continuing education requirements every two years. Every ten years, you'll need to fulfill radiology continuing qualifications requirements.

Alternatively, those who start in radiologic technology can first obtain an ARRT certification in radiography and follow up with an MRI certification.

Step 3: Obtain an MRI Technologist License

Currently, six states require MRI technologists to hold a state license in order to practice. These states are:

• Florida
• New Hampshire
• New Mexico
• North Dakota
• Oregon
• West Virginia

Licensure requirements vary by state. They typically require that you've graduated from an accredited radiology program and may require you to pass an exam.

For a few of the states listed above, holding a national certification is sufficient for state licensure.

It's important to note that while only a few states require licensure for MRI technologists, most states require licensure for radiology techs.

If you start your career in general radiology, you will likely need to obtain a license through your state.

You can find more information about state requirements through the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT).

Become an MRI Technologist

To become an MRI technologist, you'll need to complete an MRI technology program. You'll likely need national certification and may also need a state license.

With the guide above, you can start your path toward a career as an MRI technologist today!