MRI Technologist Certificate

Prepare for a Career as a Skilled MRI Technologist in Diagnostic Imaging

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (MRI Tech) Program at NWSC prepares students for entry-level careers in medical imaging within hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, outpatient facilities, and specialty clinics. MRI technologists play a critical role in modern healthcare by operating advanced imaging equipment to produce high-quality diagnostic images that assist physicians in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating medical conditions.

This program combines rigorous didactic instruction, laboratory training, and extensive supervised clinical education to ensure students develop both the technical competencies and professional behaviors required in diagnostic imaging environments.

Students gain knowledge and hands-on experience in MRI physics, instrumentation, cross-sectional anatomy, patient positioning, imaging protocols, safety procedures, contrast administration, and image evaluation. Emphasis is placed on patient care, critical thinking, professionalism, ethical practice, and adherence to industry safety standards.

Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded a Certificate in Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology.

Graduates may pursue national certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Eligibility for certification is determined by ARRT and requires completion of all educational, clinical, and examination requirements established by the certifying body.

Program Snapshot

Detail	Information
Credential Awarded	Certificate in Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology
Total Program Length	1500 Clock Hours
Clinical Requirement	960 Clock Hours
Certification Eligibility	ARRT MRI Certification
Duration	12 Months
Format	Hybrid
Program Start	Enrollments every Fall, Winter, and Summer Terms

Program Overview

The MRI Tech Program provides comprehensive education and training in diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging, preparing students to function as competent entry-level MRI technologists. Students develop skills in:

MRI physics and imaging principles
MRI equipment operation and instrumentation
Cross-sectional anatomy and pathology recognition
Patient care and positioning techniques
MRI safety screening and compliance protocols
Contrast media administration principles
Image quality assessment and evaluation
Clinical workflow and imaging procedures

The program emphasizes integration of classroom learning with laboratory practice and extensive clinical experiences to ensure graduates are fully prepared for real-world imaging environments.

Program of Study

The program consists of structured coursework delivered over three terms, totaling 1500 clock hours.

Term 1

Course Code	Course Title
MRI 101	MRI Physics and Principles I
MRI 103	Patient Care and Safety
MRI 104	MRI Procedures I
MRI 201	Cross-Sectional Anatomy & Pathology I
MRI 301	MRI Clinical Experience I

Term 2

Course Code	Course Title
MRI 102	MRI Physics and Principles II
MRI 105	MRI Procedures II
MRI 202	Cross-Sectional Anatomy & Pathology II
MRI 302	Clinical Experience II

Term 3

Course Code	Course Title
MRI 303	MRI Clinical Experience III

Clinical Training Experience

Students complete extensive supervised clinical training designed to build real-world competency in MRI imaging procedures.

Clinical experience includes:

Patient screening and preparation
MRI scanning procedures
Image acquisition and evaluation
Safety protocols and compliance procedures
Professional interaction with patients and healthcare teams
Workflow participation in imaging departments

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the MRI Tech Program will be able to:

Operate MRI equipment and perform imaging procedures according to established protocols
Apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathology to produce diagnostic-quality images
Demonstrate MRI safety compliance including patient screening and monitoring procedures
Position patients correctly to ensure accurate imaging outcomes
Evaluate image quality and assist in optimizing imaging results
Communicate effectively with patients and healthcare team members
Demonstrate professionalism, ethical behavior, and cultural sensitivity in clinical settings
Perform as competent entry-level MRI technologists in healthcare environments
Demonstrate readiness for ARRT MRI certification pathways (where eligible)

Occupational Objectives

Graduates of the MRI Tech Program are prepared for entry-level positions such as:

MRI Technologist (Entry-Level)
Radiology Imaging Assistant (MRI Support Roles)
Diagnostic Imaging Technician
Radiology Department Assistant

Employment opportunities are commonly found in:

Hospitals
Diagnostic imaging centers
Outpatient imaging clinics
Specialty medical facilities
Physician practice imaging departments

Admission Requirements

An associate degree of any discipline and minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- For applicants who do not meet the minimum CGPA requirements, Provisional Acceptance may be granted upon review by the Admissions Committee. Speak to an Admissions Associate to learn more.
Satisfactory completion of program prerequisite courses, including Medical Terminology, Human Anatomy & Physiology I, Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues, College Algebra, and General Physics.
- For applicants who have not completed these courses or have not satisfactorily completed these courses, they may be granted Provisional Acceptance and enroll in the prerequisite courses at NWSC.
Current CPR certification throughout the externship portion of the program
Proof of vaccination
Proof of current health insurance to participate in clinical education
Background check

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Our Admissions Team is here to help you explore the MRI Technologist Certificate program, guide you through the enrollment process, and support you every step of the way as you start your career in healthcare.