Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
- How can I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
- What kind of credentials are necessary to work as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
- Where do MRI technologists work?
- What are MRI technologists salaries like?
- What is the outlook for jobs in the future?
- What should an interested student do to prepare for entry into magnetic resonance imaging?
- Is there a health hazard for those who work as MRI technologists?
- What is the typical cost of this program?
- Whom may I contact for more information?
Q: What is a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
A: A magnetic resonance imaging technologist uses magnets and radio waves, a knowledge of anatomy, and imaging principles to aid physicians in the diagnosis of disease, in monitoring patient progress, in controlled screenings to help prevent disease, or in research.
Q: How can I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
A: Magnetic resonance imaging is a two-semester certificate program designed to prepare radiographers for employment in this imaging specialty. College courses include classroom instruction coordinated with clinical practice. Certification in radiologic technology (radiography, nuclear medicine technology, or radiation therapy) is required for admission.
Q: What kind of credentials are necessary to work as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
A: Students who successfully complete this certificate program are eligible to take a national registry exam. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists credentials magnetic resonance imaging technologists. Certification by the ARRT is required by most employers.
Q: Where do MRI technologists work?
A: MRI technologists work in hospitals, private imaging facilities and physicians' offices. MRI technologists work all shifts, with part-time or full-time positions. Flexible hours are often available.
Q: What are MRI technologists' salaries like?
A: Median salaries at the present time average $36.53 per hour. Hospital benefit packages are excellent and include health care, dental coverage, insurance, vacation and sick time. Private facilities may vary somewhat in the benefits they offer.
Q: What is the outlook for jobs in the future?
A: According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, job opportunities in the field will continue to grow.
Q: What should an interested student do to prepare for entry onto magnetic resonance imaging?
A: Have a good background in radiologic technology. Hold current ARRT certification in radiography, nuclear medicine technology, or radiation therapy. Develop good reading and communication skills. Take placement exams in math and English as early as possible. Graduates of associate degree radiography programs can transfer general education courses if appropriate.
Q: Is there a health hazard for those who work as MRI technologists?
A: While there is no documented health hazard associated in working with magnetic resonance imaging equipment, there may be some physical contraindications to being in a strong magnetic field. Screening and safety procedures are part of the educational process.
Q: What is the typical cost of this program?
A: The typical cost of the program for a part-time student is the current CCRI tuition and fees, laboratory fees, books, uniforms and travel expenses to the clinical sites. Additional information can be found on the Bursar website at www.ccri.edu/bursar.
Q: Whom may I contact for more information?
A: Contact Michael Hynes, Enrollment Services, at the Warwick Campus for more information about the MRI program at CCRI. The address is:
Michael Hynes
Office of Enrollment Services
Community College of Rhode Island
400 East Avenue
Warwick, RI 02886
(401) 825-2266
E-mail: [email protected]
CCRI Website: www.ccri.edu
If more specific information is needed, contact Aida Faria, Program Coordinator, at (401) 333-7252, or e-mail at [email protected].