Step 1: Choose an Accredited MRI Tech School

You can become an MRI tech with a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor's degree. When researching MRI certification programs, make sure to consider accreditation, location, tuition, and graduate outcomes. You'll also need to consider your previous education and career goals to choose the right program.

• MRI Certificate Programs: If you're a radiologic technologist who wants to become an MRI tech, a certificate program might be the best fit. These programs build on your prior training to expand your knowledge of imaging procedures and strengthen clinical skills. MRI certificate programs often take less than one year.
• MRI Associate Programs: Designed for learners without allied health experience, an associate program for MRI techs builds foundational knowledge and skills. You'll explore sectional anatomy, medical terminology, and safety procedures. You'll also strengthen your clinical skills. These programs take around two years and prepare graduates for registry and certification as an MRI tech.
• MRI Bachelor's Programs: A bachelor's degree in MRI technology prepares graduates for advanced roles in the field. With a four-year degree, you'll stand out in the job market. Registered radiologic technologists can also advance their education with an RT-to-BS degree.

If possible, try to prioritize MRI tech programs that have been accredited by JRCERT or that are offered by schools whose radiology tech programs hold JRCERT accreditation.

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:

• Sectional 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

Certification as an MRI technologist isn't always necessary, but 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 training program and passing a certification exam. MRI certification programs help students meet the certification requirements.

You can get MRI tech certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT).

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 X-rays that create cross-sectional images of body tissues.
• Nuclear Medicine Technology: Technologists use radioactive chemicals to produce reactions in the body that translate into visual representations.