Best MRI Tech Programs

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows us to take a noninvasive look inside the human body, helping to detect diseases, diagnose illnesses, and check treatment progress. MRI techs operate the technology and assist medical professionals in the scanning process.

In this guide, we go over the process of becoming an MRI tech. We’ll look at what qualifications you need to break into the field and how MRI tech programs can prepare you for a successful career in healthcare.

During your school and program search, be sure to take a look at accreditation. Accreditation functions as a school and program quality verification process. It can also affect financial aid, transfer credits, and future employment.

At the institutional level, accreditation should come from accrediting agencies recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and/or U.S. Department of Education.

At the programmatic level, look for MRI tech schools that have been accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Alternatively, consider schools that offer JRCERT-accredited radiology tech programs (even if their MRI tech programs are not accredited by JRCERT).

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Your MRI tech salary will vary depending on your experience, credentials, employer, and location. In May 2021, MRI techs earned a median annual salary of $77,360, according to the BLS.

The top 10% of MRI techs earned more than $100,870 — that’s over $33,000 higher than the median annual salary for MRI techs.

The highest-paying state is California, where MRI techs earned a mean annual salary of $108,580 in May 2021. By contrast, MRI techs based in Mississippi earned an average of just $58,810.

Use the map below to learn more about MRI tech salary expectations by state.

Ready to get started on your healthcare journey? Follow these three easy steps to become an MRI tech in no time.

Most MRI tech jobs require you to have an associate degree.

When comparing MRI tech programs, consider accreditation, location, tuition, and curricula, among other factors. MRI tech programs typically last 1-2 years. Some programs may require you to be a registered radiology tech before applying.

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.

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:

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.

While certification as an MRI technologist isn’t always necessary, 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 school and passing a certification exam.

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

You might also consider getting certified in an area related to MRI technology. ARRT, for example, offers the following certifications:

While similar, MRI technology is not quite the same as radiology technology. Both fields involve creating images to help doctors diagnose and treat conditions, but they use different equipment.

Radiology techs typically operate X-rays, computed tomography, and mammography equipment, whereas MRI techs work specifically with MRI scanners. MRI techs are essentially specialized radiology techs, which is why many MRI tech programs require applicants to be current radiology techs.

MRI techs need to know how to operate MRI equipment and how to properly care for patients. They also need strong math skills for radiation and magnetic resonance calculations and physical stamina for handling long hours and maneuvering patients.

Other helpful skills include communication and advanced knowledge of medical procedures.

Yes, MRI techs are in demand. The aging population and increase in chronic diseases makes MRI techs necessary for our healthcare system.

The BLS projects the addition of 3,000 MRI tech jobs between 2021 and 2031. That works out to a 7% job growth, faster than the average projected growth rate of 5% for all occupations in the next decade.

Yes, being an MRI tech can be challenging. As with many healthcare careers, you’ll work on your feet for long periods of time and may need to work overtime or get called in for emergencies.

As an MRI tech, you’ll also encounter radiation and infectious diseases that require careful care and safety precautions.

Yes, some MRI techs earn six figures. If you were in the top 10% of earners in May 2021, for example, you would have made more than $100,870, according to the BLS.

Both state and place of work can influence how much money you make. Some MRI techs earn over $100,000 working in outpatient care centers. California, Alaska, and Hawaii were the top-paying states for MRI techs in May 2021, with mean annual salaries above $100,000.