MRI technologists are health-care professionals who administer diagnostic imaging tests that take pictures of the internal structures in a patient's body. In order to receive the necessary state licenses to work in the field, technologists must receive post-secondary training.
Types of Programs
The most common educational training programs for MRI technologists are associate degree programs, explains the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Certificate and bachelor's programs are also available in the field.
Time Frame
Associate degree programs for MRI technologists usually require two years of full-time study to complete, while bachelor's degrees take four years on average. Certificate programs tend to vary in length from 21 to 24 months, reports BLS.
Accreditation
The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology s the institution that provides accreditation to MRI technologist training programs. Some states will only accept license who graduate from these accredited programs, while others prefer to approve schools based upon the criteria of a nursing or radiological safety board.
Features
MRI technologist training programs usually require classroom-based coursework in physics, anatomy, medical terminology and safety as well as hands-on training in clinical settings, explains the U.S. Bureau of labor Statistics. Longer education programs like those that result in bachelor's degrees usually require more general education classes in fields outside of MRI technology and health care, but may also provide additional clinical experience hours.
Locations
MRI technologist training programs are found at technical, vocational, medical, community and junior colleges as well as at hospitals and traditional colleges and universities. Often, clinical rotations are held at hospitals, clinics and physicians' offices off campus, making students responsible for their own transportation to and from these locations.
Tags: training programs, technologist training programs, usually require, bachelor degrees, degree programs
