MRI Associates in Waterloo Iowa | Magnetic Resonance Imaging Degree

Becoming an MRI technologist is a dream for many prospective students, and it’s easy to see why. This career choice offers competitive pay, long-term job stability, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on patient care. However, many prospective MRI technologists struggle with one key question: “What degree do you need to be an MRI tech?” To help aspiring professionals make informed decisions, this article answers three essential questions about MRI courses and career preparation.

What Degree Do You Need to Be an MRI Tech?

The type of degree you pursue is a crucial factor BUT it is not the determinant factor. Choosing a degree without understanding what the degree can yield is of utmost importance. The question you should be asking is: “Is the program I plan to enroll in accredited by ARMRIT?”  The reason for this is because ARMRIT is the accreditation body that certifies graduates as MRI technologists by passing the ARMRIT MRI Certification examination.  Once you graduate from an ARMRIT accreditation institution and pass your ARMRIT MRI registry, you would be certified as an MRI technologist!  So, back to what degree do you need to be an MRI tech?. ARMRIT has several institutions that are accredited but a minimum of an Associates Degree is required.  As an example, Pulse Radiology Institute is an ARMRIT accredited MRI program offering an Associates Degree which makes you eligible for the ARMRIT MRI registry after graduation.

1. What Kind of Courses Should You Look For in an MRI Program?

When choosing an MRI program, it’s essential to look for a comprehensive curriculum that covers both the technical and foundational aspects of the field. A well-rounded curriculum should include core MRI-specific courses such as Patient Care & MRI Safety, Fundamentals of MRI Physics, Pulse Sequence Design & Parameters, and MRI Procedures to build a strong technical foundation. Courses like Sectional Anatomy and Comprehensive MRI Pathology ensure students have a deep understanding of anatomy and imaging techniques, while Troubleshooting MRI Artifacts and MR Equipment & Image Acquisition provide practical problem-solving skills.

Additionally, a good curriculum should offer education courses like Medical Terminology, Medical Ethics, Law & Cultural Diversities, and Psychology to prepare students for patient-centered care. Hands-on experience is also vital, so look for programs that include a Clinical Externship as this is a requirement for ARMRIT-accredited institutions that bridge classroom learning with real-world application. General education courses such as English Composition, College Algebra, and Communications round out the curriculum, equipping students with essential skills for success in their careers. A program that integrates these elements ensures graduates are well-prepared for the multifaceted demands of being an MRI technologist.

2. Will there be clinical training included?

Clinical training is an important part of every MRI course, so you can rest assured that it is always there. During clinical training sessions, students will be taught to conduct MRI procedures, administer MRI safety screening and learn how to position and landmark patients for various MRI exams . They will also learn what to do and what not to do if something bad happens (such as an MRI quench or incident), ensuring that the MRI technologists will always be ready to deal with any problem at hand.

Clinical training at Pulse Radiology Institute is made even simpler as there is a dedicated team of clinical coordinator that help secure you a location to complete 1000 clinical hours to satisfy ARMRIT training requirements. Each training session is supervised by a professional coordinator who ensures the process goes smoothly.

3. Will There be Post-Graduation Support?

Support doesn’t end when you graduate. Many institutions offer post-graduation resources to help students transition into the workforce, and at Pulse Radiology Institute, we take that support to the next level with our Career Services Department. This dedicated team provides tailored assistance to help graduates secure employment at reputable clinics, hospitals, and healthcare centers. Services include resume building, job matching, and career guidance, ensuring that every graduate has the tools and connections needed to succeed. Whether you’re seeking your first role or aiming for a specialized position, Pulse Radiology Institute is committed to helping you launch your career with confidence.

Take the Next Step Toward Your MRI Career

We hope this article has clarified the path to becoming an MRI technologist and answered the question, “What degree do you need to be an MRI tech?” If you have additional questions or need guidance, feel free to contact our Admissions Office HERE at Pulse Radiology Institute as we are here to help.