If you are looking to be an MRI tech, you will need to fulfill several radiologic technologist requirements set by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Applying to the program means that you will first have to fulfill certain pre-requisites to be eligible. This will include obtaining a high school diploma or GED and then complete an associate’s degree or higher in any field from an institution recognized by the ARRT.
Nowadays, there are multiple programs available that specifically train you to be a radiologic technologist. These programs will teach you the fundamentals of anatomy and physiology as well as the technical aspects involved in operating an MRI machine.
This article will explore all the things you will need to acquire in order to qualify as a radiologic technologist.
List of Radiologic Technologist Requirements
There is a minimum level of education required for you to become a radiologist professional. One of the first radiologic technologist requirements is an accredited certificate program from a community college or hospital. The great thing about this is that these are designed as short-term courses. It can last anywhere between a few months to about a year, depending on how you pace your studies. In this program, you will already learn the basics of MRI technology, including how to interpret the scans. Your educational journey will be both classroom and hands-on training. Consequently, most programs already have partnerships with certain hospitals and clinics, where they will allow you to develop your practical experience with the machines. The reason for this is because you will need to do about 1,000-2,000 hours of documented MRI clinical training in order to pass the program. This will enable you to learn how to work with patients, and at the same time, familiarize yourself with the machines.
Once you have completed your didactic competency and clinical competency requirements, you will then proceed to get your ARRT license or certification. The exam has 200 questions that comprise of the following categories: image production, procedures, patient care, and safety. It covers everything you have learned in your program. If you are intimidated by this, there are also tutorial programs that you can join where you will be able to review all the content specifications for the exams as well as do practice exams to see how you will perform.
It is important to note that even when you pass your ARRT exam, you will need to renew your certificate every 2 years. You will be required to earn 24 continuing education credits as part of the state licensing renewal, which includes doing CPR certification renewal. In addition to that, you will also need to take relevant academic courses at any ARRT accredited institution. The purpose of this is to ensure that you are up to date and get a refresher on the important facets of radiology.
Now that you know all the radiologic technologist requirements, sign up for our online programs that will help you achieve your career goals.
