By studying the internal structure and function of the body, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology has helped medical professionals make more accurate diagnoses and observations in regard to their patients' health. If you want to help others, enjoy anatomy and are interested in becoming an MRI technician, you can start your career by taking part in some educational and training programs.
Schooling and Training
Before working in clinics and hospitals, you must enroll in an MRI technology program at a college, university or technology school. As an MRI technician, you assist doctors with diagnoses by working with non-invasive imaging equipment and obtaining images of internal organs and structures--therefore, you need to receive the proper training and make sure you're well versed in biology and other sciences.
During your schooling, you will learn to operate an MRI machine under safe conditions, what the MRI monitor shows and assure patients that, despite an MRI machine's intimidating long-tube appearance, an MRI scan is safe and will cause no harm. You also will learn manage a radiology department, as well as maintain and purchase equipment, as you may need those skills once you start putting your degree to use.
Training programs usually consist of didactic training, clinical training and classroom instruction. After three or four years of MRI classes, and upon completing your educational requirements with passing grades, you will receive your MRI technician or advanced radiological technology degree.
If the idea of three or four years of study does not appeal to you, you may be able to fast-track your way to becoming an MRI technologist with no college degree or radiological background. Some 12-month training programs allow students to pursue national certification from the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT); this certification allows you to work in any U.S.-based hospital or private MRI facility. These kinds of programs--which the American College of Radiology (ACR) supports and approves--usually include MRI machines on-site for clinical internship training.
Post-Training Career
MedTravelers.com reports that the need for MRI technicians at hospitals and outpatient care centers is growing faster than the number of qualified medical MRI technologists, so you should be in decent shape upon completing your educational/training program. When doctors examine organs, detect tumors and bone or muscle injuries, they need trained and experienced MRI technicians to produce high-quality images.
The average annual salary for MRI technologists/technicians ranges from $50,000 to $55,000, according to MedTravelers.com. If you want an even higher salary, make sure you achieve certification, gain more experience, increase your education and training, and obtain credentials in a specialty.
Tags: completing your, completing your educational, educational training, four years, make sure
