Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Advanced Certificate is a one semester program that prepares radiographers to perform MRI procedures in hospitals and imaging centers.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a specialized imaging modality that utilizes computer technology in conjunction with magnetic fields and radio frequency signals to obtain sectional images in any body plane. MRI’s ability to distinguish differences in tissue composition has made it the modality of choice in imaging the central nervous system and a variety of soft tissue structures. The curriculum covers all subject areas listed in the A.R.R.T Content Specifications to prepare for the examination in Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Program Goals
- To prepare graduates to pass the ARRT post-primary examination in magnetic resonance imaging by providing didactic instruction in each content area identified in the ARRT Content Specifications and the ASRT Curriculum Guide.
- To provide students with an opportunity to participate in a variety of MRI procedures that will assist them in meeting the clinical experience requirements defined by ARRT.
- To develop professionalism and promote life-long learning among program graduates.
Working Conditions
MRI technologists may work in a variety of health care facilities, although most are employed in hospitals or imaging centers. Technologists typically work 40-hour weeks that may include evening, weekend or “on-call” hours dependent upon their employment setting. Please refer to the Essential Skills & Abilities of a MRI technologist to determine if you are able to meet these functions with or without reasonable accommodations.
Employment
As the cost of equipment declines and smaller units become available, MRI and other radiologic procedures are increasingly being used in physicians’ offices and walk-in clinics, which increases the demand for technologists to operate the machinery. With the life expectancy increasing, the demands of an aging population increases the need for health care providers. It is expected that employment of Radiologic and MRI technologists will increase by about 7% from 2019-2029, faster than the average for all occupations. U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Licensure
Graduates are eligible to apply to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Post Primary Examination in Magnetic Resonance Imaging. This certification is nationally recognized and enables the student to pursue employment throughout the United States.
Admission Requirements: Selective
The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Program has limited enrollment and a selection process for admission into the program. Students must apply and be formally accepted into the program prior to enrolling in any Magnetic Resonance Imaging courses. Students can apply online to the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Program June 1 - October 1. The application deadline date is October 1 for Spring enrollment. We notify applicants approximately two weeks after application deadline date whether they have been accepted or not into the program.
- If you have never attended Carl Sandburg College, complete a general application for admission to the College
- Submit official transcripts from high school and all post-secondary educational institutions.
- Graduate from an A. R. R. T approved radiography program with a 2.5 or higher cumulative G. P. A. on a 4.0 scale.
- Provide evidence of active registration with the A. R. R. T or registry eligible status.
- Complete the online application for the Magnetic Resonance Imaging program.
- Students admitted must attend the program orientation session.
Program admission is competitive and fulfillment of the basic requirements does not guarantee admission. Class size is limited and is determined by the number of available clinical sites within each community-college district. Participating community college districts (in addition to Carl Sandburg College) include: Black Hawk, Heartland, Illinois Central, Illinois Valley, John Wood, Lincoln Land, Parkland, Richland, Sauk Valley, Scott (IA), Southeastern (IA), and Spoon River.
RDT 255 practicum requires immunizations with titers, TB skin test, current Healthcare Provider CPR certification, drug screen, background check and physical. Students are responsible for all fees incurred. Please refer to the Computed Tomography Program Cost Sheet. Please note that findings on the criminal background check and drug screen may void the conditional admission and prevent entrance to the program. Findings on the physical examination and drug screen may prevent placement at the clinical sites. Technologists employed in MRI may seek enrollment in the online classroom-only portions of the program, if desired.
Department of Health Professions
2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd.
Galesburg, IL 61401
Phone: 309.341.5299
For Additional Information Contact:
The Welcome Center
Phone: 309.345.3500
welcomecenter@sandburg.edu
For Graduation Requirements:
See the graduation policies and procedures page for details .