An MRI technologist is a healthcare professional who performs magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans on patients for diagnostic and monitoring purposes. Because of the training needed to acquire their specialized skills, MRI technologists have strong earning potential.
At National Polytechnic College in Lakewood, CA, we offer an MRI Technologist program that prepares aspiring techs to pursue entry-level positions in the industry. Here, we discuss an MRI tech career and the average MRI technologist salary in California.
What Is an MRI?
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a non-invasive type of imaging technology used to create detailed 3-D images of internal body structures and organs. MRIs use powerful magnets and computer-generated radio waves to produce these detailed images while the patient lies inside a large machine called an MRI scanner.
MRI scans are used to diagnose conditions and injuries such as tumors, torn ligaments, spinal cord injuries, and more. They also can be used to monitor treatment with frequent scans since they don’t contain damaging ionizing radiation produced by X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans.
What Is an MRI Technologist?
An MRI technologist or MRI tech is a healthcare worker who performs MRI scans under the instruction and supervision of a doctor. MRI technologists operate MRI scanners and equipment to produce detailed images that a radiologist will inspect and interpret. They also help prepare patients for scans. Job duties of an MRI tech typically include:
- Recording and updating patients’ medical histories
- Positioning patients properly in the MRI scanner
- Shielding areas that don’t need to be imaged
- Operating the MRI scanner to take images
- Adjusting MRI equipment
- Explaining the MRI procedure to patients and answering questions
- Using proper safety methods
- Injecting patients with contrast dye that helps images appear on the scanner
MRI technologists do not interpret or read the MRI results themselves, but they communicate with radiologists and other medical staff to assess the image quality and determine whether more images need to be taken.
MRI Technologist Salary and Earning Potential
If you’re looking for a rewarding career with a strong earning potential, working as an MRI technologist may be the right option for you. MRI techs can earn a competitive salary in California and nationwide. According to ZipRecruiter, the average MRI technologist salary in California is $110,327, while the average salary nationwide is $110,285. Generally, MRI technologists who work in outpatient care centers earn more than those who work in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and physicians’ offices. MRI technologists who are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT) may earn higher salaries than those who are not.
MRI Technologist Job Outlook
Another benefit of working as an MRI technologist is the strong job outlook the career offers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of radiologic and MRI technologists is projected to grow 6 percent annually through 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for MRI technologists will be consistent as the population continues to age and chronic diseases become more prevalent, as they will be needed to perform MRIs for diagnostic and monitoring purposes.
Explore the MRI Technologist Program at NPCollege
National Polytechnic College offers an MRI Technologist program that is ideal for people starting their careers or people looking for a new career. This program is accredited by the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT) and is recognized by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). It features an in-depth curriculum that combines in-classroom learning and hands-on training via a clinical externship. Students learn the skills and knowledge needed to perform the required job duties, including anatomy, computer skills, MRI technology, patient care skills, and more.
The program curriculum helps prepare students for entry-level positions as MRI technologists. We offer both an 18-month diploma option and a 22-month associate degree option. Upon successful completion of the MRI Technologist program, graduates are eligible to sit for the ARMRIT National Certification Examination. Graduates of the associate degree program can also sit for the ARRT certification exam. For more information on this program, check out our college catalog.
Why Attend National Polytechnic College’s MRI Technologist Program?
At NPCollege, our MRI technologist program provides a comprehensive curriculum offered in a convenient blended delivery format, combining in-person classroom instruction with remote distance education. Students in this program also benefit from:
- Various accreditations and approvals
- Experienced instructors who are dedicated to student success
- Hands-on clinical externship experience
- Training in modern MRI facilities with up-to-date equipment
- Financial aid opportunities for qualified students
- Career services department that aids with externship placement, employment services, and more
These are just some of the benefits that attending the MRI technologist program at NPCollege can offer you.
Apply to the MRI Technologist Program at NPCollege Today
If you’re ready to experience the strong salary and job outlook of a rewarding career, consider enrolling in the MRI technologist program at National Polytechnic College. Located in Lakewood, CA, we serve recent high school graduates and working adults looking for a career change with our career training programs. To learn more information about our MRI tech program or the admissions process, call us at (888) 379-4090 today.