An MRI technician is someone who uses magnetic resonance imaging to assist doctors with making diagnoses. In order to become an MRI technician, you will need to attend an MRI technician program and receive a certificate or diploma. An MRI technician program generally lasts about 12 months. The prerequisites, however, may prolong your educational endeavor.

Prerequisites

The prerequisites for most MRI technician programs include: high school graduation, AA or AS degree (associate's degree) and specific coursework, including anatomy and physiology and medical bioscience. If you have not completed your AA or AS degree, this process can take up to two years to complete. Other coursework can be completed at the school of your choice and should only take one semester to complete.

Work and Educational History

MRI technology programs accept a small number of students per term, making the competition fierce. Previous experience in the medical field is helpful in gaining entry into an MRI technology program. Most programs require that you pass an entrance exam and an interview process as well as have a cumulative grade point average of C or better. Any medical experience you can show will be a point in your favor during your interview. Having maintained a good grade point average throughout your educational career is also helpful. If your grade point average suffered during your earlier studies, you may want to take a few courses and strive to increase your grade point average.

Financing and Scheduling

Most MRI technology programs are full-time programs, meaning that you will need to find evening and nighttime employment or not work while attending school. If this is not possible, you may be able to locate a distance learning program or an evening program that will accommodate your schedule; just keep in mind that these programs are harder to find. The competition for these programs can be even greater than for regular daytime programs. Tuition can be somewhat cost-prohibitive, as well, though many students will qualify for federal aid in the form of grants and loan programs.

Source:

medacademy.org: MRI Technology Program

volanthealth.com: Become An MRI Technician