All courses will be offered online. The Clinical Practicum will take place at an approved site local to the student.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical test that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body’s internal structures.
The two-semester, online, advanced certificate in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) program prepares Radiologic Technologists for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Magnetic Resonance Imaging Post-Primary Certification exam and an entry level position as a MRI Technologist by providing a comprehensive didactic and clinical education. The program begins in August and accepts a limited number of students.
Applicants to the program should be caring and exhibit a commitment to lifelong learning. They must be able to accept responsibility, follow orders precisely, and determine when consultation is required. Threaded throughout this curriculum are the components of work ethic, communication, patient care, integrity and self-discipline.
All didactic courses are taught online. Students are responsible for obtaining approval from their desired clinical site. Students will be required to submit copies of the following as part of the admissions process: valid SC Driver’s License or Birth Certificate, current ARRT/ARDMS/NMTCB card and SCRQSA state license. A Criminal Background Check, current 10 panel Drug Screening, proof of current CPR certification, 2 step TB (PPD) test, Chickenpox vaccination/titer, MMR vaccinations, Hepatitis B vaccinations, Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (TDAP) vaccinations, a recent Physical and Health Form, provided by the College, are required before entering the MRI clinical education centers. (Details are provided in the acceptance packet.)
Applicants must be registered and in good standing with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in Radiography, Sonography, Nuclear Medicine or Radiation Therapy. The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) for Ultrasound or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) for Nuclear Medicine are also accepted. Acceptance of registry eligible applicants is contingent upon passing the ARRT/ARDMS/NMTCB exam within one month of graduation. Applicants preparing to graduate from an Associate Degree Radiology, Radiation Therapy, Ultrasound or Nuclear Medicine program must submit a letter of recommendation stating that they are in good academic standing from their current program director in order to be considered for acceptance.
The program goals are:
- The student will demonstrate academic and technical competence as an entry level MRI
Technologist. - The student will possess problem solving and critical thinking abilities needed to function in
the changing healthcare environment. - The student will communicate effectively.
- The student will demonstrate professional attitudes, behavior and ethics in the clinical and classroom environment.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists is projected to grow 7%% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for MRI technologists was $68,730 in South Carolina.
(Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition, Radiologic and MRI Technologists, (visited February 15, 2021).
