Magnetic resonance scans are performed using the equipment.Employment in hospitals, doctors' offices, clinics, and specialty hospitals is growing at a faster rate than the average.You need an associate's degree, a training program and a certification exam to become an MRI technician.
Step 1: You can learn about the responsibilities of the technicians.
A magnetic resonance imager is a machine that uses magnetic fields to create two- and three-dimensional images of parts of a patient's body.The technician is responsible for operating the machine.You will need a lot of technical knowledge to operate the machine.If you don't have a good understanding of how the technology works, you may be responsible for detecting problems with the machine in the hospital.Good people skills and technical knowledge can be found in a good MRI technician.You will have to teach patients how to use the machine and keep them engaged.Scans can take up to 90 minutes to complete and patients are often nervous or distressed so good bedside manner is a necessary component to a good technician.The job demands physical strength.If you are mobility impaired, you may need to lift and fit patients on the machine.You have to be fit and in good health to work as an MRI technician.
Step 2: Prepare for school.
You need to start preparing early if you decide to work in the field.You should focus on math and science in high school and look into programs after graduation.You should take courses in biology, physics, mathematics, and chemistry in high school.If you can, try to enroll in AP programs.Taking courses in health and computer science will look good on a college application.On an application to a technical program, certifications look great.It's easy to get certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the high school level.Local colleges and hospitals offer classes.You can see what's available in your area.You can get a job at a hospital during the summer.If your ultimate goal is to become an MRI technician, any experience you have in that field looks good on your college application.
Step 3: Find a good school.
You should be looking into the kinds of schools you want to attend as you reach your last years of high school.An associate's degree in a related field is required for an MRI technician to complete a certification program.The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiological Technology or the Commission on Accreditation of the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists should accredited your school.There are many ways to find programs.You can browse schools by state on the websites of the institutions.You can ask anyone who worked at the hospital where they got their training.It's a good idea to apply to a variety of schools and see where you are admitted and what kind of funding and financial aid you're offered.You have a lot of schools to choose from once you've graduated, so you want to keep your options open.
Step 4: You need to complete your associate's degree in radiologic technology.
You will begin the first part of your training when you enroll in a school.Technical skills like medical terminology, patient care, and radiography are included in courses in your associate's degree.There is time for hands-on skills to be developed in most associate's programs.You will spend some time in a lab getting to know the equipment you'll be using for your career.
Step 5: College is a great place to find opportunities and experiences.
Make the most of your time in school.It's important to get into a good training program after college so you can get a job later on.People are volunteering at hospitals.Depending on your schedule, volunteering can be as consistent as you want.During your time in school, volunteering at a hospital will help you connect with doctors, nurses, technicians, and other hospital staff members you can use later on in your career.internship related to your fieldAsk your professors, classmates, and college advisers where to apply for internship.Your chances of getting a job later on can be boosted by an internship.You may eventually be hired by the hospital if you make a good impression.You can get a job in the hospital.Even an office job, which may seem unrelated, can look good on a resume as it allows you to interact with patients.It's important to have bedside manner and social skills if you want to become an MRI technician.
Step 6: You have to complete a training program.
If you complete a 1 to 2 year training program, you will be certified by the American Registry of Radiological Technologists.classroom training and training in a hospital setting are required for the ARRT program.You can find a list of schools on the ARRT's website, but you can also search by state and area.You will need an associate's degree to enroll in an educational program.Colleges, community colleges, and hospitals run training programs.Some form of financial aid may be offered.The programs last from 1 to 2 years.You will learn how to operate the technology in a classroom during your training.You will get hands on experience in your field when you work in a hospital.
Step 7: You should take the exam.
You can take the certification exam once you have completed your associate's degree.You can apply for jobs if you pass the exam.You can schedule your exam using the website.If you want to schedule an exam time that works best with your schedule, you can find a testing center near you.There may be an application fee in your state.24 hours ahead of time, you can cancel or change an appointment.The exam will be taken on a computer.Children, friends, and family members are not allowed in testing centers.One of the forms of identification you need to bring is a government issued photo ID.Personal notes are not allowed in the testing room.Multiple choice questions and scores are based on the total number of correct answers.If you don't know an answer, it's best to guess or pick a different answer.The exam will take 4 hours to complete.The initial score on the screen is not a confirmation that you have passed the exam.An official report will be sent to you 2 to 3 weeks after you've finished the exam.
Step 8: If you don't pass the exam, what should you do?
A re-application form will be sent if you fail.The re-application fee is $175.You can take the exam 3 times within 3 years.You have to train again if you don't pass the exam within this time.
Step 9: You can apply for jobs.
Once you pass the exam, you can start looking for jobs.You can create an account on the website.You can register and submit your resume and CV.Candidates who have passed the exam can register.Information about work and education must be entered by individual members.Monster and indeed.com can be used to find jobs in your field.If you worked or volunteered at a hospital before, you might be able to find a job.Don't forget to work on your resume.A college professor, friend, or co-worker can look over your resume for you and give you pointers on how to improve it.
Step 10: Good interview skills are learned.
Any field needs great interview skills.As you begin your job search, prepare for an interview.You need to dress up for an interview.Do not expose tattoos or piercings.Go for formal wear.While you're on the job hunt, invest in some good interview outfits.During an interview, always listen.When you answer questions, reiterate what the interviewer says.Questions should be asked at the end of the interview.Don't ask about logistics when someone asks if you have any questions.When can I expect to hear back?It should not be done.Ask open ended questions such as "What do you like about working here?"What is the company culture like?
Step 11: You have to keep up with educational requirements.
24 hours of continuing education is required for ARRT certification.More training can lead to more complex and higher paying jobs.
Step 12: There are opportunities to advance.
Magnetic resonance technicians can specialize in certain areas.Higher pay is a result of advancement.If you want to advance your career, you may need to further your education.It's possible to get a Bachelor of Science degree in the field you're interested in.If you want to progress in your field, you need further training and certification.