How to Become an MRI Technologist in California

1. Complete an Accredited Educational Program

The first step is to complete an accredited educational program, such as an associate degree program focused on MRI technology. This type of program usually takes one to two years to complete.

Your MRI program should include both classroom instruction and clinical experiences that include hands-on learning in real-world environments. It should also help prepare you to sit for your national certification exam.

MRI technology programs often include courses on subjects such as:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• MRI-specific subject matter (such as MRI physics, procedures, image formation, pharmacology, pathology, etc.)
• Psychology
• Medical law and ethics
• Clinical skills labs and rotations

It’s also common for MRI techs to first complete a general radiologic technologist program and then further their education in magnetic resonance imaging before pursuing certification in this specialty area.

When choosing the right program for you, it’s important to consider factors such as program format, length, and admissions requirements. Some MRI programs are designed for students who are already radiologic technologists, while others allow students to enter the field directly without first completing a radiologic technologist program. For example, American Career College’s Associate of Occupational Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging program is offered in a blended format, combining online coursework with in-person instruction and clinical training. The program requires no prerequisites or prior training and can be completed in about 20 months. It is designed to help prepare students for MRI certification and careers in medical imaging.

2. Get Certified as an MRI Technologist

The two main credentialing organizations that offer certification for MRI techs include the:

• American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
• American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (AMRIT)

To be eligible to sit for a national certification exam, you must complete the relevant educational requirements and complete a certain number of clinical hours, during which you will demonstrate competency for specific MRI procedures. Your clinical hours can often be completed in alignment with your educational program.

For those seeking ARRT MRI certification: If you’re completing an MRI-focused educational program and this is the first imaging-related certification you're seeking, you can obtain MRI certification through ARRT’s primary eligibility pathway. If you’re already registered and certified in radiography, nuclear medicine technology, radiation therapy, or sonography, you would instead obtain certification through ARRT’s postprimary eligibility pathway for MRI.

3. Obtain CA Licensure As Needed (for Certain Roles)

While California does not require a state license specifically for MRI technologist roles, you may need to obtain other state certification and permits if your position includes additional radiologic duties.

For example, if your position requires you to conduct x-rays or fluoroscopy, you will need to be licensed in California as a certified radiologic technologist (CRT). Or, if your role will involve injecting patients (i.e., injecting patients with contrast agents), you will need a California venipuncture permit. You can explore additional state certification and permit options on the California Radiologic Health Branch (RHB) website.

It’s important to note that licensure and certification requirements may vary by employer.

4. Start Working as an MRI Technologist

Once you’re certified and licensed (if needed), it will be time to obtain your first role as an MRI technologist. Common work environments for MRI techs in California include physicians’ offices, medical and diagnostic labs, hospitals, and private colleges and universities, according to California’s Employment Development Department.

When searching for a role, make sure to leverage your professional networks and tap into any career support services that are available through your educational institution.

5. Keep Your Certifications and Licenses Up-to-Date

To keep your national certification active, you will need to renew it with the certifying organization within the required time period. ARRT requires renewal of its MRI credential every year, with a requirement to complete continuing education (CE) credits every other year. AMRIT MRI credential must be renewed every three years, with completion of CE credits required as well.

National certifications usually come with other requirements as well, such as compliance with the organization’s ethical standards and payment of a renewal fee. If you also have state licenses associated with your MRI career path, you will need to keep those up-to-date as well.

6. Get Started on Your MRI Tech Education

If you’re looking for a program in California that can help prepare you for a career as an MRI technologist, you may want to consider enrolling in a program at American Career College.

Here’s what you need to know about ACC’s MRI tech program:

• Program Name: Associate of Occupational Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Delivery format: Blended (a mix of on-campus and online learning)
• Duration: 20 months
• Certification preparation: ARRT
• Campus: Orange County (Anaheim, CA)

The program at ACC offers comprehensive education from experienced faculty, opportunities for hands-on training and practice, and career services support to help students prepare for the transition into the workforce. The program is designed to prepare students to sit for the ARRT exam and meet their clinical requirements for national certification.

Learn more about the MRI technologist program at ACC.