MRI Technician Schools in Kansas
With just one year of full-time study, you can become an MRI tech and enjoy the benefits of an in-demand career! Learn more about becoming an MRI tech at UltrasoundTechnicianSchools.com.
MRI Technician Training in Kansas
Once you decide to become an MRI technician, it’s time to choose a degree program that can give you an in-depth education! The shorter option is a certificate—many community colleges, technical colleges, and hospitals offer certificate programs that can be completed in one year or less. Some schools offer an Associate’s degree program that takes four semesters of full-time study. Either option can give you a quality education!
Early in your program, you’ll need to tackle the theory and science of MRI technology. This field is always changing and developing, so your courses should reflect the newest research in medical imaging! Lower-level courses include Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging, Radiographic Principles, and Anatomy & Physiology.
As you develop a strong base of knowledge, you’ll begin putting it to the test with hands-on practice. First, you can learn how to use MRI technology on your school’s MRI equipment. You can then learn how to work with patients in your clinical hours. Most programs require at least 500 hours of clinical experience at a local hospital or medical imaging center.
MRI Technician Licensing/Certifications in Kansas
Kansas is one of many states in the country that has strict licensure requirements for MRI technicians. However, Kansas has even more rigorous requirements than most other states that do license MRI techs. The Kansas State Board of Healing Arts requires you to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam. Once you get your license, it is good for just one year.
You must renew your license with the Board every year to keep it valid. There are continuing education requirements you must meet, so it’s important to evaluate different continuing education opportunities in your area. During each 12-month period, you must complete 12 hours of continuing education.
Career and Employment Information for MRI Techs in Kansas
With an education in MRI technology, you can work in many different medical settings. Some of the largest MRI tech employers are medical imaging centers at local hospitals. These centers tend to be staffed 24 hours per day, so you may need to work evening, night, or weekend shifts. Some of the largest MRI tech employers in Kansas are the Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute, Meadowbrook Rehabilitation Hospital, and Quest Diagnostics.
As an MRI tech, you can generally anticipate a favorable job outlook and lucrative salary range. O*Net reports that most MRI techs in Kansas earn between $47,300 and $75,100 per year, noting an average salary of $60,400 per year. The demand for MRI techs in Kansas is expected to increase by 26% between 2010 and 2020 (O*Net, 2010). Medical researchers are always finding new uses for MRI technology, leading to a great job outlook. The MRI industry creates more than 2,000 machines every year.
With all of the new research in the medical imaging industry, how can you be sure that you are on top of changes in the field? Consider joining the Kansas Society of Radiologic Technologists. This group offers research updates, access to continuing education events, and legislative news. You may be able to find your next MRI tech job with their job board.