MRI Technician Schools in Minnesota

As an MRI technician, you can be responsible for important medical scans used by doctors every day. Learn more at UltrasoundTechnicianSchools.com to find out if this is the right career path for you.

MRI Technician Training in Minnesota

Although there are two types of MRI technician degrees, the choices that are actually available to you depend on what schools are in your area. Many schools and hospitals offer certificate or diploma programs; these programs often require you to complete 15 to 30 credits over the course of one year. Technical and community colleges may also offer Associate’s degrees. These programs take about two years of full-time study.

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The first part of your education is dedicated to theory and book knowledge. In the first semester or two semesters of your program, you can plan on taking courses like Anatomy & Physiology, Basic Radiographic Procedure, and Radiographic Principles. During these courses, you learn the procedure of MRI imaging, medical imaging safety, and medical terminology.

The second half of your education is dedicated to practical experience. Most of your practical experience comes at the end of your diploma when you complete your clinical hours.

MRI Technician Licensing/Certifications in Minnesota

Like most other states in the country, Minnesota requires MRI technicians to pursue licensure before beginning a career. The process in Minnesota is a bit different from what is required by most other states. Minnesota does not have a state-administered MRI exam; instead, you must pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam.

Once you successfully pass the ARRT exam, you can get your MRI technician license. You must have a signed agreement with a supervising radiologist before you can legally use MRI equipment. After you have received your license, you do not have to renew it. However, this can change at any point, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on legislative changes. There are also no continuing education requirements in Minnesota.

Career and Employment Information for MRI Techs in Minnesota

It’s common to wonder about the job outlook and salary range of your new career. According to O*Net, the demand for MRI techs is expected to increase by 28% between 2010 and 2020. This is higher than the national average! New research is always expanding the reach of MRI technology, increasing the job outlook. The salary range in Minnesota is competitive as well; most MRI techs earn between $51,500 and $86,700 per year, with an average annual salary of $67,600 (O*Net, 2012).

You may be able to increase your personal earning potential and job outlook by joining the Minnesota Society of Radiologic Technologists. There are many membership benefits, including annual conferences, continuing education opportunities, and legislative advocacy.

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As you begin your job search, you can look at local hospitals, doctor’s offices, and standalone imaging clinics. The work environment varies greatly from employer to employer; at a hospital, you may work underneath many different doctors. At a doctor’s office or medical imaging clinic, you may only be supervised by one or two doctors. Some of the largest MRI tech employers in Minnesota include Select Specialty Hospital, OfficeTeam Healthcare, and St. Cloud Hospital.