MRI Technician Schools in Nebraska
From broken bones to cancer, almost all medical issues rely on some type of medical imaging for proper diagnosis and treatment. Nebraska doctors and medical practitioners look to medical imaging specialists for usable images for many purposes, creating a significant need for medical personnel trained to operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines. As an MRI technician in this state, you may work with patients with chronic conditions or those with acute problems. You will also work closely with doctors, nurses, radiologists and surgeons to coordinate care.
If you’d like to learn more about specific MRI technology schools in Nebraska, review the listings on this page and submit your requests for information today. Comparing your options is your best first step to getting your MRI tech education started.
Deciding to enter into a career in MRI technology can put you at the center of a growing field with many opportunities. Fox News reports that an MRI researcher recently discovered that MRIs can be used to better catch, diagnose, and treat prostate cancer. This may lead to less interference in non-cancer cases and earlier intervention in aggressive cancers. Research in this field has also made it easier for kids to get necessary medical imaging procedures. A new MRI kit teaches kids to stay still during MRI scans, saving money and time for technicians.
This field is growing so quickly that there are many resources available for people who work in this specialty. The Nebraska Society of Radiologic Technologists offers support to radiologic technologists. You may be able to participate in contests, learn about continuing education opportunities, attend affiliate meetings, and work as a student leader in nearby schools by joining.
MRI Technology Education in Nebraska
Before you can work independently as an MRI technician in Nebraska, you need a high-quality education that prepares you for the various responsibilities of this career. Many technical schools and community colleges have MRI programs. You may be able to complete a one-year program, which often results in a certificate or diploma. Another option is an Associate’s degree program, which takes approximately two years.
Nebraska MRI technician programs focus on several different learning goals. By successfully meeting all of these learning goals, you can feel confident in your skills as a technician and your ability to function at a local medical center. Your curriculum may focus on patient safety as well as your safety, since using MRI equipment may come with risks. Instructors may also teach the physical principles of MRI technology and how images captured by machines are used. You’ll likely need to develop an understanding of cross-sectional anatomy and proper imaging procedures.
Your curriculum of 30 to 60 credits will probably address all of these areas at one point or another. Early classes in your curriculum may include Physics of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Principles of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Sectional Anatomy, and Imaging Applications. These courses may lead you to classes like MRI Clinical Experience and Advanced Applications of Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
MRI Technician Careers in Nebraska
The Nebraska Office of Radiological Health is the entity responsible for licensing MRI technicians and other medical imaging professionals. Before you get your license, you must pass the exam given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Your license is then good for two years. By each renewal date, you must have 24 hours of continuing education directly related to MRI technology, professional growth, and patient care standards.
Nebraska is home to many medical imaging employers, including standalone clinics, private clinics, and hospitals. Some of the state’s largest employers are Consulate Health Care, Medi USA, Octapharma, and Concentra.
In this state, you may have a positive job outlook and promising salary range. Between 2012 and 2022, O*Net expects job openings for MRI technicians to increase by 11 percent. Though this job growth rate is lower than the national average, it does reflect anticipated growth in Nebraska (O*Net, 2012). Salaries in this state tend to be on par with the national range. O*Net reports that most MRI technicians earn a mean salary of $62,200 per year. Your salary potential may increase as you gain experience and seniority.
If you are ready to start a rewarding new career in the MRI field, request more information from schools to learn more about your career education options in Nebraska.