Occupations: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists
Overview of the profession:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists play a crucial role in healthcare by operating MRI machines to capture detailed images of patient's internal structures to ensure that radiologists can make accurate diagnostics and effective treatment plans. MRI Technologists are responsible for preparing patients for scans, explaining procedures to alleviate anxiety, and ensuring patient safety throughout the imaging process. Michigan doesn't require MRI Technologists to be licensed to work in Michigan. However, many employers require their MRI Technologists to hold a certification and registration through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMIT). To earn a certificate and registration, individuals must first earn an associate or bachelor's degree in magnetic resonance imaging from a program approved or accredited by ARRT or ARMIT. Then, upon graduation, individuals must pass a certification examination through either ARRT or ARMIT which earns them a credential and a registration with the respective association. Alternatively, working imaging professionals can complete work-based experiential hours and/or educational requirements as outlined by ARRT or ARMIT to earn eligibility to take and pass an MRI certification examination. Once certified, MRI Technologists primarily work in hospitals. However, they also find employment in outpatient centers and diagnostic imaging facilities. With their specialized knowledge in anatomy and imaging techniques, MRI technologists contribute significantly to the overall diagnostic process, supporting better patient outcomes in a variety of medical conditions.
Policy Highlights
Includes recent proposed legislation.
Current Workforce Data
We've provided the latest data from Lightcast below. Click on the images to enlarge them and review them in further detail.
2024 Hourly Wages
10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$21.22 | $33.04 | $38.28 | $40.06 | $41.99 |
Top Posted Job Titles
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CT/MRI Technologists
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Lead CT Technologists
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MRI Technologists
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Computed Tomography Technologists
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Travel MRI Technicians
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Radiology Technologists
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MRI Technicians
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Travel Technicians
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Travel Medical Imaging Technicians
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PET/CT Technologists
Index Ranking
Ranked 25th (out of 36) "healthiest" profession according to the 2024 Michigan Healthcare Workforce Index.
Learn more here.
2024 Employment: 1,398
Projected 2034 Employment: 1,373 (-2%)
Highlighted Workforce Initiatives
Name: FHEO Career Ladder Opportunity
Prosperity Region: 6
Description: The Flint Healthcare Employment Opportunities (FHEO) Career Ladder Opportunity is offered for graduates of the FHEO program to help them further their education and careers in healthcare. The program provides graduates - that are in a program and who have completed their prerequisites - with funding for healthcare career education (tuition assistance up to $5,000), funding for books, uniforms and certification exams, resume and interview preparation, and job search assistance. Eligible training or education programs include surg techs, LPNs, RNs, cardiovascular techs, respiratory therapists and more. The program is funded by GST Michigan Works! and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.
Name: CareerWise Upper Peninsula
Prosperity Region: 1
Description: CareerWise Upper Peninsula is a partnership between U.P. Michigan Works! and CareerWise. The program aims to increase the number of youth apprentices in the UP by offering 3-year long PAID apprenticeship programs to high school students. One of the apprenticeship programs offered is for Clinical Healthcare, where students can work in an entry-level clinical healthcare role such as CNA, phlebotomist, PCT or PT tech. Apprentices then are offered tuition reimbursement benefits by their employer to work toward becoming a radiology tech, RN, OT assistant or MRI tech. The goal of CareerWise U.P.'s Clinical Healthcare track is to increase the number of healthcare workers in the UP.
Name: Michigan Workforce Training and Education Collaborative (MWTEC)
Prosperity Region: Statewide
Description: Michigan Workforce Training and Education Collaborative works to provide Michigan residents access to training or education in a desired career field due to limited availability in their community. Their goal is to ensure equitable access for all citizens of Michigan to career pathway education and training, leading to high-paying jobs with advancement opportunities. They provide access to trainings in a variety of health careers. Current Programs include, Anesthesia Tech, Cardiovascular Tech, Community Paramedic, CT Tech, EEG Tech, LPN Training, Medical Assistant, MRI Tech, Radiography, Surgical Tech.
Career Pathway
What’s required to work as a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist in Michigan?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists are not required to be licensed in Michigan, however many employers require prospective employees to hold certification and registration through either the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMIT). To earn a certificate and registration through ARRT
or ARMIT, individuals must complete an approved or accredited magnetic resonance imaging program at an associate or bachelor’s level and then pass a certification examination through ARRT or ARMIT. Alternatively, working imaging professionals may complete the employer-based experience hours and/or educational requirements of ARRT or ARMIT to qualify to take the MRI certification examination. In addition to holding a certification and registration, many employers may also require individuals to hold a current Basic Life Support certification.
Earning an associate's or bachelor's degree in Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
An associate degree in MRI is the minimum requirement to hold an ARRT or ARMIT certification and is the most commonly offered program in Michigan. Individuals who earn a bachelor’s degree may be better positioned for higher salaries and management positions once hired.
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