Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, procedures play an important role in diagnosing diseases and injuries. An MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce images of the inside of the human body. When a patient lies inside the MRI machine, which is like a large tube, radio waves produce faint signals that create sectional images that are ultimately used by physicians to diagnose medical problems.
MRI technologists are highly-trained and possess the expertise for competent practice. They are mostly employed by hospitals but increasingly, jobs are becoming available in physician offices and imaging centers. The main duties of the MRI technologist include explaining the procedure to the patient, preparing the patient and positioning them correctly, operating the equipment, and recording the images for the physician to interpret. The patient might be in pain or distress, or they might feel claustrophobic. The MRI technologist will provide support while talking patients through the procedure and letting them know what to expect.
Program Accreditation
The Associate in Applied Arts and Science degree in Magnetic Resonance Imaging is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, Illinois 60604-1411
Phone: (800) 621-7440 / (312) 263-0456 | Fax: (312) 263-7462 |info@hlcommission.org
This program provides a thorough foundation in procedures, pathophysiology, and physics critical to the field of MRI. It is designed not only to foster the skills and knowledge necessary for competent practice, but also places emphasis on professional attitudes, values and behaviors that encourage the professional growth of the individual student.
MRI Program Structure
The MRI program is offered through a partnership with other Educational Programs in Collaboration (EPiC) Consortium. Each college enrolls students in the program under their admission criteria and each awards the degree according to that college’s completion requirements.
Clinical education courses are arranged through the EPiC Consortium’s educational coordinator in collaboration with the MRI departments of affiliating hospitals, clinics or other MRI provider facilities. These experiences are developed to meet the established objectives and eligibility requirements of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and prepare students to complete the MRI certification exam.
Program Mission and Goals
The mission and purpose of the Michigan Workforce Training & Education Collaborative (MWTEC) https://www.mwtec.org/ is to provide for both the personal and professional career development of each MRI student. The general goals of the program are:
- The students will demonstrate entry level knowledge and competency in the practice of MRI.
- The students will demonstrate professional attitude values and behaviors necessary for professional success.
- Students that will demonstrate critical thinking and communication skills as responsible members of the health care team.
- Graduates will be employable and meet the needs of the health care community.
- Graduates of the program will be well prepared to successfully complete the ARRT certification examination.
Program outcomes/objectives
When students complete this program, they will be able to:
- Apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, positioning, and MRI Sequence parameters to accurately demonstrate anatomical structures.
- Determine imaging parameters to achieve optimum imaging.
- Evaluate images for appropriate positioning, coil selection, and image quality.
- Apply the principles of ferromagnetic safety and contrast application for the protection of the patient, technologist, and others.
- Recognize emergency patient conditions and initiate life-saving first aid and basic life-support procedures.
- Evaluate the performance of MRI systems, know the safe limits of equipment operation, and report malfunctions to the proper authority.
- Participate in MRI quality assurance programs.
- Provide care and comfort in regard to holistic health of the patient and others.
- Provide patient education related to MRI procedures.
Program Effectiveness Outcomes and Safety Statement
MRI Program Curriculum
About the program
Video links
Contact information
Julie Lackscheide, MS, RT (R) (CT)
Program Director
GRCC Radiologic Technology Program
GRCC MRI Program
jlackscheide@grcc.edu
(616) 234-4233
Fax: (616) 234-2226
Amy Lee, EdD, RT (R)(MR)
MRI Program Director
For more information on the program and to read the student handbook visit the Michigan Workforce Training & Education Collaborative (MWTEC).