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MRI Tech School in California

By Susan Maphis, allied health world contributing writer
Published: February, 2 2010

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, Technicians use magnetic fields to render images of bodily systems (as opposed to the radiation used in x-ray and radiologic procedures). California is the fifth-highest paying state in which Radiologic Technologists, including MRI technicians, can work. In 2008, 15,150 Radiologic Technologists were employed in California making an average annual salary of $61,780. This is much higher than the national average salary of $53,230. In addition to being one of the top-paying states for radiologists, California boasts two metropolitan areas that pay Radiologic Technologists even more. The San Jose/Sunnyvale/Santa Clara area pays its Radiologic Technologists $76,580 annually. The Oakland/Fremont/Hayward area pays radiologists $71,090 per year.

www.bls.gov

MRI Technician Schools in California

In order to become an MRI technician in California, one must first go to school to become a radiologist. Radiologic Technology will provide training in academic and clinical competencies in basic x-ray and specialties such as CT scan, angiography, & interventional radiology, and cardiac catheterization. Lab and course work is included. This program usually takes about two years and graduates receive an Associate degree.

Following radiology training, you must take one year of training in MRI technology. Most California MRI technician schools require that you have a 2.5 GPA or higher in your radiology coursework, have graduated from an approved radiologic technology school, and earn a grade of C or higher in all MRI coursework. Both lab and regular coursework is included in most MRI training programs. This program usually garners recipients a certificate in MRI.

Schools offering radiology and MRI training can be brick-and-mortar or online. However, since clinical components are required in both programs, you must do some training in an actual lab or medical center setting.

To keep certifications current, the ARRT requires 24 hours of continuing education courses every two years in radiology and in MRI.

Through campus based and online programs, aspiring MRI Technicians in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose and San Francisco, California may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including Laguna Honda Hospital, Community Regional Medical Center, L.A. County & USC Medical Center, and Huntington Hospital.