Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI

Holland Code: ISR (Investigative, Social, Realistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

General requirements

• This is a graduate certificate (second discipline) program designed for people already working in the field of imaging.
• Applicants must have an advanced diploma in Medical Radiation Technology or university degree to be considered
  • Acceptable university degrees include those with a focus was in General Radiography, Radiation Therapy, Nuclear Medicine or General Sonography
• In additional to the required education, applicants must have 40 weeks clinical work experience within the last 5 years.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• A sense of responsibility and a high degree of integrity
• Patience and adaptability
• Sensitivity to the needs of ill and injured people
• The ability to put people at ease
• An interest in science and technology
• The ability to maintain a high level of accuracy in their duties
• Good organizational skills
• Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills
• The willingness to keep their skills and knowledge current
• Effective communication skills
• The ability to work well in a team environment
• The ability to handle stressful situations

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist.

Places you may find yourself employed include

Hospitals or private or public Medical Imaging Departments.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Work in a fast-paced environment
• Work hours may vary depending on practice setting and may include standard daytime hours or shift work
• May be on feet for much of shift
• May be required to assist in the transfer of patients who weigh in excess of 200 kg to imaging equipment
• Working with new technologies, there is a need for continual study to keep informed
• Need to work collaboratively with doctors, nurses, radiologists and other medical staff

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Work collaboratively with patients and others members of a health care team.
• Screen patients to ensure that they can safely enter the MRI environment.
• Evaluate the performance of scanner and ancillary equipment and institute quality control measures.
• Operate MRI scanner in a safe and effective manner.
• Interpret MRI images and optimize image quality.
• Identify pathologies and implement a scanning protocol to optimize image.
• Select appropriate imaging techniques or coils to produce required images.
• Inspect images for quality, using magnetic resonance scanner equipment.
• Take brief medical histories from patients.
• Explain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures to patients, patient representatives, or family members.
• Provide headphones or earplugs to patients to improve comfort and reduce unpleasant noise.
• Position patients on cradle, attaching immobilization devices if needed, to ensure appropriate placement for imaging.
• Inject intravenously contrast dyes, such as gadolinium contrast, in accordance with scope of practice.
• Create backup copies of images by transferring images from disk to storage media or workstation.

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• MRI National Certification Examination established by the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT)
• Registration with College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario (CMRTO) required to work in Ontario
• Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT)
• Ontario Association of Medical Radiation Sciences (OAMRS)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Last Modified: June 1, 2022