MRI Technician Schools in Iowa
Do you have an eye for detail, a love for technology, and the drive to help people? If so, MRI technology may be the perfect career for you. Working as an MRI technician in Iowa involves carefully capturing images of the human body, which will then be used for diagnostic purposes by doctors. As an MRI technician, you may be able to use some of the most advanced technology in the medical field. Contact the schools on our site to learn more about MRI technology programs in Iowa and to find out what opportunities are available to you!
The Muscatine Journal reports that local hospitals and facilities are updating their equipment, which for many places means new MRI equipment. This may mean more job opportunities for MRI technicians. Research is another major field in which MRI technology is used. In fact, Iowa is home to a prominent magnetic resonance research facility.
As this field grows and adapts to changes in health care, you want to stay connected with other MRI technicians and medical imagers. The Iowa Society of Radiologic Technologists serves to advance the field of medical imaging, bring together members, and provide continuing education opportunities. Members may also access exclusive career resources.
MRI Technology Education in Iowa
Starting a career as an MRI technician requires you to gain a thorough knowledge of radiologic technology and its uses. This type of education is heavily based in science, so you can plan on taking courses like Anatomy & Physiology, Introduction to Biology, and Chemistry. These courses pave the way for courses that specifically focus on MRI usage, like Computer Applications in Medical Imaging, MRI Procedures and Pathophysiology, and MRI Physics.
Of course, understanding the theory of MRI equipment isn’t enough. You must also be skilled in actually using it. That’s why Iowa MRI tech programs focus on clinical work. You’ll likely complete well over 500 clinical hours as part of your curriculum. In your practicum, you may first work with the equipment independently to get comfortable with it. As you progress, you can work with real patients. This experience allows you to develop your patient communication skills while honing your MRI abilities.
The length of your training depends on which school you attend and which type of program you decide to complete. A diploma or certificate program may last one year. If you want to earn an Associate’s degree, you will need to spend at least two years in school to earn your degree.
MRI Careers in Iowa
After you complete your training, the next step is getting licensed by the Iowa Department of Public Health. They require you to take a state-administered MRI exam or the ARRT exam. Once you’ve earned your license, you must renew it every two years. During each two-year licensing period, you need 24 hours of continuing education.
Many Iowa employers rely on the services of MRI technicians. Depending on whether you live in a rural or urban setting, you may work for local hospitals, medical imaging centers, universities, or specialty clinics. Major employers include FUJIFILM Medical Systems, The Iowa Clinic, and Apria Healthcare.
Iowa reports a fairly promising job outlook and potential salary range for MRI professionals. O*Net expects a 21 percent increase in job openings for MRI technicians between 2012 and 2022. Most MRI technicians in this state earn between $43,500 and $71,700 per year, with a statewide average salary of $55,200 per year (O*Net, 2013).
It’s obvious that MRI technology is a major part of medical care and medical imaging, so why not start a career in this growing field? Learn more about local MRI technician schools in Iowa to get started.