MRI Technician Schools in Colorado
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is an important and lifesaving part of giving patients the best healthcare possible. It allows medical professionals to accurately diagnose illnesses and describe injuries. Using strong magnetic fields and radio waves, an MRI machine can provide an accurate image of areas inside the body, without the use of radiation or surgery.
Your contribution can help doctors choose the best treatment for an injury or illness. As an MRI technician, you will be a vital part of your clients’ medical support system. Your expertise will be one of their first steps on the road to better health after the MRI. Colorado MRI technician schools are listed on this page to help you get started. You can request information from all those you are interested in directly today.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that MRI technician jobs may grow across the nation by 13% between 2016 and 2026 (2018). Currently, the median income for an MRI technician in Colorado is $78,060 per year (BLS, 2018).
In order to qualify for a job in this field, you will need to determine which of the MRI tech schools will best fit your needs. You can begin your career as an MRI tech by earning an associate degree in a medical field such as radiology technology. You may also enhance your earning potential by continuing on to a Bachelor of Science in medical imaging degree.
MRI Technician Programs in Colorado
As a full-time student, you can typically earn an associate degree in about two years from MRI technician schools in Colorado.
Associate degrees are the most common level of education for professional radiology technicians. You will learn about anatomy and physiology, medical terminology and mathematical calculations necessary for your work. In addition, you will have classes which train you in person to operate and maintain the MRI equipment you will be using.
A bachelor’s degree to become an MRI technician usually takes about four years. In addition to the coursework necessary for an associate degree, you will learn about how medical imaging technology works, how medical instruments interface with the body, and how to solve problems related to the field of radiology. You will also take several general studies courses to complete a well-rounded education in this kind of program.
You can find more information about student financial aid for MRI tech schools in Colorado from the state’s Department of Higher Education. One education news source has identified nine different schools with accredited radiation technology degree programs in the state of Colorado. Connect with the financial aid department of the school you are most interested in to learn more about the options they offer.
MRI Technician Careers in Colorado
After you’ve obtained a degree from an accredited institution, you’ll need to pass a licensing exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. This license will certify you as a trained MRI professional.
As an MRI tech in Colorado, you can become a member of professional associations like the Colorado Society of Radiologic Technologists and the American College of Radiology to stay on top of developments and best practices in your field.
Over half of MRI technicians are employed in hospitals; technicians can also work in physicians’ offices, diagnostic laboratories and outpatient care facilities (BLS, 2018). On average, radiology professionals in Colorado make more than their counterparts in other states. The national median salary for an MRI technician is $60,070 per year, versus a median salary of $78,060 per year in Colorado (BLS, 2018). It is an important and potentially lucrative field for any aspiring medical professional.
To learn more, contact the MRI schools on this page and request program materials.