MRI Technician Schools in Georgia
Have you ever considered becoming an MRI technician? Now is a great time to get into this career—find out more here at UltrasoundTechnicianSchools.com, and let us help you get started!
MRI Technician Training in Georgia
MRI technicians play an important role in the medical industry, which is why you need a comprehensive education in medical imaging before you can start your career. There are many school-based and hospital-based certificate programs; these programs can typically be completed in one year of full-time study. However, many community and technical schools also have associate degree programs in MRI technology or radiologic imaging. An associate degree in this field can usually be completed in two years.
A large part of your time in school will likely be spent learning about human anatomy and how different medical imaging techniques work. Before you learn how MRIs work, you may take courses like Anatomy & Physiology and Radiobiology. Once you have a good understanding of the human body, you can take courses like Radiographic Equipment, Basic Radiographic Procedures, and Radiation Physics Protection.
Many MRI technician classes include a practical skills portion. During this part of your education, you work with real MRI equipment to get a feel for how it works. However, the majority of your practical education is gained during your clinical hours at the end of your degree.
MRI Technician Licensing/Certifications in Georgia
While many states require MRI technicians and radiologic technologists to become licensed through the state, Georgia is one of the states that does not have any licensure or certification requirements for MRI technicians. Since employers cannot look at a state licensure database to determine your skill set, you must prove your competency in other ways.
Many Georgia MRI technicians decide to become registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians to validate their skills for prospective employers. This group requires you to pass the AART exam to get your license. To keep your license valid, you must renew it every other year by your birthday. In every two-year period, you must earn 24 continuing education credits.
Career and Employment Information for MRI Techs in Georgia
After completing your education, you may wonder what kind of salary and job outlook you can look forward to as an MRI technician in Georgia. O*Net reports good news—the average salary for a Georgia MRI technician is $64,600 per year (2018). The job demand is expected to increase by 15% between 2016 and 2026, leading to an average of 80 new jobs per year (O*Net, 2018). Perhaps the greater job outlook is due to new breakthroughs in MRI imaging; News Medical reports on new MRI technology that utilizes quantum physics (2018).
As you look for MRI technician job listings, you may find jobs at hospitals or standalone medical imaging clinics. Hospital jobs may require you to work evening, weekend, or overnight hours. Medical imaging clinics tend to have more conventional daytime shifts during the week. Some of the largest MRI technician employers in Georgia include St. Francis Hospital, Trinity Hospital of Augusta, and Kindred Healthcare.
If you want to begin networking with peers and potential employers, consider joining the Georgia Society of Radiologic Technologists. This group offers educational opportunities, networking events, and annual recognition events. You may even be able to find your next MRI tech job with their job bank.