MRI Technician Schools in Oregon
For many people, finding a career in health care is a way to get a more positive job outlook, have an impact on the lives of people every day, and reach a new level of job satisfaction. If you’re interested in working in a medical specialty that prizes new technology, a dedication to learning, and patient interaction, consider becoming an MRI technician in Oregon.
MRI technicians perform a range of functions in Oregon health care organizations, making this a versatile and exciting career for many. In some cases, according to the Reading Eagle, MRI technicians can even help out in veterinary settings. Lung Disease News notes that a new approach to MRI usage has helped researchers identify bronchiecstasis in patients.
If you’re unsure about starting in a new career field, rest assured that Oregon has many professional resources for MRI technicians and MRI students. The Oregon Society of Radiologic Technologists provides MRI technicians with quite a bit of support, from legislative updates to job listings and networking events. If you think this may be the career path for you, read on to learn more about earning an MRI degree in Oregon.
MRI Education in Oregon
Working in almost any health care specialty requires some education, since patients’ safety and medical care is in your hands! That being said, MRI technicians have a considerably shorter educational path than those who become doctors or nurse practitioners. Some schools in Oregon offer certificate and diploma programs, which only tend to last one year. Many schools have Associate’s degree programs, which last about two years.
Part of your curriculum is based on theoretical knowledge. While hands-on skills are necessary, you must also know the parts of the human body, how they are identified, and their purposes. You must also be comfortable using medical terminology and communicating with patients, peers, and other medical professionals. Courses you may take to meet these goals include Magnetic Resonance Physics, Sectional Anatomy and Imaging Applications, and Introduction to MR Imaging.
Other courses work on building your clinical skills and your confidence in working with MRI machines. MR Clinical Experience and MR Practicum are both experience-based courses. These classes end to be fairly rigorous, since they are where you test your MRI skills, your ability to communicate with patients, and your knowledge of basic human biology. Schools may require up to 500 hours of clinical experience, depending on the program length.
MRI Careers in Oregon
After you complete your education, the next step is getting your license from the Oregon Board of Medical Imaging. This process involves taking the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists MRI exam and registering in the state of Oregon. To renew your license every two years, you have to complete 50 hours of continuing education.
Working in Oregon may allow you to take advantage of a solid career outlook and promising salary range. Between 2012 and 2022, O*Net expects job openings for MRI technicians to increase by 18 percent. Though this is lower than the national average, it’s still very positive (O*Net, 2012). O*Net reports that most MRI technicians earn between $56,900 and $93,500 per year, with an average statewide salary of $78,300 per year. Your salary will likely be influenced by your experience level and your level of education.
Oregon has many large health care organizations that hire MRI technicians, including hospitals, specialty clinics, and medical imaging clinics. Some of the state’s largest employers are Praxis Medical Group, HealthCare Initiative, and Shriners Hospitals for Children.
Becoming an MRI technician may help you realize your own career goals while improving patients’ lives. Learn more about MRI programs in Oregon today!