Magnetic resonance imaging
Build a rewarding career as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist.
Rapidly growing career field
MRI technologist jobs are projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034 — faster than the average for all occupations.
Guaranteed clinical experience
You’ll receive direct, hands-on experience with guaranteed clinical placements provided by Geisinger.
Attractive starting salaries
MRI technologists can expect to earn a median salary of just over $88,000 annually.
Message from the program director
The Primary Pathway MRI program offers a comprehensive academic and clinical education that prepares you for a successful career in magnetic resonance imaging. Through classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training with expert faculty in a supportive learning environment, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to meet industry standards.
Join a program focused on patient safety, professionalism and advanced MRI practices while collaborating with patients and healthcare teams. Whether you’re beginning your career or building on existing experience, our program prepares you to deliver high-quality patient care and succeed in the field of MRI.
Kelly Beadle, BS, R.T.(R)(CT)(MR)MRSO(MRSCTM)
Program Director for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
570-214-1353
kbeadle@geisinger.edu
Interested in shadowing us for a day?
About us
The Geisinger Primary Magnetic Resonance Imaging Program is a 4-semester certificate program that prepares students through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience to learn:
- MRI physics and procedures
- MRI safety practices
- Sectional anatomy
- Patient care skills
Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions as MRI technologists in hospital and outpatient settings and are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) MR examination.
Mission
The mission of the Geisinger Primary Pathway MRI Program is to provide comprehensive academic and clinical education that prepares graduates for entry-level MRI practice while cultivating critical thinking, effective communication, professional behavior, a commitment to patient safety, including MRI safety, and lifelong learning in service of the healthcare community.
Program goals and outcomes
- Students will perform routine and advanced MRI examinations safely and accurately while adhering to established protocols.
- Students will demonstrate proper application of MRI safety practices, including patient screening, zone management and emergency procedures.
- Students will communicate effectively with patients to explain MRI procedures, address concerns and promote patient cooperation and comfort.
- Students will demonstrate effective communication with radiologists, technologists and other members of the healthcare team.
- Students will adapt MRI procedures when confronted with non routine patients or clinical situations.
- Students will identify potential safety risks and apply critical thinking to maintain a safe MRI environment.
- Students will demonstrate professional and ethical behavior consistent with the standards of the medical imaging profession.
- Students will accept constructive feedback and apply it to improve clinical performance.
Admissions requirements
To apply, you must:
- Hold an associate’s degree (minimum GPA 2.5)
- Complete the prerequisite coursework (see below)
Prerequisite coursework
Candidates must possess a post-secondary course grade of a “C” (75%) or higher from an ARRT recognized and accredited college or university in:
Anatomy and Physiology I (with lab sessions) 4 credits
Anatomy and Physiology II (with lab sessions) 4 credits
College-level math/algebra 3 credits
English or communications (oral or written) 3 credits
Medical terminology 1 credit
All prerequisites must be completed by the end of the summer 2027 semester prior to admission.
Total credits: 48 (excluding prerequisites)
Semester 1
- Patient Care in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (4)
- Introduction to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (2)
- Cross Sectional Anatomy I (4)
- Clinical Education I (1.5)
Semester 2
- MR Procedures I (4)
- MR Physics I (3)
- Cross Sectional Anatomy II (4)
- Clinical Education II (3)
Semester 3
- MR Procedures II (4)
- MR Physics II (3)
- MR Pathology (2)
- Clinical Education III (3.5)
Semester 4
- Advanced Imaging Procedures (2)
- MRI Registry Review (2)
- Clinical Education IV (6)
MRI 101: Patient Care and Safety in MRI
Patient Care and Safety in MRI introduces patient care in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environment, with an emphasis on foundational MR safety principles. Students learn the responsibilities of the MRI technologist in providing safe, compassionate and patient-centered care, including communication, patient assessment and preparation for MRI procedures. The course covers essential safety practices such as screening, infection control and patient monitoring, along with basic pharmacology, contrast media, IV care and recognition of medical emergencies. Attention is given to caring for diverse populations and understanding ethical and professional responsibilities. Through case-based learning, students develop skills to support patient safety and quality care in the MRI setting.
Pre-requisite: admission to the program
MRI 102: Introduction to Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Introduction to Magnetic Resonance Imaging provides a foundational introduction to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including its history, basic principles and role in medical imaging. Students explore the science underlying MRI, including nuclear structure, magnetism, wave behavior and basic mathematical concepts that support imaging processes. The course also introduces nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), electricity and magnetism, and the electromagnetic spectrum. Additional topics include metric systems, scientific notation and fundamental algebra and trigonometry. An overview of other imaging modalities and their clinical roles is also included.
Pre-requisite: admission to the program
MRI 110: Cross Sectional Anatomy I
Cross Sectional Anatomy I introduces the study of the brain, head, neck, spine and thorax as visualized in medical imaging. Students learn to identify anatomical structures in axial, sagittal and coronal planes with emphasis on MRI. The course highlights normal anatomical relationships and tissue appearance across common imaging sequences. Clinical applications are introduced through image analysis and basic case correlation. This course develops foundational spatial reasoning and anatomical recognition skills essential for medical imaging professionals.
Pre-requisite: admission to the program
MRI 120: Clinical Education I
Clinical Education I provides introductory clinical experience in the MRI environment. Over 8 weeks, students spend 1 day per week in a clinical setting, orienting to MRI equipment while observing and participating in basic procedures and developing professional behaviors. Emphasis is placed on applying foundational MR safety principles in the clinical setting. Students also engage in reflective learning by discussing and sharing their clinical experiences to support the integration of theory and practice.
Pre-requisite: admission to the program
MRI 203: MR Procedures I
MR Procedures I introduces the principles and techniques used to perform MRI examinations of the brain, head, neck, spine and thorax. Emphasis is placed on patient positioning, scan plane selection, protocol development and sequence selection as they relate to cross-sectional anatomy. Students apply anatomical knowledge to imaging procedures while developing an understanding of image quality, safety and basic clinical indications. This course prepares students to perform and evaluate routine MRI procedures in the clinical setting.
Pre-requisite: admission to the program
MRI 204: MR Physics I
MR Physics I introduces the fundamental principles underlying magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with emphasis on safety, system components and the physics of image formation. Topics include the effects of magnetic fields, radiofrequency energy and gradient systems, as well as core concepts such as resonance, signal production and pulse sequences. Students explore image contrast mechanisms, including T1, T2 and proton density weighting, and their impact on tissue visualization. The course also covers basic spin echo and gradient echo sequences. This foundational course prepares students for advanced MRI procedures and clinical application.
Pre-requisite: MRI 102: Introduction to Magnetic Resonance Imaging
MRI 210: Cross Sectional Anatomy II
Cross Sectional Anatomy II focuses on the study of the abdomen, pelvis and upper and lower extremities as visualized in medical imaging. Students learn to identify anatomical structures in axial, sagittal and coronal planes with emphasis on MRI. The course highlights normal anatomical relationships and tissue appearance across common imaging sequences. Clinical applications are introduced through image analysis and basic case correlation. This course supports the development of spatial reasoning and anatomical recognition skills essential for medical imaging professionals.
Pre-requisite: MRI 110: Cross Sectional Anatomy I
MRI 220: Clinical Education II
Clinical Education II provides an intermediate clinical experience in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), where students spend 16 hours per week in a clinical setting over 14 weeks. Students apply and expand upon previously learned knowledge and skills while participating more actively in MRI procedures under supervision. Emphasis is placed on patient care, MR safety, positioning and workflow development. Through continued hands-on experience and guided practice, students build competency, confidence and professional behaviors essential for clinical practice.
Pre-requisite: MRI 120: Clinical Education I
MRI 303: MR Procedures II
MR Procedures II builds on foundational MRI knowledge to develop advanced skills in imaging the abdomen, pelvis and upper and lower extremities. Students learn and apply patient positioning, coil selection, scan plane planning and protocol development for routine MRI procedures. Emphasis is placed on image quality, motion management, and adapting protocols based on clinical indications. Through case-based learning and practical application, students strengthen clinical decision-making and workflow efficiency. This course prepares students for increased independence and competency in the clinical MRI environment.
Pre-requisite: MRI 203: MR Procedures I
MRI 304: MR Physics II
MR Physics II expands on foundational MRI physics with an emphasis on safety, image formation, and optimization of imaging parameters. Students explore advanced concepts including RF and gradient safety, spatial encoding, k-space and pulse sequence design. The course covers image quality factors such as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast, spatial resolution and tradeoffs in protocol optimization. Common MRI artifacts and methods for their identification and reduction are also addressed. This course prepares students to apply advanced physics principles to improve image quality and ensure safe MRI practice.
Pre-requisite: MRI 204: MR Physics I
MRI 310: MR Pathology
The MR Pathology course introduces the appearance of common disease processes as demonstrated in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Students learn to recognize pathological conditions of the brain, spine, abdomen, pelvis and musculoskeletal system, with emphasis on correlating imaging findings with anatomy and clinical indications. The course focuses on MRI signal characteristics and pattern recognition across common sequences. Through image-based learning and case studies, students develop skills in identifying abnormalities while reinforcing their role in image evaluation. This course prepares students to support accurate imaging and quality patient care in clinical MRI practice.
Pre-requisite: MRI 210: Cross Sectional Anatomy II
MRI 320: Clinical Education III
Clinical Education III provides an advanced clinical experience in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with students completing 24 hours per week over 16 weeks in a clinical setting. Students refine and expand their technical skills while performing MRI procedures with increased independence under supervision. Emphasis is placed on advanced patient care, positioning, protocol selection, workflow efficiency and adherence to MR safety standards. Through continued hands-on experience, students develop professional competency, critical thinking and readiness for entry-level practice in the MRI environment.
Pre-requisite: MRI 220: Clinical Education II
MRI 403: Advanced Imaging Procedures
The Advanced Imaging Procedures course focuses on specialized MRI techniques and advanced clinical applications across multiple body systems. Students learn to perform and adapt protocols for advanced procedures, including neurovascular, body, musculoskeletal, cardiac and breast imaging. Emphasis is placed on protocol optimization, image quality and the use of advanced imaging methods such as diffusion, perfusion and angiographic techniques. Through case-based learning, students develop clinical decision-making skills and the ability to adjust imaging strategies based on patient condition and diagnostic needs. This course prepares students for complex imaging scenarios and advanced practice in the clinical MRI environment.
Pre-requisite: MRI 303: MR Procedures II
MRI 403: Registry Review
MRI Registry Review provides a comprehensive review of MRI concepts and competencies in preparation for the ARRT MRI certification examination. The course reinforces key topics including MRI physics, safety, procedures, anatomy and pathology through structured content review and practice assessments. Emphasis is placed on test-taking strategies, critical thinking and identification of knowledge gaps. Students engage in review exercises and mock exams designed to simulate the registry experience. This course prepares students for successful completion of the national MRI certification exam.
Pre-requisite: MRI 303: MR Procedures II and MRI 304: MR Physics II
MRI 420: Clinical Education IV
Clinical Education IV provides a comprehensive capstone clinical experience in MRI, with students completing 32 hours per week over 16 weeks in a clinical setting. Students function with a high level of independence while performing MRI procedures under supervision, integrating advanced technical skills, patient care and safety practices. Emphasis is placed on protocol modification, workflow efficiency and professional competency. This course prepares students for entry-level practice and successful transition into the clinical MRI workforce.
Pre-requisite: MRI 320: Clinical Education III
The next application window opens Monday, Oct. 5.
- For an application form, email the Primary Pathway MRI Program director, Kelly Beadle, at kbeadle@geisinger.edu.
- Application fee: $50 (non-refundable)
- Process: The selection committee reviews and ranks applications based on interview, grades, demonstrated science and math skills, letters of recommendation, skills and life experience. You’ll be notified regarding your acceptance by April 9, 2027.
- A non-refundable enrollment fee of $170 is required upon notification of acceptance.
Ready to apply?
Your new career in magnetic resonance imaging begins today.