Your Guide to Online MRI Tech Degrees
From detecting tumors for early cancer diagnoses to assessing injuries like a pitcher’s potential Tommy John surgery, MRIs play a crucial role in millions of medical decisions daily as they provide highly detailed images, making these professionals invaluable in modern healthcare.
If you’re looking to join this growing field and work with both patients and cutting-edge technology, online MRI programs offer a flexible path to certification. This EduMed guide can help you find the right program, covering accreditation, costs, financial aid, and career opportunities to help you make an informed decision about your future in MRI technology.
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Identifying Different Types of MRI Tech Programs Online
MRI tech programs offer various educational paths to suit different career goals and experience levels. These programs include associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and post-secondary certificates. While the coursework for these programs is available online, hands-on clinical training is required and must be completed in a healthcare setting. Note that licensing and certification requirements vary by state.
Online MRI programs cater to different students’ needs:
- Primary pathway students: Those new to the field who require full foundational training. Associate and certain bachelor degree programs are targeted towards these students.
- Post-primary pathway students: Experienced radiologic technologists seeking MRI specialization. Certificate programs and certain bachelor degree programs are targeted towards these students.
- Flexible learning options: These programs provide fully online coursework with in-person clinical requirements.
In this section, we’ll explain how these programs differ and show some real-life examples.
Associate Degrees
An associate degree in MRI technology provides a foundational education for aspiring MRI technologists. These programs typically take two years to complete and include online coursework in MRI physics, anatomy, and patient care, along with in-person clinical training. Graduates are eligible to sit for MRI certification exams, such as those offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT).
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode: Online
- Cost: $112-$305/credit hour
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Bachelor’s Degrees
A bachelor’s degree in MRI technology offers advanced training for those looking to expand their career opportunities. These programs typically take four years to complete but may be shorter for students with transferable credits.
They provide a broader curriculum covering healthcare management, leadership, and specialized MRI techniques. Bachelor’s degree holders often have a competitive edge in job markets and may pursue leadership roles in radiology departments.
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode: Online
- Cost: $257.33/credit hour
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs are designed for current radiologic technologists looking to specialize in MRI. These programs typically take 6-12 months and focus on MRI-specific coursework such as sectional anatomy, MRI procedures, and patient safety. Many certificate programs require ARRT or similar credentials as a prerequisite and include clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience.
East Tennessee State University
- Duration: 1 semester
- Mode: Online
- Cost: $4,000 (full program)
Get Answers: MRI Tech Student FAQs
Finding the right online MRI tech program can feel overwhelming, especially with so many factors to weigh — cost, program format, prerequisites, and certification requirements. That’s why we’ve rounded up answers to the most common questions students ask.
Whether you’re trying to figure out how much you’ll pay, what kind of hands-on training is involved, or how to get certified, this section will help you cut through the noise and make a confident, informed decision about your next step.
How much do online MRI tech training programs cost?
Costs for MRI tech online programs vary widely from program to program. Major factors influencing costs include the type and level of the program (associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or certificate), total program length, and whether the program is offered by a public or private institution. (Private schools tend to be more expensive.)
You can browse some of the program pages that we’ve shared in this guide to give you an idea of program costs. Keep in mind, however, that the total price tag will be higher due to additional fees and the cost of books, study materials, uniforms, etc.
Can I complete my MRI tech training 100% online?
Most online MRI programs, degrees, and certificates feature didactic coursework, accessed and completed either entirely or partially online. However, all MRI programs also include clinical practice components like internships or practicums that provide students with essential hands-on training that must be attended in person.
Is financial aid available for online MRI tech training programs?
Financial aid available to students enrolled in programs at online MRI tech schools includes scholarships and grants (both in-house and external) as well as work study programs. Employee reimbursement programs are a strong possibility for students currently employed by a hospital or similar healthcare facility.
The most popular type of financial aid, the student loan, is also available to students in properly accredited programs like any of the ones mentioned in this guide. Find out more about funding opportunities for your online MRI tech program through our guides on student loans, scholarships, and financial aid.
What are the prerequisites for MRI tech programs?
Prerequisites will vary by the specific program you choose. Associate degree programs typically require a high school diploma or GED. Bachelor’s programs may require prior college credits. Certificate programs usually require ARRT certification and prior experience as a radiologic technologist.
What will I learn in an MRI tech online program?
MRI tech degree and certificate programs vary somewhat in their academic approaches and curriculum structures. The basic goal of all these programs, however, is the same: preparing graduates for jobs as professional MRI technologists able to competently operate magnetic resonance imaging equipment that creates images used by doctors to diagnose medical issues and effectively treat patients.
Expect your MRI tech online program to provide you with the professional knowledge and skills described in this list of learning outcomes:
- Competent inpatient care: Ability to perform all relevant procedures (e.g., patient positioning, coil selection, safety and radiation protection, etc.) in an appropriate, effective, and compassionate manner consistent with entry-level requirements for an MRI tech.
- Communication skills: Ability to demonstrate effective oral and written interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with patients and their families, superiors, peers, team members, and others in the healthcare profession.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving: Critical thinking, deductive reasoning, and problem-solving skills and the ability to apply them in the clinical setting. Specific applications include the analysis and critiquing of image quality, identification of the best methods of treatment in specific cases, and positioning adaptation for trauma patients.
- Professional practice and ethics: Commitment to performing all professional duties responsibly and ethically and adhering to organizational rules and regulations as well as established principles of the MRI technology and larger healthcare fields.
Employment and Salary Outlook for MRI Techs
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $52,360 | $77,660 | $106,990 |
| Alabama | $39,470 | $56,790 | $79,060 |
| Alaska | $71,300 | $85,870 | $113,880 |
| Arizona | $60,580 | $84,480 | $106,270 |
| Arkansas | $40,030 | $60,430 | $82,060 |
| California | $63,300 | $107,670 | $164,550 |
| Connecticut | $65,450 | $85,370 | $122,130 |
| Delaware | $64,530 | $84,570 | $106,290 |
| District of Columbia | $70,680 | $99,080 | $120,960 |
| Florida | $50,080 | $71,190 | $92,910 |
| Georgia | $50,530 | $67,270 | $101,690 |
| Hawaii | $37,740 | $99,670 | $110,900 |
| Idaho | $45,030 | $78,000 | $97,450 |
| Illinois | $57,850 | $77,890 | $101,940 |
| Indiana | $54,190 | $76,600 | $95,070 |
| Iowa | $51,800 | $64,350 | $83,390 |
| Kansas | $50,840 | $68,740 | $94,970 |
| Kentucky | $47,700 | $64,840 | $84,080 |
| Louisiana | $49,050 | $62,760 | $80,870 |
| Maine | $57,390 | $77,750 | $100,010 |
| Maryland | $63,920 | $79,630 | $104,110 |
| Massachusetts | $64,030 | $99,910 | $128,990 |
| Michigan | $53,460 | $68,480 | $88,010 |
| Minnesota | $65,020 | $80,960 | $102,290 |
| Mississippi | $36,170 | $53,340 | $76,170 |
| Missouri | $50,400 | $67,120 | $93,270 |
| Montana | $53,940 | $75,280 | $91,020 |
| Nebraska | $53,590 | $68,520 | $94,190 |
| Nevada | $60,050 | $88,120 | $121,660 |
| New Hampshire | $62,190 | $82,010 | $102,480 |
| New Jersey | $67,620 | $85,520 | $105,440 |
| New Mexico | $53,980 | $74,060 | $101,280 |
| New York | $60,570 | $91,520 | $124,400 |
| North Carolina | $51,040 | $67,150 | $91,270 |
| North Dakota | $55,130 | $63,850 | $95,950 |
| Ohio | $49,300 | $75,480 | $93,710 |
| Oklahoma | $49,160 | $66,610 | $87,150 |
| Oregon | $70,350 | $99,530 | $120,680 |
| Pennsylvania | $52,280 | $68,010 | $94,470 |
| Rhode Island | $63,910 | $84,630 | $113,400 |
| South Carolina | $48,360 | $65,100 | $84,350 |
| South Dakota | $47,080 | $66,320 | $86,300 |
| Tennessee | $48,450 | $63,940 | $82,830 |
| Texas | $51,040 | $76,800 | $100,170 |
| Utah | $46,320 | $80,080 | $104,280 |
| Vermont | $62,480 | $85,450 | $108,940 |
| Virginia | $56,710 | $79,670 | $103,590 |
| Washington | $63,880 | $93,920 | $126,980 |
| West Virginia | $51,340 | $66,780 | $87,360 |
| Wisconsin | $60,320 | $76,200 | $96,270 |
| Wyoming | $55,550 | $77,350 | $102,590 |
Source: MRI Technologists, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 222,800 | 235,000 | 12,200 | 5.50% | 13,100 |
| Alabama | 4,200 | 4,400 | 200 | 4.80% | 240 |
| Alaska | 330 | 370 | 40 | 12.10% | 20 |
| Arizona | 4,140 | 5,120 | 980 | 23.70% | 340 |
| Arkansas | 2,440 | 2,690 | 250 | 10.20% | 160 |
| California | 20,000 | 23,500 | 3,500 | 17.50% | 1,480 |
| Colorado | 3,860 | 4,520 | 660 | 17.10% | 280 |
| Connecticut | 2,660 | 2,900 | 240 | 9.00% | 170 |
| Delaware | 780 | 890 | 110 | 14.10% | 50 |
| District of Columbia | 770 | 800 | 30 | 3.90% | 40 |
| Florida | 14,560 | 16,430 | 1,870 | 12.80% | 990 |
| Georgia | 6,960 | 7,970 | 1,010 | 14.50% | 490 |
| Idaho | 1,060 | 1,260 | 200 | 18.90% | 80 |
| Illinois | 7,920 | 7,920 | – | 0.00% | 410 |
| Indiana | 5,230 | 5,450 | 220 | 4.20% | 300 |
| Iowa | 2,940 | 3,260 | 320 | 10.90% | 190 |
| Kansas | 2,460 | 2,540 | 80 | 3.30% | 140 |
| Kentucky | 3,810 | 3,970 | 160 | 4.20% | 220 |
| Louisiana | 3,900 | 4,140 | 240 | 6.20% | 230 |
| Maine | 1,060 | 1,060 | – | 0.00% | 60 |
| Maryland | 3,070 | 3,290 | 220 | 7.20% | 190 |
| Massachusetts | 1,780 | 1,900 | 120 | 6.70% | 110 |
| Michigan | 6,980 | 6,990 | 10 | 0.10% | 360 |
| Minnesota | 4,280 | 4,510 | 230 | 5.40% | 250 |
| Mississippi | 2,540 | 2,670 | 130 | 5.10% | 150 |
| Missouri | 4,670 | 5,020 | 350 | 7.50% | 290 |
| Montana | 790 | 910 | 120 | 15.20% | 60 |
| Nebraska | 1,790 | 1,950 | 160 | 8.90% | 110 |
| Nevada | 1,890 | 2,180 | 290 | 15.30% | 140 |
| New Hampshire | 1,040 | 1,110 | 70 | 6.70% | 60 |
| New Jersey | 5,990 | 6,450 | 460 | 7.70% | 370 |
| New Mexico | 1,300 | 1,510 | 210 | 16.20% | 90 |
| New York | 15,140 | 19,200 | 4,060 | 26.80% | 410 |
| North Carolina | 7,600 | 8,830 | 1,230 | 16.20% | 550 |
| North Dakota | 820 | 900 | 80 | 9.80% | 50 |
| Ohio | 10,390 | 10,530 | 140 | 1.30% | 560 |
| Oklahoma | 4,060 | 4,140 | 80 | 2.00% | 220 |
| Oregon | 2,550 | 2,810 | 260 | 10.20% | 170 |
| Pennsylvania | 9,660 | 9,990 | 330 | 3.40% | 540 |
| Rhode Island | 1,000 | 1,060 | 60 | 6.00% | 60 |
| South Carolina | 3,670 | 3,990 | 320 | 8.70% | 230 |
| South Dakota | 1,010 | 1,130 | 120 | 11.90% | 70 |
| Tennessee | 4,180 | 4,580 | 400 | 9.60% | 270 |
| Texas | 18,790 | 22,390 | 3,600 | 19.20% | 1,430 |
| Utah | 1,720 | 2,180 | 460 | 26.70% | 150 |
| Vermont | 530 | 570 | 40 | 7.50% | 30 |
| Virgin Islands | 70 | 60 | -10 | -14.30% | – |
| Virginia | 5,240 | 5,520 | 280 | 5.30% | 310 |
| Washington | 3,890 | 4,350 | 460 | 11.80% | 310 |
| West Virginia | 1,860 | 1,900 | 40 | 2.20% | 100 |
| Wisconsin | 4,630 | 5,050 | 420 | 9.10% | 290 |
| Wyoming | 440 | 480 | 40 | 9.10% | 30 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
MRI Tech Licensing and Professional Certifications
Licensing and certification requirements for MRI technologists vary by state. While some states require a radiologic technologist license, others mandate specific MRI tech certifications. The ARRT MRI certification is the most widely recognized, requiring candidates to complete an accredited MRI program and pass a national exam. The ARMRIT certification is another option for those specializing in MRI.
Certification is crucial for most types of employment and your career advancement. Many employers prefer or require ARRT-certified MRI technologists. Continuing education is also essential, as ARRT-certified techs must complete 24 continuing education credits every two years to maintain certification.
Best Online MRI Tech Education Programs
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $11,408 Avg. Aid Amount
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Mississippi
- The University of Mississippi Medical Center's MRI Tech program features small cohort sizes for intensive, specialized instruction, enhancing personalized learning and faculty mentorship.
- It maintains a high five-year average job placement rate and credentialing exam pass rate, demonstrating strong career outcomes and program effectiveness.
- The program integrates cutting-edge developments such as functional MRI, spectroscopy, and PET/MRI molecular imaging, preparing students for future technological advancements and career growth.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $11,408 Avg. Aid Amount
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,583 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
- The MRI Tech certificate program at Methodist College can be completed in as little as one semester, offering an accelerated path for career advancement.
- The program emphasizes advanced cross-sectional anatomy and medical imaging expertise, preparing students for sophisticated diagnostic imaging roles.
- Graduates gain proficiency to work in diverse clinical settings such as trauma centers, hospitals, and imaging centers, enhancing job placement opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,583 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $8,745 Avg. Aid Amount
- 74% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Iowa
- The MRI Tech program offers an online modality option that does not require an internship, enabling flexible completion without onsite clinical obligations.
- Students have access to practicum opportunities at University of Iowa Health Care, providing potential hands-on experience with clinical application, though acceptance is not guaranteed.
- Admission requires certification through established registries (ARRT or NMTCB) and completion of prerequisite coursework with a minimum 2.50 GPA, ensuring a strong professional foundation before advanced study.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $8,745 Avg. Aid Amount
- 74% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,366 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Bluefield State University
- Bluefield State University’s MRI Tech program offers an articulation agreement with Chattanooga State Community College, allowing students to earn advanced certification in Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Mammography while receiving 21 credit hours of 300/400-level restricted elective credit.
- The program is delivered 100% online, specifically designed for working imaging professionals to advance beyond technical skills with courses in patient management, legal/ethical issues, image quality, and research, enabling career advancement into leadership roles like chief or supervising technologist.
- Students with prior certification in MRI or related modalities can gain significant credit transfers and a clear pathway to a Bachelor of Science in Imaging Science, facilitating faster degree completion and professional development.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,366 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, TXProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,692 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Midwestern State University
- The MRI Tech program offers fully online courses allowing students to complete didactic work flexibly from any location, accommodating working professionals.
- Students can fulfill ARRT clinical experience requirements at their current workplace or a nearby clinical facility, supporting convenient clinical training.
- The program specifically prepares registered technologists to successfully sit for the ARRT MRI Examination, demonstrating its targeted certification focus.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,692 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $6,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Boise State University
- Boise State’s MRI Tech program offers a Bachelor of Science completion pathway with integrated clinical and classroom education designed to prepare students for the advanced level MRI registry examination.
- The program is taught by expert faculty with advanced degrees and professional leadership roles, ensuring high-quality instruction aligned with current and future medical imaging technologies.
- Students benefit from the ability to complete clinical experiences locally, facilitating hands-on training while minimizing relocation or travel burdens.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $6,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LAProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $7,206 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Louisiana at Monroe
- The MRI Tech program offers 100% job placement within 12 months of graduation, ensuring strong employment prospects for graduates.
- Students gain extensive clinical experience through rotations at eight affiliate partner institutions, exposing them to state-of-the-art imaging equipment and diverse healthcare settings.
- The program provides opportunities for advanced certification in specialized radiologic fields, including MRI, allowing students to tailor their career paths and increase their credentials.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $7,206 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, INProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,124 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Southern Indiana
- The USI MRI Tech program offers a 100% online degree completion option designed specifically for working adults, enabling flexible study schedules without conflicting with work or home life.
- Students can receive up to 51 semester hours of block credit for prior ARRT-recognized allied health programs, accelerating degree completion and reducing time and cost.
- The program provides specialty tracks including MRI, CT, Clinical Education, and Radiology Management, equipping students with advanced, career-focused knowledge beyond routine work experience.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,124 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LAProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,314 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- The MRI Tech program at Northwestern State University offers strong clinical placement rates through established partnerships with healthcare facilities, ensuring valuable hands-on experience and professional networking opportunities.
- The program provides access to scholarships and tuition discounts, making education more affordable and reducing financial barriers for prospective students.
- Students benefit from expert faculty mentorship and specialized career tracks within radiologic sciences, enhancing their professional development and job readiness.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,314 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,770 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Weber State University
- Weber State’s MRI Tech program offers an accelerated completion option, allowing students to finish their Master of Science in Radiologic Sciences in as few as 3 semesters with individualized graduation plans.
- The program features a strong partnership with major healthcare systems like Banner Health and HonorHealth, providing career ladder opportunities and ensuring high clinical placement rates.
- Students benefit from experienced and nationally recognized faculty, combining rigorous classroom instruction with extensive clinical practice to prepare them for certification and advanced roles.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,770 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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