Magnetic Resonance Imaging
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate program prepares the post-graduate registered radiologic technologist to use magnetic field and radio waves to produce cross-sectional anatomical images of the human body. MRI technologists operate MRI scanners, picture archiving and communication systems and related equipment.
The MRI Certificate program is a two-semester program. The program consists of online didactic courses and a clinical practicum experience. The MRI Certificate Program is designed to provide the working Radiologic Technologist with the theoretical background and documented clinical experience necessary to sit for the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Post-Primary Certification exam offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT).
Applicants must be registered and in good standing with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) in Radiography, Sonography, Nuclear Medicine or Radiation Therapy. The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) for Ultrasound or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) for Nuclear Medicine are also accepted.
TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
The admissions policies of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Program (MRI) does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, marital status, age or mental/physical handicaps. The following is an outline of performance standards relative to MRI. In addition to the academic requirement for the MRI Program, all applicants must be able to:
- Communicate to the patient in order to converse and instruct
- Hear a patient speak in a normal tone from a distance of 20 feet.
- Observe the patient in order to assess the patient’s condition or needs from a distance of 20 feet.
- Read the patient medical chart and/or physician orders.
- Transport, move, lift or transfer patients from a wheelchair or litter to an x-ray table or to a patient's bed;
- Move, adjust and manipulate a variety of x-ray equipment with respect to the patient and image receptor according to established procedures and standards of speed and accuracy ( to include mobile equipment) and;
- Physically place patients in proper positions for x-ray examinations according to established procedures and standards of speed and accuracy.
- Handling stressful situations related to technical, procedural or patient care situations; providing physical and emotional support to patients during procedures;
- Physically be able to administer emergency care including performing CPR
- Visually reviewing and evaluating radiographic images to identify shades of gray, proper patient positions, proper exposure factors, and other appropriate technical qualities.
PROGRAM MISSION
The mission of the Magnetic Resonance Program Program is to provide each student with the instruction, skills, and learning experiences to become a compassionate, knowledgeable, and competent entry-level MRI Technologist.
PROGRAM GOALS
- Function as competent, entry-level professionals.
- Students will be able to adequately perform procedures at entry level competence.
- Students will demonstrate proper magnetic safety practices.
- Demonstrate appropriate, professional communication skills.
- Students will demonstrate effective communication strategies during the clinical experience.
- Students will practice written communication skills
- Develop and practice effective problem-solving skills and critical thinking skills.
- Students will be able to adequately perform non-routine procedures at entry level competence.
- Conduct him/herself in a professional manner.
- Students will demonstrate professional behavior
- Students will recognize the benefits of professional development
ADMISSION PROCEDURES
Applicants must be registered and in good standing with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) in Radiography, Sonography, Nuclear Medicine or Radiation Therapy. The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) for Ultrasound or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) for Nuclear Medicine are also accepted.
To apply for the MRI Certification Program, please complete the following steps:
- Submit an application to Bucks County Community College.
- Submit previous college transcripts, if applicable, for evaluation by the Admissions Department.
- Submit completed Magnetic Resonance Imaging Application
- Submit current ARRT credential card, current NMTCB card or ARDMS card via email to Program Director of Radiography.
Applications will be accepted from March 1 - March 31, 2025. New radiography graduate's welcome! Graduates must be ARRT certified prior to clinical start date.
Program Director of Radiography:
Colleen Cardilla
267-685-4821
colleen.cardilla@bucks.edu
CLINICAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
The number students accepted into clinical education (RADI311 and RADI326) for magnetic resonance imaging will be equal to the number of available clinical spaces.
Once accepted into the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Clinical Courses, students will be required to:
- Purchase a Magnetic Resonance Imaging uniform from the preferred uniform vendor.
- Assume all responsibility for transportation to and from the clinical sites assigned.
- Obtain and maintain current CPR certification.
- Obtain and maintain Immunization records.
- Complete an FBI Fingerprint Criminal Background Check, a PA Criminal Background check, Child Abuse clearance and drug screening (until clearance is received, program acceptance is provisional and may be rescinded).
- Show proof of health insurance coverage for the student.
CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS