MRI Certificate

Magnetic Resonance Imaging
MRI is a sophisticated diagnostic imaging modality that captures cross sectional images of the patient. MRI is most commonly used to evaluate many types of disease processes, injuries, and functions of the brain.

The MRI technologist is an integral member of the healthcare team who is proficient in performing cross sectional images using sophisticated diagnostic imaging equipment. This health care professional works closely with patients, fellow technologists, and many other members of the health care team. The MRI technologist can be employed in a number of health care settings that include trauma centers, hospitals, or diagnostic imaging centers.

About MRI Certificate
East Tennessee State University offers a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate Program through the Office of Professional Development. The program mission is to provide registered technologists with the opportunity for professional and personal advancement in the imaging science profession.

 Applicant Criteria 

Admission to the program is limited to:

  • ARRT Registered Technologists holding a primary certification in radiography, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, or sonography.
  • Individuals with a minimum cumulative college G.P.A. of 2.75.

Admissions Process

Submit the following to the ETSU Office of Professional Development by November 1st to be considered for admission to the program:

  • Program Application
  • ARRT documentation
  • Official transcripts (college or equivalent)
  • Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references


Selection into the program is competitive.  Each applicant is evaluated on the basis of academic preparation and previous work experience.  All applicants are notified of acceptance by December 1st.

Tuition and Fees
The tuition for the program is $3,600 and is non-refundable.  Since this is a certificate program, there is no out-of-state tuition. Additional expenses include textbooks, uniforms, immunizations, malpractice insurance and background check.

Program Admission

Upon acceptance into the Magnetic Resonance Imaging program, the student will receive a letter from the MRI program coordinator that includes a list of required textbooks and forms that must be completed prior to the start of the program.

The following requirements must be met prior to starting the program of study:

  • Physical exam by a qualified health care provider.
  • Proof of immunizations:
    • TB skin test
    • Tetanus, Diphtheria (Td) booster within past ten years
    • Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
    • 2 Varicella vaccines, 1 Varicella titer, or physician signed documentation of immunity
    • Completed Hepatitis B Vaccine Series or titer
  • Current CPR certification by the American Health Association upon admission into the program as well as throughout the program;
  • Proof of malpractice insurance (information will be provided at time of acceptance)
  • Background check (information will be provided at time of acceptance)

Persons with disabilities who require special assistance or seating at this event are requested to call ETSU’s Office of Professional Development at (423) 439-8084 for details.  Persons who require sign language interpreters should contact the Office of Professional Development seven days prior to the event in order to solicit qualified interpreters.

Program of Study

(January to July for 26 weeks)

MRI 4000  Imaging Procedures I 4 credits
MRI 4010 Principles of MRI Imaging I 4 credits
MRI 4020 Clinical Education I 2 credits
MRI 4030 Imaging Procedures II 4 credits
MRI 4040 Principles of MRI Imaging II 4 credits
MRI 4050 Clinical Education II 2 credits
 

TOTAL:

20 non-credit hours

Curriculum

The program runs during the spring and summer semesters of each year for 26 weeks beginning in January and ending in July. MRI didactic courses are taught entirely online. Clinical education courses include completion of the ARRT documentation requirements, a minimum of 312 clinical hours (12 hours per week), exam competencies, and performance evaluations in one of ETSU's recognized clinical sites while supervised by a qualified registered technologist. Currently, the program has clinical affiliates in Tennessee (including one site in Nashville), North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, and Georgia. Additional sites are added as needed.

Program Completion 

Upon successfully finishing the program, the graduate will receive a transcript and certificate of completion from the Office of Professional Development.  The graduate will complete and document the ARRT clinical experience requirements to be considered a candidate for hte ARRT post-primary exam in MRI.

For information related to the application, admission materials, or loan information, please contact:

East Tennessee State University
Office of Professional Development
Box 70559
Johnson City, TN 37614-1701
Phone:    (423) 439-8084 or 1-800-222-3878
Fax:        (423) 439-8267
E-mail:   goicl@etsu.edu

Contact for other questions:
Shirley J. Cherry, M.B.A., R.T.(R)
Program Director, Imaging Sciences
East Tennessee State University Nave Center
1000 Jason Witten Way
Elizabethton, TN 37643
Phone:  423-547-4912
E-mail: cherrys@etsu.edu