Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate Program

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate Program

Duration of the Program

The MRI Certificate Program is an intensive 1-semester (16 weeks) curriculum, designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience in Magnetic Resonance Imaging technology, cross-sectional anatomy and pathology, and clinical practice.

Overview

The MRI Certificate Program at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU) aims to prepare licensed Radiologic Technology Professionals for advanced roles in Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The program integrates rigorous academic coursework with extensive practical clinical experiences at CDU’s affiliate medical centers, focusing on cultivating proficiency in MRI technology and patient care.

Program Objectives

1. Professional Skill Enhancement: Enhance the technical and interpretive skills of practicing radiologic technologists in MRI.
2. Comprehensive Education: Deliver an all-encompassing curriculum covering theoretical foundations, safety considerations, and practical applications of MRI technology.
3. Advanced Healthcare Services: Contribute to advancing healthcare services by training professionals in cutting-edge imaging techniques.
4. Academic and Practical Excellence: Balance academic rigor with practical experience, emphasizing the understanding of cross-sectional anatomy, pathology, and MRI procedures.
5. Clinical Proficiency: Offer substantial clinical practicum to develop hands-on skills and real-world experience in MRI settings.
6. Career Development: Equip technologists for new opportunities or enhanced roles in the specialized field of MRI.
7. Industry Standards and Certification Preparation: Align with industry standards and prepare students for potential certification and advanced career pathways in MRI technology.

Criteria for Admission

• Professional Licensure: Must provide copies of their certification in Radiography with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and certification in Diagnostic Radiologic Technology with the California Department of Public Health’s Radiologic Health Branch (CRT).
• Academic Excellence: A minimum overall GPA of 2.5 is required. Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previous college-level coursework.
• Observation Experience: Applicants who complete a minimum of 8 hours of observation in their chosen modality will be viewed more favorably during the admissions review process, as it demonstrates a proactive understanding of and commitment to the field. Applicants are asked to complete a minimum of 8 hours of observation in MRI procedures to gain initial exposure and a basic understanding of the MRI environment. As part of the application process, applicants must provide the contact information of their Clinical Observation Supervisor, who will receive an email from CDU with a secure ‘Submit Recommendation’ link. The supervisor will use this link to verify the number of hours the applicant observed MRI procedures at their facility.

Clinical Internship Requirements

• Placement Approval: Mandatory acceptance for a clinical internship at an affiliate medical center, requiring a commitment of at least 16  hours per week during the internship.
• Clinical Competencies: Fulfillment of designated competencies for each clinical placement is required.
• Occupational Clinical Placement: Applicants wishing to complete their clinical internship at their current place of employment must submit a clinical affiliation agreement at least 2 weeks before the start of the program. This ensures adequate preparation time and alignment with the program’s clinical objectives.
• Program Continuation: Maintain a minimum grade of C in each course within the program. (Note: A grade of C- is not acceptable).

Policy on Clinical MRI Rotations

The program’s policy on clinical MRI rotations is committed to providing comprehensive clinical experiences, adhering to the policies of clinical settings. Students are informed that placement in MRI rotations is subject to the availability and discretion of the clinical setting. The program is dedicated to seeking diverse and meaningful clinical experiences for its students.

Completion of the Program

• Didactic and Clinical Requirements: Successful completion of all coursework and clinical internships with a minimum grade of C in each course and satisfactory completion of clinical competencies.
• Clinical Internship Placement: Acceptance for clinical internship by at least two clinical affiliate medical facilities is required.