Primary Magnetic Resonance Imaging Program

About Us

MRI technologists operate complex equipment using powerful magnets to obtain images of the body’s internal structures to aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning of patients. They play a vital role in the screening process and need to possess a high attention to detail. They need to be knowledgeable about positioning the patient on the table and adjusting parameters to produce quality images.

After becoming a magnetic resonance imaging technologist, there are several areas of specialty they can pursue which include:

• Cardiac MRI – heart and cardiovascular system.
• Musculoskeletal MRI – bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons.
• Neuro MRI – brain and nervous system.
• Pediatric MRI – children and infants.

The work environment for MRI technologists may include hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, outpatient clinics, and specialized imaging facilities. The MRI suite consists of state-of-the-art equipment and the necessary infrastructure to support the machine.

Accreditation

The Primary MRI Program is currently seeking accreditation through the Joint Review Commission on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

JRCERT
20 N. Wacker Drive
Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
Phone: 312.704.5300

State approval

The Primary MRI Program is approved and registered by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3332 (School Registration No. 2165). For questions related to the State Board approval, please contact Cleveland Clinic Center for Health Profession Education, 9500 Euclid Ave./JJ21., Cleveland OH 44195, 216.444.5678 option 4.

Liability insurance and background check

Cleveland Clinic provides liability insurance and background checks free of charge to all students accepted in the School of Diagnostic Imaging.

Admissions

Individuals applying to the Primary MRI Program:

• Shall possess a minimum of an associate's degree although it does not have to be in the radiologic sciences.
• Must provide a current e-mail address with their application. This is needed to contact you for clinical observation and for access to the program learning management system. No application will be processed without a valid and current e-mail address.
• Must participate in a personal interview with program officials.
• Must complete the college credit course pre-requisites. The program is not able to offer placement tests for the pre-requisite courses.

The program does not accept advanced placement, transfer students or transfer credits from any college or radiography program.

Admissions process

The School of Diagnostic Imaging uses a selective process to determine acceptance into the program. Acceptance into the program is based on a point system that includes scores from an interview, high school and college GPA, and the number of science and math classes with a grade of "C" or better. The higher the grade on the science and math courses, the more points awarded.

The program accepts between 5 and 10 students each year based upon clinical site availability. Acceptance letters will be emailed approximately one month after the interview process has been completed. The program starts each year in August.

To be considered for acceptance, please be aware of and/or complete the following steps:

• Complete the Primary Magnetic Resonance Imaging program application.
• Complete the MRI screening questionnaire.
• Send the Application Form and MRI screening questionnaire to the school with the non-refundable $20 application fee. Please do not send cash. We accept checks or credit card payments. Checks should be made payable to the School of Diagnostic Imaging, Cleveland Clinic. For credit card payments, call Gloria at 216.448.3110.
• Send your official high school and college transcripts to the school.
• Interviews will be scheduled in February/March for applicants who have met the previous qualifications. The purpose of the interview is to assess communication and critical thinking skills.

Technical standards

• Candidates must have good eyesight either naturally or through correction. They must be able to see the printed words in a radiographic textbook and be able to read and accurately interpret the numbers on a radiographic technique chart.
• Candidates must have the ability to hear instructions and be able to respond to verbal requests by patients.
• Candidates must be able to life a minimum of 30 pounds and possess the ability to support up to 175 pounds. Imaging technologists must assist, support and move patients from wheelchairs and carts onto radiographic examination tables, which requires the use of their back and muscles.
• Imaging technologists work while standing, sometimes for hours. Candidates must be able to move around and stand for long periods of time.
• Imaging technologists must verbally instruct patients and be able to express concern and empathy for them. Candidates must possess good verbal and nonverbal communication skills as evidenced from the application and interview process. Imaging technologists must perform data entry with dexterity and accuracy.
• Candidates must be physically and mentally capable of fulfilling the objectives of the radiography program. The school will make reasonable accommodations to assist a student with a disability to advance through the program. Candidates must have sensory function adequate for patient assessment and care. They must possess the physical status needed to provide all aspects of care in a safe manner.

The electromagnetic fields associated with the MR environment pose a serious risk of injury to anyone with certain implants, devices, or materials. Admission to the program is conditional upon review of the MRI Screening Questionnaire which will assess a candidate's ability to work in an MRI environment. Items such as a bb, bullet, shrapnel, or metallic fragment in the body create a potential risk, because they can change position that can potentially cause injury. Any implanted devices – electronic or nonelectronic – need to be disclosed and documented to ensure safety in an MRI environment.

Examples of items that may create a health hazard or other problems:

• Aneurysm clip.
• Dentures/teeth with magnetic keepers.
• Foreign metal objects, especially if in or near the eye.
• Implanted drug infusion device.
• Implantable cardioverter defibrillator.
• Medication patches that contain metal foil.
• Metallic implant.
• Neurostimulator system.
• Other implants that involve magnets.
• Pacemaker.
• Shrapnel or bullet.

Pre-requisites

Candidates are encouraged to submit the pre-requisites by Feb. 1 or until the program has sufficient applications that meet the requirements. All courses must have a traditional letter grade. Candidates may be considered who meet most of the requirements if there is evidence that they will meet the requirements prior to the beginning of the program.

The School of Diagnostic Imaging does not accept the pass/no pass grading option. Credit(s) earned at other institutions or programs will be evaluated by the Admissions Committee using transfer.org to determine if they meet the program requirements.  

Applicants must have completed the following college credit pre-requisites with a grade of "C" or better:

• Medical Terminology.
• Anatomy & Physiology I, completed within the last 10 years.
• Anatomy and Physiology II, completed within the last 10 years.
• OR Anatomy & Physiology for Medical Imaging at Cuyahoga Community College.

Please note: If you have already completed a minimum of an associate’s degree, only the above pre-requisites are required. The degree does not have to be in the radiologic sciences.

If you have completed Anatomy & Physiology I and are registered for Anatomy & Physiology II for the Spring semester, you may still apply to the program and be interviewed, but you must then complete the Anatomy & Physiology II successfully in the Spring semester to be eligible for acceptance.

We will accept Anatomy & Physiology for Diagnostic Medical Imaging - BIO 1221 from Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) as a pre-requisite, but this does not transfer to any other college as a complete A&P sequence and is only applicable for an Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging degree from Tri-C. Please call us if you have any questions.  

Application

The deadline for applications for the August class is Feb. 1. Application forms can be downloaded from the website or may be obtained from the School of Diagnostic Imaging, Cleveland Clinic by calling 216.448.3110. Submit your completed form to the program with a non-refundable $20 application fee. Please do not send cash. We accept checks and credit card payments. Checks should be made payable to the School of Diagnostic Imaging, Cleveland Clinic. For credit card payments, please call Gloria at 216.448.3110. Students must have their official high school and college transcripts mailed directly to the school.

The deadline for application submission and completion of all pre-requisite courses is February 1 each year.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging Program student application.

Non-discrimination policy

Cleveland Clinic does not discriminate in admission, employment, or administration of its programs or activities on the basis of age, gender, race, national origin, religion, creed, color, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, ethnicity, ancestry, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, Cleveland Clinic administers all programs and services without regard to disability and provides reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified disabled individuals.  

Criminal background check

All students accepted into the School of Diagnostic Imaging must complete a criminal background check. Students with a criminal record may not be eligible to participate in a clinical rotation, receive a professional licensure/registration, or obtain employment in the health field. Cleveland Clinic covers the cost of the background check.  

Basic life support for healthcare providers

Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers must be completed prior to starting the program. Training from only two providers are accepted: Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers from the American Heart Association and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer from the American Red Cross.

• Health requirements including vaccinations are located in the Program Health Requirements.

Questions? Call 216.448.3110.

Curriculum

Course sequence

The Primary MRI Program is full-time Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Fall and spring semesters are 16 weeks with a break week halfway through the semester. Summer semester is 12 weeks, with no break. The total program length is 16 months or four semesters (fall, spring, summer and fall).

Course description

MR 300 – Cross Sectional Anatomy

This course provides the student with fundamental anatomy and physiology associated with magnetic resonance imaging of the head, neck, face, spine, thorax, abdomen, pelvis, upper and lower extremities. The various structures will be demonstrated in the axial, sagittal and coronal imaging planes.

Prerequisite: Admission to The School of Diagnostic Imaging

MR 301 – Procedures I

Introduces the basic principles of MR safety, covers the basic concepts of patient management, and teaches the education of patients and ancillary staff on magnet safety. Because patient and magnet-related emergencies represent a unique situation to an MRI technologist, recommended procedures and responsibilities of the technologist will be discussed. Other topics that will be introduced include contrast agents used, contraindications, processing of images, routine examinations and protocols utilized, image artifacts, and compensation.

Prerequisite: Admission to The School of Diagnostic Imaging

RT 101 – Patient Care

This course provides an overview imaging to the basic concepts of patient care, infection control, and the role of a technologist as a member of the health care team. Content includes pharmacology and administration of diagnostic contrast agents and/or intravenous medications, patient assessment, and vital signs. Topics include: critical thinking, history of imaging, professional roles and behavior, professional attitudes and communications. Also included will be hospital and departmental organization, and hospital and program affiliation.

Prerequisite: Admission to The School of Diagnostic Imaging

MR 302 – MRI Scanning Lab I

Computer simulation software to provide the student with practical scanning practice under the direction of program instructors.

Prerequisite: Admission to The School of Diagnostic Imaging

MR 313 – MRI Scanning Lab II

Computer simulation software to provide the student with practical scanning practice under the direction of program instructors.

Prerequisite: MR 302 MRI Scan Lab I

MR 303 – Introductory Clinical Experience

Supervised sessions emphasizing development of medical imaging skills. Practical application of MRI imaging with an emphasis on safety, orientation to the equipment, proper scanning positions and planes, and general patient care. Designed to give the student an introduction to the basics of magnetic resonance imaging in the clinical setting.

Prerequisite: Admission to The School of Diagnostic Imaging

MR 304 – Procedures II

Expands on the information covered during MRI 301 Procedures I and provides the student with imaging techniques related to the central nervous system CNS, neck, thorax, musculoskeletal MSK system, and abdominopelvic regions. Covers specific clinical application, coils available and their use, considerations in scan sequences, specific choices in protocols (e.g., slice thickness, phase direction, and flow compensation), and positioning criteria. Anatomical structures and the plane that best demonstrates anatomy are discussed as well as signal characteristics of normal and abnormal structures.

Prerequisite: MR 301 Procedures I

MR 305 – Physics I

Provides the student with a comprehensive overview of MRI imaging principles to include history, safety, nuclear MR signal production, tissue characteristics, pulse sequences, imaging parameters/options and image formation, image contrast, magnetism, properties of magnetism, MRI system components, MRI magnet (permanent, resistive, superconducting, hybrid), radiofrequency RF pulse systems, gradient systems, shim systems, and shielding.

Prerequisite: Admission to The School of Diagnostic Imaging

MR 306 – Intermediate Clinical Experience I

Supervised sessions emphasizing development of medical imaging skills. Practical application of MRI imaging with an emphasis on safety, orientation to the equipment, proper scanning positions and planes, and general patient care. Students are required to successfully complete required clinical competency examinations supervised by a registered MRI technologist or clinical preceptor.

Prerequisite: MR 303 Introductory Clinical Experience

MR 307 – Physics II

Continues to provide the student with a comprehensive knowledge of MRI imaging principles, knowledge of the parameters and imaging options used to create MRI images and introduces quality control measures used to maintain image quality. Provides a comprehensive overview of the instrumentation associated with MRI pulse sequences to include spin echo, fast spin echo, gradient echo, inversion recovery, echo planar, parallel imaging, and spectroscopy. Other topics include pulse sequencing, imaging parameters/options and image formation, image contrast, contrast agents, advanced imaging, and post processing techniques.

Prerequisite: MR 305 – Physics I

MR 308 – MRI Pathology

Introduces concepts related to disease and etiological considerations with an emphasis on their appearance on MRI images using various sequences. The information covered should enhance the students’ knowledge regarding interpretation of clinical information provided on the requisition and/or the patient’s chart. The course will include a written research paper on a chosen pathology with an oral presentation.

Prerequisite: MR 300 Cross Sectional Anatomy

ETH 101 – Healthcare Ethics and Law

This course is designed to provide the student with a fundamental background in healthcare ethics and law. The historical and philosophical bases of ethics as well as the elements of ethical behavior are discussed. The student will examine a variety of ethical issues and dilemmas that occur in clinical practice. An introduction to legal terminology, concepts and principles will also be presented. Topics include misconduct, malpractice, unintentional and intentional torts, HIPAA standards and compliance, legal and professional standards and the ASRT scope of practice. The importance of proper documentation and informed consent will be emphasized.

Prerequisite: Admission to The School of Diagnostic Imaging

MR 309 – Intermediate Clinical Experience II

Supervised sessions emphasizing development of medical imaging skills. Practical application of MRI imaging with an emphasis on safety, orientation to the equipment, proper scanning positions and planes, and general patient care. Students are required to successfully complete required clinical competency examinations supervised by a registered MRI technologist or clinical preceptor.

Prerequisite: MR 306 Intermediate Clinical Experience I

MR 310 – Advanced Imaging

Discussion of advanced MRI imaging topics to include fusion imaging, neurography, 3D printing and modeling, and remote scanning. Discussion of emerging trends in MRI to include artificial intelligence, quantitative MR, and MR lymphangiography. Guests with experience in these areas will be invited to speak.

Prerequisite: MR 304 Procedures II and MR 307 Physics II

MR 311 – Registry Review

Provides a review of basic knowledge from previous courses and help the student prepare for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist’s ARRT National Registry Examination.

Prerequisite: MR 304 Procedures II and MR 307 Physics II

MR 312 – Advanced Clinical Experience

Supervised sessions emphasizing development of medical imaging skills. Practical application of MRI imaging with an emphasis on safety, orientation to the equipment, proper scanning positions and planes, and general patient care. Students are required to successfully complete required clinical competency examinations supervised by a registered MRI technologist or clinical preceptor.

Prerequisite: MR 309 Intermediate Clinical Experience II

Textbook information

All School of Diagnostic Imaging students must purchase the required textbooks listed on the program textbook list which is available by contacting the School of Diagnostic Imaging at 216.448.3110.

Please note: Students must purchase the current edition of each textbook.

Grading scale

The following grading scale is used:

Academic grading policy

Students must maintain a 75% or better grade point average in each course of the program. Students not satisfying the minimal academic requirements will be counseled and may be subject to academic probation and/or dismissal from the program.

Attendance, semester breaks, personal time off and holidays

Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes. During clinical rotation, students are required to report on time for their assignment and complete their seven-and-half-hour clinical day. Students are allowed 21 hours of personal time off each semester. The program consists of five semesters with a two week break between each semester. Students have two additional break weeks each year, one in the spring semester and one in the fall semester. Students do not have classes or clinical experiences on the following holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving (and the day after Thanksgiving) and Christmas.

Clinical obligation/experience

All clinical assignments occur Monday through Friday during the day, and all academic classes are held during the day. Students rotate to four different clinical sites throughout the program. All hospital assignments are chosen using a lottery system.

Clinical sites

• Cleveland Clinic main campus and Family Health Centers.
• Hillcrest Hospital.
• Euclid Hospital.
• South Pointe Hospital.
• Lutheran Hospital.
• Marymount Hospital.
• Fairview Hospital.
• Medina Hospital.
• Akron General.

Credits may not transfer to institutions of higher learning.

FAQ

How long is the program?

The Primary MRI Program is 16 months in length (four semesters).

When does the program begin?

The program begins in late August each year.

What are the program pre-requisites?

The prerequisites are Anatomy & Physiology I and II and Medical Terminology.

How do you select the clinical sites a student will be attending?

Each student attends four clinical sites which are chosen by a lottery.

Do students attend Family Health Centers for clinical rotations?

Students may also rotate through Family Health Center outpatient imaging departments.

What is the deadline for application?

The program application, application fee, and all college transcripts must be submitted by February 1 of each year for the program beginning the following August.

What is the acceptance process?

Prospective students participate in an interview to assess communication and critical thinking skills. This interview is evaluated by a point system. Total points assigned to a student include points from the interview, high school and college GPA, and science and math courses taken with a grade of C or better. The students with the highest scores are accepted into the program.

Do I need a college degree to get accepted into the program?

Yes, you need at a minimum an associate's degree, but it does not have to be specific to imaging.

Do your classes transfer to other colleges for my degree?

No, they do not.

What is the time commitment for successful completion of the program?

Students should expect a full schedule, attending either class or clinical experience Monday through Friday, 7.5 hours (day shift) plus drive time.

Do you have a weekend or evening program?

No, we do not.

Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the following criteria for graduation. Students graduate from the School of Diagnostic Imaging with a certificate in Magnetic Resonance Imaging after completing 4 semesters of education.

Criteria

• Satisfactory completion of all program courses.
• All competencies must be completed as outlined in the Competency Examination Policy.
• All ARRT mandatory and elective competencies must be completed.
• All ARRT general patient care procedures must be completed.
• All regular and make-up hours must be completed.
• Tuition and fees must be paid in full.
• All reference books or other material must be returned.
• Graduation survey must be completed.
• Employer release form must be signed.
• All ID badges must be returned, or fee must be paid prior to graduation.
• Satisfactorily write a short paper on professionalism.

Mission & Goals

Mission

To develop exceptional entry-level imaging professionals whose expertise will meet the needs of the community they serve, and whose academic education and clinical experience will provide a foundation for lifelong learning.

Program goals & outcomes

Goal #1: The student / graduate will be clinically competent.

Outcomes:

• Student will complete required competencies.
• Student will perform exams safely.
• Student will produce quality diagnostic images.

Goal #2: The student / graduate will demonstrate professionalism.

Outcomes:

• Student will participate in continuing education meetings.
• Student will engage in activities within professional organizations.
• Student will demonstrate professional behaviors.

Goal #3: The student / graduate will demonstrate effective critical thinking.

Outcomes:

• Student will be able to modify routine procedures for non-routine patients.
• Student will effectively critique images to determine if corrective action is required.

Goal #4: The student / graduate will demonstrate effective communication.

Outcomes:

• The student will demonstrate effective written communication.
• The student will demonstrate professional verbal communication in the healthcare environment.

Diversity statement

The Center for Health Professions Education and Cleveland Clinic are committed to valuing all people throughout our organization, regardless of background or culture. A diverse and inclusive environment for students and staff and culturally appropriate care for our patients are essential to fulfilling our vision to be the best place for care anywhere and the best place to work in healthcare. We welcome students from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Program Effectiveness Data

The performance of the School of Diagnostic Imaging’s Primary MRI Program is reflected through program effectiveness data as defined by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

This data includes the program's completion rate, credentialing examination pass rate and job placement rate. The explanation of these measures and program data that corresponds with the annual report will be posted on the website after completion of the first cohort.

The Primary MRI Program’s annual report to the JRCERT will reflect the following:

Program completion rate

This is an annual measurement of the number of students that began the program divided by the number of students that completed the program.

Credentialing examination first time pass rate

This is the number of students that pass the American Registry for Radiologic Technologist’s - Primary MRI certification examination on the first attempt within six months of graduation from the program. The figure reflects an average over five years.

Job placement rate

This is the number of students who become employed in magnetic resonance imaging within 12 months of graduation versus the number that graduate and are actively seeking employment. The figure reflects an average over five years.

Program Health Requirements

The Cleveland Clinic School of Diagnostic Imaging recognizes that personal health maintenance is important, and it is the responsibility of the individual students to follow the required process to ensure that they are medically cleared to participate in the clinical experience. The School of Diagnostic Imaging follows the CDC Guidelines for adult immunization. Students are responsible for submitting required paperwork to the program officials by the specified deadlines. They will not be permitted to attend clinical experience until the requirements are met. Students are further responsible for any cost incurred to become medically cleared for clinical experience.

Listed below are the program health requirements:

• Physical exam form signed by a physician (MD), certified nurse practitioner (CNP) or physician’s assistant (PA) performed within the last six months.
• Documented immunity status for the following childhood diseases:
  • Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine.
  • Tuberculosis testing within three months of program start date, then annually thereafter.
  • Annual influenza vaccine.
  • A completed MRI screening form (this is done at the school).

Please note: Hepatitis B vaccine is not required, but highly suggested due to the possible exposure to blood and body fluids. Tetanus Diphtheria booster is recommended if it has been more than seven years since the student was vaccinated.

For more information, please see the Health Requirements Policy in the Primary MRI Program Policy and Procedure Manual, or contact Halley Majersky at 216.212.0484 or majersh@ccf.org or Kimberly Saghy at 216.554.3375 or saghyk@ccf.org.

Resources

Policy manual

• 2024-2025 Primary MRI Policy and Procedure Manual.

Forms

• Primary MRI Program Application.
• MRI screening questionnaire.
• Request for Official Transcript.

Academic calendars

• 2024-2025.
• 2023-2024.

Library access

• How can students request library access?.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Estimated additional expenses:

Refund policy

If the student is not accepted into the training program, all monies paid by the student shall be refunded. Refunds for books, supplies, and consumable fees shall be made in accordance with Ohio Administrative Code section 3332-1-10.1. Refunds for tuition and refundable fees shall be made in accordance with following provisions as established by Ohio Administrative Code section 3332-1-10: 

1.  A student who withdraws before the first class and after the 5-day cancellation period shall be obligated for the registration fee. 
2. A student who starts class and withdraws before the academic term is 15% completed will be obligated for 25% of the tuition and refundable fees plus the registration fee. 
3. A student who starts class and withdraws after the academic term is 15% but before the academic term is 25% completed will be obligated for 50% of the tuition and refundable fees plus the registration fee. 
4. A student who starts class and withdraws after the academic term is 25% complete but before the academic term is 40% completed will be obligated for 75% of the tuition and refundable fees plus the registration fee. 
5. A student who starts class and withdraws after the academic term is 40% completed will not be entitled to a refund of the tuition and fees. 

The school shall make the appropriate refund within thirty days of the date the school is able to determine that a student has withdrawn or has been terminated from a program. Refunds shall be based upon the last date of the student's attendance or participation in an academic school activity. 

Financial assistance

The tuition and fee schedule is subject to change by the action of the administration and director of the School of Diagnostic Imaging, Cleveland Clinic.

Tuition assistance opportunities:

• American Society of Radiologic Technologists ASRT.
• Cleveland Foundation Scholarships.
• College Now Greater Cleveland.
• Navient Student Loan Service.
• Post 9/11 GI Bill^®.
• Robert Kruse Scholarship through Health Professions Education yearly in March.
• Sallie Mae.

Net price calculator

In accordance with the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008, the Cleveland Clinic School of Diagnostic Imaging has posted a net price calculator to provide estimated net price information to prospective students based on a student's individual circumstances.

• Access the net price calculator.