MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, procedures play an important role in diagnosing diseases and injuries. An MRI uses magnetic field and radio waves to produce images of the inside of the human body. When a patient lies inside the MRI machine, which is like a large tube, radio waves produce faint signals that create sectional images that are ultimately used by physicians to diagnose medical problems.

Kellogg Community College’s MRI Program is offered through a partnership with other Michigan community colleges through the Educational Programs in Collaboration (EPiC) Consortium. Each college enrolls students in the program under their admission criteria and each awards the degree according to that college’s completion requirements.

Students in the program complete MRI courses delivered in an online environment by one of the EPiC colleges through Michigan Colleges Online. Clinical education courses are arranged through the EPiC Consortium Director in collaboration with the MRI departments of affiliating hospitals, clinics or other MRI provider facilities. These experiences are developed to meet the established objectives and eligibility requirements of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and to prepare students to complete the MRI certification exam.

For more information about KCC’s MRI Program, see:

Advising & Transfer

View transfer guides outlining opportunities for students looking to transfer their KCC credits to a four-year institution. Contact Academic Advising at 269-965-4124 or advising@kellogg.edu to schedule an appointment to plot a personal transfer plan.

Additional Information

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MRI Careers

MRI technologists are highly trained and possess the expertise for competent practice. They are mostly employed by hospitals, but jobs are increasingly becoming available in physician offices and imaging centers. The main duties of the MRI technologist include explaining the procedure to the patient; preparing the patient and positioning them correctly; operating the equipment; and recording the images for the physician to interpret. The patient might be in pain or distress, or they might feel claustrophobic. The MRI technologist will provide support while talking patients through the procedure and letting them know what to expect.

Projected Job Outlook & Salary Info

For the latest employment and wage estimates for MRI careers in Michigan, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics website at bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mi.htm.

Why Study MRI at KCC?


KCC’s MRI Program provides a thorough foundation in procedures, pathophysiology and physics critical to the field of MRI. It is designed not only to foster the skills and knowledge necessary for competent practice, but also places emphasis on professional attitudes, values and behaviors that encourage the professional growth of the individual student.

Mission & Goals


The mission and purpose of the MRI Program is to provide for both the personal and professional career development of each MRI student. The general goals of the program are:

  • The students will demonstrate entry-level knowledge and competency in the practice of MRI.
  • The students will demonstrate professional attitude, values and behaviors necessary for professional success.
  • Students will demonstrate critical thinking and communication skills as responsible members of the health care team.
  • Graduates will be employable and meet the needs of the health care community.
  • Graduates of the program will be well prepared to successfully complete the ARRT certification examination.
Program Outcomes/Objectives


When students complete the MRI Program, they will be able to:

  • Apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, positioning and MRI sequence parameters to accurately demonstrate anatomical structures.
  • Determine imaging parameters to achieve optimum imaging.
  • Evaluate images for appropriate positioning, coil selection and image quality.
  • Apply the principles of ferromagnetic safety and contrast application for the protection of the patient, technologist and others.
  • Recognize emergency patient conditions and initiate lifesaving first aid and basic life-support procedures.
  • Evaluate the performance of MRI systems, know the safe limits of equipment operation and report malfunctions to the proper authority.
  • Participate in MRI quality assurance programs.
  • Provide care and comfort in regard to holistic health of the patient and others.
  • Provide patient education related to MRI procedures.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contacts

Chris VandenBerg

Chris VandenBerg

Executive Director, Allied Health Programs

Amy Lee

Amy Lee

Director, Collaborative Programs/EPiC