Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate
If you're an ARRT-credentialed radiologic technologist, the MRI Certificate at Shawnee State is a one-semester, 9-credit path to the didactic and clinical hours required for ARRT post-primary MRI certification.
Program Overview
Sharpen your expertise in advanced diagnostic imaging with Shawnee State University’s Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate. This post-primary, 9-credit hour certificate program is designed for certified radiologic technologists seeking to meet the didactic and clinical requirements for MRI credentialing through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Delivered in a flexible, online format (through Blackboard), with an in-person clinical placement, the MRI certificate equips working professionals with the skills needed to expand into high-demand MRI roles. In just one fall semester, students will complete advanced coursework in MRI physics, procedures, and clinical applications, while completing hands-on experience at an affiliated clinical site.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your professional qualifications or pursue post-primary certification in MRI, this program prepares you with the knowledge and skills needed to move forward with confidence.
Career Outcomes
How to Apply
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Start your application
Free, takes about 15 minutes.
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Send transcripts
Have your high school guidance counselor send them to admissions@shawnee.edu
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File the FAFSA
School code 009942. Required for Free Tuition.
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Get your decision
Most decisions in under 7 days.
Application & Requirements:
Applicants to the MRI certificate program must hold a current and valid American Registry of Radiologist Technologist (ARRT) certification.
Applicants who are not current students at Shawnee State University must apply as a non-degree seeking student. Once accepted into the University they may then apply for the specific courses.
Contact
Annette L. Jenkins, MA
Academic Advisor & Student Support Coordinator
Phone: (740) 351-3218
Text: (740) 217-3818
ajenkins3@shawnee.edu
Schedule an advising appointment
For questions about the MRI certificate program:
Kristi Darnell
Clinical Coordinator, Radiologic Technology Program
(740) 351-3253
kdarnell@shawnee.edu
At A Glance
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate
Degree
Certificate
Length
1 fall semester (15 weeks)
Credits
9
Class Size
12:1
Location
Online + assigned affiliated clinical site
Why Study Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate at Shawnee University
One semester to ARRT post-primary MRI eligibility — designed for working technologists. Coursework runs 100% online through Blackboard in two 7-week sessions, so you can keep working while you study.
Clinical training takes place at a Shawnee State-affiliated site under credentialed MRI preceptors. Aligned with ARRT's structured education and clinical experience requirements.
The certificate is three courses, 9 credit hours total, all in one fall semester.
- RDLT 3902 — MRI Physics and Image Production (7 weeks, online)
- RDLT 3952 — MRI Procedures and Clinical Applications (7 weeks, online)
- RDLT 3992 — MRI Clinical Experience (15 weeks, in person at an assigned clinical site)
RDLT 3992 places you at a Shawnee State-affiliated clinical site under the supervision of registered MRI technologists. The Clinical Coordinator assigns sites based on factors like commute distance and program enrollment — not student preference.
By completion, you'll be able to:
- Apply the physics of MRI image formation
- Demonstrate knowledge of pulse sequences, protocols, and patient safety
- Operate MRI systems and perform diagnostic scans under supervision
- Meet the educational and clinical eligibility for the ARRT MRI exam (passing the exam isn't guaranteed and depends on your performance)
Online coursework through Blackboard. Clinical placement is in person at an assigned Shawnee State-affiliated facility.
The MRI credential opens roles such as:
- MRI technologist in hospitals and outpatient imaging centers
- Cross-trained roles combining MRI with CT or X-ray
- Specialty MRI work in cardiac, musculoskeletal, or neuro imaging
Tuition and Financial Aid
Shawnee State’s tuition is among the lowest in Ohio, and the Shawnee Advantage Tuition Guarantee keeps your rate flat for four years. Scholarships including Choose Ohio First and the Pell-Eligible Free Tuition Program may also apply.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate Frequently Asked Questions
The certificate program meets the ARRT requirement for post-primary certification in MRI. However, completion of the clinical requirement is dependent on the student’s commitment to obtaining the necessary number of exams. In addition, passage of the national board exam is not guaranteed.
Please visit the ARRTs website for additional information on the national board exam.
You'll apply as a non-degree-seeking student before enrolling in the MRI Certificate courses.
Yes. Only registered technologists with a valid and current ARRT license are eligible to apply for the program.
The clinical hours will be flexible to fit the working technologist schedule, however, must be consistent and coordinated with the clinical coordinator and clinical facility.
The Radiologic Technology Program at Shawnee State University has designated clinical facilities for the MRI program. All clinical facilities must have a current affiliation agreement and designated preceptors who are registered MRI technologists. The clinical sites will be assigned by the clinical coordinator based on mileage to the site and number of students in the program.
Program handbook
Accreditation
The certificate is offered by Shawnee State University, which is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
The associated Radiologic Technology program is accredited by JRCERT.
