Programs
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Program Overview
HDMC’s Magnetic Resonance Imaging Associate of Applied Science program is offered in a hybrid format, combining on-campus MRI instruction and hands-on training with online General Education coursework and real-world experience through a clinical externship.
Program Length
- 115 weeks
Program Details
- 1,500 classroom hours
- 960 clinical externship hours
- 2,460 total clock hours
- 105 semester credits
Core MRI principles and subjects are taught on campus, while General Education courses are offered 100% online.
Contact Admissions for current class schedules and availability at your preferred campus.
High Desert Medical College offers its Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Associate of Applied Science program at its Bakersfield, Lancaster, and Temecula, California campuses. Students complete hybrid classroom instruction and hands-on training at their selected HDMC campus.
See Which Campus Is Closest to You
The MRI AAS curriculum combines medical imaging theory, MRI technology and hands-on technical training with General Education coursework designed to build critical-thinking and communication skills.
MRI coursework includes:
- Medical Terminology
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Basic Medical Math
- Medical Law & Ethics
- MRI Physics & Safety
- MRI Neuro
- MRI Body
- MRI Musculoskeletal
- Professional Development
- Clinical Externship
General Education coursework includes subjects such as:
- English Composition
- College Algebra
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Communication
- Critical Thinking
Students also train using Corsmed MRI Simulator technology, which simulates MRI scanning and provides exposure to real-patient cases, pathologies, instructional modules and assessments.
No prior MRI or healthcare experience is required to begin the MRI AAS program.
Applicants must meet HDMC’s admissions requirements, including having a high school diploma or recognized equivalent. Additional entrance testing may be required; see the school catalog for current admissions requirements.
An Admissions Representative can review the requirements with you and help determine your next steps.
For the most current MRI AAS tuition and fee information, refer to the HDMC School Catalog or speak with an Admissions Representative.
Financial aid, grants, scholarships, and student loans may be available to those who qualify. HDMC’s Financial Aid team can help you understand available options and determine what you may be eligible for.
High Desert Medical College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET).
HDMC is also approved to operate by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).
What you’ll learn
HDMC’s MRI AAS program combines imaging theory with hands-on training to help you develop the technical and patient care skills used by MRI professionals.
Is a Career in Magnetic Resonance Imaging Right for You?
Take the HDMC Healthcare Career Readiness Quiz.
This fun, online quiz takes just 3 minutes to complete and will give you a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style, plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.
Support beyond the classroom
HDMC supports students beyond the classroom with career-focused guidance, professional development resources, and personalized support designed to help graduates feel confident entering the healthcare field.
Resume &
Interview Support
Career
Preparation
Professional
Development
Student
Support Resources
What you walk away with
Build your skills and prepare for certification.
Associate of Applied
Science Degree
Graduate with an Associate of Applied Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) from HDMC.
Hands-On MRI
Training
Build practical scanning skills through on-campus training and Corsmed MRI Simulator technology.
Real-World
Experience
Complete a 960-hour clinical externship where you can apply your MRI knowledge and skills in a professional healthcare environment.
Where you could work
MRI professionals work across a variety of healthcare and imaging settings. Picture yourself working in:
Hospitals
Support hospital imaging departments
Outpatient Clinics
Provide outpatient imaging services
Physicians’ Offices
Support in-office diagnostic imaging
Diagnostic Imaging Centers
Perform diagnostic MRI procedures
Mobile Imaging Units
Provide imaging across locations
Research Facilities
Support medical imaging research
Potential Careers
An MRI AAS degree could lead to jobs with titles like:
MRI Technologist
MRI Technician
MRI Radiographer
MRI Specialist
MRI Coordinator
MRI QA Coordinator
Research MRI Technologist
Potential Careers
An MRI AAS degree could lead to jobs with titles like:
MRI Technologist
MRI Technician
MRI Radiographer
MRI Specialist
MRI Coordinator
MRI QA Coordinator
Research MRI Technologist
Questions?
Here are a few things everyone asks. If you don’t see your question, reach out to see whether our Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Associate of Applied Science program is right for you.
MRI Technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging equipment to create detailed images of patients’ internal structures. They prepare and position patients, follow MRI safety procedures, capture high-quality images and work with radiologists and other healthcare professionals to support diagnosis and treatment planning.
HDMC’s Magnetic Resonance Imaging Associate of Applied Science program can be completed in as few as 115 weeks. The program includes 2,460 total clock hours and 105 semester credits, including 1,500 classroom hours and a 960-hour clinical externship.
The program is offered in a hybrid format. Core MRI subjects and hands-on training are completed on campus, while General Education courses are offered online. Students also complete a clinical externship in a professional healthcare environment.
No prior MRI or healthcare experience is required. The program is designed to teach students the foundational medical knowledge, MRI theory and hands-on technical skills needed to prepare for entry-level opportunities.
Financial aid, grants, scholarships, and student loans may be available to those who qualify. HDMC’s Financial Aid team can help you review available options and determine what you may be eligible for.
Additional Resources
to help you build confidence before entering the workforce
