Magnetic Resonance Imaging 2nd Discipline

Post-Diploma Certificate

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The MRI 2nd Discipline part-time program offers healthcare professionals in the diagnostic, therapeutic and medical imaging fields a unique opportunity to expand their skill set and open new career opportunities and advancement options. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technologists operate medical diagnostic equipment that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of almost every part of the human body without the use of harmful radiation.

In as little as 16 months, you can earn an MRI credential and fast-track your career. Our online program is designed to be flexible to accommodate the busy schedules of healthcare professionals while offering practical, real-world training using state-of-the-art MRI simulation software and hands-on experience through a 15-week clinical placement. We work with sites across Canada to help students secure clinical placements in their home provinces.

As the demand for diagnostic imaging services continues to rise, so does the need for skilled MRI technologists. This valuable skillset will not only broaden your capabilities as a healthcare professional but also contribute to improving patient outcomes.

With over 20 years of experience educating healthcare professionals and offering one of the most affordable programs of its kind in Canada, NAIT’s MRI 2nd Discipline program will help you take the next step in your healthcare career.

Upcoming Intakes

Select your preferred intake to see relevant program information. Program details, including tuition and course information, may vary by intake.

Selection Start Date Delivery Mode Time Campus Length Domestic Status International Status
May. 05, 2025 (Spring) Online No set time Online 2 Years (Part-time) Open N/A
  Sep. 02, 2025 (Fall) Online No set time Online 2 Years (Part-time) Open N/A
Jan. 08, 2026 (Winter) Online No set time Online 2 Years (Part-time) Open N/A
  May. 04, 2026 (Spring) Online No set time Online 2 Years (Part-time) Upcoming N/A
 
             
 

Swipe table to view more information for each intake.

Delivery Mode

  • In-person - All your class activity will be delivered in person, on campus.
  • Online - All your class activity will be delivered online.
  • Hybrid - Your classes will be a mixture of in person and online learning. You must be able to come to campus and participate remotely online.
  • Your choice - Your program offers a variety of class delivery options (in person, online, or a mixture of both) and you can select which type of classes to take. If you wish, you can complete your entire program either in-person or online.
  • HyFlex - All your classes are delivered for simultaneous participation in person and online. You can choose daily to attend your classes in person or join remotely online.

Time

  • Your choice - You can select class times and days that fit your schedule. There are a variety of class options for you to choose from including daytime, evening, weekdays or weekends.
  • No set time - No set class days or times, content is access on-demand. You can complete your studies on your own schedule within the scheduled class dates; may have set due dates and deadlines.
  • Evenings & Weekends - Classes are scheduled after 5 p.m. on weekdays or anytime on weekends.
  • Weekdays - Daytime - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start before 6 p.m.
  • Weekdays - Evening - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start after 6 p.m.
  • Weekends - Classes are scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays.

Campus

Any in-person components of your courses will be delivered at this campus location.

View Campus Map

Length

  • Full-Time - This is the standard length to complete the program, with a full course load per term.
  • Part-Time - Students follow a structured schedule of classes so they can progress in their studies part-time while balancing everyday life.

Domestic Status

The program availability status for domestic applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

International Status

The program availability status for international applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Limited - For international applicants, the program intake is now only available if you already have a valid study permit.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

Credit programs that accept international applicants also meet the eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, including programs with a Hybrid delivery mode. Each student is responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.

Hands-on, industry-relevant skills

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging 2nd Discipline Program provides the opportunity to study MRI without disrupting your busy life. All courses are delivered online with the exception of the 15 week clinical practicum. The clinical practicum is required once all didactic courses are completed.

Please note: We work with clinical sites across all of Canada to secure clinical placements for our students.  If you live outside of Alberta, you can continue to stay in your home province to complete 100% of this program. 

Program outcomes:

These program outcomes are aligned with CAMRT 2019 National Occupational Competency Profile.

  • Demonstrate conduct in alignment with professional expectations, standards of practice, ethical guidelines, regulation, and legislation.
  • Integrate safety practices and guidelines as they relate to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), patients, staff, and the work environment.
  • Implement scanning techniques and utilize MRI and accessory equipment to acquire images for diagnostic purposes.
  • Evaluate the quality of MRI images and adapt procedures based on patient and equipment considerations.
  • Provide compassionate patient-centred care and appropriate interventions to a diverse population.
  • Demonstrate effective communication, conflict resolution, and critical thinking skills within an interprofessional team environment.

International Applicants

Some NAIT programs are unavailable to international students because they do not meet eligibility for a study permit or Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). 

  • Study Permit: This program is delivered through distance learning and therefore does not meet the criteria for a study permit.
  • Co-Op: Due to this program not meeting the criteria of a study permit, it also does not meet the criteria for a Co-Op Work Permit.
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit: This program is delivered part-time and through distance learning and therefore is not eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program. Completion of this program will not make you eligible for a PGWP.

International students who have questions about permissions to take this program can contact a NAIT Academic Advisor – International to discuss options.

Career Outcomes

The learning outcomes and program goals are aligned with the 2019 CAMRT Competency Profile. Upon successful completion of the MRI program the graduate is eligible to challenge the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) entry-to-practice certification examination and/or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) MRI National certification exams. This certification qualifies graduates to work across Canada and/or the United States, and it allows MRI technologists to apply for registration with provincial regulatory bodies such as the Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists (ACMDTT).

To practice as a Medical Radiologic Technologist in the discipline of MRI in the province of Alberta, technologists are required to be registered with the Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists (ACMDTT) to obtain a license to practice.

Please refer to the Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists (ACMDTT) website to learn more about their requirements for licensing/mandatory registration and declaration of conduct, which may include disclosure of information related to criminal convictions and professional misconduct or incompetence as well as any personal factors that could impact the ability to practice safely.

Job Opportunities

Industries

  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient Clinics
  • Public health agencies
  • Trauma centres
  • Educational Institutions
  • Regulatory Agencies
  • Research Centers

Working Conditions

As an MRI Technologist, many examinations and procedures involve working alongside physicians, diagnostic imaging and therapeutic technologists, nurses, and other healthcare workers and support staff as part of an interprofessional team. The ability to work closely with others and a demonstrated sense of responsibility are important attributes for an MRI Technologist due to the significant safety risks posed by the magnetic field in the clinical environment.

Median Starting Salary

The expected starting salary for individuals with a(n) Magnetic Resonance Imaging 2nd Discipline Post-Diploma Certificate is $75,530.
This salary information was based on graduate data from the past 3 years and reflects annual salaries for graduates who claimed they were working more than 30 hours per week. Graduates who quoted salaries below $10,000 and above $200,000 per year have been excluded. Note that NAIT publishes the median salary instead of the average to minimize the potential of outlying salaries distorting the mean. Data represented here may differ from other data sources due to differences in definition or differences in timing.

Grad Employment Rate

Employment rates are reported by NAIT alumni, are for information purposes, and do not guarantee future employment opportunities. Please note that data for newer programs may not be included within this report.

Download report

Take your career planning to the next level

This program can be used as a step toward earning higher credentials and/or certifications.

Further education at NAIT

Once you complete your credential, explore the programs below to specialize further or develop management skills.

Further education at other institutions

Upon graduation, you’ll be able to continue your studies at:

Athabasca University, Bachelor of Science in Human Sciences

Thompson Rivers, Bachelor of Health Sciences

Memorial University of Newfoundland, Bachelor of Technology

University of New Brunswick, Bachelor of Applied Management

Certification(s)

You are eligible to challenge the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) exam to obtain national certification to become a registered Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist and work anywhere in Canada.

Graduates are also eligible to challenge the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam to obtain national MRI Technologist certification and work in the United States.

Post-secondary articulation agreements within Alberta are approved by the Alberta Council on Admissions and Transfer (ACAT). To view the details of specific agreements, please visit transferalberta.ca or contact articulations@nait.ca For questions regarding transfer agreements or to obtain a course description/outline that is no longer available on our website, please contact articulations@nait.ca.

Build your resume before you even graduate

Explore work experience opportunities that help grads get hired even sooner.

View Work Integrated Learning

Work Experience Placements

Students in this program gain valuable work experience with Work Integrated Learning (WIL). WIL is a form of experiential learning that integrates academic studies with relevant work-based learning. The WIL placement in this program is a Clinical Placement.

Clinical Placement

A Clinical Placement involves work experience under the supervision of an experienced registered or licensed professional (e.g. preceptor) in any discipline that requires practice-based work experience for professional licensure or certification. Practica are generally unpaid and the work is done in a supervised setting.

Duration 15 weeks
Compensation No
International Students Not Accepted
Placement Identified By Program Staff - Students are placed with employers by the program.
Student Interview Required No
Non-academic requirements

CPR (Basic Life Support - BLS)
Students must provide evidence of current BLS certification prior to commencing clinical training. BLS certification must remain current throughout clinical training; therefore, it is recommended that certification be obtained just prior to clinical training. The BLS certification course that meets this requirement must be designed for individuals who will be health care providers. The NAIT Continuing Education Course that meets this requirement is CPRS100 - Basic Life Support.

Immunization - General
Once accepted into the program, students must ensure their immunizations are current to the Alberta Health Services Immunization Standards. The program will contact you with specific instructions for completing the immunization requirements. If you do not meet the immunization requirements, your work integrated learning experience (clinical training) may be refused by a clinical site, and there may be restrictions to campus lab and clinic experience, which may ultimately impede your progression in the program.

Police Check
Students are required to provide a current Police Information Check (also referred to as a Security Clearance or Criminal Record Check), which must include a Vulnerable Sector Search. Please do not proceed with the Police Information Check until an offer of acceptance and follow-up instructions have been issued by the program. The Police Information Check is only considered valid when reviewed by a NAIT official within 90 days of completion. If you do not meet the police information check requirements, your work integrated learning experience (clinical training) may be refused by a clinical site, which may ultimately impede your progress in the program.

Health Requirement - Physical Ailments
Any prospective students with back, arm, shoulder, wrist or neck problems or significant health challenges should consider their options carefully before applying and are advised to consult with the program.

N95 Testing: It is a program requirement to fit test students to an N95 respirator prior to your clinical placement to ensure proper PPE safety. For an effective N95 respirator seal, you must be clean shaven during your fit testing session and clinical rotation. You will be required to be fit tested every two years or sooner depending on the policies of your work site. If there is a change in facial features due to weight gain/loss, pregnancy, dental work, etc. you will also need to be refitted to ensure an effective respirator seal.

Benefits of a Clinical Placement
  • Understand more about career opportunities, expectations and requirements of the professional field
  • Gain the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world environment
  • Create networking opportunities in your chosen industry
  • Develop and improve communication, interpersonal and employment skills
  • Gain confidence in your professional skills
  • Practice job placement skills including job search, resume preparation, interviewing
  • Explore career options and program specialization within the industry
  • Improve application for future positions by gaining industry experience and increasing your employability
  • Possibility of employment after graduation
  • Potential financial benefits if the placement is paid
What you can expect during your Clinical Placement

The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) experience is delivered in one 15-week clinical course. Students may be required to rotate through various clinical environments in their assigned city or province to provide learners with a robust practical training experience. Students can expect to work an average of 8 hours per day, five days per week, and will be scheduled for a variety of daytime, evening, and weekend shifts. Clinical placement sites are available throughout Canada, and all costs associated with WIL placements and relocation are the student's responsibility. There are currently no clinical placements available in Edmonton.

Contact

If you have any questions about the placement(s) for this program, please contact MRI 2nd Discipline Program Assistant for more information.

Courses and Advanced Credit

Current and recently admitted students can find information and updates about their program on their My Program page in the MyNAIT Portal. To monitor your course progress and the courses still needed to graduate, visit your Academic Progress Report.

Advanced Credit

You may apply for advanced credit once you have been accepted into the program. Advanced credit can be Transfer Credit (for completed post-secondary courses) or PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition).

Transfer Credit

In addition to the common guidelines outlined on the Transfer and Credit Options section, your program has other advanced credit requirements that are applied to each request including:

  • You must have completed the course or program no more than 5 year(s) ago unless a formalized articulation agreement is in place
  • You must have a minimum mark of C- in the course(s) or program

Prior Learning and Assessment Recognition (PLAR)

If you do not qualify for transfer credit or credential recognition, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) may be an option.

Read more about advanced credit or contact us about applying for credit for this program.

Tuition & Fees

This content is specific to the selected May 05, 2025 intake.

The tuition and fee amounts are estimates based on current academic year's rates. For financial planning purposes, please use these totals as an approximate estimate of your costs. Actual fees may vary by term and enrolment activities. Please refer to the tuition and fees page for more detailed information.

Tuition

Cost Per Credit: $211.00

View international tuition for upcoming intakes

How much does first year cost?
Domestic cost estimate
International cost estimate

Mandatory Fees

View fee listing and breakdown

Pay Your Tuition & Fees

Books, Supplies & Program Fees (est.)

Level 1 Term 1: $382
Level 1 Term 3: $1,337
Level 2 Term 1: $779


Scholarships & Awards

NAIT awards over $6 million in scholarships and bursaries to more than 4,000 students each year, with the support of donors and the government. A variety of awards are available, including ones for academics, community involvement, equity/diversity grants, bursaries for financial need, program-specific awards and more!

Learn how to apply for awards

Admission Requirements

This content is specific to the selected May 05, 2025 intake.

Minimum entrance requirements

 

The specific academic requirements you must meet to be considered for admission. Where applicable, the minimum accepted Alberta high school courses are listed in round brackets ( ). Equivalent or higher-level courses are also accepted.

Proof of practice/membership and previous diploma

Proof of one of the following four requirements based on the applicant's First Discipline certificate:

1) Medical Radiation Technologists (MRT):

(Medical Radiologic Technologists, Nuclear Medicine Technologists, and Radiation Therapists)

  • A current practice permit through a provincial/national regulatory body (e.g. ACMDTT), membership with CAMRT, and a diploma from an accredited institute in Medical Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, or Radiation Therapy

2) Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (DMS):

  • Active membership with Sonography Canada (Generalist) and a diploma from an accredited institute in Diagnostic Medical Sonography

3) Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologists (CLXT):

  • A current practice permit through the provincial regulatory body (ACCLXT) and a diploma from an approved accredited institute in Combined Laboratory & X-Ray

4) Internationally trained applicants:

  • Equivalent International credentials in Medical Radiology, or Diagnostic Medical Sonography, membership with CAMRT or Sonography Canada, and an active practice permit through a provincial regulatory body where applicable.
  • International equivalency credentials will be assessed on an individual basis, but membership with CAMRT or Sonography Canada will still be required.

Additional entrance requirements

  • A Letter of Recommendation from a physician, supervisor or department head indicating the capacity in which they are familiar with the candidate and their suitability for a career in MRI. In addition, the letter should demonstrate the candidate's capabilities in communication, critical thinking, and professionalism in the healthcare setting. The letter should be on facility letterhead and signed by the physician, supervisor, or department head, including their credentials and contact information

  • The MRI Applicant Screening Form must be completed and uploaded to your MyNAIT portal for verification.

  • Proof of English Language Proficiency

Additional requirements & considerations

Post-admission requirements

 

Although not required for admission, you must meet the following requirement(s) in order to progress in your program.

  • Immunization – School of Health and Life Science

The program will contact you with specific instructions and information for completing the immunization requirements. If you do not meet the immunization requirements, your work integrated learning experience (clinical training) may be refused by a clinical site, and there may be restrictions to campus lab and clinic experience, which may ultimately impede your progression in the program.

  • Police Check – School of Health and Life Science

Students are required to provide a current Police Information Check (also referred to as a Security Clearance or Criminal Record Check) which must include a Vulnerable Sector Search. Please do not proceed with the Police Information Check until an offer of acceptance and follow-up instructions have been issued by the program. The Police Information Check is only considered valid when submitted to NAIT within 90 days of the program start date. If you do not meet the police information check requirements, your work-integrated learning experience (clinical training) may be refused by a clinical site, which may ultimately impede your progress in the program. If you have concerns about the clearance status of your Police Information Check, contact SHLSWIL@nait.ca immediately upon acceptance to the program.

  • CPR (Basic Life Support - BLS)

Students must provide evidence of current BLS certification prior to commencing clinical training. BLS certification must remain current throughout clinical training therefore it is recommended that certification be obtained just prior to clinical training. The BLS certification course that meets this requirement must be designed for individuals who will be health care providers. The NAIT Continuing Education Course that meets this requirement is CPRS100 - Basic Life Support.

  • Health Requirement - Physical Ailments

Any prospective students with back, arm, shoulder, wrist or neck problems or significant health challenges should consider their options carefully before applying and are advised to consult with the program.

  • N95 Testing: It is a program requirement to fit test students to an N95 respirator prior to your clinical placement to ensure proper PPE safety. For an effective N95 respirator seal, you must be clean shaven during your fit testing session and clinical rotation. You will be required to be fit tested every two years or sooner depending on the policies of your work site. If there is a change in facial features due to weight gain/loss, pregnancy, dental work, etc. you will also need to be refitted to ensure an effective respirator seal.

Not sure if you meet the requirements?

Learn more about how NAIT evaluates applications, and find resources on how to satisfy admissions criteria.

How applications are evaluated Submitting required documents

Additional options

This program has courses that are available for Open Studies. Open Studies allows you to explore credit courses without applying to a program. It is an opportunity to get a feel for school and what program you want to be in.

Learn more about Open Studies

Dates & Deadlines

 
International
Applications Deadline:

Apr 28, 2025

 
Domestic
Applications Open:
Jun 01, 2024
 
Application Deadline:
Apr 28, 2025
 
Term Start Date:
May 05, 2025

Seats are limited - Apply early! Applications will remain open for at least one month from the open date. If the program/waitlist fill after that date, applications will close.

International Applicants

This program does not accept international applicants. International applicants interested in this program may contact a NAIT International Academic Advisor to discuss their options.

Want to learn more about this program?

Thank you for your interest! We want to get you in contact with the right person to answer your questions. If you are a current or recently admitted student you can find program and course information as well as contact details for your program on the My Program page on the MyNAIT Portal.








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