Magnetic Resonance Imaging 1st Discipline

Diploma

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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. The Magnetic Resonance Program offers five (5) semesters of hands-on learning experience along with simulation to prepare students for a rewarding career working alongside physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals. Utilizing state-of-the-art MRI simulation software, an MRI extremity scanner, IV arms, and other industry-standard tools, students practice and simulate real-life MRI scanning exams and image analysis.

In the MRI program, courses are delivered through a mixture of face-to-face and virtual classes, on and off-campus lab sessions, clinical practicum training and online study. Students will learn in a variety of clinical settings, from busy trauma centres to outpatient clinics across Alberta and Saskatchewan.

After graduation, students are eligible to write the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) and/or 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).

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.

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
Sep. 02, 2025 (Fall) Hybrid Weekdays - Daytime Main 2 Years (Full-time) Closed 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 training

Our 20-month program consists of full-time academic studies and practicum experience at participating sites throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan.

You will be expected to experience all shifts in the MRI departments, including weekends and evenings when applicable. You’ll attend on-campus and virtual classes on a full-time basis at NAIT before spending your clinical practicum at one or more facilities to get optimal exposure to MRI procedures.

You can expect to spend on average: 

  • 27 hours per week in class
  • 10 - 20 hours per week studying 
MRI student

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.

Open Studies Pathway

You now have an additional pathway to the School of Health and Life Sciences at NAIT. Complete one or more select Open Studies courses to be guaranteed a program entrance interview.

A new frontier in hands-on health-care training

CAE Healthcare and NAIT have entered a simulation research partnership to improve health-care education and patient safety, including support for the polytechnic's simulation research initiatives.

Pushing the limits of simulation training

NAIT's Simulation Centre re-creates the real world of health-care careers

Keeping it Real

From practicing on high-fidelity manikins to learning on the latest software, watch how NAIT students practice the best patient care.

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: Due to the length of the clinical, this program does not meet the criteria of a study permit.
  • Co-Op Work Permit: 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 does not qualify for a study permit 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.

International Applicants

Career Outcomes

After graduation, students are eligible to write the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) and/or 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).

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 45 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 | NAIT.

Immunization Requirements: Students are required to be immunized against vaccine-preventable diseases, as determined by the Alberta Health. After acceptance into the program, students will be given further information on 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 progress in the program.

Police Information 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.

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 comprised of three consecutive 15-week clinical courses. Students will rotate through various clinical environments in their assigned city or province, from hospitals to outpatient clinics, 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. Students will spend most of their clinical training year in one city but may be required to rotate to another location for shorter rotations to experience different training environments and exposure to unique patient exams. Clinical placement sites are located throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan. However, Saskatchewan residents will be prioritized for WIL placements in Saskatchewan. All costs associated with relocation for WIL placements are the student's responsibility.

Contact

If you have any questions about the placement(s) for this program, please contact MRI 1st 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

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

Tuition & Fees

This content is specific to the selected Sep 02, 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: $165.00

View international tuition for upcoming intakes

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

Books, Supplies & Program Fees (est.)

Level 1 Term 1: $2,049
Level 1 Term 2: $79
Level 1 Term 3: $48
Level 2 Term 1: $165
Level 2 Term 2: $45


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 Sep 02, 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.

  • 75% in each of:

    • Grade 12 Language Arts (English 30-2)
    • Grade 12 Mathematics (Math 30-2)
    • Grade 12 Biology (Biology 30)
    • Grade 12 Physics (Physics 30)
  • Proof of English Language Proficiency

  • Online Interview - See Competitive Entrance Requirements for details.

  • Medical Terminology: Completion of NAIT ITMS100 - Medical Terminology with a minimum final grade of 60% within the last 5 years. Limited Alberta only post-secondary Medical Terminology courses that are 1 or more credits and completed within 5 years of the application deadline with a final grade of 60% or greater may be considered for equivalency. Applicants must submit proof of meeting this requirement by July 31st. Early registration in the course is encouraged to ensure sufficient time to complete the course prior to the due date.

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology: Completion of NAIT ANPH100 Anatomy and Physiology with a minimum final grade of 60% within the last 5 years. Limited Alberta only post-secondary Human Anatomy and Physiology courses that are 3 or more credits and completed within 5 years of the application deadline with a final grade of 60% or greater may be considered for equivalency. Applicants must submit proof of meeting this requirement by July 31st. Early registration in the course is encouraged to ensure sufficient time to complete the course prior to the due date.

Seats in this program are reserved for applicants currently residing in Saskatchewan via an interprovincial health training agreement. Limited space is available, and applicants are encouraged to submit an applications as early as possible.

  • NOTE: Applicants admitted through an interprovincial health agreement may have Human Anatomy & Physiology along with Medical Terminology requirements completed in their home province submitted to NAIT for consideration. All other applicants must follow guidelines on Anatomy & Physiology, along with Medical Terminology as outlined in the “minimum entrance requirements” above.

Competitive entrance requirements

 

Admission for this program is not guaranteed by only meeting the minimum requirements, as the program has competitive entrance and/or an interview process. Learn more about competitive entrance or program interviews.

Applicants who meet the program’s minimum entrance requirements and submit all required documents will be invited to a program interview. After the interview, applicants with the highest interview score will be admitted first. Approximately 4 months after applications open, if additional seats are available, varying interview scores may be considered. The scores required for admission can vary by program and intake.

  • The 1st round of interviews is expected to occur mid October. The timing of your invitations will be based on when your completed application was submitted.

More information about the program interview process can be found on the program interview page.

Due to the high volume of interviews in the School of Health and Life Sciences, the program(s) is unable to provide applicants with feedback on their interview submissions.

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:

For the 2024-25 academic year, NAIT has partnered with Verified by Synergy Gateway Inc. to provide support and clearance for the School of Health and Life Sciences clinical placement requirements. The Synergy Gateway platform allows you to digitally upload the documentation for your program and practicum requirements.

The program will contact you with specific instructions and information for completing the immunization requirements. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all the necessary documents are obtained and submitted to Verified by the deadlines provided by the program.

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.

Any associated fees for Verified by Synergy Gateway Inc. to complete the pre-placement requirements are the sole responsibility of the student.

  • Police Check – School of Health and Life Science:

For the 2024-25 academic year, NAIT has partnered with Verified by Synergy Gateway Inc. to provide support and clearance for the School of Health and Life Sciences clinical placement requirements. The Synergy Gateway platform allows you to digitally upload the documentation for your program and practicum requirements.

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 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.

It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all the necessary documents are obtained and submitted to Verified by the deadlines provided by the program. Any associated fees for Verified by Synergy Gateway Inc. to complete the pre-placement requirements are the sole responsibility of the student.

The following activities are encouraged to ensure an understanding of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging program and profession:

  • Review of Program Website
  • Open House
  • Program Preview
  • Clinical Site Tours
  • MRI Career Investigation

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 | NAIT.

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:

Once the program is full

 
Domestic
Applications Open:

Oct 01, 2024
 
Application Deadline:
Once the program is full
 
Term Start Date:
Sep 02, 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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