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Introducing the Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance Credential

A New Pathway to Safer, Smarter, and More Supportive MR Care  

ARRT is proud to introduce our newest credential: Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance, I.A.(MR)(ARRT). This new credential is designed to support Registered Technologists (R.T.s) in the MR environment. Imaging assistants will play a vital role in:  

  • MR Level 2 safety  
  • Patient care  
  • Positioning  
  • Assisting with contrast administration  

Imaging Assistants, Magnetic Resonance won’t perform imaging or scanning, but this role will enhance patient safety, improve workflow, and support technologists in delivering high-quality care.  

Why Did ARRT Create the Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance Credential? 

The health care landscape is evolving—and so are the needs of imaging teams. As MRI scanning services continue to expand rapidly, the demand for trained on-site assistants has become increasingly urgent. Teleradiology and remote scanning capabilities are reshaping health care delivery, making it more essential than ever to have qualified assistants who support patient safety.  

ARRT developed the Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance credential to:  

  • Support patient safety  
  • Expand educational opportunities for those entering the field  
  • Address workforce shortages by creating a new entry point into medical imaging  

This initiative aligns with ARRT’s vision: exceptional patient care, provided by qualified professionals.  

Interested in learning more? 

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What Makes the Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance Credential Unique?  

All ARRT’s credentials are built on a foundation of rigorous standards, ethics, and safety:  

  • Developed through a practice analysis with MR technologists, managers, and radiologists  
  • Backed by 100+ years of ARRT credibility  
  • Designed to meet consistent national standards  
  • Includes required ethics education to promote high standards of professional integrity 

ARRT credentials are nationally recognized, reinforcing public confidence. 

How to Earn an Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance Credential 

Eligibility Requirements  

To apply, candidates must:  

  • Be 18+ years old with a high school diploma or GED  
  • Meet ARRT’s ethics requirements  
  • Complete structured continuing education (CE) and clinical tasks  
  • Be verified by an ARRT certified and registered technologist (in-person or via live video)  
  • Finish all requirements within 24 months of applying  
  • The credential is renewable annually with 10 credits of required, discipline-specific continuing education due every two years.  

Review the I.A.(MR) discipline documents

  • Clinical Competency Requirements
  • Examination Content Specifications
  • Task Inventory
  • Structured Education Requirements

    • What are the Career Benefits of Becoming an Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance?

    Earning this credential offers:  

    • Professional recognition in a growing field  
    • Job readiness with less on-the-job training required  
    • Increased earning potential  
    • Career advancement toward roles like MRI technologist  

    How Will the Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance Support R.T.s? 

    The Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance will support R.T.s, not replace them. We understand that change can raise concerns. Here’s what R.T.s should know:  

    • Imaging assistants do not perform imaging or scanning  
    • Imaging assistants free up R.T.s to focus on complex imaging tasks  
    • Imaging assistants help reduce errors and improve patient care, which will contribute to building safer, more efficient teams  

    Why Qualified Individuals Matter  

    Patient Safety

    Credentialed assistants reduce risk in MR environments  

    Quality Care

    Trained professionals support better outcomes  

    Trust

    ARRT credentials are recognized and respected nationwide  

    What’s Next?  

    The Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance examination will be available in Fall 2026. Continuing education sponsors will soon have offerings to help candidates complete their structured education requirement as they prepare to take the exam.  

    We’ll keep this page updated with the latest developments. You can also Join our I.A.(MR) mailing list to stay up to date!

    Last updated: July 28, 2025