MRI Curriculum

Graduate Certificate in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
The following is effective fall 2021 and is subject to change 

Semester 1
MRFO110: Foundations of MRI I

The objective of this course is to introduce students to the foundational components of MRI.

In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of MR physics and safety. Topics covered include theory and application of MR physics; instrumentation; image formation and analysis; MR safety and patient care in the MRI environment; and ethical practices related to the profession.

This course will be delivered online (synchronous and asynchronous) using a combination of lectures, independent readings, discussion forums and seminars.

Semester 2
MRFO120: Foundations of MRI II

Implementing foundational principles from MRFO110: Foundations of MRI I, students will be introduced to the fundamental principles of anatomy, physiology, pathology and methodology in MRI.  Students will gain the ability to identify structures in all imaging planes.  Students will learn to recognize the importance of neighboring anatomy/structure to ensure appropriate scanning coverage in an MRI exam. Students will gain the ability to identify and recognize common MRI pathologies. Students will gain knowledge of imaging procedures including protocols, image quality and parameter manipulation.  Students will learn the theory of RF coil and pulse sequence selection, optimization of sequences for various patient and pathologic circumstances, and theories in advanced imaging techniques.

In this course, the following topics / body systems / anatomical regions / imaging procedures will be covered:  neurology (head, neck and spine) and musculoskeletal system; advanced imaging procedures for diffusion tensor imaging; functional MRI; interventional procedures; molecular imaging; MR microscopy; perfusion imaging and spectroscopy; venipuncture.

This course will be delivered online (synchronous and asynchronous) using a combination of lectures, independent readings, discussion forums and seminars.

Pre-requisite: Successful completion of MRFO110

Semester 3
MRFO130: Foundations of MRI III

Building on the foundational principles introduced in MRFO120: Foundations of MRI II, students will continue to develop their skills in the fundamental principles of anatomy, physiology, pathology and methodology in MRI.  Students will gain the ability to identify structures in all imaging planes.  Students will learn to recognize the importance of neighboring anatomy/structure to ensure appropriate scanning coverage in an MRI exam. Students will gain the ability to identify and recognize common MRI pathologies. Students will gain knowledge of imaging procedures including protocols, image quality and parameter manipulation.  Students will learn the theory of RF coil and pulse sequence selection, optimization of sequences for various patient and pathologic circumstances, and theories in advanced imaging techniques.

In this course, the following topics / body systems / anatomical regions will be covered:  abdomen; female pelvis; male pelvis; breast; thorax; advanced imaging procedures for the cardiac system; lung; MR guided focused ultrasound treatment.

This course will be delivered online (synchronous and asynchronous) using a combination of lectures, independent readings, discussion forums and seminars.

Pre-requisite: Successful completion of MRFO120

Semester 4
CLMR251: Clinical Practicum

This 15-week course is designed to offer the student the opportunity to apply the acquired didactic knowledge learned during the theoretical portion of the MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) program. The student will successfully demonstrate and perform a variety of MRI procedures. Students are required to attend the first week at the Michener Institute campus (in-person and online) for clinical readiness, during which students will be prepared for clinical by reviewing MRI physics, methodology, anatomy, and patient care.

Clinical readiness/ simulation week – online and onsite components, first week of course (mandatory)

Clinical practicum commences in the second week of the course at assigned individual clinical sites.

Pre-requisite: Successful completion of all didactic courses