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Medical Radiation Technology (MRT)

Two side profiles of two people are seen looking at a screen in the medical radiation technology program.

Prepare for an in-demand career in the health-care field as a medical radiation technologist (MRT), combining technical expertise with compassionate patient care to assist physicians in the diagnosis and management of multiple system disorders.

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Home / Learn / Programs List / Medical Radiation Technology (MRT)
Credential
Ontario College Advanced Diploma
Duration
Six semesters
Start Date(s)
September (Fall)
Locations
Belleville
Open to
Domestic Students
CIP Code
51.0911

Find your career

General radiography medical radiation technologists (MRTs) use radiation to produce images of body structures for the diagnosis and treatment of injuries or diseases in a range of health-care settings, including: 

  • Hospitals 
  • Medical imaging clinics 
  • Mobile radiology services  
  • College and university clinics and research centres 

Is it for you?

You may be well suited for a career as an MRT if you: 

  • Have excellent communication skills. 
  • Can maintain a high level of professionalism and confidentiality. 
  • Are empathetic and compassionate. 
  • Enjoy learning and are committed to staying abreast of new technologies and best practices. 
  • Are able to work both independently and as part of a team. 
  • Want a career where you can make a difference. 

Learn more about the requirements to enter the profession by exploring the following resources:

How you'll learn

Please note: The MRT program is delivered on a continuous basis, so you will graduate in less time. You will study for six continuous semesters with no break.

 

Experiential learning

Through a combination of classroom instruction, lab work and placements in various clinical settings, develop technical imaging proficiency as well as communication skills to care for a diverse patient population.

  • Discover how to produce and assess a variety of high-quality diagnostic images using current technologies for image acquisition and processing.
  • Learn how to interpret requests and adapt procedures relative to patient and diagnostic image requirements in both routine and complex clinical cases.
  • Explore strategies for providing quality care to patients during assessment, diagnostic imaging and therapeutic intervention, while incorporating patient advocacy and education.
  • Gain experience setting up, calibrating, operating, troubleshooting and evaluating a variety of complex equipment safely.
  • Learn how to analyze a broad range of diagnostic imaging procedures to assist physicians in the diagnosis and management of multiple system disorders.
  • Develop communication and interpersonal skills for effective interactions with patients, their families and health-care providers.
  • Review radiation and health and safety best practices and how to maintain compliance with relevant legislation, regulations and ethical standards in diagnostic imaging.
  • Gain real-world experience learning in Loyalist College’s state-of-the-art simulation centre and high-tech classroom environments and by completing three clinical placements.
    • Please note: Placements can be anywhere across Ontario and therefore relocation may be required. The college is unable to accommodate requests for placement sites based on preference. Students are responsible for all costs associated with travel and relocation, including parking fees and other transportation-related expenses.

Courses

ANAT1015 Anatomy & Physiology 1

This course introduces students to the study of human anatomy and physiology and is the first of two courses exploring the structure and function of the human body. An integrated and systemic approach will be taken to provide the student with the background concepts to understand pathophysiology. Students will describe the fundamentals of advanced and emerging techniques and procedures. Engaging classroom experiences will address the following topics: basic anatomical concepts and terminology, fundamentals of histology, fluid-electrolyte and acid-base balance, electrophysiology, and the anatomy and physiology of the skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems.

COMM1048 College Writing Skills

This course focuses on writing and research skills required for successful completion of college-level studies. The course will promote development and improvement of research and writing skills that can be applied to students’ chosen programs of study.

INDG1000 Indigenous Perspectives on Health and Wellness

Guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s (TRC) Calls to Action on healthcare, the aim of this course is to share meaningful and culturally appropriate ways to work collaboratively and appropriately with Indigenous populations within healthcare. This course is an educational resource that is designed for healthcare learners. The goal is to provide them with strategies for applying this content in their educational study and future healthcare practices.

MRAD1000 Medical Radiation Sciences 1

This course will introduce students to radiographic imaging and the relationship between electromagnetism and radiation and the factors affecting the quality and quantity of the radiation beam and physical principles affecting image acquisition and quality. Students will be introduced to digital networking and archiving systems and the operation and safe practices of radiographic equipment. Students will learn to assess the integrity of protective devices, equipment and apparel, and respond to facility emergencies involving equipment. This course will also introduce the ALARA principle.

MRAD1001 Patient Management 1

This course introduces the role of the radiographer in complex patient-care scenarios. In this course, students will learn how to take clinical history, prepare, assess and monitor patients, and will perform patient interventions, as appropriate, including the administration of oxygen, assist with suctioning, administering bedpans and urinals, monitoring vital signs, perform CPR, and prepare power injector. Other topics include infection control, best practice standards and legal requirements. Students will also learn how to safely perform patient lifts and transfers, and will apply their knowledge of other imaging and therapeutic modalities to plan imaging procedures using relevant clinical data.

MRAD1008 Professional Relationships

This course is an introduction to the theoretical foundation of professional relationships in healthcare with a focus on self-awareness, caring, interpersonal relationships, communication skills, and conflict management and resolution techniques.

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

ANAT1016 Anatomy & Physiology 2

This course introduces students to the study of human anatomy and physiology and is the second of two courses that explore the function of the human body. An integrated and systemic approach will be taken to provide students with the background concepts to understand pathophysiology. Topics covered will include the anatomy and physiology of the skeletal, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems
Prerequisite: ANAT 1015

MRAD1006 Imaging Quality

Students will learn the process to form and evaluate the quality of diagnostic images and the factors that influence radiographic images, including patient variables, technical exposure, beam geometry, image algorithms and post-acquisition processing.
Prerequisite: ANAT 1015
Co-requisite: MRAD 1005

MRAD1003 Medical Radiation Sciences 2

In this course, students will be introduced to the function and operation of equipment required to perform specialized diagnostic procedures. Students will study design and safety requirements of imaging rooms in the context of applicable standards, and will adapt safety practices according to equipment type. Students will learn and practice monitoring personal radiation exposure and how to respond appropriately. In the lab, students will operate imaging systems and use accessory equipment.
Prerequisite: MRAD 1000

MRAD1004 Pathology 1

This course introduces the correlation between medical imaging and pathological changes in the human body. Students will use medical terminology to describe pathological principles, and relate these to radiographic appearances on medical images. Common pathologies, anomalies, and conditions of the skeletal, gastrointestinal, and urinary systems will be described. Students will recognize examples of radiographic pathologies in patients’ manifestation and clinical presentation and will adapt imaging protocols in response to findings on the image.
Prerequisite: ANAT 1015
Co-requisite: ANAT 1016

MRAD1002 Radiation Biology and Protection

This course will explore the types, sources, and biologic effects of ionizing radiation. Students will learn radiation safety best practices and standards. This course will introduce students to the methods used to limit radiation exposure to patients, public, and workers when administering diagnostic x-rays. Students will learn how to use protective devices, equipment and apparel, and will apply their knowledge of radiation effects and risks, radiation physics, and cross-sectional/relational anatomy and physiology as they relate to clinical procedures.
Prerequisite: ANAT 1015, MRAD 1000
Co-requisite: ANAT 1016

MRAD1007 Radiographic Equipment and Operation 1

This course explores the physics behind x-ray production, radiographic images production, and manipulation of exposure parameters to produce x-ray images in digital and computed radiography systems. Learners will evaluate the quality of radiographic images and adapt the exposure for patient-specific diagnostic results using the ALARA principle. Students will participate in a repeat/reject analysis process, applying their knowledge of principles affecting image quality, and evaluating images for normal results and variants. Students will be expected to recognize common pathologies, anomalies, and conditions related to the neurological, cardiovascular, hematopoietic, and endocrine systems.
Prerequisite: MRAD 1000
Co-requisite: MRAD 1003

MRAD1005 Radiological Protocols 1

In this course, students will learn positioning skills, imaging principles, and best practices standards for patient care. The fundamental principles of patient positioning skills for radiological procedures will allow students to develop and plan procedural variations based on consultation requirements and patient needs. Students will learn imaging procedures for the extremities and respiratory systems, and assess radiological images to identify anatomy and pathology. Students will be required to use proper body mechanics when positioning patients for imaging procedures using anatomical landmarks and knowledge of relational anatomy, and use their knowledge of operational components of imaging systems to optimize images and data.
Prerequisite: ANAT 1015
Co-requisite: ANAT 1016, MRAD 1006

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

MRAD2004 Computed Tomography (CT)

In this course, students learn computed tomography (CT) practices and procedures focusing on CT protocols, data acquisition, image reconstruction, display and manipulation will also be introduced. Learners will explore examinations performed in computed tomography, prepare and administer contrast media, and use sectional anatomy to interpret and correlate anatomy with CT Images.
Prerequisite: MRAD 1003, MRAD 1005, MRAD 1007, MRAD 1000
Co-requisite: MRAD 2005

MRAD2003 Imaging and Quality Management

This course introduces learners to the process and principles of research. Research topics include research in health care, the research process, research paradigms, systematic review, reporting research, and ethics in research. Students will discuss the importance of health care administration, financial concerns in health care, assuring compliance with applicable regulations and the delivery of high-quality patient care.
Prerequisite: MRAD 1006
Co-requisite: MRAD 2005

MRAD2000 Pathology 2

In this course, students will examine pathological principles and relate them to radiographic appearances on various medical images. Common pathologies, anomalies, and conditions of the respiratory and reproductive systems are described and recognized. Students will apply their knowledge of pathophysiology as it relates to clinical principles and general radiography procedures for the skeletal, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary, and reproductive systems.
Prerequisite: MRAD 1004

MRAD2002 Patient Management 2

This course provides a standardized review of all didactic material covered in the academic semesters of the program.
Prerequisite: MRAD 1001

MRAD2006 Professional Leadership

This course facilitates learners’ growing understanding of their professional accountability and responsibilities. Students will gain increasing knowledge and insights into organizational issues related to staffing, workplace, and safe patient care. Leadership skills are enhanced through mentorship opportunities. Students will also learn strategies for self-care for stress management, personal health, and sustainable practice.
Prerequisite: MRAD 1008

MRAD2005 Radiographic Equipment and Operation 2

In this course, students will have the opportunity to explore the design and operation of diagnostic x-ray equipment, radiographic image processing, and accessory equipment. Learners will explore the science behind x-ray energy absorption, manipulation of exposure factors and equipment to deal with the consequences of energy absorption on image quality and patient dose. Students will select and optimize imaging parameters and perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures using fluoroscopy, mammography, computed tomography, bone mineral densitometry, and interventional radiography using the principles of radiation protection and safety.
Prerequisite: MRAD 1007

MRAD2001 Radiological Protocols 2

This course focuses on the principles of patient positioning and technical requirements applied to each radiological protocol. Concepts of anatomical and physiological variances will be applied to clinical examples of radiological methodology for imaging axial skeleton and the digestive and urinary systems. Students will align imaging systems to demonstrate the required anatomical structure(s) and use critical thinking and problem-solving to optimize image quality.
Prerequisite: MRAD 1005

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

WKPL2088 Clinical Placement 1

In this course, students learn computed tomography (CT) practices and procedures focusing on CT protocols, data acquisition, image reconstruction, display and manipulation will also be introduced. Learners will explore examinations performed in computed tomography, prepare and administer contrast media, and use sectional anatomy to interpret and correlate anatomy with CT images.
Prerequisite: MRAD 2000, MRAD 2001, MRAD 2002, MRAD 2003, MRAD 2004, MRAD 2005, MRAD 2006

MRAD2008 Research Principles

This course focuses on the principles and factors that impact image quality, display, archiving and image retrieval, in alignment with provincial and national regulations and standards. Learners will evaluate images for diagnostic quality, including recommendations for corrective measures. Quality control, management and assurance, with respect to equipment and processes will be covered for a variety of imaging modalities. Learners will assess the performance of imaging systems, including radiographic, fluoroscopic, computed tomography, computed radiography, direct radiography, mammography, and bone mineral densitometry, and respond. Students will verify acquired data is accurate and complete, and will ensure accuracy of markers and annotation, and practice evaluating images for artifacts and technical factors and determine if further images are required, as well as post-acquisition processing.

MRAD2007 Theory Review 1

In this course, students will continue to develop their patient management skills, including identification of pharmacological agents used in emergency situations and understanding the role of the radiographer in drug preparation and administration of contrast agencies via appropriate routes, including venipuncture. Students will prepare pharmaceutical agents and apply their knowledge of the effects of pharmaceutical agents. Students will recognize and respond to adverse reactions and practice obtaining IV access, IV insertion, maintenance, and fluid balance. Students will also learn to recognize tubes and lines specifically associated with chest and abdominal imaging, perform rectal tube insertion, and prepare sterile trays.

WKPL3027 Clinical Placement 2

During Clinical Placement II, students progress to supervised independent practice in routine radiographic procedures, and may begin computed tomography (CT) rotations. Students will practise patient care and their image critique skills, and will interact professionally with all members of the health-care team and adhere to the policies and procedures of the placement site.
Prerequisite: WKPL 2088

MRAD3001 Research Study

In this course, learners will apply their developed research skills by selecting a topic, with faculty consultation, with technical and educational applications to medical radiography.

MRAD3000 Theory Review 2

This course provides continued standardized review of all didactic material covered in the academic semesters of the program.

WKPL3028 Clinical Placement 3

During Clinical Placement III, students progress to increasing responsibility and developing competence in progressively more complex techniques and procedures. Students will continue to build their patient care and image critique skills, and adhere to professionalism standards and expectations, policies and procedures of the placement site.
Prerequisite: WKPL 3027

MRAD3002 Comprehensive Exam Preparation

Course description not available

*Courses subject to change.

A medical radiation technology student is wearing blue scrubs and overlooking a patient laid down wearing a green top. Fourteen green graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Admission requirements

Required academic preparation*

OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the C, M  or U level with:*

  • Grade 12 English
  • Grade 12 Mathematics
  • Grade 11 or 12 Physics AND
  • Grade 11 or 12 Biology or Chemistry

*Grades in all required courses must be 65 percent or higher.

 

NOTE: Medical Radiation Technology is a highly competitive program; possession of the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee an offer of admission. 

 

OR

Additional Requirements*

  • Police record check for service with vulnerable sector (PRCSVS)
  • CPR and standard first aid certification
  • Mask fit-tested N-95 equivalent masks
  • Health assessment form and immunization certificate, including Hepatitis B and annual TB test, and annual immunization for influenza
  • WHIMIS and OHSA certification

*While these additional requirements are not mandatory for program entry, they are needed to fully participate in some components of the program (e.g. in clinical placements).

 

Academic upgrading

Are you missing admission requirements? Discover how Career and College Prep at Loyalist can help you get started on your journey.

 

EQual Accreditation Status 

Loyalist’s Medical Radiology Technology (MRT) program is currently undergoing the accreditation process with Accreditation Canada/EQual. As part of this journey, we have attained “Admitted (formerly known as Registered)” status, reflecting our unwavering dedication to aligning our educational standards with the rigorous criteria set by accreditation and regulatory bodies. This “Admitted” status is a testament to our commitment to providing top-tier education.

 

It is important to clarify that while “Admitted” status highlights our pursuit of accreditation, it is not tantamount to accreditation itself, nor does it assure its eventual attainment. If you are curious about our “Admitted (formerly known as Registered)” accreditation status, its potential implications on your future practice as a health care professional, or if you require further details, please review the Accreditation Canada resource or reach out to Medical Radiation Technology (MRT) Program Coordinator Erin Brown at erbrown@loyalistcollege.com.

 

You can monitor our accreditation status through the Accreditation Canada Website.

Graduation requirements

To advance to graduation, students must:

  • Successfully complete all required credits by:
    • receiving transfer credit recognition; or
    • achieving a grade of “pass” or 50 percent or above in all required credit courses
  • Complete all required clinical placement hours
  • Achieve an overall average grade point average (GPA) of 60 percent across all completed courses

Costs

Approximate costs (2024 – 25) 

  • Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367 
  • Total: $4,089.08 

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during clinical placements, etc.   

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies. 

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