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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

This course introduces students to Indigenous perspectives on health and wellness, highlighting how they differ from the biomedical model. It contextualizes Indigenous health disparities by examining both historical and contemporary socio-political issues resulting from colonization. The course explores the determinants of Indigenous Peoples’ health in Canada, with a focus on the challenges presented by the Canadian healthcare system. This course equips students with the skills to integrate a holistic understanding of health and wellness that aligns with Indigenous perspectives into their professional practice and contribute to reconciliation efforts.

MRAD1000 Medical Radiation Sciences 1

Students explore 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 investigate digital networking and archiving systems and the operation and safe practices of radiographic equipment. Students assess the ALARA principle. Students examine the integrity of protective devices, equipment and apparel, and responses to facility emergencies involving equipment.

MRAD1001 Patient Management 1

This course equips students with the practical skills and knowledge needed for the role of a medical radiation technologist in real-world patient-care situations. They learn how to gather clinical history, prepare patients, and carry out interventions. Additionally, students become competent in tasks such as administering oxygen, assisting with suctioning, and monitoring vital signs, and engaging in CPR. They also demonstrate infection control techniques, adherence to best practices, and compliance with legal requirements. Furthermore, students learn safe patient handling techniques and apply their understanding of various imaging and therapeutic methods to plan procedures based on clinical data.

MRAD1008 Professional Relationships

Students learn the comprehensive examination of professional relationships in healthcare, focusing on the foundational principles essential for Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) in Canada. They analyze legal and regulatory requirements, learning to adhere to professional standards and ethical practices. Exploring the roles and responsibilities of MRTs within interprofessional teams, they hone decision-making and communication skills crucial for effective practice. Additionally, the course emphasizes self-reflection to promote personal health and wellness, as well as conflict management techniques for navigating diverse perspectives. Finally, students gain insight into the Canadian healthcare system and emerging technological developments relevant to their field.

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 how to analyze radiographic images for optimal image quality. Building on foundational knowledge from Radiological Protocols I, students will apply critical thinking to critique radiographic images of the appendicular skeleton, determine if images meet optimal diagnostic parameters, and describe how to verify or enhance the quality of those images. Students will learn how to determine if further images are required and how to correct positioning or acquisition errors to meet the diagnostic acceptability of images in preparation for the clinical setting. 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 related to perform specialized diagnostic procedures. Students will study safety and design requirements of imaging rooms in the context of applicable standards and will adapt safety procedures 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 students to the correlation between medical imaging and pathological changes in the human body. Students study common pathologies, anomalies, and conditions of the skeletal, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems. Students learn to identify examples of radiographic pathologies through image analysis. Subsequent adjustments to image acquisition parameters and patient care approaches are discussed. Prerequisite: ANAT 1015 Co-requisite: ANAT 1016

MRAD1002 Radiation Biology and Protection

Students explore the types, sources, and biologic effects of ionizing radiation. Students learn radiation safety best practices and standards. Students are introduced to the methods used to limit radiation exposure to patients, public, and workers when administering diagnostic x-rays. Students learn how to use protective devices, equipment, and apparel, and practice applying 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 image 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. Students will be introduced to the function and operation of equipment related to performing specialized diagnostic procedures. Students will study safety and design requirements of imaging rooms in the context of applicable standards, and will adapt safety procedures 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 Co-requisite: MRAD 1003

MRAD1005 Radiological Protocols 1

Students will learn positioning skills, imaging principles, and best practice 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 appendicular skeleton. 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)

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of computed tomography (CT). Students will explore CT protocols, data acquisition methods, image reconstruction processes, and techniques for optimized imaging. Students will carry out an in-depth study of examinations commonly performed in CT, with a focus on anatomy, patient preparation, positioning, and proper procedure, including post-processing. Students will apply radiation safety principles and ensure compliance with routine QA/QC as per Safety Code 35. Students will also develop skills in preparing and administering contrast media, including intravenous (IV) cannulation. Students will apply their knowledge of sectional anatomy to interpret and correlate anatomical structures with CT images. Students will be prepared to perform CT examinations within the clinical setting. Prerequisite: MRAD 1003, MRAD 1005, MRAD 1007, MRAD 1000 Co-requisite: MRAD 2005

MRAD2003 Imaging and Quality Management

This course focuses on the principles and factors that affect image quality and display as well as safe image acquisition, in alignment with provincial and national regulations and standards. Learners will evaluate equipment performance by performing various tests and creating 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. Prerequisite: MRAD 1006 Co-requisite: MRAD 2005

MRAD2000 Pathology 2

This course builds on concepts discussed in Pathology 1. Students study common pathologies, anomalies, and conditions of the gastrointestinal, urinary, reproductive, neurological, hematopoietic, and endocrine systems. Students learn to identify examples of radiographic pathologies through image analysis. Subsequent adjustments to image acquisition parameters and patient care approaches are discussed. Prerequisite: MRAD 1004

MRAD2002 Patient Management 2

This course is a continuation of Patient Management 1. Students continue to be equipped with knowledge and skills pertaining to patient care skills while identifying, handling, and administering pharmaceutical and contrast agents needed in the role of an MRT. Students explicitly learn how to administer contrast agents like Barium sulphate for fluoroscopic studies. Students learn and practice how to access a vein using an IV insertion set, IV maintenance and fluid balance. Students learn how to administer contract agent for CT application and how to respond to adverse reactions. Students also learn how to set up a sterile tray used for interventional studies, how to assist the radiologist in contrast-enhanced joint studies and learn how to insert a rectal tube needed in performing a gastrointestinal contrast study. Students will also learn proper patient care procedures when performing bedside radiography, such as mobile imaging, imaging in the operating room and imaging in intensive care units. Furthermore, students learn safe patient handling in emergency situations related to contrast agent administration, how to appropriately respond and how to prevent such incidents by preparing anti-allergic agents and proper clinical history taking. Prerequisite: MRAD 1001

MRAD2006 Professional Leadership

In this course, students build on skills acquired in previous courses to apply theoretical knowledge and skills to prepare them to be MRT leaders and team members who enhance patient safety and workflow efficiency in the healthcare system. They develop capabilities in leadership, quality improvement, professional advocacy, and mentorship in the field of medical radiation technology. Students learn effective strategies for disseminating knowledge, implementing evidence-informed practice, and applying communication techniques to educate stakeholders. They also engage in self-reflection to assess their leadership strengths and areas for growth and continuous improvement. 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 creation and 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 for diagnostic radiography using the principles of radiation protection and safety. Students will learn both the instrumentation and physics behind other modalities, to include interventional, mammography, sonography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance imaging, and tomography. Prerequisite: MRAD 1007

MRAD2001 Radiological Protocols 2

This course expands on concepts taught in Radiological Protocols 1. Students continue to learn the fundamental principles of patient positioning skills for radiological procedures, allowing them to develop and plan procedural variations based on clinical history and patient needs. In this course, students learn core imaging procedures for the axial skeleton, chest, and abdomen, and critique radiological images to identify areas of procedure success and improvement. Students are required to use proper body mechanics when positioning patients for imaging procedures. Students will practice obtaining consent and maintaining patient privacy/confidentiality. Students will use their knowledge of anatomical landmarks, relational anatomy, and operational/technical components of imaging systems to optimize images and data. Prerequisite: MRAD 1005

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

WKPL2088 Clinical Placement 1

During Clinical Placement 1, students apply their acquired skills and knowledge of imaging procedures and protocols in a clinical environment. Students will advance to more complicated procedures under the supervision of a site clinical educator or preceptor, including performing procedures in operating room and mobile (point of care) environments. Prerequisite: MRAD 2000, MRAD 2001, MRAD 2002, MRAD 2003, MRAD 2004, MRAD 2005, MRAD 2006

MRAD2008 Research Principles

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.

MRAD2007 Theory Review 1

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

WKPL3027 Clinical Placement 2

During Clinical Placement 2, students progress to supervised independent practice in routine radiographic procedures and will continue with computed tomography (CT) rotations. Students will practice 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 3, 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

Students will consolidate their knowledge of the core theory and professional competencies/requirements in the Medical Radiation Technology program in preparation for the comprehensive certifying examination.

*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 (2025 – 26, two semesters at full-time student status)* 

  • Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees: $1,595.26
  • Total: $4,317.34

Additional student-purchased costs may include textbooks, supplies, software, and other resources. Additional expenses related to off-campus experiential learning activities may also be incurred.

 

*All fees are subject to change. Fees for programs shorter or longer than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. In addition to the costs listed above, some programs also have program ancillary fees based on their specific requirements. For a detailed breakdown of tuition and ancillary fees – including any program-specific charges – please visit the Tuition and fee schedule 2025–26.

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