Top MRI Schools in California (2026)
Side-by-side look at California MRI programs - accreditation, credential pathway, cost, program length, and clinical access.
MRI Schools in California
Casa Loma College
📍 15301 Ventura Blvd, Suite D-100, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
📞 (800) 270-5052
www.casalomacollege.eduCalifornia Career Institute
AAS in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (AASMRI)
📍 Anaheim Campus: 1240 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806
📍 Hawthorne Campus: South Bay / Los Angeles area
📞 (714) 539-5959
🌙 Evening classes available
🎓 AAS Degree program
www.calinstitute.edu View MRI Program →CBD College
AAS in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
📍 3699 Wilshire Blvd, 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010
📞 (213) 427-2200
🎓 AAS Degree program
www.cbd.edu View MRI Program →CNI College
📍 1610 E. Saint Andrew Place, Suite 200, Santa Ana, CA 92705
📞 (800) 455-4700
www.cnicollege.eduGurnick Academy of Medical Arts
📍 1641 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95112 (Van Nuys campus also available)
📞 (877) 487-6425
www.gurnick.eduSmith Chason College
📍 3580 Wilshire Blvd, 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010
📞 (310) 289-5123
www.smithchason.eduHow We Scored This Comparison
This comparison uses our 8-criteria methodology: accreditation, credential pathway, program length, cost, clinical placement, student support, location, and admissions transparency. Each school is evaluated identically regardless of compensation arrangements.
Where a school's data could not be independently verified, we mark it rather than publishing an unconfirmed number. We recommend confirming all details directly with each school's admissions team before making any enrollment decision.
FAQ
How do I evaluate an MRI school in California?
Start by verifying the program's accreditation status directly with the accrediting body - not just what the school tells you. Then ask for first-time ARMRIT or ARRT exam pass rates; any program that won't share this number is a red flag. Confirm exactly where clinical rotations take place and get the addresses. Finally, request the full total cost disclosure - tuition, fees, books, uniforms, and exam fees - and compare programs on total cost of attendance, not just advertised tuition.
Do California MRI programs require a prior degree?
It depends on the certification pathway. Programs following the ARMRIT pathway do not require a prior college degree - a high school diploma and prerequisite coursework are typically sufficient, making ARMRIT the most accessible route for career changers. Programs that prepare graduates for the ARRT MRI post-primary exam, however, require an existing ARRT primary credential (such as radiologic technology), which itself typically requires an associate degree. Confirm which pathway and prerequisites apply before enrolling in any California MRI program.
How does ARMRIT compare to ARRT for California employers?
Both ARMRIT and ARRT MRI credentials are accepted by California employers and recognized by CDPH for state licensing. Some large hospital systems may have preferences - ask your target employer specifically if you're concerned. For most California imaging jobs, both credentials are acceptable. See certification guide →
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