Yes, you can complete MRI technologist training while working full-time.
Tesla MR Institute’s ARMRIT-accredited program takes 12–18 months: Phases 1
and 2 are online (about 5 then 10 hours a week), and Phase 3 is 20+ hours a
week at a clinical site, with at least 16 OJT hours a week once clinicals start.
Tesla does not guarantee a clinical site or a job.
12–18 months
Online coursework
334+ clinical sites
Oct 1st cohort fully booked · Apply to see next monthly opening
Yes. Most Tesla MR students keep a job through the online phases and adjust
hours during clinicals. Tuition is $11,500 upfront, $12,500 quarterly, or
$13,400 monthly, each with a $2,000 deposit counted toward that total.
MRI technologists earned a national median of $88,180 according to
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024, SOC 29-2035.
The downside is Phase 3: you have to be at a real scanner about 20+ hours a
week, and the OJT floor once clinicals start is at least 16 hours a week.
Tesla lists 334+ partner sites across 38 states and helps match you,
but a site within an easy drive is not promised, and FAFSA does not apply
because Tesla is non-Title-IV.
Tell us what kind of work you do today. We will show you the most relevant
path and a real student who started from a similar place.
One tap. No contact details.
Where do you work right now?
Your most relevant route
“I chose Tesla MR because I could not afford 60k for college. I enjoyed feeling free to go at my own pace. Still finished in 1 year.”
Halia S.Career Changer to MRI Technologist
12 months+$30k pay
“I chose Tesla due to the flexibility and support offered during the training, while being able to work full-time.”
Carlee R.Full-Time Worker to MRI Technologist
15 months+$40k pay
“As a single mother who works full-time, I thought going back to school was not an option. The flexible class options fit my busy schedule.”
Amelia P.Medical Assistant to MRI Technologist
16 months+$10k pay
“A fast track into my career goal without having to do an X-ray program. Tesla granted me a healthy work-student balance with classes 100% online.”
Adriane G.Healthcare Worker to MRI Technologist
14 months+$30k pay
“Being a self-paced program, I was able to complete my modules on my own time that worked with my work schedule. I completed the program in 13 months.”
You keep moving forward without putting your income, family, or current
career on pause.
01
Start directly in MRI
Skip the unrelated X-ray degree.
Train toward ARMRIT certification without spending two extra years on
a radiography credential you do not need.
Direct entry02
Learn on your schedule
Complete the academic phases online.
Phase 1 takes roughly 5 hours a week and Phase 2 roughly 10. Study
before work, after shifts, or on weekends.
5–10 hrs / week03
Train in the real world
Build clinical skill at an imaging site.
Complete hands-on training with real patients. Tesla lists 334+
clinical sites across 38 states and helps match you; placement
depends on capacity near you.
20+ hrs / week; 16 OJT floor04
Finish credentialed
Step into your MRI career.
Graduate, pass the registry exam, and become a Registered MRI
Technologist through ARMRIT.
12–18 months total
Built for the life you have now.
Online coursework, local clinical training, and support from enrollment
through the registry exam.
Takes 1 minute. We'll email you next steps within 24 hours.
Oct 1st cohort fully booked · Apply to see next monthly opening
Interest Form
1 minute left
Minimum requirements
Authorized to work in the United States
Currently residing in the United States
At least 18 years of age
High school degree or GED
Reliable internet access
Meet basic job requirements*
College degree not required
Job requirements are defined by the MRI Technology field (not Tesla MR) and include
(1) no implants that would prevent you from entering a strong magnetic field,
(2) ability to lift 30 lbs, (3) sufficient English proficiency,
(4) a clean background check, and (5) proof of immunization.
See our full admissions requirements.
* By checking this box you agree to receive recurring informational and support text messages from Tesla MR at the phone number provided. Consent isn't required to enroll. Msg frequency varies; msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. See our Privacy Policy and Terms.
Student Testimonials
Start your own story today
Listen to our very own graduates
Isaiah G.
Dallas, Texas
Tesla MRI was a way into the medical field I never would've thought possible. I started as a patient transporter and heard about this program from an MRI tech. They really listen and try to teach you. I would tell future students to believe in yourself.
Autumn S.
Evans City, Pennsylvania
Earnings:+$30k Increase
There was a program out there made for people like me. Being a self-paced program, I was able to complete my modules on my own time that worked with my work schedule. I completed the program in 13 months and took my registry exam 1 month after I graduated.
Usman K.
Woodbridge, Virginia
Earnings:+$35k Increase
The program combined theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The hands-on training allowed me to gain valuable experience. The faculty's personalized guidance made a significant impact. I felt well-equipped to handle various scenarios.
Amelia P.
Watauga, Texas
Earnings:+$10k Increase
As a single mother who works full-time, I thought going back to school wasn't an option. The program exceeded my expectations. The flexible class options fit my busy schedule. Tesla is a great option for anyone and any age!
Halia S.
Newark, Delaware
Earnings:+$30k Increase
I chose Tesla MR because I could not afford 60k for college. This program exceeded my expectations by offering more support than I could imagine. I enjoyed feeling free to go at my own pace. Still finished in 1 year. Keep studying throughout clinicals, it helps more than you realize.
Adriane G.
Baltimore, Maryland
Earnings:+$30k Increase
A fast track into my career goal without having to do an X-ray program. Tesla granted me a healthy work-student balance with classes 100% online. The payment plan was realistic without loans. Get ready for the WOW in your future!
Carlee R.
Mauldin, South Carolina
Earnings:+$40k Increase
I chose Tesla due to the flexibility and support offered during the training, while being able to work full-time. The program exceeded my expectations by breaking down each subject clearly. The instructors are willing to work with you and mold to your learning style until it "clicks".
Yes. Most Tesla MR students keep working. Phase 1 is about 5 hours per week of online study and Phase 2 about 10 hours per week, both self-paced. Phase 3 is in-person clinical training at about 20+ hours per week, closer to a part-time job. Once clinicals start, the OJT floor is at least 16 hours a week. Students commonly shift those hours around existing work. This will not work if you cannot be on a scanner during operating hours for several months.
Do I need to be an X-ray tech first?
No. Traditional routes ask you to earn a radiography degree and ARRT credential before you specialize in MRI. Tesla MR Institute trains directly toward ARMRIT certification. You do not need an X-ray license or a college degree.
What if I already work at an imaging facility?
That is the strongest starting point. If your employer can host your clinical hours, you skip the hardest logistics in the program and can earn a $500 clinical-site credit after your first logged OJT hour. Tell us about your site on the form so the clinical team can confirm whether it qualifies. Hosting is not automatic.
What if I do not have a site?
Most applicants do not. Tesla MR Institute lists 334+ clinical partner sites across 38 states on its clinical-sites page and works to match students within a reasonable drive. Placement depends on current capacity in your area. Tesla does not guarantee a clinical site or a job.
How long does the whole program take?
Typically 12 to 18 months. ARMRIT requires a minimum of 12 months of training, so no accredited Tesla route is shorter than that.
How much does Tesla MR cost if I am working?
Tuition is $11,500 if you pay upfront, $12,500 on the quarterly plan, or $13,400 on the monthly plan. Each plan starts with a $2,000 deposit counted toward that total. Tesla is a non-Title-IV school, so FAFSA does not apply. Tesla is not currently approved for GI Bill or VA education benefits.
What credential do I finish with?
After completing the program and passing the registry exam you are a Registered MRI Technologist through ARMRIT. Employer acceptance is wide but not universal; some hospital systems still post ARRT-only MRI jobs. Check local listings before you enroll.
