Staff report
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that overall employment of radiologic and MRI technologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 16,000 openings for radiologic and MRI technologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retirement.
Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging examinations on patients. MRI technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create diagnostic images. Radiologic and MRI technologists work in healthcare facilities, and more than half work in hospitals. Most radiologic and MRI technologists work full time.
Radiologic technologists and MRI technologists typically need an associate’s degree. MRI technologists also typically need several years of related work experience. Most states require radiologic technologists to be licensed or certified, but few states require licensure for MRI technologists. Regardless of state requirements, employers typically require or prefer to hire technologists who are certified.
Grand View Research reports that the global online radiology education platforms market size was estimated at $2.15 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.72% from 2025 to 2030.
This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for specialized training, technological advancements, flexible and accessible learning options, and the growing emphasis on continuous professional development. In addition, market players are collaborating with universities to provide online learning platforms to enhance the knowledge and skills of radiologists. For instance, in January 2023, King Saud University and DetectedX announced a joint project to improve radiologic image quality assessment. The collaboration explored the impact of an interactive and innovative self-assessment platform accessible all the time to clinicians and students worldwide.
Grad View Research adds that, “The increasing demand for flexible learning options is a primary driver, as online platforms offer unparalleled convenience for healthcare professionals with busy schedules. These platforms enable radiologists to access expert-led case reviews and lectures in short, accessible videos, allowing them to master new subspecialties or improve their reading skills in minutes each day from any location. Modern platforms combine multiple learning modalities, such as virtual reality simulations, 3D anatomical models, real-time case studies, interactive assessment tools, and peer collaboration features, catering to different learning styles and preferences.”
The report also states that technological advancements in education delivery are vital, with AI playing a transformative role in radiology education and practice. AI tools create new opportunities for learning, diagnostics, and patient communication. Emerging generative AI techniques summarize complex medical records, generate radiology reports from images, and simplify explanations of reports for patients in clear terms.
The rising need for specialized medical training is another significant driver, as rapid technological advancements and the increasing complexity of clinical cases demand that radiologists stay updated with the latest knowledge and skills. The online environment supports digital upskilling and continuous learning as technology advances. The global expansion of online radiology education reflects varying levels of healthcare infrastructure development and digital transformation across regions.
MarketsandMarkets reports that “The global diagnostic imaging services market size is projected to reach $702.6 billion by 2027, at a CAGR of 5.1%. Major factors such as high chronic diseases coupled with growing geriatric patient population, increasing awareness about the different imaging procedures, rapid expansion of new imaging diagnostic centers with state-of-the art imaging technologies are playing major fueling the diagnostic imaging services market growth during the forecast period.”
The growth in these markets is an indicator that the imaging service and repair training market will also see growth in coming years.
