A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus and method for micro-imaging is provided. The apparatus comprises an MRI system having a gradient coil positioned within a bore of a magnet that impresses a polarizing magnetic field. The apparatus also includes an RF transceiver system, having an RF switch controlled by a pulse module, to transmit RF signals to an RF coil. Upon selection of a micro-imaging scan, a computer activates a micro-imaging gradient coil positioned within the bore of the magnet. The micro-imaging gradient coils are assembled such that, upon energization, substantially linear magnetic field gradients are created along three axes in a localized FOV adjacent to the micro-imaging gradient coils.