Ultrasound technician programs prepare students for careers in diagnostic medical sonography. Graduates use ultrasound technology to work with patients. They work in outpatient and in-patient settings.
Ultrasound technician programs may convey a certificate or an associate degree. Applicants need a high school or GED diploma. Coursework covers topics such as biology, anatomy, and applied sciences. Learners complete a clinical experience in a medical setting.
Read on for information about ultrasound tech programs, including costs and salary potential.
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Top Ultrasound Technician Programs
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#1 Best Ultrasound Tech Schools and Programs
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences
Lancaster, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences provides flexible online study opportunities for distance learners from all walks of life.
The associate in diagnostic medical sonography is an attractive option for students seeking college-level study to prepare for ultrasound technician careers. students complete industry-specific classes, gaining necessary knowledge and skills. Based on their career interests, students can choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
Learners in the medical sonography program join a supportive virtual learning community upon enrolling. Students have the option to collaborate with faculty members on research projects or pursue internships relevant to the field. Students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to reduce the cost of their degree. The college reports that 89% of all incoming students receive a financial aid award.
To find out more about enrollment requirements and the benefits of an online education, speak with the admissions office today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ultrasound Technician Programs
What's the difference between sonography and ultrasound tech?
These titles are interchangeable. Both sonographers and ultrasound technicians use ultrasound technology to diagnose or track medical conditions.
How long does it take to become an ultrasound technician?
Learners can earn an associate degree in two years. Students can explore accelerated ultrasound technician programs to graduate sooner.
What degree do you need to become an ultrasound tech?
Ultrasound technicians need a degree or certificate in ultrasound technology, sonography, or vascular technology. Most schools offer these programs as associate degrees.
Why Get an Ultrasound Technician Degree?
Students who earn a sonography degree online or on campus can pursue a career in a growing field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects medical sonographer and technician jobs to grow 14% from 2020-2030. These professionals earn a median annual salary of $70,380.
Many schools offer sonography training programs online. Learners can complete coursework from anywhere. However, most programs require onsite clinical experiences.
How Much Does an Ultrasound Technician Degree Cost?
The cost of an ultrasound tech degree varies by school and program. Associate degree-seekers at public institutions spent an average of $3,570 on tuition in 2020. Learners at private institutions spent $14,590.
Students can save money by enrolling in online ultrasound tech programs. Online enrollees do not need to relocate to attend the most affordable school. Most programs allow online students to complete clinical requirements locally.
How Much Do Ultrasound Technicians Make?
Salary varies depending on many factors, including professionals' specialty, employer, and geographic location. Top-earning ultrasound techs make nearly $97,000 annually. Professionals who work at outpatient care centers typically earn more than those at hospitals or physicians' offices.
Most employers prefer to hire sonographers with a degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Many employers also prefer candidates certified in sonography and CPR.
Organizations like the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) offer certification exams. Students can also pursue certification through Cardiovascular Credentialing International or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
Courses in an Ultrasound Technician Program
Ultrasound technician programs cover applied sciences, biology, and anatomy. Classes vary depending on students' specialization. See below for common courses in ultrasound technician programs. Keep in mind that course titles and descriptions vary by school.
- Introduction to Sonography: Students learn the basic foundations of sonography, ultrasounds, and scanning. Learners explore terminology and anatomical relationships. The course prepares students for learning more in-depth information about sonograms and ultrasounds.
- ECG for Cardiac Sonographers: Electrocardiogram (ECG) courses teach learners how to interpret an ECG, which is a simple test that monitors the heart. An ECG can indicate various heart conditions. Enrollees learn how to spot various patterns and features of the ECG and compare them against baseline numbers. The course trains students to read ECG charts in clinical settings.
- Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation: This course teaches students about the basic physics of human tissue. Learners study how scanning technology works. Ultrasound technicians must understand sound-tissue interaction. The course explains how pulse-echo principles apply to diagnostic sonography.
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Featured Online Programs
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How to Become an Ultrasound Technician
Aspiring ultrasound technicians need a degree or certificate from an accredited program. Many employers prefer candidates with professional certification. These certifications typically require a degree from an accredited program. Candidates must also pass an exam.
Candidates can pursue certification in several specialties. Sonographers can obtain more than one certification to boost their knowledge and job prospects.
Ultrasound technicians perform various duties depending on their specialty. For example, cardiovascular technologists take images of the heart and blood vessels. OB-GYN sonographers use ultrasound technology to monitor a baby and mother's health.
Ultrasound Technician Licensure
Not all states require ultrasound technician licensure. Only technicians who work in New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Oregon need licensure. Typically, earning a license requires an application and exam.
ARDMS offers professional certifications in many areas, including pediatrics. Candidates must pass an exam and fulfill prerequisites. ARDMS offers exams throughout the year at various locations. Applications typically cost a few hundred dollars.