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What Does an Ultrasound Technician Do?

Ultrasound technicians, also known as medical sonographers, use sound waves and machines to produce image of internal tissue and use said images to diagnose healthy and unhealthy areas. Individuals working in the field typically work in hospitals, providing non-invasive imaging that provides physicians and other healthcare professionals the ability to identify internal growths, tissue damage, and other ailments within the human body. Ultrasound technology has improved significantly over the last decade, allowing for the technique to become more prominent and of higher value, and in turn creating a high demand for technicians.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$64,280

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

42.33%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

112,700

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2025 Best Ultrasound Technician Schools

Healthcare Training Institute (Union, NJ) is one of the leading higher learning institutes that offers vocational programs in the state. HTI is one of NJ’s top ranked ultrasound tech schools. The institute provides hands-on training for better proficiency of the students. The school aims to incorporate modern technology and comprehensive training for students. Graduates of HTI programs are expected to be competent and professional healthcare providers. HTI offers both long-term and short-term programs for students depending on their career goals.

Acceptance Rate

37.5

Tuition

$15,500 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Hillyard Technical Center (Saint Joseph, MO) is a private vocational institution that helps high school students to enhance their skills for their future careers. The innovative educational programs offered are designed to meet industry requirements. Hillyard is a small school with only an estimated 200 students per year. A few of the vocational courses offered are related to health and medicine, engineering, and science. The Ultrasound Tech program is a 20-month program that trains students to be skilled professionals. Students must pass pre-entrance assessment tests, criminal record checks, as well as physical examinations for some programs.  

Acceptance Rate

53.85

Tuition

$12,630 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

4:1

Concorde Career Institute-Jacksonville (Jacksonville, FL) is a small college offering a wide variety of health and medical professional programs. The institute grants associate’s, and bachelor’s degrees. It also offers diploma courses. Diagnostic Medical Sonography is an associate degree program that focuses on developing students’ technical skills essential to be a competent professional in the allied health discipline. Students can earn a degree in at least 21 months. Patient care health programs in Concorde are designed to keep up with one of the fastest growing healthcare sectors.

Acceptance Rate

76.61

Tuition

$50,048 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

38:1

St Luke’s College (Woodbury, IA) is a private institution that prepares students in pursuing medical careers. The college focuses on providing bachelor’s degrees on nursing and allied health programs. The college offers high quality, health system-based education. St. Luke’s offers Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology and specialty certification internship programs in Advanced Radiology. Individuals who are interested in the internship program can choose a track: Computerized Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Sonography, and Mammography.

Acceptance Rate

29.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

New York Methodist Hospital Center for Allied Health Education is in Brooklyn, New York. It was established in 2007 by the New York Methodist Hospital, and the center includes 13,000 square feet of educational space, including seven classrooms, 11 lab rooms, a computer library with 25 devices, student lounge, faculty area, and administrative space. The center is committed to offering excellent health education that helps healthcare professionals meet the needs of the general public. The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education institutionally accredits the center.

Programs Offered

The center offers programs through the Bartone School of Radiography, School of Laboratory Science, EMS Institute, and School of Radiation Therapy. The programs include:

  • Radiologic technologist
  • CT cross training
  • MRI cross training
  • Radiation therapist
  • Paramedic
  • Clinical laboratory science

Admissions Information

The admissions requirements vary by the school of education and specific program.

Financial Aid Options

New York Hospital Center for Allied Health Education participates in various financial aid programs, depending on the school of education. In general, students can apply for the Federal Pell Grant, Federal SEOG Grant, NY State Tuition Assistance Program, and Ford Loans. The center also offers payment plans.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$52,075 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

George Washington University (Washington, D.C.) is located near the White House. The proximity provides several opportunities for projects alongside government leaders, science and law professionals, and individuals from other disciplines. GW is also popular in providing a variety of medical and allied health programs. The Department of Radiology manages a world-class residency program and several specialized fellowships to train a new breed of clinicians and researchers. GWU offers both on-campus and off-campus modes of learning allowing flexibility for students. GW University has hundreds of programs for both undergraduate and graduate levels. 

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

With two locations in New York, New York Medical Career Training center is located in Flushing (Queens) and in Manhattan. The training center does not offer on-campus living at either of its locations. The Medical Assistant program (RMA) consists of 600 hours of class work and 300 hours of on-the-job training.

List of Programs:

  • Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
  • Medical Assistant (RMA)
  • EKG Technician (Electrocardiography)
  • Phlebotomy Technician (Blood Draw Techniques)
  • EKG & Phlebotomy (CET & CPT)
  • Medical Billing (Computerized ICD9 & CPT Coding)
  • Medical Office Administration (CMAA)
  • Patient Care Technician (PCT)
  • Nurse Aide/Assistant (CNA)
  • Pharmacy Technician (PTCB)
  • English as a Second Language (ESL)
  • CPR (Certification from American Heart Association Valid for 2 years)

With classes available in the evenings and on the weekends, schedules vary from 36 to 900 hours of coursework. Prices start around $500 for shorter classes such as EKG and Phlebotomy to $10,400 for Medical Assistant (900 hours). CPR certification to course is only $80.

The job placement rate for students who complete New York Medical Career Training Center is 94%.

Financial aid is available for those who qualify (http://www.nymedtraining.com/financial_aid.php)

Register Online (http://www.nymedtraining.com/register_form.php)

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$25,100 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

American Institute of Medical Sciences & Education is a two-year private school that offers high quality education and training for its students located in and around Piscatway. Students may select from many areas of study, including:

  • Health and Clinical Professions
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Business and Marketing Studies

Over 180 students have completed their schooling in the last few years based on published graduation information with a graduation rate of more than 83%. Over ten different programs are offered at American Institute of Medical Sciences & Education. The more popular enrolled programs are shown below:

  • Phlebotomy
  • Medical Assistant
  • Ultrasound Technician
  • Electrocardiograph Technology
  • Medical Insurance Coding

To help support students, American Institute of Medical Sciences & Education may provide student services like those listed below:

  • Night and weekend classes available
  • Remedial instructional courses
  • Academic counseling for students
  • Employment search assistance

This school has been accredited by the Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools since 2006. Please visit aimseducation.edu for more information on programs offered and consumer disclosures.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$32,250 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

PCI College, located in Cerritos, California, is a private institution offering educational opportunities in information technology and health care. The school occupies 500 square feet of space, separated into classroom, laboratory and office areas, with a satellite campus in Gardena. Class sizes are typically between 10 and 15 students, with a maximum of 20. All classrooms are and laboratories are equipped with networked computers allowing access to information sites on the web and cooperative work among students.

Academics

Programs at PCI College fall into one of two categories, information technology or health care. These programs prepare students with the skills necessary to enter the workforce qualified for entry level positions.  Graduates of these programs will earn a diploma or certificate demonstrating their qualifications in the field of study. Programs will have varying lengths depending on the area of study.

Programs include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students interested in applying to PCI College may begin the process through the online information request form available on the school's website. Once submitted the school will mail interested students the materials and instructions necessary to begin the application process. Financial aid is available in the form of federal grants and loans, eligibility for which is determined through the completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$37,050 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Modern Technology School in Fountain Valley, California, is a career-oriented institution of higher learning that carries accreditations from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and the Bureau for Private Post-Secondary Education (BPPE) and several other approvals and licenses such as the Veterans/GI Bill.

Founded in 1981 in the Los Angeles area, the school initially offered the X-Ray Technician Limited Permit course. After several additions and a new campus in Anaheim, the original LA campus was sold to what is now Kaplan College. The Anaheim campus was relocated in 2005 to Fountain Valley, where the school serves the communities of Orange County.

Current course offerings include:

  • Medical Assistant-Back Office
  • Ultrasound-Vascular Technician
  • X-ray Technician-Medical Assistant

The X-ray Technician-Medical Assistant program is an 11-month course that offers morning and evening classes. Tuition and other fees totals $18,856, and the college is approved to distribute Title IV aid in the form of loans and grants.

In addition to core programs, Modern Technology School also offers home study and instructor-led courses as part of its continuing education initiatives. Applicants can choose from a range of courses, including Accident & Emergency X-ray and Radiation Protection in Medical Radiography.

Student services include career, academic and personal counseling, and assistance with various aspects of student life, such as housing, child care and transportation. Modern Technology School does not currently have any articulation agreements with any other college or university, so students are advised to ascertain that a diploma from this school meets their educational goal requirements.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$32,157 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Great Lakes Institute of Technology is a two year private career college dedicated to offering a practical education for students located in and around Erie. Students may choose from a few areas of study, including:

  • Personal and Culinary Services
  • Health and Clinical Professions
  • Education

Over the past several years Great Lakes Institute of Technology has awarded degrees to over 730 students with more than 75% of students who start the program complete it. Over twenty different programs are offered at Great Lakes Institute of Technology. The more popular programs are listed below:

  • Cosmetology
  • Medical Assistant
  • Veterinary Assistant
  • Nursing Assistant
  • Surgical Technologist

To help support students, Great Lakes Institute of Technology may offer support services like those listed below:

  • Night and weekend classes available
  • Counseling assistance
  • Employment search assistance

The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges has accredited the instruction & training provided by Great Lakes Institute of Technology for over thirty-four straight years. Please visit glit.edu for more information on programs offered and consumer disclosures.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$30,000 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Wilson Tech, located in Northport, New York, is a technical school that accommodates the needs of both high school and adult students. They also offer educational solutions to businesses and employers who need to train their staff on various subjects. Wilson Tech has a wide array of career certificate programs specifically for high school students who want to jumpstart their future career and collect college credits at the same time. These programs include: carpentry, construction, heating and air, welding, photography, digital film, medical assisting, cosmetology, nurse assisting, culinary arts, veterinary assisting, computer technology, auto body repair, aviation science, and more. Wilson Tech also offers programs that are tailored specifically to adult students who want to change careers or augment their current ones. These specialized programs include: cosmetology licensure, surgical technology certification, practical nursing licensure, medical assisting certification, sonogram tech, and many more. In addition to the many programs of study offered at Wilson Tech, there are also classes offered to employers who need to augment the education of their staff. These classes include: computer training, personal health, safety training, professional development, technical and industry specific training, workplace literacy, and more. These classes are conveniently located, competitively priced, and taught by instructors who have both industry and academic backgrounds. If you or someone you know would like to apply at Wilson Tech, or if you would like more information about the career studies certificates and programs offered there, click here to access Wilson Tech’s official website.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$43,050 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

CBD College, located in Los Angeles, California, offers vocational and career programs in the medical field. The school employs qualified professionals to educate and train students in order to prepare them for their chosen career. CBD provides a pleasant learning environment, encourages camaraderie and personal growth, and assists its students through their personal educational needs.

Academics

CDB College offers five programs for its students to choose from. Each program has its own length and certificate/degree awarded. All programs prepare individuals to enter the work force as skilled and qualified individuals.

Programs offered:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students interested in enrollment must be at least 17 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete and submit an application, have an interview with an admissions officer and have a passing score on the ACT exam. Tuition varies based on program and the financial aid office will help eligible students determine the best financial aid options for him or her.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$38,635 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Rutgers University-New Brunswick (New Brunswick, NJ) is a public research university recognized for its scientific innovations. The university provides all levels of academic advancements. Diagnostic Medical Sonography at Rutgers can lead to a bachelor’s degree or a certificate. The program focuses on general sonography providing clinical and didactic instructions. The sonography certificate can be earned within 15-months of full time education. Students will be trained using the most advanced ultrasound equipment. 

Acceptance Rate

61.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Los Angeles based InfoTech Career College is now part of Healthcare Career College (HCC).  The school offers vocational health care training featuring small class sizes and instructors with real-world work experience.  The College is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE).  Today vocational schools like InfoTech are increasingly being required to disclose information useful to potential students such as average loan debt, total cost, and placement rates.  InfoTech has an institutional placement rate of 83% across its career training programs for the most recent reporting academic year. InfoTech offers training in seven health care related fields:

  • Medical Assistant
  • Nursing Assistant
  • Vocational (Practical) Nursing
  • Medical Billing and Coding
  • Patient Care Technician
  • Phlebotomy Technician
  • Ultrasound Technician
The shortest program in duration is the Nursing Assistant program, which can be completed in eight weeks when graduates will be ready to take state certification exams. The Medical Assisting, Billing and Coding, and Patient Care Technician programs take longer – around 40 weeks, but they include externship opportunities in real-world health care environments that can lead to permanent employment upon graduation.  There are professional certification examinations available for qualified candidates in all these fields.  InfoTech is an approved testing center. The Licensed Vocational (Practical) Nursing program takes 60 weeks to complete at which time graduates will be ready to take the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse). The Phlebotomy Technician program is designed for working professionals already in the field and can be completed in six Saturdays.  At that time students will be prepared to take the State Certification Exam for licensure as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT1).

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$15,079 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Students who wish to go to a technical school that offers great learning instruction in healthcare-related programs should enroll in ATI College – Norwalk. The school offers a myriad of programs from ultrasound technology, echocardiography and medical assistance and billing. Currently, the school is affiliated with the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Education and the Department of Veteran Affairs. The ATI College is a private technical school located in Norwalk California. It began its operation in 1998 and has been providing career-focused technical programs within Los Angeles as well as in Orange County. The school is located within the city thus making it accessible to all of its students.  Upon its establishment, the school has been providing professional skills training to its students using high standard classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory works. Although the school provides challenging classroom and laboratory activities to its students, it has a high retention rate of 73% on its students. The tuition fee rate for each semester in school is about $28,800 which is a bit steep for average middle-income students. Although this may be the case, the school offers financial aids to students who qualify. Examples of financial aids accepted in the school are the Federal Pell Grant, Stafford Loans and Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students. This is to ensure that students will have better chances of getting quality education.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$28,825 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

30:1

In response to the changing needs in the healthcare industry, the American Medical Sciences Center offers highly competitive training on selected health courses. This school is a private institution established in 1996 institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). It is located at 225 West Broadway., Suite 115 Glendale, CA 91204. 

Comprised of highly skilled faculty, this school helps students achieve their academic and career goals ultimately aimed at acquiring a professional career and long-term employment. To qualify for admission, students are required to submit a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an application form, pass a standardized test and undergo an oral interview. 

The medical programs of AMSC include Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Vocational Nursing and Medical Assistant. Medical Sonography prepares students in performing abdominal, OB/GYN sonography, vascular and echocardiographic ultrasound. Graduates of this course are employed in hospitals, imaging centers and clinics as Ultrasound Technician working closely with other healthcare professionals. 

Utilizing the different methods of instruction, Vocational Nursing is designed to train students in the art and science of nursing including the functions and responsibilities focused on providing care for individuals. After finishing this course, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN, a nursing licensure exam and will have the opportunity to work in hospitals, clinics and other healthcare institutions. 

Consists of eight modules with an externship, Medical Assistant program involves administrative and clinical tasks training in preparation for working in offices of doctors and other health professionals, and health care facilities. These innovative, quality programs are backed with updated learning materials and current knowledge in the field to help students gain an edge in the healthcare industry. 

Admissions http://www.amscedu.com/#Admissions

Medical Programs http://www.amscedu.com/#Medical%20Programs

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$35,750 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Moore Norman Technology Center offers 32 career programs. Classes are led by experts and result in an industry certification. The center is located in Norman, Oklahoma. Classes are offered during the day, evening, and on weekends.

The center offers courses that help individuals grow professionally. The classes are offered in trimesters with classes scheduled during the day, evening and on Saturdays. Typically, over 48,000 individuals take part in courses on campus that help with professional development.

MNTC has established programs with Oklahoma State University and Rose State College that help individuals earn credit towards a degree in 25 different areas.

MNTC works with business leaders to ensure that students are acquiring the skills needed to be successful in the workforce. The curriculum helps students learn through hands-on education. This provides them with the opportunity to learn to apply the skills learned in the classroom. MNTC students often take part in internships or receive on-the job training.

At Moore Norman Technology Center, you will find a diverse set of individuals. They include adults, high school students, business owners, and senior citizens.

Many students attend programs that prepare them for college or to improve their skills. High school students take part in some of the programs. Courses are also offered online which are convenient for the working individual.

Moore Norman Technology Center offers accommodations for individuals with disabilities according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Counseling services are also available for students who need them.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$2,625 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

28:1

Quinnipiac University (Hamden, CT) is a private university that grants undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across nine schools. It extends its academic offerings to three campuses. The university’s medical programs are highly recognized by several publications. It has a Diagnostic Medical Sonography program that leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. The program provides courses on sonographic procedures and technology, and develops students' interpersonal skills allowing them to work professionally across a range of clinical settings. The program also trains the students to pursue a career in a variety of subspecialties through clinical training. 

Acceptance Rate

70.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Hunter Business School has two campuses, one in Levittown, NY and the other in Medford, NY. The school specializes in career oriented education, and has quite a few programs dedicated to that end. The goal of the school is to provide a quality education to students and to assist them in finding a suitable career.

The programs offered are:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students interested in attending Hunter Business School can apply online. Various forms of financial aid are available and interested students should visit the financial aid office to discuss what they can do to get assistance.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$13,490 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$14,335 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

25:1

Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia, PA) is a private university that offers a wide range of academic programs. Philadelphia University and Jefferson have been combined in 2017. Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences manages several undergraduate programs that train students to be skilled medical professionals. It offers several Sonography programs. The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program trains students for an entry-level position across the medical and health industry. Graduates of these programs are eligible to take the associated certification examinations. 

Acceptance Rate

65.88

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Lewis University (Romeoville, IL) is a private higher education institution offering a wide range of academic programs for students to choose from. Both graduate and undergraduate programs are offered. Ultrasound Technology is a four-year program that leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. Students will attend the university during the first three years and will move to the Northwestern Memorial Hospital for professional courses. Students interested in the discipline have other options. B.S. in Biology graduates can admit themselves for a certificate program in Diagnostic Medical Sonography or take a double major in Biology and Diagnostic Medical Sonography. 

Acceptance Rate

63.9

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Bellin College (Green Bay, WI) is a private college known for its nursing and medical-related programs. The college offers a Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program and a Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography program that awards certificates to successful students. Students who take the three-year bachelor’s program will undergo clinical, academic, and laboratory training. Students’ leadership and management skills are also trained in this program. After three consecutive years under the program students are eligible for ARDMS certification examinations several concentrations: Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN), Abdomen, Vascular, and Sonography Principles and Instrumentation. 

Acceptance Rate

100

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Ace Computer Training Center is a less than two-year private institution dedicated to providing a solid education for students located in and around Forest Hills. Over forty students have completed their schooling in the last few years. Ace Computer Training Center offers several programs to choose from. The more popular enrolled programs are listed below:

  • Information Science Studies
  • English
  • Medical Assistant

To help students and alumni succeed, Ace Computer Training Center may offer student services including:

  • Classes offered on nights and weekends
  • Academic counseling for students
  • Assisting students to find work

The Council on Occupational Education has accredited the education provided by Ace Computer Training Center for over seven straight years. Get more information by visiting the school's official website, where you can see programs available, financial aid & tuition, and disclosures.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$11,850 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

What are Ultrasound Techs Responsible for?

Ultrasound technicians are ultimately responsible for the maintenance and functionality of the operating equipment used to produce sonograms. Images created by the technology used by an ultrasound tech are used by a medical team to establish a medical diagnosis and to treat patients. The most common association of a sonogram is related to pregnancy but that is only a small portion of the totality of a sonograms application in the medical world. In fact, sonograms are used to examine brain tissue, heart valves, muscles, tendons, organs, prostate, thyroid, blood flow, ligaments, spinal cord, breast tissue, and musculoskeletal disorders.

In addition to becoming proficient with the usage and capabilities of medical equipment, an ultrasound tech will often be patient-facing. Diagnostic medical sonographers will engage directly with patients to provide education and comfort leading up to a medical procedure or medical imaging activity. With keen attention to detail, an ultrasound tech will be able to detect abnormal images and effectively communicate those findings to physicians and patients. In terms of work setting, an ultrasound tech can be found in the office of a physician, lab, hospital, medical facility, college, university, or outpatient care center.

Top Ultrasound Tech Degrees

The degree options for an ultrasound tech include professional certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor degree programs.  We have detailed each below to help you better understand the differing elements of each type of program.  Read each carefully and then reach out to programs below to learn more about each type of program that may be best for you.

Ultrasound Tech Certificate Programs

A certificate program for an ultrasound tech is a 1-2 year program designed to provide students with the essentials of a diagnostic medical sonographer.  Classes in the certificate program typically include: anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, obstetrics, gynecology, physics, vascular studies, and an externship.  Unlike many other certificate programs, the ultrasound tech certificate program requires students to have already earned a college degree.  Current requirements allow for students to have any type of bachelor’s degree or an associate degree from an approved allied health field of study.

Ultrasound Tech Associate Degree

The associate degree program is typically a 2-year program that is an entry-point into the ultrasound tech vocation.  Students earning an Associate of Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography will be exposed to a comprehensive curriculum and diagnostic imaging skills.  Most accredited programs balance necessary academic work with hands-on lab experience and valuable clinical rotations.  After graduating from an accredited college or university with an associate degree, students will be equipped to step into a vocational opportunity in the healthcare field.

Ultrasound Tech Bachelor Degree

The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree for an Ultrasound Technician is a 4-year program designed for students who are working in the healthcare field or have previous college credits and are part of a professional registry such as the ARDMS.  Like many of the bachelor degree programs around the country, core degree curriculum and general education courses are required by the college or university.  General education courses such as math, English, and psychology help students think differently about the world around them and process information more effectively while core courses allow students to specialize in a particular area of study.  Core curriculum for ultrasound techs will often include healthcare systems, medical equipment, musculoskeletal sonography, pediatric sonography, and other sonography specialties plus substantive lab time.  The bachelor’s degree program is culminated with an externship or clinical rotation at an approved medical or healthcare facility.

Educational Requirements for Sonographers

Sonography training is typically offered at hospitals, vocational schools, as well as two and four year institutions. Though bachelor's degrees are available, the most common education level received is the associate's degree. Short programs are also offered but are typically taken by medical professionals looking to increase their skill set rather than work in the specific field of medical sonography.Courses will be divided between practical and classroom settings, allowing for the familiarization of with equipment, standard practice and methodology,

Some classes may include:

  • Anatomy
  • Physiology
  • Instrumentation
  • Basic Physics
  • Patient Care
  • Medical Ethics

Top Schools for an Ultrasound Tech

The top schools for an ultrasound technician or diagnostic medical sonographer will have a common set of traits and characteristics.  In fact, the best ultrasound tech programs stand out from others based on three primary drivers: program quality, facilities, and clinical experience.  We will unpack each below to help you better understand what makes a top college for an ultrasound tech.

  1. Quality: The overall quality of a college or university’s ultrasound tech program is of utmost importance. How do you determine quality of a college program?  The most predictable way to determine a program’s quality is via outcomes and accreditation.  Data regarding student outcomes can be found by talking to alumni, professionals in the field, and independent third-parties.  Accreditation is the other key component to determine the quality of an ultrasound tech degree program.  Seek out colleges with regional accreditation, national accreditation, JRC-DMS, or CAAHEP designations.  Without accreditation, programs may not meet academic standards, earn professional certificates, nor apply for federal financial aid.
  2. School Facilities: Understanding how a school invests in its surgical technician program can be performed via an interview or school tour. Be sure to take the time to understand the equipment used and student access to technology and labs on campus.  High-tech facilities will provide students with the latest technology used in hospitals and medical facilities thus giving you real-world exposure to viable medical equipment.
  3. Clinical Experience: The quality of your clinical experience or externship is a valuable tool for any student looking to enter the medical field as an ultrasound tech. As the college or university what their externship program looks like and the partnerships they have established with medical providers in the community to enhance your clinical experience.
Schools Other Students Requested Information From:

Employment Opportunities for Ultrasound Techs

Ultrasound technicians primarily work in hospitals, but are finding increasing work in private practices and medical facilities such as nursing homes. The role of a medical sonographer is to provide imaging and diagnosis for patients, assisting in the development of a proper treatment for a patient's ailment. Medical sonographers will use ultrasound or sonography machines to produce the images, then use their experience reading such images to confer with physicians about the results. Medical sonographers must have an understanding of human physiology and the various ailments one may be suffering, as well as how to identify such ailments accurately.

Ultrasound technicians have a variety of specialization they may choose to pursue, and certification is available for each specialization. Specializations allow sonographers to expand upon their practice, or focus on a given area of expertise in order to assist physicians. An individual who has pursued a specialization will be able to more accurately assist in the diagnosis of an ailment, particularly in areas considered difficult or complex to image and identify. Specialization is normally pursued after a certain number of years of experience have been accrued, demonstrating that the individual is qualified and capable as a medical sonographer prior to developing more complex skills.

These specializations are:

  • Obstetric and gynecologic
  • Abdominal
  • Neurosonographers
  • Breast
  • Vascular
  • Cardiac
Common Job Titles of an Ultrasound Technician

An understanding of common job titles of an ultrasound tech will help you understand the job titles abound in the medical community for the job.  Either while looking for jobs or when seeking to upskill into a new career, it is important to understand the breadth of job titles associated with the ultrasound tech vocation.  A sample of common job titles of an ultrasound technician include the following:

  • Cardiac Sonographer
  • Ultrasonographer
  • Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)
  • Sonographer
  • Ultrasound Technician (Ultrasound Tech)
  • Cardiac/Vascular Sonographer
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
  • Medical Sonographer
  • Staff Sonographer
  • Ultrasound Technologist (Ultrasound Tech)
Top Job Responsibilities of an Ultrasound Tech

In a recent survey of ultrasound techs around the country, the U.S. Department of Labor gathered in-depth information about the job and daily activities.  While not inclusive of all jobs in the field, we have culled a list of the top 5 most popular job responsibilities cited by ultrasound techs.

  1. Examine medical imaging screen during scans to ensure image quality is acceptable diagnostic purposes and adjust equipment accordingly
  2. Attend to patients throughout exam to provide for safety and comfort
  3. Communicate oral and/or written summary of sonogram findings to the medical team to be utilized for efficient medical diagnosis
  4. Selection of the appropriate equipment settings and patient position to get optimal imaging results
  5. Manipulate ultrasound equipment to produce requisite images of the shape and composition of blood, organs, tissues, or masses

Job Growth, Salary, and Related Ultrasound Fields

Diagnostic medical sonography is a growing field and as such job opportunities are expected to increase rapidly over the next decade at a projected rate of 24% which is 4 times the national average growth rate. This is primarily due to the low cost and less invasive nature of sonography versus similar tools which may put a patient at risk or expose them to dangerous levels of radiation. Additionally, as the population in the United States grows older, the need for qualified individuals to perform testing will increase. Technology in this field is also developing rapidly, producing better and more accurate results which will make the option for medical sonography in diagnosis all the more appealing. These factors combined are responsible for a near 50% growth rate in the field.

The average wage for an ultrasound technician is approximately $69,650 per year. The lowest ten percent earned less than $43,600 and the highest more than $84,000. Experienced and certified individuals will earn salaries in the upper end, with individuals having several certifications being able to performs several sonographic functions and thus be in higher demand.

States with the Highest Employment of Ultrasound Technicians

  • California 5,640
  • Texas 5,190
  • Florida 5,120
  • New York 4,730
  • Pennsylvania 2,530

Top Paying States for Ultrasound Technicians

  1. California $93,350
  2. District of Columbia $87,750
  3. Washington $86,970
  4. Oregon $84,160
  5. Colorado $81,830

Those interested in becoming an ultrasound technician may also wish to consider a career as a physician assistant, medical assistant or nursing assistant.

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