Do you want to become an ultrasound tech? Learn about the different types of degrees you can pursue to enter this exciting field.
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The Basics of Ultrasound Technician Programs
An ultrasound technician, also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer, is a vital member of the healthcare team. Ultrasound techs use diagnostic imaging to conduct tests and procedures on patients. The most common type of ultrasound is abdominal, which is used to assess organs like the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. If you’re interested in becoming an ultrasound technician, you’ll need to complete an accredited ultrasound tech program.
What is an Ultrasound Technician?
An ultrasound technician, also called a diagnostic medical sonographer, is a professional who uses special equipment to create images (sonograms) of the inside of the body. These images are used by physicians to help diagnose and treat patients.
Ultrasound technicians typically work in hospitals, clinics, or medical offices, and they may also be employed by research facilities or companies that manufacture ultrasound equipment. Most technicians work full time, and some jobs may require evening or weekend hours.
Education and Training
Most ultrasound technician programs are two-year associate degree programs, although some four-year colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degree programs in this field as well. Admission to these programs generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent, although some programs may have additional requirements such as courses in mathematics and science.
After completing an accredited program, graduates must obtain certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) before they can begin working as technicians. Certification is not required in all states, however, so it is important to check the requirements of the state in which you plan to work.
What is the Difference Between an Ultrasound Technician and a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?
The two terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between an ultrasound technician and a diagnostic medical sonographer. An ultrasound technician is the entry-level position. You’ll need an associate’s degree, and your schooling will primarily focus on how to operate the machine. Once you’re hired, on-the-job training will teach you how to apply your skills to specific tasks, such as fetal scans.
A diagnostic medical sonographer, on the other hand, requires a bit more schooling. In addition to an associate’s degree, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree program. Your coursework will be more focused on the medical aspects of ultrasound technology and you’ll have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area, such as cardiac sonography.
What is the Difference Between an Ultrasound Technician and a Radiologic Technologist?
The main difference between an ultrasound technician and a radiologic technologist is the type of imaging they produce. Ultrasound techs use high-frequency sound waves to create images, while radiologic techs use ionizing radiation. Both careers require an Associate’s degree, but ultrasound techs may need additional certification. Job growth for both professions is similar, at about 9% from 2016-2026.
Radiologic technologists take X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans. They prepare patients for procedures, position them on the scanning table, and operate the machines. They must follow safety protocols to protect themselves and the patient from radiation exposure. Radiologic techs sometimes specialize in a particular type of imaging, such as mammography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Ultrasound techs use sound waves to create images of internal organs, blood flow, and tumors. They work closely with doctors to help diagnose and treat medical conditions. Ultrasound techs must have excellent hand-eye coordination to operate the equipment and produce clear images. They also must be able to console patients who may be anxious about their procedures.
How to Become an Ultrasound Technician
If you’re interested in becoming an ultrasound technician, also called a diagnostic medical sonographer, you’ll need to have at least an Associate’s degree in the field. Although you can find jobs with just a certificate or diploma, most employers prefer to hire those with at least an Associate’s degree. In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know about how to become an ultrasound technician, including the necessary education and training.
Step One: Research Different Programs
The first step in becoming an ultrasound technician is to research the different types of programs that are available. There are many different types of medical imaging programs, so it is important to find the one that best suits your needs. There are associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, and certificate programs available. Each type of program has its own set of requirements, so it is important to find the one that you are most comfortable with.
The next step is to decide on a specialization. Ultrasound technicians can specialize in diagnostic medical sonography, cardiovascular sonography, obstetric and gynecologic sonography, or pediatric sonography. Each type of specialization has its own set of requirements, so it is important to choose the one that you are most interested in.
Step Two: Complete an Accredited Program
Once you have chosen a program, the next step is to complete an accredited program. There are many different accrediting organizations that recognize ultrasound technician programs, so it is important to find the one that best suits your needs. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS) are two of the most popular accrediting organizations.
Step Three: Register with the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
After you have completed an accredited program, the next step is to register with the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). The ARDMS is a national organization that provides certification for ultrasound technicians. To be eligible for certification, you must pass an exam administered by the ARDMS. Once you have passed the exam, you will be able to use the title Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS).
Step Four: Maintain Your Certification
After you have become certified, it is important to maintain your certification. The ARDMS requires ultrasound technicians to recertify every two years. To do this, you must complete continuing education credits and pass a recertification exam.
Step Two: Complete an accredited program
In order to work as an ultrasound technician, you must complete an accredited program. These are typically two-year associate’s degree programs, but some schools offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs. In either case, your program must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS).
Once you’ve completed your accredited program, you’ll need to pass a credentialing exam in order to become registered with the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Once you’re registered, you’ll need to maintain your registration by completing continuing education credits every two years.
Step Three: Obtain licensure and certification (optional)
While ultrasound technicians are not required to be licensed in order to practice, obtaining licensure and certification may improve your career prospects. In some cases, employers may prefer or require applicants to be licensed or certified.
There are two main types of certification for ultrasound technicians: voluntary certification and state licensure. Voluntary certification is available through professional organizations such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and requires passing an examination. State licensure is regulated by individual state boards of medicine and often requires completing an accredited training program as well as passing an examination.
You can learn more about voluntary certification and state licensure requirements by contacting your state’s board of medicine or a professional organization such as the ARDMS.
What Degree Do You Need to Become an Ultrasound Technician?
There are many schools that offer certification and associates degrees in diagnostic medical sonography. However, to become an ultrasound technician, you will need to have at least a two-year degree. Your coursework will include physics, biology, and anatomy. You will also need to complete a clinical internship.
Associate’s Degree
You can become an ultrasound technician with an associate’s degree from a community college or vocational school. These programs typically take two years to complete, and they’ll give you the basic knowledge and skills you need to start working in the field. You can also find ultrasound technician programs at some four-year colleges, but these are less common.
Bachelor’s Degree
In order to become an ultrasound technician, you will need to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. There are many schools across the country that offer programs in diagnostic medical sonography, and you can find both online and offline programs. Once you have earned your degree, you will then need to pass a certification exam in order to become licensed in your state.
Master’s Degree
You can become an ultrasound technician with either an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography. However, you may have more career options and earn a higher salary if you have a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
What Are the Prerequisites for an Ultrasound Technician Program?
Most ultrasound technician programs require that applicants have at least an associate’s degree, although some programs may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent. Some common prerequisites for ultrasound technician programs include coursework in anatomy and physiology, math, and medical terminology.
Prerequisites for an Associate’s Degree
There are several steps you’ll need to take before you can enroll in an accredited ultrasound technician program. Below is a list of requirements that you’ll need to meet:
You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
You’ll need to complete prerequisite coursework, which may include anatomy and physiology, mathematics, and medical terminology.
You must submit transcripts from all previous colleges or universities you’ve attended.
You may need to submit SAT or ACT scores.
You must complete an application for the specific program you’re interested in.
Prerequisites for a Bachelor’s Degree
There are a few basic things you’ll need in order to be accepted into a bachelor’s degree program for ultrasound technology. First, you’ll need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. You should also have taken some basic college prep courses, including math and science. You’ll need to have decent grades in all of your courses, and some programs may require that you take a placement exam to determine your course level.
Prerequisites for a Master’s Degree
In order to apply to a master’s degree program in ultrasound technology, you will need to have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. In addition, you will need to complete prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Most programs also require you to submit GRE scores.
How Long Does It Take to Become an Ultrasound Technician?
Most ultrasound technician programs offer an associate’s degree, although a bachelor’s degree may be preferred or required by some employers. The length of time it takes to earn an ultrasound tech degree depends on the type of program and whether you attend full- or part-time.
Associate’s Degree
The vast majority of ultrasound technicians in the United States have an associate’s degree from an accredited community college or technical school, according to the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine. It typically takes two years to complete an associate’s degree program, although some programs may be completed in as little as 18 months.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography, also called ultrasound technology, can be obtained in about four years. The first two years are generally spent completing prerequisite coursework in English, mathematics, the sciences and liberal arts. The last two years are spent completing didactic and clinical coursework in diagnostic medical sonography.
Master’s Degree
Most ultrasound technicians have at least an associate’s degree in ultrasound technology, but many employers prefer or require candidates to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree. While you can find 2-year Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs at many community colleges, those interested in specializing in a certain area of sonography or working in a more advanced position may want to consider a 4-year Baccalaureate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Those who want to pursue management positions or conduct research may want to consider a Master of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.
