Ultrasound sonography programs are available at a number of colleges throughout the United States.
A 2009 study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment opportunities in the field of diagnostic medical sonography will increase by 18 percent from 2008 through 2018. Diagnostic medical sonographers are responsible for operating the ultrasound equipment necessary for diagnosing illnesses and injuries. In order to pursue a career in sonography, individuals must have completed an approved training program. Numerous colleges throughout the United States offer a degree in sonography.
Chattanooga State Community College
Students attending the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program offered by Chattanooga State Community College have the opportunity to choose from two specialties: general diagnostic medical sonography and cardiovascular sonography. Both programs require 12 months of full-time study beginning in the fall semester of each academic year. Students in the general sonography program learn skills focusing on the abdomen, small parts and obstetrics and gynecology fields, while the cardiovascular program focuses on visceral and peripheral vascular sonography and adult echocardiography. Each program requires that students complete a clinical practice experience upon graduation, which is arranged by the school. As of 2010, tuition costs at Chattanooga State are $945 per semester and financial aid is available.
Chattanooga State Community College
4501 Amnicola Highway
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37406
423-697-4404
chattanoogastate.edu
University of Arkansas
The College of Health Related Professions at the University of Arkansas offers prospective students the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science in the field of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. The program requires four years of study to complete, combining classroom education with clinical experiences. Students interested in a shorter course may choose to study through the school's advanced certificate program. Courses in both programs include the studies of anatomy, physics, obstetrics, pathology, cardiac and vascular sonography, doppler sonography and advanced hemodynamics, and abdominal and gynecologic sonography. Tuition costs for Arkansas residents are $208 per credit hour as of 2010; out-of-state students can expect costs of $504 per credit hour. Financial assistance is available.
University of Arkansas
Division of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
4301 West Markham Street, #563
Little Rock, Arkansas 72205
501-686-5948
uams.edu
Southwestern Community College
The Medical Sonography degree program offered by Southwestern Community College requires two years of study and awards graduates with an Associate of Applied Science in the field. Classes begin in the fall of each academic year and consist of both coursework and hands-on training through clinical programs. Students receive training in the fields of anatomy and physiology, physics, abdominal sonography, gynecological sonography, psychology, obstetrical sonography and vascular sonography. As of 2010, full-time students can expect tuition costs of $904 per credit hour. Qualified students may receive financial assistance if needed.
Southwestern Community College
447 College Drive
Sylva, NC 28779
828-339-4000
southwesterncc.edu
Tags: Community College, Chattanooga State, Chattanooga State Community, credit hour, Medical Sonography, Southwestern Community