A number of schools in Massachusetts train ultrasound technologists.
A small number of schools in Massachusetts offer degree programs in diagnostic medical sonography, a field the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts will grow by 18 percent from 2008 through 2018. These programs also carry the approval of the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs, allowing graduates to pursue certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is a teaching hospital affiliated with Harvard University's School of Medicine. The hospital's School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography is based in the Shapiro Medical Center in Boston. To be eligible for admission to the sonography program, students must hold either a bachelor's degree in any field or a two-year associate degree in an allied health field like medical assisting, respiratory therapy or nursing. Prospective students must also have completed courses in algebra, physics, English or communications, anatomy and physiology, and computer science, and pass both a criminal background check and physical examination. Those admitted to the program begin courses in September and participate in classroom education and clinical training for 18 months. The program requires full-time attendance Mondays through Fridays each week, and covers courses in abdominal, obstetrical, gynecological and vascular sonography. Graduates receive certificates in the field rather than a degree.
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
330 Brookline Ave.
Boston, MA 02215
617-667-1661
bidmc.org
Middlesex Community College
Middlesex Community College is a public institution with more than 8,000 students between its two locations. The school's diagnostic medical sonography program is offered exclusively at its Bedford campus, which is 22 miles northwest of Boston. The program does not require prospective students to have degrees, but does mandate that all applicants first take classes in college or high school algebra and biology as well as college-level anatomy and physiology. Prior to the start of classes, admitted students must receive a series of immunizations and become certified in CPR. Students in the two-year Associate of Science program take classes in psychology, literature and several sub-specialties of ultrasound technology, including abdominal, obstetrical, gynecological and neurological. Two clinical rotations are also required as a part of the curriculum. Middlesex participates in state and federal financial aid programs.
Middlesex Community College
591 Springs Road
Bedford, MA 01730
781-280-3983
middlesex.mass.edu
Springfield Technical Community College
Founded in 1967, public Springfield Technical Community College is situated at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. The school has approximately 6,000 students and offers an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography as one of its 86 academic programs. To be considered for admission, students must have previous coursework experience in chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics, English and medical terminology and submit an essay about their reasons for applying to the program. Students receive training in obstetric, gynecological and abdominal ultrasound as well as English, social sciences and technical writing. Four clinical practicums are required. Financial aid is available for qualified students. Child care is offered on campus for students with children.
Springfield Technical Community College
1 Armory Square # 1
Springfield, MA 01105
413-731-3151
stcc.edu
Tags: Community College, Medical Center, students must, Beth Israel, Beth Israel Deaconess, Deaconess Medical, Deaconess Medical Center