These are the educational and training requirements to become a ultrasound technician.
Ultrasound technicians perform ultrasound procedures, creating images that show the inside of the human body. Types of ultrasound procedures include abdomen, obstetric, carotid, breast, musculoskeletal, vascular and thyroid images. These procedures use sound waves to generate images, which are considered safer then other imaging procedures, because they don’t use radiation. Imaging procedures that use radiation include computed tomography, radiography and mammography. Career opportunities are available in hospitals, clinics, health care facilities and private practices. According to Indeed, as of 2010, the average salary for ultrasound technicians is $57,000 per year.
Academic Coursework
Prospective ultrasound technicians must complete a sonography program at the certificate or associate degree level. While both associate degree and certificate programs require students to complete core sonography coursework and training, an associate degree program requires students to complete general education requirements as well. Those with an associate degree are eligible for continuing education opportunities at the bachelor’s degree level. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) should accredit any prospective sonography program. Enrolling in an accredited program ensures that an institution meets the minimum admission and academic standards set forth by the CAAHEP and prepares students for careers in sonography. The CAAHEP offers legal liability coverage and provides oversight to all programs in their system. The curriculum includes courses in general sonography, sonographic physics and sonographic instrumentation.
Clinical Training
Students participate in clinical training opportunities in a medical facility. This offers students an opportunity to observe and learn under a professional ultrasound technician. Students are able to apply the theories and principles they learned in the classroom to real life situations. Clinical training allows students to work with patients and develop the practical experience and interpersonal skills necessary to work in this field.
Credentials
Sonography program graduates can earn certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). Certification proves to potential employers that an applicant understands operate sonography equipment. The examination covers sonography principles and instrumentation and various sonography specialties, including the abdomen, breast, neurosonology, echocardiography, obstetrics and vascular technology. While a sonography program prepares students for certification, the ARDMS offers various preparation materials, including study guides, practice tests and content outlines.
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