Ultrasound technicians take pictures of the baby for expectant mothers.
Ultrasound technicians work in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. They produce images using sound waves that can be used in medical diagnoses of various types. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, the num..ber of jobs in this field is expected to increase substantially by about 18 percent from 2008 to 2018. Becoming an ultrasound technician usually involves the completion of an associate degree, although employment can be obtained with a certificate. Some students choose to obtain a bachelor's degree, although these are much more rare in this field.
Instructions
1. Complete prerequisite courses in algebra, physics, biological science and physics which can be taken at local community colleges in Sacramento, including American River College and Sacramento City College. You do not have to obtain a degree from these schools, but some schools require courses in these or other areas before they will admit you to their program. Check with each school you apply to be sure you have completed the necessary requirements beforehand.
2. Apply to medical sonography programs in the Sacramento area. Three schools offering training programs to become an ultrasound technician include Western Career College, United Medical Institute and the Sacramento Ultrasound Institute. Each of these schools offer different tracks leading to ultrasound technician credentials. Western Career College offers an 18-month program leading to a certificate while Sacramento Ultrasound Institute offers a 15-month basic program and a 24-month advanced program. The school also offers the advanced program online.
3. Complete the required courses of the school you have decided to attend. Coursework will cover a variety of areas from the basics of ultrasound technology to more advanced studies in the various types of diagnostic sonography imaging. Students in these programs typically learn through a combination of coursework and hands-on experience. As part of your hands-on training, you will be required to complete a prescribed amount of clinical training at a local area facility. For instance, the program at the Sacramento Ultrasound Institute requires 650 hours of clinical training as part of its 15-month program.
4. Apply for certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. This is a nationally recognized credential that you can obtain by completing the organization's certification exam. Additional certifications are offered in specialized areas of medical sonography should you decide to specialize. Testing in Sacramento is administered by Pearson Vue Professional Center at 8950 Cal Center Dr., Ste. 215, Sacramento, California.
Tags: Sacramento Ultrasound, Sacramento Ultrasound Institute, Ultrasound Institute, ultrasound technician, advanced program, Career College
