Ultrasound/Sonography Tech Schools
Ultrasound technician schools typically offer associate degrees in medical sonography. Students choose from majors such as cardiovascular sonography and diagnostic medical sonography. They can also major in magnetic resonance imaging. Programs feature coursework and in-person labs. Learners need a high school or GED diploma and a government-issued ID to apply.
Graduates can work as medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists. Related positions include nuclear medicine technologist and radiation therapist. These jobs may require more training.
The following sections explore common classes needed for ultrasound technician degrees. This guide also covers typical tuition costs and earning potential for graduates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ultrasound Technician Schools
How long does it take to become an ultrasound tech?
An associate degree takes about two years to complete. Learners in accelerated programs and those with transferable credits may graduate faster.
Is it hard to get into an ultrasound tech program?
Typical admission requirements include a high school or GED diploma. Unlike other associate programs, ultrasound technician programs usually require a criminal background check.
Can I complete an ultrasound tech degree online?
Some ultrasound technician schools offer hybrid programs. Students complete in-person labs and an externship at a local hospital. They also take online coursework.
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Why Get an Ultrasound Technician Degree?
Also known as medical sonographers, ultrasound technicians are a critical part of ensuring that many patients receive correct diagnoses and medical treatment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 10% growth in jobs for professionals like ultrasound technicians from 2022 to 2032. This figure significantly exceeds the projected growth rate for all occupations.
Degree seekers can schedule coursework around work and family obligations. Attending hybrid ultrasound technician programs also helps learners reduce commuting costs. These programs may offer more annual start dates than on-campus programs.
How Much Does an Ultrasound Technician Degree Cost?
It's not the world's most satisfying answer, but in this case, it's the simple truth: it varies.
Cost depends on the individual school, program, where you live, and other factors. Most ultrasound technicians attain their associate degree, which costs $3,885 per year on average for tuition and fees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.When determining costs, learners should also budget as necessary for housing, health services, technology, and campus center fees. Ultrasound technician schools may also charge fees for uniforms, shoes, and materials.
Students pursuing ultrasound technician degrees can calculate the cost of tuition, fees, and expenses by searching programs' websites. Learners can reduce out-of-pocket costs by applying for institutional scholarships and grants. Students can also apply for private scholarships and submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal aid.
How Much Do Ultrasound Technician Majors Make?
According to BLS data, diagnostic medical sonographers earn a median annual salary of $84,470 per year, with the top 10% of earners in the profession making $116,300. Outpatient care centers pay these workers the highest median salary at $123,020 per year.
Geographic location also affects earning potential. California, Hawaii, and Oregon are the three highest-paying states for ultrasound technicians, with median annual salaries of $122,670, $111,690, and $104,260 respectively, per BLS data.Ultrasound technicians can earn more with experience, or by going back to a school for a more advanced degree, such as a bachelor's degree. Technicians also can burnish their credentials and potentially qualify for a raise or promotion by earning certification.
Courses in an Ultrasound Technician Program
Students attending two-year ultrasound technician schools prepare to use imaging equipment in healthcare roles. Coursework emphasizes pediatric, breast, gynecologic, and vascular sonography. Learners develop skills during online classes and in-person labs. Internships and externships allow students to apply skills and network with potential employers.
Many ultrasound technician degrees require the following classes. However, curricula and graduation requirements vary by program. Prospective students should contact an admissions advisor for details.
Anatomy and Physiology
Sonographers and ultrasound technicians must understand the body's structures and functions to take clear images. This course teaches cellular metabolism. Students also learn about the skeletal and muscular systems and basic life processes. Most ultrasound technician programs require 2-3 anatomy and physiology classes, which learners complete before starting labs.Cardiovascular Sonography Laboratory
Learners complete labs before beginning an internship or externship. Students usually take this lab class while attending a cardiovascular sonography lecture course. During the lab, degree-seekers apply knowledge and develop skills. Students practice taking measurements, maintaining equipment, and working with patients. This course typically requires core prerequisites.Electrocardiography
Students in this class develop the advanced skills necessary to qualify for certification. Course topics include basic electrophysiology concepts and applications. Degree-seekers learn electrocardiogram protocols and patient care best practices. Coursework also explores telemetry monitoring and stress testing. The class includes a brief lab during which learners perform electrocardiograms on their peers.
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How to Become an Ultrasound Technician
Medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists need an associate degree to practice. Many employers require candidates to hold a degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Employers may also prefer workers with certifications from industry organizations such as Cardiovascular Credentialing International.
Responsibilities vary by specialization. Diagnostic medical sonographers perform sonograms and ultrasounds. They may specialize in one or more body areas or organ systems. Cardiovascular technologists, for example, take images of the heart and lungs.
Best Ultrasound Technician Schools 2022
How We Rank Schools
At CollegeChoice, we use reliable data from trusted sources like the U.S. Department of Education to rank schools based on their academic quality, affordability, and return on investment. When determining a program's value, we consider metrics such as student debt, graduation rate, and average student earnings after enrolling. This ranking is from 2022. To learn more, consult our ranking methodology.
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