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Zulema
Student
Adelanto, California
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What would be a good start in becoming a ultrasoundtech?
What would be a good start in becoming a ultrasound tech but still in high school? Any feedback would be great!
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2 answers
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
362
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Zulema,
While in high school, it is best to take as many math and science classes since an ultrasound technician utilizes these subjects in everyday tasks. Algebra, anatomy and physiology are some of the math and science classes to focus on. In addition, communication skills are used when dealing with patients, doctors and other medical staff. A class in public speaking will help fine tune your communication abilities.
Upon graduation with a high school diploma, the next step in preparing for your ultrasound career is to attend an accredited college to earn your associates degree. An Associate of Science (AAS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography will take two years to complete. This program can be attended at colleges, community colleges or training hospitals. During this time, one will need to complete clinicals under supervision and mentorship. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) evaluates the numerous programs for health sciences education to make certain of standards of quality are met. Some colleges offer a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography which will take an additional two years to earn.
Once an AAS or BS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography is earned, the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) certifies ultrasound technicians. Certification will validate the knowledge base and experience of an ultrasound technician. This means that one has to pass the licensed examination as required per state. The certification process can take 10-18 months to complete.
The 10 Best Ultrasound Technician Programs Accredited by CAAHEP:
1) Oregon Institute of Technology - Klamath Falls, Oregon
2) Washburn University - Topeka, Kansas
3) State Fair Community College - Sedalia, Missouri
4) University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
5) Ohio State University - Columbus, Ohio
6) Cincinnati State Technical and Community College - Cincinnati, Ohio
7) University of Missouri - Columbia, Missouri
8) University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences - Little Rock, Arkansas
9) Midland College - Midland, Texas
10) University of Iowa Health Care - Iowa City, Iowa
It will be to your advantage to research the ultrasound technician schools in your local area. In pursuing your degree, it is best to check the school for accreditation, strength of program, feedback from current students and alumni, financial assistance and career placement upon graduation. Remember, this is your investment for your career as an ultrasound technician.
Ultrasound technicians can branch off into various specialty areas of practice such as:
- Pediatric Echocardiography
- Neurosonology (Deals with brain and nervous system functionalities)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics (Stages of Pregnancy and the fetus)
- Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography
- Abdominal Sonography
- Musculoskeletal Sonography (Deals with fractured or broken bones as well as muscle or tendon rips and tears)
Best wishes for your education and future career as an ultrasound technician!
While in high school, it is best to take as many math and science classes since an ultrasound technician utilizes these subjects in everyday tasks. Algebra, anatomy and physiology are some of the math and science classes to focus on. In addition, communication skills are used when dealing with patients, doctors and other medical staff. A class in public speaking will help fine tune your communication abilities.
Upon graduation with a high school diploma, the next step in preparing for your ultrasound career is to attend an accredited college to earn your associates degree. An Associate of Science (AAS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography will take two years to complete. This program can be attended at colleges, community colleges or training hospitals. During this time, one will need to complete clinicals under supervision and mentorship. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) evaluates the numerous programs for health sciences education to make certain of standards of quality are met. Some colleges offer a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography which will take an additional two years to earn.
Once an AAS or BS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography is earned, the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) certifies ultrasound technicians. Certification will validate the knowledge base and experience of an ultrasound technician. This means that one has to pass the licensed examination as required per state. The certification process can take 10-18 months to complete.
The 10 Best Ultrasound Technician Programs Accredited by CAAHEP:
1) Oregon Institute of Technology - Klamath Falls, Oregon
2) Washburn University - Topeka, Kansas
3) State Fair Community College - Sedalia, Missouri
4) University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
5) Ohio State University - Columbus, Ohio
6) Cincinnati State Technical and Community College - Cincinnati, Ohio
7) University of Missouri - Columbia, Missouri
8) University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences - Little Rock, Arkansas
9) Midland College - Midland, Texas
10) University of Iowa Health Care - Iowa City, Iowa
It will be to your advantage to research the ultrasound technician schools in your local area. In pursuing your degree, it is best to check the school for accreditation, strength of program, feedback from current students and alumni, financial assistance and career placement upon graduation. Remember, this is your investment for your career as an ultrasound technician.
Ultrasound technicians can branch off into various specialty areas of practice such as:
- Pediatric Echocardiography
- Neurosonology (Deals with brain and nervous system functionalities)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics (Stages of Pregnancy and the fetus)
- Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography
- Abdominal Sonography
- Musculoskeletal Sonography (Deals with fractured or broken bones as well as muscle or tendon rips and tears)
Best wishes for your education and future career as an ultrasound technician!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Zulema
Michael Hoggard
Diversity Recruiting Manager
5
Answers
Annandale, Virginia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hey Zulema!
Do you have a mentor in that field? Create a Linkedin profile and after you're done search for "ultrasound tech" in the state you live in or really any state. From there you can contact the person and let them know you're in high school and interested in that particular field. Ask if they can provide you some insight into that career and if they had time to talk or you can just go back and forth with them .
Here are some videos i just found on how to create Linkedin accounts
https://youtu.be/PCMwCbubzxk
https://youtu.be/LO970h-dc_A
Do you have a mentor in that field? Create a Linkedin profile and after you're done search for "ultrasound tech" in the state you live in or really any state. From there you can contact the person and let them know you're in high school and interested in that particular field. Ask if they can provide you some insight into that career and if they had time to talk or you can just go back and forth with them .
Here are some videos i just found on how to create Linkedin accounts
https://youtu.be/PCMwCbubzxk
https://youtu.be/LO970h-dc_A
Thank you!
Zulema