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What should I consider majoring in if I want to become an Ultrasound Technician?
I want to pursue a future career in sonography, however, I'm not sure what I should major in or where even to start.
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Evan’s Answer
To pursue a career as an Ultrasound Technician or Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, you don't need to major in this field during your undergraduate studies. Instead, concentrate on obtaining a degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, available at the associate's or bachelor's level. Follow these steps to become an Ultrasound Technician:
1. Obtain a Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography: There are several educational routes to becoming an Ultrasound Technician:
a. Associate's Degree: This is a popular choice for beginners, and it takes about 2 years to complete. Many Ultrasound Technicians start their careers with an Associate's Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
b. Bachelor's Degree: Some institutions offer a Bachelor's Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. This degree provides a deeper understanding of the field and can lead to more advanced career opportunities.
2. Accreditation: Choose a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS). Graduating from an accredited program is usually a prerequisite for certification and employment.
3. Gain Clinical Experience: Alongside classroom learning, you'll need to complete a set number of clinical hours to gain hands-on experience in performing ultrasound examinations.
4. Obtain Certification: After finishing your education and clinical experience, you'll need to pass a certification exam. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offer the most recognized certifications for ultrasound technicians.
5. State Licensure: Your state may require you to obtain a license to work as an Ultrasound Technician. Ensure to verify your state's specific requirements.
6. Engage in Continuing Education: Diagnostic medical sonography is a rapidly evolving field. To keep your certification, you'll need to participate in ongoing continuing education to stay updated in your field.
Your undergraduate major can be in a related field like biology, pre-med, or healthcare sciences, but it's not mandatory for becoming an Ultrasound Technician. Your primary focus should be your formal education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography to prepare for this profession.
1. Obtain a Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography: There are several educational routes to becoming an Ultrasound Technician:
a. Associate's Degree: This is a popular choice for beginners, and it takes about 2 years to complete. Many Ultrasound Technicians start their careers with an Associate's Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
b. Bachelor's Degree: Some institutions offer a Bachelor's Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. This degree provides a deeper understanding of the field and can lead to more advanced career opportunities.
2. Accreditation: Choose a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS). Graduating from an accredited program is usually a prerequisite for certification and employment.
3. Gain Clinical Experience: Alongside classroom learning, you'll need to complete a set number of clinical hours to gain hands-on experience in performing ultrasound examinations.
4. Obtain Certification: After finishing your education and clinical experience, you'll need to pass a certification exam. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offer the most recognized certifications for ultrasound technicians.
5. State Licensure: Your state may require you to obtain a license to work as an Ultrasound Technician. Ensure to verify your state's specific requirements.
6. Engage in Continuing Education: Diagnostic medical sonography is a rapidly evolving field. To keep your certification, you'll need to participate in ongoing continuing education to stay updated in your field.
Your undergraduate major can be in a related field like biology, pre-med, or healthcare sciences, but it's not mandatory for becoming an Ultrasound Technician. Your primary focus should be your formal education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography to prepare for this profession.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Tammy
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Tammy,
Here's Your Guide to Becoming an Ultrasound Technician
To embark on the journey of becoming an ultrasound technician, or a diagnostic medical sonographer, you'll typically need an associate's or bachelor’s degree in sonography or a related field. Below are some key steps to help you select the right major for this career path:
1. Seek Out Accredited Programs: Prioritize programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS). Such accreditations guarantee the program's quality and its ability to adequately equip you for a sonography career.
2. Select an Appropriate Major: Some schools provide specific degrees in diagnostic medical sonography, while others offer related majors, like radiologic technology or healthcare administration, with a focus on sonography. It's crucial to pick a major that includes the necessary coursework and clinical training to become a proficient ultrasound technician.
3. Prioritize Science and Healthcare Courses: When choosing a major, give precedence to courses in anatomy, physiology, biology, physics, and medical terminology. These subjects will provide the fundamental knowledge required to comprehend ultrasound technology and interpret images correctly.
4. Acquire Clinical Experience: Many programs necessitate students to complete clinical internships or practicums as part of their training. Opt for majors that provide real-world experience in healthcare settings, as this practical exposure is crucial for honing your skills as an ultrasound technician.
5. Explore Specializations: Some programs offer specializations within the field of diagnostic medical sonography, like vascular sonography or echocardiography. If you're fascinated by a particular area of sonography, seek out majors that allow you to concentrate on that specialization.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS): The ARDMS, a prominent organization offering certification exams for ultrasound technicians, provides invaluable information on educational requirements and certification pathways in the field.
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP): CAAHEP accredits educational programs in allied health fields, including diagnostic medical sonography. Their resources include a list of accredited programs for aspiring ultrasound technicians.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers data on job prospects, salary details, and educational prerequisites for diagnostic medical sonographers, aiding you in understanding the demand for ultrasound technicians and making informed career decisions.
These sources have been crucial in providing accurate and current information on the educational prerequisites and considerations for those aspiring to become ultrasound technicians.
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Here's Your Guide to Becoming an Ultrasound Technician
To embark on the journey of becoming an ultrasound technician, or a diagnostic medical sonographer, you'll typically need an associate's or bachelor’s degree in sonography or a related field. Below are some key steps to help you select the right major for this career path:
1. Seek Out Accredited Programs: Prioritize programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS). Such accreditations guarantee the program's quality and its ability to adequately equip you for a sonography career.
2. Select an Appropriate Major: Some schools provide specific degrees in diagnostic medical sonography, while others offer related majors, like radiologic technology or healthcare administration, with a focus on sonography. It's crucial to pick a major that includes the necessary coursework and clinical training to become a proficient ultrasound technician.
3. Prioritize Science and Healthcare Courses: When choosing a major, give precedence to courses in anatomy, physiology, biology, physics, and medical terminology. These subjects will provide the fundamental knowledge required to comprehend ultrasound technology and interpret images correctly.
4. Acquire Clinical Experience: Many programs necessitate students to complete clinical internships or practicums as part of their training. Opt for majors that provide real-world experience in healthcare settings, as this practical exposure is crucial for honing your skills as an ultrasound technician.
5. Explore Specializations: Some programs offer specializations within the field of diagnostic medical sonography, like vascular sonography or echocardiography. If you're fascinated by a particular area of sonography, seek out majors that allow you to concentrate on that specialization.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS): The ARDMS, a prominent organization offering certification exams for ultrasound technicians, provides invaluable information on educational requirements and certification pathways in the field.
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP): CAAHEP accredits educational programs in allied health fields, including diagnostic medical sonography. Their resources include a list of accredited programs for aspiring ultrasound technicians.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers data on job prospects, salary details, and educational prerequisites for diagnostic medical sonographers, aiding you in understanding the demand for ultrasound technicians and making informed career decisions.
These sources have been crucial in providing accurate and current information on the educational prerequisites and considerations for those aspiring to become ultrasound technicians.
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Tammy,
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography . Physics, chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, geometry and statistics will be needed. Other classes to take will be anatomy, physiology, computer applications and health education. The combination of these concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As an Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
Diagnostic Medical Sonography can be pursued and earned at an accredited sonography training program at a 2 year institution like a community college or technical school. A Bachelor Degree can also be obtained and earned at a 4 year college or university. Another route will be a 1 year certificate program, especially for those individuals who have trained and have experience in another field of healthcare.
According to Niche.com, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Diagnostic Medical Sonography:
4 Year Colleges or Universities:
- George Washington University
- Rutgers University (New Brunswick
- The University of Kansas
- Thomas Jefferson University
- St. Catherine University
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- Nova Southeastern University
- Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
- Seattle University
2 Year Community Colleges or Technical Schools:
- Collins Career Technical Center
- Foothill College
- Ogeechee Technical College
- Santa Barbara City College
- St. Phillip's College
- Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
- GateWay Community College (Phoenix)
- Montgomery College
https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-with-sonographer-and-ultrasound-technician/
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography . Physics, chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, geometry and statistics will be needed. Other classes to take will be anatomy, physiology, computer applications and health education. The combination of these concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As an Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
Diagnostic Medical Sonography can be pursued and earned at an accredited sonography training program at a 2 year institution like a community college or technical school. A Bachelor Degree can also be obtained and earned at a 4 year college or university. Another route will be a 1 year certificate program, especially for those individuals who have trained and have experience in another field of healthcare.
According to Niche.com, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Diagnostic Medical Sonography:
4 Year Colleges or Universities:
- George Washington University
- Rutgers University (New Brunswick
- The University of Kansas
- Thomas Jefferson University
- St. Catherine University
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- Nova Southeastern University
- Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
- Seattle University
2 Year Community Colleges or Technical Schools:
- Collins Career Technical Center
- Foothill College
- Ogeechee Technical College
- Santa Barbara City College
- St. Phillip's College
- Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
- GateWay Community College (Phoenix)
- Montgomery College
https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-with-sonographer-and-ultrasound-technician/
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography!
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Tammy