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Jadyn
Student
Memphis, Tennessee
4
Questions
Asked
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what are the steps to becoming a sonographer ?
i know i want to go to a four year college, and major in anatomy. but im not sure the steps after, like finding a dms program after college and actually starting the process because the college i want to attend doesnt have a dms program
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1 answer
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
350
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Jadyn,
Becoming a sonographer involves several steps, especially if your desired four-year college doesn't offer a Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) program. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve your goal:
1. Complete a Bachelor's Degree
Since you plan to major in anatomy at a four-year college, focus on excelling in your coursework and gaining a strong foundation in biological sciences.
2. Research and Choose a DMS Program
While completing your bachelor's degree, research accredited DMS programs. Consider programs that:
- Are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
- Offer the specializations you're interested in (e.g., abdominal, obstetric, vascular sonography).
3. Fulfill Prerequisites
Most DMS programs require specific prerequisites. Ensure your undergraduate coursework includes:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Physics
- Medical Terminology
- Patient Care
4. Gain Healthcare Experience
Some DMS programs prefer or require applicants to have healthcare experience. Consider:
- Volunteering or working in healthcare settings.
- Shadowing a sonographer to gain insight into the profession.
5. Apply to DMS Programs
When nearing the completion of your bachelor's degree:
- Apply to multiple accredited DMS programs to increase your chances of acceptance.
- Prepare for and complete any required entrance exams or interviews.
6. Complete a DMS Program
DMS programs typically take 1–2 years to complete and include:
- Classroom instruction in sonographic principles, anatomy, and pathology.
- Clinical training to gain hands-on experience.
7. Earn Certification
After completing a DMS program, obtain certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) by:
- Passing the Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) exam.
- Passing specialty exams in your chosen area(s) of sonography.
8. Find Employment
Start your job search by:
- Networking with professionals you met during clinical training.
- Applying to hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers.
- Utilizing job boards specific to sonography and healthcare.
9. Continuing Education
Maintain your certification by fulfilling continuing education requirements and staying current with advancements in the field.
Tips for Success
- Stay organized and keep track of application deadlines and requirements.
- Seek mentorship from professionals in the field.
- Join professional organizations such as the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) for resources and networking opportunities.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a sonographer, even if your undergraduate institution doesn't offer a DMS program.
Best wishes.
Becoming a sonographer involves several steps, especially if your desired four-year college doesn't offer a Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) program. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve your goal:
1. Complete a Bachelor's Degree
Since you plan to major in anatomy at a four-year college, focus on excelling in your coursework and gaining a strong foundation in biological sciences.
2. Research and Choose a DMS Program
While completing your bachelor's degree, research accredited DMS programs. Consider programs that:
- Are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
- Offer the specializations you're interested in (e.g., abdominal, obstetric, vascular sonography).
3. Fulfill Prerequisites
Most DMS programs require specific prerequisites. Ensure your undergraduate coursework includes:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Physics
- Medical Terminology
- Patient Care
4. Gain Healthcare Experience
Some DMS programs prefer or require applicants to have healthcare experience. Consider:
- Volunteering or working in healthcare settings.
- Shadowing a sonographer to gain insight into the profession.
5. Apply to DMS Programs
When nearing the completion of your bachelor's degree:
- Apply to multiple accredited DMS programs to increase your chances of acceptance.
- Prepare for and complete any required entrance exams or interviews.
6. Complete a DMS Program
DMS programs typically take 1–2 years to complete and include:
- Classroom instruction in sonographic principles, anatomy, and pathology.
- Clinical training to gain hands-on experience.
7. Earn Certification
After completing a DMS program, obtain certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) by:
- Passing the Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) exam.
- Passing specialty exams in your chosen area(s) of sonography.
8. Find Employment
Start your job search by:
- Networking with professionals you met during clinical training.
- Applying to hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers.
- Utilizing job boards specific to sonography and healthcare.
9. Continuing Education
Maintain your certification by fulfilling continuing education requirements and staying current with advancements in the field.
Tips for Success
- Stay organized and keep track of application deadlines and requirements.
- Seek mentorship from professionals in the field.
- Join professional organizations such as the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) for resources and networking opportunities.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a sonographer, even if your undergraduate institution doesn't offer a DMS program.
Best wishes.