What do i major in to become an ultrasound tech

The world population is aging. According to the United Nations World Population Prospects (2022), the proportion of the global population aged 65 and up is expected to rise from 10% in 2022 to 16% in 2050. The population growth at older ages is driven by lower mortality and increased survival, which is attributed to improved healthcare administration and systems.

With an aging population, the need for affordable imaging technology to diagnose medical conditions is likely to grow. Since the 1940s, medical professionals have used sonography to investigate the inner functions of the human body (Ultrasound Schools Info, n.d.). Sonography, also known as ultrasound, is a painless and non-invasive procedure. After X-rays, it is the most commonly used diagnostic imaging technology. These said, there is now a demand for ultrasound technicians who can provide this alternative to radiation imaging techniques.

Should you be interested in this career path, this guide aims to answer the question of how to become an ultrasound technician. Among the topics discussed are what an ultrasound technician is and what one does. This document also aims to identify the educational and professional requirements the career entails.

How to Become an Ultrasound Technician Table of Contents

What is an Ultrasound Technician?

Before discussing the process of how to become an ultrasound technician, it is necessary to first know what an ultrasound technician is.

An ultrasound technician, also referred to as a diagnostic medical sonographer, is a technical healthcare professional that uses high-frequency sound-wave technology to assist medical professionals and patients in the location, diagnosis, and treatment of internal diseases and afflictions. The ultrasound technician carefully selects which images to take in order to provide the treating physician with the most complete explanation of the medical condition.

As a non-invasive method of viewing internal organs, ultrasound imaging is frequently the first test carried out when a disease is discovered (Patil et al., 2021). Thus, ultrasound technicians play an important role in conducting and interpreting initial imaging tests that can help narrow down a patient’s diagnosis and get them the treatment they need.

Most people are familiar with the role of an ultrasound technician as it relates to prenatal care ultrasound during pregnancy. However, ultrasound procedures or sonography can also be used to examine the heart, blood vessels, and potential abdominal organ dysfunctions. It might be necessary for an ultrasound technician to have a specialization in one of these fields. They may also specialize in areas such as gynecology, pediatric echocardiography, and neurosonology through postsecondary education. Having a well-rounded knowledge of the sciences and allied health sciences fields like biology, physics, technology, health, and patient care is an important step on how to become an ultrasound technician.

Ultrasound technicians work primarily in hospitals, physician’s offices, and laboratories. Majority of them (88%) work in the private sector, while a few others work in education (6%), public offices (4%), and the government sector (2%).

What does an Ultrasound Technician do?

Ultrasound technicians do more than just create images. They typically relate directly to patients as part of their duties. They interact with patients by getting them ready for the procedure. Likewise, they may explain procedures to patients in order to improve cooperation and test results. Similarly, they prepare patients for doctors and assist during examinations. Analyzing diagnostic data and giving it to the doctor is another routine task. Moreover, they support physicians in interpreting images and diagnosing medical problems. When necessary, ultrasound technicians may be in charge of ordering supplies and calibrating and maintaining the machinery.

An ultrasound technician’s typical responsibilities, roles, and tasks include:

• Operating imaging equipment and reviewing images to ensure they are of good quality and useful for diagnosis
• Identifying normal and abnormal imaging results, communicating a summary of the results to physicians or other health professionals, and alerting physicians to urgent problems
• Preparing patients for procedures and educating them throughout the ultrasound exam
• Reviewing patient medical history, recording imaging results in patient records, and coordinating care with various departments within the hospital or clinic
• Collaborate with doctors, nurses, and patients ranging in age from infants to the elderly

How to Become an Ultrasound Technician?

To become an ultrasound technician, aspirants must complete a postsecondary program, with many opting for an associate’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography. Aspiring sonographers take rigorous anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and ultrasound physics coursework. They also take vascular sonography and obstetrics and gynecology classes.

How long does it take to become an ultrasound technician then? Although it only takes about two years to become an ultrasound technician, there are multiple factors to consider. One consideration is to select the best educational path based on finances, career plans, and responsibilities. A two-year associate’s degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree are the two alternatives available. In the United States, almost 57% of ultrasound technicians have an associate’s degree, while about 29% have a bachelor’s degree. Furthermore, healthcare professionals with a degree who want to move into sonography can do so by earning a certificate, which takes one to two years.

Gaining as much practical experience is another opportunity. This is particularly true since there is no established global standard in sonography practice. According to Miles, Cowling, and Lawson (2022), in their paper “The role of the sonographer – An investigation into the scope of practice for the sonographer internationally” published in the journal Radiography, “there is global variation in the role of a practicing sonographer. Ultrasound is a ubiquitous imaging technology with international applications, but the sonographic scope of practice is geographically divergent.” Working in a hospital or clinic during the sonography program will provide future ultrasound technicians with practical experience. Working sonographers will assist them in delivering on-the-job training and putting classroom lessons into practice.

Obtaining certification is another step in the process of how to become an ultrasound technician. Most employers require certification, especially in competitive markets such as large cities and high-paying areas. Certification in a variety of sonography specializations greatly enhances job prospects and the versatility of an aspirant.

Education Options

There are numerous educational paths in the process of how to become an ultrasound technician and it is necessary to successfully complete an accredited ultrasound technician program to be a strong candidate for a position in sonography. The eligibility for an ultrasound program varies by school and degree level. Some may only require a high school diploma, while others may prefer students who have completed a two-year allied health or health science program.

With coursework in the sciences and anatomy, one can pursue an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree after high school. If the aspiring sonographers have previous healthcare experience, like a radiology career or other medical imaging backgrounds, they can complete a one-year certificate program or a two-year associate degree.

How long does it take to become an ultrasound technician for full-time students? Some colleges offer associate degrees that full-time students can complete in 18-24 months. Part-time students typically take longer to complete their degrees. Still, there are programs that offer options on how to get a bachelor’s degree in two years.

After earning an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, prospective ultrasound technicians can consider which area of sonography they want to specialize in. When researching how to become an ultrasound technician, choosing the right major is always an important step.

Training and Specializations

Real-world experience is invaluable, and getting out in the field is one of the best ways to be ready for a job in the field of sonography. Thus, aspiring ultrasound technicians must shadow an experienced sonographer, ask questions, and learn about the job’s challenges and rewards.

Many competitive medical imaging degree programs require that applicants complete a certain number of documented job shadowing hours in an ultrasound clinic or hospital. Many require at least 30 hours of observation in a diagnostic medical sonography setting.

Bowman et al. (2021) in their study published in the journal Radiography titled “Evaluation of students’ clinical performance post-simulation training” mentioned that “[p]reclinical simulation, using standardised patients, clearly stated objectives to manage cognitive load and immediate tutor feedback, facilitated substantial transfer of ultrasound skills to clinical practice. The efficacy of skill transfer varied but improved with increased deliberate practice and feedback quality.”

As such, it is advised that preclinical simulation be added to the sonographer courses’ core curriculum to enhance student performance, lighten the load on clinical staff, and increase patient safety in the early stages of ultrasound education.

Ultrasound technicians can specialize in a variety of areas. Sonography students can choose which specialty to pursue as a career and then complete the recommended certifications. Aside from prenatal health, an ultrasound technician is required for four other areas of anatomy. Possible specializations in these field include:

1. Obstetric/gynecologic sonography. This investigates a female’s reproductive organs and prenatal health.
2. Breast sonography. A specialization that examines the breast area for signs of cancer.
3. Abdominal sonography. This is used to examine the organs of the abdomen like the kidneys, liver, and bladder.
4. Vascular/cardiac sonography. The practice of performing ultrasounds on the heart and blood vessels in the body.
5. Neurosonography. A specialization examining the brain and its functionality.

Many ultrasound technicians begin their careers as general abdominal, gynecology, or obstetric ultrasound technicians (Reeve et al., 2022). However, there are some areas where sonographers’ roles are more established. To meet the rising demand for ultrasound services, role development in ultrasound is becoming a more frequent requirement and necessity, which is appreciated and desired by ultrasound technicians.

Certification

Ultrasound technicians with credentials are frequently preferred by employers. To become a registered diagnostic medical sonographer, ultrasound technicians must pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation Exam. The test allows candidates to specialize in either abdominal, breast, or neurosonography. Depending on the specialty area, candidates may be required to take an additional exam.

When it comes to completing ultrasound technician certification, there are three recommended tracks. All three have their own separate programs designed to prepare any student on how to become an ultrasound technician.

American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)

The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) provides five certification courses covering all aspects of sonography, including:

• Midwife Sonography Certificate
• Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)
• Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS)
• Registered Vascular Technician
• Registered Musculoskeletal Sonographer (RMSKS)

Ultrasound technicians must pay an annual fee to the ARDMS to maintain their certifications. After six years, they must reapply for this certification.

Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)

Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) offers nine cardiovascular sonography certifications:

• Advanced Cardiac Sonographer (ACS)
• Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT)
• Certified Rhythm Analyst Technician (CRAT)
• Registered Congenital Cardiac Sonographer (RCCS)
• Registered Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist (RCES)
• Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS)
• Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS)
• Registered Phlebology Sonographer (RPHS)
• Registered Phlebology Sonographer (RVS)

Ultrasound technicians must pay annual dues to keep their CCI certification. They will then be required to prove their continued education every three years.

American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (AART)

The American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT) provides a certification program that allows recipients to advance their certifications. ARRT certification and registration can be obtained by either of the following pathways:

• The primary eligibility pathway requires completing an ARRT-approved educational program to obtain the first ARRT credential.
• The postprimary eligibility pathway is for those who are already certified and registered with ARRT and want to pursue another credential.

To keep their certification, ultrasound technicians must pay an annual fee and demonstrate their desire to continue learning through coursework every two years.

All in all, each program has its own requirements and timeline. However, most certifications take a year to complete.

Continuing Education

As the demand for ultrasound technicians expands, ultrasound techniques and equipment become more sophisticated (Drukker et al., 2021). Therefore, sonographers must continue their ultrasound training even after they have found work.

Professional development not only helps ultrasound technicians become more specialized and advance in their careers. Continuing medical education courses must also be completed in order to maintain certification.

Furthermore, it is critical that the certifying agency approves the institution offering the courses for it to count. Fortunately, there are many accredited institutions and organizations that provide advanced ultrasound courses.

Career Prospects of an Ultrasound Technician

In 2021, diagnostic medical sonographers held approximately 82,300 jobs. The following industries were the largest employers of diagnostic medical sonographers:

Top Employers of Ultrasound Technicians in the United States

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022), medical sonographer employment is expected to grow 15% between 2021 and 2031, faster than the national average for all occupations. Ultrasound technicians are expected to have 94,400 jobs in 2031, with the number of jobs varying by occupation.

Over the next decade, there are estimated to be 12,100 openings for medical sonographers. Many of these positions are expected to be filled as a result of the need to replace workers who change occupations or leave the labor force, including retirement. Prospective individuals should then start to learn the steps of how to become an ultrasound technician to be considered for these positions.

States with the highest employment level in Diagnostic Medical Sonographers include California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Ohio. Most ultrasound technicians work full-time, though part-time work is common. They may have shifts that include evenings, weekends, or overnights because they may work in medical facilities that are open around the clock.

Although a career in sonography may not be stressful relatively, burnout still occurs among some ultrasound technicians. Younan et al. (2022) in their paper published in the journal Sonography titled “Burnout in the sonographic environment: The identification and exploration of the causes of sonographer burnout and strategies for prevention and control” identified the potential causes of burnout among ultrasound technicians. Particular themes they identified were increased workloads, exposure or delivery of adverse news, and career stagnation.

How much does an ultrasound technician make?

In May 2021, the median annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers was $77,740, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022). The lowest 10% made less than $59,640, while the highest 10% made more than $101,650.

Top Paying Industries for Ultrasound Technicians in the United States

What do healthcare industry employers prefer in an ultrasound technician?

Employers will look for characteristics that are desirable in any job field such as previous experience in the field, personal presentation, and professional qualifications. However, since sonography is a specialized medical field, healthcare industry employers may look for certain professional characteristics unique to ultrasound technicians. In a paper titled “Work readiness attributes: Comparative views of clinical supervisors and final year sonography students” published in the journal Sonography, Kinnane, Kennedy, and Quinton (2021) stated that “personal characteristics and behavioral skills can also affect employability prospects” apart from technical knowledge and practical skills for employment among graduate sonographers.

After embarking on the journey of how to become an ultrasound technician, applicants should check the must-haves of healthcare industry employers before applying for a sonographer position.

Must-Have Qualifications

Healthcare industry employers frequently require an ultrasound technician applicant to possess an associate’s or bachelor’s degree or certificate program in a related field, such as medical sonography or ultrasound technology. Furthermore, many employers also require candidates to have completed a professional sonography certification or to complete certification soon after hire.

In the United States, some states still require an occupational license to work as an ultrasound technician. These include North Dakota, New York, New Mexico, Arkansas, Illinois, New Hampshire, and Oregon.

Must-Have Skills

Ultrasound technicians use a variety of hard, soft, physical, and technical skills in their work. Sonographer abilities include interacting with others, performing technical tasks, assessing medical scenarios, and using physical abilities to position patients and manipulate imaging equipment. Ultrasound technicians use their skills to successfully collaborate with patients and other members of the medical team while producing high-quality medical images. The following are some of the key skills that ultrasound technicians use to succeed in the workplace:

1. Interpersonal skills. Communication, relationship building, teamwork, leadership, and motivation skills are needed so that sonographers can establish trust with their patients. This is also necessary when collaborating with other members of a healthcare team.
2. Communications skills. When working with these diverse groups, ultrasound technicians use their communication skills to adjust their communication styles to meet the needs of different audiences.
3. Attention to detail. Ultrasound technicians pay close attention to details in using specialized equipment to obtain accurate images of internal body systems and in managing the images for later access and identification. When working with physicians to analyze imaging results, they also use their keen observational skills to detect medical abnormalities in the anatomical and physiological features captured by the images.
4. Technical proficiency. Ultrasound technicians must be knowledgeable about the specialized medical technology they use to ensure that patients receive the care they require.

Is being an ultrasound technician a good fit for you?

A career in sonography could be a wise and rewarding choice as it is one of the quick degrees that pay well. Ultrasound technicians have a high job growth potential, a good starting salary, and a relatively short schooling period for professional qualifications. The profession is also regarded as one of the least stressful, with great choices of a working environment.

However, the job also requires dealing with different kinds of people, including some difficult patients. Also, the learning curve in using medical technologies and equipment can be steep, depending on the person’s interest in technology. Likewise, there is a lot of responsibility that comes with this job, as it is often the first line of diagnosis for patients. The work can be emotionally draining with some challenging cases, as well as physically demanding working long hours standing on feet.

Nonetheless, being an ultrasound technician may bring satisfaction. Interacting with doctors, nurses, and other specialists during the workday can provide sonographers with professional fulfillment. Close interaction with patients can be a rewarding aspect of a sonography job because one can make a real difference in patients’ lives through diagnostics.

With these said, the only thing left to do now is to determine whether this is the ideal career choice for you.