What classes do you need for ultrasound tech

Ultrasound technicians conduct diagnostic medical imaging that can be used to monitor illness and other health conditions. Ultrasound technology is commonly used to establish and to date pregnancy. To become an ultrasound technician, you must complete at least an associate degree or post-secondary certificate. The length of these programs varies by the school that offers them, but it typically takes two years to finish them.

Table of Contents Show

Course Work
Certificate and Degree Programs
Specialization
Clinical Requirements
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Course Work

An ultrasound technician must have a strong math and science background. Coursework may include calculus, anatomy, biology, physics and physiology. Classes specific to ultrasound technology are also included, such as the physics of ultrasound, application of the technology and an overview of ultrasound equipment. Some programs require that you complete some of the math and science courses before you enter the program, giving you a strong foundation on which to succeed. Others may require admissions testing.

Certificate and Degree Programs

There are many pathways to becoming an ultrasound technician. You may complete a certificate program, an associate degree or a bachelor's degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most ultrasound technicians receive either a certificate or an associate degree. Both programs take about the same amount of time to complete -- two years -- depending on the school. Some accelerated programs can be completed in a year to 18 months.

Specialization

Just like doctors, ultrasound technicians can specialize. Technicians may specialize in vascular ultrasound, echocardiography ultrasound, breast ultrasound and other areas. Specialization requires taking coursework that focuses on the area of choice. Some schools offer programs for specialization, with all of the coursework already outlined. Specialization may help you be more competitive in the job market when applying for certain positions.

Clinical Requirements

Most ultrasound technician programs require a certain number of clinical hours. Students use ultrasound equipment on actual patients. Students often complete clinical requirements in a hospital or outpatient facility under the supervision of a medical professional. The number of required clinical hours varies by program. Some programs may also grant credit hours for clinical work.

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References

Burea of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs: Diagnostic Medical Sonography

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Maria Magher has been working as a professional writer since 2001. She has worked as an ESL teacher, a freshman composition teacher and an education reporter, writing for regional newspapers and online publications. She has written about parenting for Pampers and other websites. She has a Master's degree in English and creative writing.

Ultrasound technicians use specialized equipment to examine parts of the human body, including the abdomen, breast, thyroid, heart and more. They work alongside doctors and other medical professionals to help diagnose diseases and other health conditions through precise imaging.

Employment opportunities for ultrasound technicians are growing across the U.S. and within the state of Florida. With a promising outlook for the future, a great salary and the ability to help others, choosing a diagnostic ultrasound technician career is rewarding.

What Does It Take to Become an Ultrasound Technician?

Becoming an ultrasound technician requires you to first complete high school and receive your diploma. Once complete, you’ll need to attend a formal education program at an accredited college or university to receive an Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

You’ll also be required to complete clinical education, where you’ll put your formal education to use in a hands-on environment. After your education requirements are met, you’ll then need to complete the proper licensing exams to be a licensed ultrasound technician.

A proper ultrasound technician program will also prepare you for the voluntary registration examination for certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Certification through the ARDMS is often sought after by healthcare facilities, helping you to stand out from other applicants and increase your career options.

What Does Ultrasound Technician Education Look Like?

Students in an ultrasound technician program must take multiple courses about the human body, proper sonography techniques and more. Some of these courses could include:

Medical terminology
Anatomy and physiology
General physics
Principles of abdominal sonography
Pharmacology
Echocardiography pathology

After completing your required coursework, you’ll need to complete the required amount of clinical externship hours at a local healthcare facility. Although diagnostic sonography courses are challenging, Cambridge gives you the support you need to be successful in your career.

Your Medical Career Starts Here

Are you ready to enter the medical field through imaging? Ready to get started right away? A diagnostic ultrasound technician program might be the best choice for you. To learn more about ultrasound or to learn about available program options, give us a call at 877-206-4279.