Essential Information
Students in Alabama interested in ultrasound programs may choose to earn an associate's degree in medical diagnostic sonography, which include classes in ultrasound. Students should note that the University of West Alabama only provides a pre-professional program, which does not lead to licensing eligibility as a sonographer. Admission to such programs may be steep, as so few options are available. Programs include clinical practicums or rotations as part of the curriculum, in addition to classroom and lab time.
H Councill Trenholm State Community College
This school in Montgomery offers a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)-approved DMS program. The first semester is devoted to prerequisites like anatomy and physiology. After the prerequisites have been completed, students enter the ultrasound program, which blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. Core courses include superficial sonography and abdominal sonography. Upon program completion, graduates are eligible to take the ARDMS and ARRT certification exams.
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
The CAAHEP-accredited DMS program at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Andalusia requires 76 credits for graduation. The program is designed to be completed in 6 semesters, which include 2 semesters of prerequisites. After the prerequisites are out of the way, students receive instruction in sonographic anatomy, obstetrical and gynecological (OB/GYN) sonography, sonographic instrumentation and advanced sonography. Students must also complete preceptorships and seminars. Graduates may take ARDMS certification exams.
George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville
This community college in Hanceville offers a CAAHEP-accredited DMS associate's degree program. Admission to this program requires students to complete prerequisites, which include courses on anatomy, physiology and technical physics. DMS courses include sonographic terms and OB/GYN sonography. In addition to coursework, students complete clinical experiences, preceptorships and seminars. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates can take the national certification examinations administered by ARDMS and ARRT.
Career Requirements
Alabama ultrasound technicians, commonly known as diagnostic medical sonographers (DMS), don't need a license to work, but many employers prefer to hire sonographers who have been certified. Students should keep in mind that the states Oregon, New Jersey, West Virginia and New Mexico require licensure for sonographers.
One organization, the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) provides certification exams. Applicants must fulfill specific experience and/or educational requirements (like graduating from an accredited sonography program) to take the ARDMS certification exams. Continuing education is required to maintain certification. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is another organization that provides certification in sonography.
School Comparison: At a Glance
| School Name | School Type and Setting | Programs Offered | Undergraduate Tuition and Fees (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|
| H Councill Trenholm State Community College | 2-year, public; midsize city | Associate Degree in Applied Technology in Diagnostic Medical Sonography | $4,650 in-state $8,520 out-of-state |
| Lurleen B. Wallace Community College | 2-year, public; fringe rural | Associate in Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography | $4,740 in-state $8,610 out-of-state |
| George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville | 2-year, public; distant town | Associate in Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography | $4,740 in-state $8,610 out-of-state |
Source: *NCES College Navigator.