Ultrasound technicians, also called diagnostic medical sonographers, use ultrasound machines to create images of the human body.
The images ultrasound technicians create are used to assess and diagnose medical conditions in patients.
These skilled technicians typically work in hospitals and imaging clinics, where they're always in high demand.
What are the Job Duties of an Ultrasound Technician?
Ultrasound technicians work closely with physicians and surgeons who order the images and tests they create and conduct.
Your patients might be general or specific. For example, if you're a pediatric sonographer, your patients will all be children.
As an ultrasound technician, you'll talk to each patient about what you're going to do, the general process, and answer their questions.
You'll prep the machine and make sure the patient is properly situated in the machine to achieve the desired result.
Once you complete the images or testing requested, you'll review and analyze the results. You will then discuss them with the physician.
Work Environment
The majority of ultrasound technicians work in hospitals — 57%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Since hospitals are always open, ultrasound technicians work a variety of shifts, including overnights.
Ultrasound technicians who work in smaller clinics tend to have lighter caseloads and more predictable workdays.
Most ultrasound technicians work full–time, although part–time work in some smaller clinics is possible.
Physical Requirements
Ultrasound technicians spend a lot of time in dimly lit rooms. Sharp eyesight and strong night–vision is important.
They also need to be able to lift, move, and reposition patients. Many patients are disabled or unable to position themselves.
Many employers require ultrasound technicians to be able to lift a certain amount of weight and take precautions against back strain.
Ultrasound technicians also need good stamina. They can expect to be on their feet for the majority of an eight to 10–hour shift.
Education
An associate degree is the only required education to be an ultrasound technician. However, some do have bachelor's degrees.
Licensing and certification, which is optional in most states, require at least an associate degree.
If you get a bachelor's degree, you'll likely open up supervisory opportunities and higher pay.
With further education, you might work as an instructor of ultrasound courses at a university or technical college.
Becoming an Ultrasound Technician
Ultrasound technicians earn good money given the relatively small investment in education and training.
Keep reading for more details on what an ultrasound technician does and how you can get a jump start on this fascinating trade.
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or the Equivalent
Getting a high school diploma sets the stage for your continued education to become an ultrasound technician.
If you don't graduate from high school, you can still get a GED or other high school diploma equivalent.
Technical and community colleges that offer associate degrees all accept the GED and other equivalents.
In high school, taking science or anatomy courses will help you in your future career as an ultrasound technician.
Step 2: Get an Associate Degree in Sonography
Most technical and community colleges offer an associate degree in sonography, which is required for ultrasound technicians.
Make sure the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health/Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Specialization is common among ultrasound technicians. Think about what you'd like to specialize in and make sure it's available.
Sonography is a very hands–on, technical field. Make sure the program you choose offers plenty of hands–on experience.
Some programs might offer select courses online, but you can't get this degree 100% online because of the hands–von requirements.
Step 3: Apply for a State License
New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Oregon are the only states that require licensure for ultrasound technicians as of 2023.
If you live in one of these states, contact your state licensing board to find out what you need to do to get your license.
The school where you earn your degree will likely also have information to help you navigate the licensing process.
Other states might have voluntary licensing or registration of ultrasound technicians — check with your employer.
Step 4: Take the Certification Exam
The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) offers certification for ultrasound technicians.
This certification is completely voluntary. However, many employers either require or recommend it.
To get certified, you must take and pass the ARDMS credentialing examination. Exams are also available for various specialties.
Getting your certification could make you eligible for supervisory or managerial positions, as well as higher pay.
Step 5: Continue Your Education with a Bachelor's Degree
While most ultrasound technicians only have an associate degree, a bachelor's degree gives you more flexibility.
Ultrasound technicians with bachelor's degrees frequently hold supervisory positions and earn more money per year.
With a bachelor's degree, you might also have more control over your hours or access to better shifts.
Average Salary
The BLS reports that ultrasound technicians earned an average salary of $84,410 a year in 2022.
California, Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, and Rhode Island are the top–paying states, where the average tops $100,000 a year.
Of these states, the top–paying metropolitan areas include Vallejo–Fairfield and San Francisco–Oakland, California.
In the highest paying metropolitan areas, ultrasound technicians earn an average of more than $140,000 a year.
However, it's worth noting that the highest paying areas often have higher average costs of living than other parts of the country.
Job Outlook
The BLS projects that the overall employment of ultrasound technicians will grow 10% from 2021 to 2031.
This rate is faster than the average for all occupations in the U.S., so ultrasound technicians are considered to be in high demand.
Over the same decade, the BLS expects more than 10,000 job openings for ultrasound technicians each year.
The predicted growth rate and expected job openings indicate this is a great time to start a career as an ultrasound technician.
Learn About Becoming an Ultrasound Technician Today
Contact Best Accredited Colleges today if you're interested in starting a career as an ultrasound technician.