Individuals interested in cardiac ultrasound should consider an education program in cardiovascular technology with a specialty in non-invasive cardiology. Non-invasive procedures are those that do not require any probes or insertions into the body. Ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure; it uses sound waves transmitted through the skin to produce images.
The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Professionals accredits education programs for cardiac ultrasound technicians. As of 2010, the Commission listed 25 accredited programs in cardiovascular technology with a concentration in non-invasive cardiology. The majority of these were two-year programs leading to associate's degrees. A few schools offered diploma or certificate programs, and three schools offered bachelor's degrees in this area.
The curriculum is a combination of didactic, or classroom, instruction, laboratory experience and supervised clinical training. Students start off studying anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical terminology, and basic instrumentation. Advanced concepts include pathology, cardiovascular concepts, ultrasound principles, ultrasound physics and ultrasound instrumentation.
Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) offers a Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) designation. While credentialing and certification may not be required, it is often preferred by employers. To receive the credentials, applicants must pass both a cardiovascular science exam and a non-invasive echo registry exam. The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) also offers a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer designation. Specialty exams within this credential include adult echocardiography, fetal echocardiography and pediatric echocardiography.
Continuing education is required to maintain credentials. The CCI's RCS credential requires 36 continuing education units within three years. The ARDMS requires 30 continuing medical education credits in a 3-year period. Both the CCI and the ARDMS offer opportunities for continuing education.