The location of the ultrasound technician program will affect the overall price. For example, the diagnostic medical sonography technician certificate program offered at Sanford-Brown in New York costs, in total, $35,000 versus the bachelor's degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography at University of Arkansas which costs $27,000 in total, plus other fees such as lab and registration fees. Also, keep in mind in-state students typically pay less per credit than out-of-state students.
The cost of an ultrasound technician program also depends on the type of degree being offered. Typically, certificate and associate degree programs will be cheaper than bachelor degree programs, due to the number of credits being taken. Regardless of the program you choose, make sure it is accredited by a professional organization such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
Along with tuition you are responsible for other fees. These fees include tuition deposits, laboratory fees, technology fees, uniform fees, health fees, graduation fees and enrollment fees. If you are living on campus, you will be required to pay for housing and possibly a campus meal plan. If you plan on commuting, you will need a reliable car with insurance or other transportation sources such as a bus pass. Many programs require students to find their own source of transportation to clinical sites, so plan ahead if you need to set aside extra money for gas.
The most cost-effective way to attend an ultrasound technician program is to attend one offered at a local community college. The cost-per-credit at a community college is very affordable compared to technical schools and four-year schools. If you choose to commute, you can arrange to carpool to classes and clinical sites with classmates. Community colleges also offer a variety of financial assistance to qualifying students in the form of grants, loans, payment plans and scholarships.