Ultrasound technology is not a new concept, but the idea is in a new venue. The same idea seen in bats and dolphins using echolocation to "visualize" their surroundings is used in ultrasound. High frequency sound waves are transmitted and received by the ultrasound machine, resulting in a visual image. This makes ultrasound safe and effective, because it is able to map internal images without the use of radiation.
Because of the increasing popularity of ultrasound technology, there are schools in 47 states now offering at least a specialized one-year program in ultrasound training. Most schools offer a two-year associate's degree in diagnostic medical sonography. This program is offered at many medical technology schools and most state universities. Some schools also have a Bachelor of Science degree in ultrasound, though these are usually the more prestigious medical or technical schools. There are online courses as well as local in-person classrooms.
Once a degree is acquired, an ultrasound technician can begin a career starting at around $37,000 a year, which increases rapidly with time and experience in the field, averaging about $52,000 per year. However, the technician is typically required to continue education as developments arise in this highly technical field. Many medical facilities require the technician to become registered through additional course work.
Keiser University has campuses throughout Florida and online. The university's Associate of Science degree in diagnostic medical sonography offers a full range of experiences. The program prepares students to enter the field as beginner diagnostic medical sonographers.
With training from the Academy of Healthcare Professions in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, Texas, employment in a hospital, physician's office or diagnostic imaging center will be available. Ultrasound technicians help patients with diagnostic imaging and track and monitor the growth of fetuses. Graduates of AHCP's Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound program can pursue certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
Western Career College in Citrus Heights, California, offers an associate's degree in ultrasound technology. The 16-month program covers classroom instruction, training in the lab and practical experience, and covers general sonography focusing on abdominal, obstetrical, gynecological ultrasound, including an introduction to vascular ultrasound. Graduates from this program receive knowledge and skills enabling them to pass the RDMS national registry examination.
The Sanford-Brown Institute offers training in diagnostic medical sonography at several campuses throughout New York, Texas, Pennsylvania, Georgia, New Jersey and Maryland. They offer short-term, career-specific training to provide the specific skills the medical community is seeking.