Over 150 training programs are available that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Accredited universities and colleges offer formal two- and four-year degree programs, which result in an associate's or bachelor's degree. Two-year associate programs are most commonly seen, however. The coursework for these degrees includes physiology, anatomy, basic physics, instrumentation, medical ethics and patient care. Several one-year sonography programs are also available; these usually result in a vocational certificate and are mainly for workers already employed in the health care industry.
Sonographers tend to specialize in a specific area. Abdominal sonographers examine the abdomen to diagnose and treat conditions involving the kidneys, gall bladder, bile ducts, spleen, pancreas, liver and male reproductive system. Obstetric and gynecologic sonographers scan the female reproductive system, including examining a pregnant woman's fetus to track the baby's health and growth. Breast sonographers use transducers made especially for breast tissue to monitor blood supply, track tumors and assist in breast tissue biopsy; they also aid mammography in detecting breast cancer. Neurosonographers concentrate on the nervous system and brain. In neonatal care, they diagnose nervous system disorders of premature infants. Cardiac and vascular sonographers evaluate and analyze the blood flow of the heart and blood vessels.
In addition to obtaining their degree, sonographers must also have the communication and interpersonal skills required to explain technical procedures and results to a patient. Excellent hand-eye coordination is important for scanning quality images. Sonographers should also enjoy lifelong learning, since continuing their education is crucial in the ever-changing area of diagnostic medicine.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, increased job growth is expected in sonography as the health care industry increases its use of ultrasound imaging as a more cost-effective and safer alternative to radiology. While hospitals will remain the chief employers of sonographers, employment is expected to grow in physician offices and diagnostic laboratories as emphasis is shifted from inpatient to outpatient care. Sonographers willing to relocate and sonographers with multiple specialties will have the best job prospects and opportunities for advancement.