Most sonography programs are two-year associate degree programs. Some programs offer a combined bachelor’s degree in radiology and sonography, which takes three years to complete. Students in these programs take courses in anatomy, physiology, physics, and pharmacology. They also complete clinical rotations in hospitals and other healthcare settings.
After graduating from a sonography program, students must pass a national certification exam in order to practice. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) offers several different certification exams for sonographers.