On-the-Job Training for an Ultrasound Technologist
An ultrasound technologist (also known as an ultrasound technician) uses special equipment to capture images of internal organs for the purpose of diagnosing health problems. Although they do not make a diagnosis, ultrasound techs gather the necessary information through imaging requested by physicians. This type of medical field is referred to as sonography. An ultrasound tech can make anywhere from $52,570 to $73,680 a year. There are two- and four-year degrees available in ultrasound technology, as well as some one-year certificate programs, all offered through colleges and vocational schooling. Once the necessary education is completed, students can move on to an internship that offers on-the-job training.
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Becoming Educationally Prepared
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Before going through with the on-the-job training to become an ultrasound technician, it's important to become educationally prepared. Strong knowledge of human anatomy is essential. During college, it's important to take the required courses, which include general physics, anatomy, medical terminology, obstetric sonography, abdominal sonography, fetal and neonatal anomalies and vascular sonography.
Length of Schooling
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Each state and health-care facility may require a different type of degree. Students may want to decide what type of institution they want to work in and find out whether a two- or four-year degree is necessary, or if certification is sufficient. There are several ways to get training to become an ultrasound technician, and each offers the basic classes.
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On-the-Job Training
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Students can get hands-on training at a college or vocational school. Most undergraduate programs include a clinical internship for on-the-job training at hospitals and health-care facilities. This gives students an opportunity to learn patient care in the work environment, generally for three to six months. During the clinical internship, students work alongside physicians,certified sonographers and other health-care professionals to develop and apply their ultrasound skills.
Entry-Level and Higher Level Positions
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For entry-level positions, an ultrasound technician may be able to get a job after completing all coursework and the clinical internship. However, to advance in the field, obtaining further certification is a good idea. For upper-level positions in administration or management areas, employers often prefer at least five years of professional ultrasound experience.
Examination and Certification
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Advancing beyond entry-level work requires passing the National Ultrasound Registry Examination. Many employers prefer applicants who are also registered with one of these organizations: American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Cardiovascular Credentialing International, or American Registry of Radiological Technologists. These organizations also require passing an exam.
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