How Long Does It Take to Become an Ultrasound Technician?
Sonographers are often referred to as ultrasound technicians. They play a critical role in obstetric care, and also perform vascular, abdominal and gynecological ultrasounds. Sonographers often specialize in a particular type of ultrasound, such as echocardiography. Compared with other careers in the same pay scale, ultrasound training is relatively short.
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Application
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Students may apply to one of two types of ultrasound programs. One is an allied health program. Application to the ultrasound portion of that program can be done a year after general education. Students may apply directly to an accredited ultrasound program that combines general education with ultrasound training.
Didactic Learning
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Ultrasound students study anatomy and physiology, healthcare practices and ultrasound physics. The time spent in the classroom may be 12 to 18 months. Part of the classroom education may coincide with clinical experience.
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Clinical Experience
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Ultrasound students are assigned a hospital site where they work closely with a sonographer and acquire hands-on experience with patient care. Clinical experience lasts one year.
Variations
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Ultrasound programs commonly last for two years, and students are awarded a certificate or an associate's degree. Some students choose a four-year bachelor's program.
Certification
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Graduates of accredited programs may sit for the ARDMS registry exam upon graduation. Non-accredited allied health students must work for one year before applying for the exam (see Resources).
Continuing Education
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Sonographers must acquire a set number of continuing education credits in order to maintain their registration. This is a lifelong process.
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