How to Get a Degree in Ultrasound Technology
Ultrasound technology is good field for those who enjoy working with patients and have an interest in technology. Ultrasound technologists work with doctors and patients in hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, medical laboratories and medical clinics. They use specialized technology and equipment to produce images of a patient's internal organs. These images are then used by doctors to help detect the presence or absence of various diseases. In order to become an ultrasound technologist, an individual must first obtain a degree in the field.
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Instructions
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Select a specialty. Gynecologic sonographers help examine female reproductive organs and fetuses in the womb. Neurosonographers focus on neurological systems as well as neonatal care. Abdominal sonographers specialize in the abdominal organs including the pancreas, liver, spleen and kidneys. Cardiac sonographers concentrate primarily on the heart and its various components.
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Locate and enroll in a degree program. Students can choose to pursue either a four-year bachelor's degree from a university or a two-year associate's degree from a community college or technical school. Students may also choose to pursue their degree from an online school such as Argosy University, Sanford Brown College, Baker College, Everest Institute and Western Career College.
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Succeed in courses. Master the skills and information required to succeed in the field. Potential courses may include: anatomy, medical terminology, biology, sonography and laboratory classes.
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Gain hands-on training and experience. Take advantage of any available clinical externships or internship opportunities.
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Pass the national certification exam. The exam is administered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). In order to receive the credential, students must pass two comprehensive exams and a specialty exam.
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Tips & Warnings
Pursue continuing education credits in order to stay on top of developments in the field.
