Becoming an Ultrasound Technician in Australia
Ultrasound technicians are responsible for taking sonographic images of patients. Doctors use these for an indication as to what is wrong with a patient by assessing the problems with their internal organs and also identify masses, and fluid-build ups over joints and bones. In the 21st century, ultrasound imagery has become a more commonly used diagnostic tool.
Becoming an ultrasound technician in Australia is an involved process, as you will need a bachelor's and postgraduate qualification, as well as the necessary clinical experience before you can practice.
To become a practicing ultrasound technician, you must also maintain your registration with the Australasian Sonography Accredication Registry (ASAR)
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Things You'll Need
- Bachelor's degree
- Postgraduate qualification
- Clinical experience
- ASAR registration
Instructions
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Visit goingtouni.gov.au and search for relevant courses to become an ultrasound technician. The most relevant courses are specifically related to medical imaging or radiography, such as bachelor of medical radiation science (medical imaging.) You could also study a broader, yet related, subject such a science degree.
Once you have decided on a course and institution, fill out an application. This is an involved process, and you may be required to fill in an essay question. You will also be required to supply two references.
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Complete your degree course. This is a minimum of three years of hard-work writing essays, taking examinations, and, if you are studying a practical health course, doing clinical field work in the medical profession. While you are carrying out your degree studies, you can bolster your credentials by trying to find work experience in a health care environment.
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Visit asar.com.au and use their course finder to find an accredited postgraduate qualification. ASAR is the governing body for Australasian Sonographers, and to become a qualified ultrasound technician in Australia, you must be registered with this organization.
Once you have found the postgraduate qualification for you, fill out an application form. Again, this will involve time and effort, as these forms often ask for very detailed and expert answers. Use the strengths of your bachelor's degree to your advantage when applying for a postgraduate course.
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Carry out your postgraduate studies. Similar to your bachelor's degree, you will be required to do essays, examinations and there will be a heavier weighting placed upon clinical studies in the hospital environment. Here, you will learn the practical skills of being an ultrasound technician, as this is one of the final stages of your training in sonography.
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Complete your postgraduate qualification and apply to become a fully-accredited member of ASAR. You will be required to provide all transcripts and degree result information that you have available to you to aid ASAR in deciding upon your application. If you have passed your degree and postgraduate course to a satisfactory level, there is no reason why your application will not be accepted.
Once your application is received and approved, you will be a fully qualified ultrasound technician in Australia, and you should start applying for jobs in your field.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit control panel of ultrasound scanner image by starush from Fotolia.com
