How to Become an Ultrasound Tech in Michigan
Ultrasound technicians or diagnostic medical sonographers can expect the job outlook in their profession to remain good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the number of jobs in this field to increase by 18 percent through 2010. Ultrasound technicians take images using sonography as ordered by a physician. The requirements to become an ultrasound technician can vary. According to the BLS, no states require licensing to become an ultrasound technician. Training to become an ultrasound technician in Michigan is generally offered through degree or diploma programs.
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Instructions
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Locate a school that offers an accredited program in diagnostic medical sonography. Programs will typically vary in length, curriculum requirements and cost. Grand Valley State University offers a four-year bachelor's degree program. Providence Hospital School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography offers an 18 month diploma program. You need to have significant experience in allied health and have completed prerequisite courses or have a bachelor's degree to be admitted to Providence's program.
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Apply to the program or programs of your choice. Applying to more than one program will increase your chances of getting accepted. Regardless of whether you apply to a school associated with a hospital or with a college, you will need to meet minimum requirements such as the completion of high school.
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Complete your ultrasound technician training program. If you are taking a degree program like the one at GVSU, you will have to complete two years of general education requirements in addition to your core courses in radiologic imaging and medical sonography. Diploma programs like the one at St. John Providence will require many of the same courses in ultrasound technology. Courses will include studies in areas like human anatomy, abdominal sonography and OB-GYN sonography.
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Complete your clinical rotations as required by the school's program. For instance, Providence Hospital's program requires students to complete hands-on training so that students can be evaluated throughout the course of the program under the direction of a qualified sonographer.
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Obtain certification. Since the state of Michigan does not require a license in ultrasound technology, obtaining certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography will add legitimacy to your credentials. This requires that you complete a series of examinations in areas like vascular technology and OB-GYN ultrasound practice.
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Conduct your job search and apply for openings for ultrasound technicians in locations in which you wish to work.
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