How to Become a Sonographer in Texas
Sonographers operate machinery that uses sound waves to diagnose illness and injury. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics there were 61,910 diagnostic medical sonographers in Texas as of May 2010. The BLS reported that the state's median wage for the profession was $62,570, with the 90th percentile earning $81,100 or more. Becoming a sonographer in Texas requires a minimum investment to earn the education and experience required to operate that medical equipment, usually a two-year time commitment.
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Instructions
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Determine the type of postsecondary education you'd like to pursue. The majority of sonographers seek two-year associate degree programs, though there are four-year bachelor degree programs available in the field.
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Consult the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists' list of accredited sonography programs. As of June 2011, Texas was home to seven institutions offering sonography degrees, including El Paso Community College, Tyler Junior College, Lamar Institute of Technology and Weatherford College. A degree from a Texas school is not a requirement to attaining employment within Texas; possession of the degree itself is what matters.
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Review the intended school's application process and requirements. In almost all cases, a high school diploma is required. Other admissions requirements may include immunization records, references and letters of intent. Complete the package and submit it to the appropriate recipients prior to the enrollment deadlines.
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Complete sonography-related courses including sonography of superficial structures, sonography of abdominopelvic pathology, basic ultrasound physics, sonography of obstetric/gynecology and vascular technology or similar titles, as required.
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Complete other required coursework, which may include classes such as introduction to composition, beginner psychology, communications, history and introduction to science, in order to fulfill your degree requirements.
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Join an industry organization such as the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, which may offer Texas city chapters and meetings, along with national conferences, mentoring and a job database for members. This is not required, but it may prove useful for job connections.
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Search national job websites and your local newspapers, hospital and clinic websites for sonography job openings.
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References
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
- State University: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Job Description
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2010
- The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists: ARRT-Recognized Educational Programs
- El Paso Community College: Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Tyler Junior College: Diagnostic Medical Sonography Technology
