Ultrasound programs include Associates of Science, Bachelor of Radiology, and a 12- to 18-month certificate program. Students need to fulfill requirements, maintain a high GPA, and gain work experience. They learn equipment maintenance, anatomy, physiology, physics, and medical terminology. They gain hands-on clinical experience and can specialize in one or more areas. Graduates take the state board exams and need to reapply for certification every three years.
Associates of Science and Bachelor of Radiology are some of the different types of ultrasound programs. Students with a degree in a healthcare profession may also participate in a 12- to 18-month ultrasound certificate program. Upon fulfilling the necessary requirements, students typically apply to the ultrasound degree program. Because ultrasound is a competitive field, students gain an advantage by maintaining a high grade point average. Schools may interview potential applicants and require letters of recommendation and a history of work experience.
Two to three years of study and the accumulation of approximately 80 credit hours from an accredited school are required for the associate’s ultrasound degree program. Prior to acceptance into the ultrasound program, students must complete a variety of required science and math courses in addition to general studies. Most schools require classes in anatomy, physiology and physics, and some also recommend biology and chemistry. Required math classes include college algebra and statistics. Any career in the medical profession requires students to adopt medical terminology.
Upon acceptance into degree programs in ultrasound, students spend a year learning about equipment maintenance and operation. They learn the difference in the appearance of normal and abnormal tissue structures located in the abdomen, breast and heart and gain experience in obstetrics and gynecology and in visualizing neurological and vascular tissues. In addition to attending lectures, students must gain hands-on clinical experience for the required number of hours. During clinics, students explain procedures to patients, position patients properly, and perform actual ultrasound procedures.
Students can graduate from ultrasound programs after completing the degree program or earn a degree and gain work experience. Graduation from a bachelor’s program generally requires completion of around 120 credit hours. Many schools require specific math and science prerequisites before students can participate in year-round advanced ultrasound courses. These courses provide a deeper understanding of all fields of sonography, or students can choose to specialize in one or more specific areas.
Upon completion and graduation from ultrasound programs, students typically take the state board exams offered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). Passing the state exam allows students to submit fees and gain professional certification. To maintain certification, you must reapply for certification in accordance with state regulations, as well as purchase 30 continuing education credits every three years.
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