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Ultrasound and Sonography Technology

Overview

Ultrasound and sonography programs prepare people to use ultrasound to take pictures inside patient's bodies using sound waves and echoes under the supervision of a physician.

Ultrasound and sonography programs include topics such as:

Practicum

Most ultrasound and sonography programs require students to complete a practicum at a clinic under the supervision of experienced technologists.

Schools

Many community colleges offer certificate and associate degree programs in ultrasound and sonography. A certificate program usually takes a year of full-time study. An associate degree program usually takes two years of full-time study.

A few colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree programs in ultrasound and sonography. A bachelor's degree usually takes four years of full-time study.

See schools that offer this program.

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Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Some programs require the previous completion of an allied health program such as nuclear medicine technology or nursing. You could also hold a bachelor's degree in a science or medically related field if you have direct patient care experience as well.

Other programs require you to take pre-professional and general education courses before applying. These prerequisite courses usually include some combination of the following:

Additional requirements may include:

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Bachelor's degree candidates may also need to complete an independent research project on ultrasound technology. In addition, a bachelor's degree curriculum often includes additional courses in the general health sciences.

All programs include a clinical externship or practicum in their curriculum. Under the supervision of a physician or a certified sonographer, you can apply your knowledge and skills in real-life clinical settings. This also gives you the chance to work within the ultrasound specialty that interests you. Examples of this are obstetric and vascular ultrasound technology.

Things to Know

You are expected to pay for your own uniforms, shoes, name badge, and transportation during your clinical training.

Graduating from an accredited program in ultrasound technology qualifies you to take the national certification exam.

Some programs grant bachelor's degree in medical imaging. You can combine course work in ultrasound and sonography technology with courses in radiography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to earn this bachelor's degree.

Schools

King-Snohomish Area

Bellevue College

Everett Community College

Highline College

Seattle University

Shoreline Community College

Kitsap Area

Olympic College

Spokane Area

Spokane Community College

Tacoma Area

Tacoma Community College