Online Ultrasound Tech Schools

You can become an ultrasound tech after just two years of schooling. Online ultrasound technician schools can offer cheaper tuition and more flexibility.
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Updated October 20, 2023

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Ultrasound Tech Schools and Programs

Ultrasound technician schools online provide a flexible education pathway for learners who want to work in healthcare. Many students who complete ultrasound technician programs work as ultrasound technicians. These professionals may work in hospitals, doctors' offices, or diagnostic imaging centers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for medical sonographers and technologists to grow 14% from 2020-2030.

This career requires only an associate degree but may lead to a higher-than-average income. Medical sonographers and technologists earn a median annual salary of $70,380, according to the BLS. This figure surpasses the annual median salary of $41,950 for all occupations.

Our guide lists the most affordable ultrasound technician schools online. Read on to learn about costs, common classes, and how to become an ultrasound technician.

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Online Ultrasound Technician Schools

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.

#1 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools

AdventHealth University

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its Orlando, Florida, campus, AdventHealth University provides a top-ranked bachelor of science in imaging sciences. The program prepares enrollees for entry-level careers in ultrasound tech. Students can choose from in-person and online course instruction. 

The distance learning format provides flexibility for students seeking to complete a college degree. The online ultrasound tech curriculum emphasizes career-focused knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors work with students to create individualized degree plans based on the student's career goals. The school's support services include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and other career services.

In addition to scholarships, distance learners may qualify for federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant.

AdventHealth University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,158

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Online Master's Programs: 3

Admission Rate: 91%

Graduation Rate: 35%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,275
Out-of-state
$24,275
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
1,802
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools

Fort Hays State University

  • Hays, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Fort Hays State University, located in Hays, Kansas, boasts several top-ranked online degrees, including its bachelor of science in medical diagnostic imaging. The online program trains students for careers in ultrasound tech. Along with its online instruction, the public institution also offers traditional and hybrid coursework. 

Due to its flexibility, the program's distance learning format may appeal to working professionals and busy students. To earn their online ultrasound tech degree, learners take courses that build in-demand knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors can also help students to create a customized course of study that reflects their career goals. The school's support services include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and other career services.

Students may qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant.

Fort Hays State University Numbers:

Online Student Enrollment: 8,553

Online Bachelor's Programs: 20

Online Master's Programs: 10

Admission Rate: 91%

Graduation Rate: 46%

Transfer Credits Permitted: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,140
Out-of-state
$14,580
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,726
Out-of-state
$10,602
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
15,033
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools

Washburn University

  • Topeka, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its Topeka, Kansas, campus, Washburn University offers an online diagnostic medical sonography certificate for students pursuing a career in the medical field. Learners take classes online and may complete clinical work at a nearby facility. The online platform offers a flexible pathway to entry-level ultrasound tech careers.

The online learning format may appeal to working professionals and busy students who require flexibility. By completing online ultrasound tech courses, students gain discipline-specific knowledge and skills. Students can also individualize their course of study by working with faculty advisors. The school's support services include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and other career services.

To help offset the cost of tuition, learners can apply for scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant.

Washburn University Numbers:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,775

Online Bachelor's Programs: 9

Online Master's Programs: 4

Graduation Rate: 51%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,652
Out-of-state
$19,656
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,416
Out-of-state
$19,096
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,880
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools

State Fair Community College

  • Sedalia, MO
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

State Fair Community College, located in Sedalia, Missouri, offers many top-ranked online programs to accommodate distance learning. The associate of applied science in diagnostic medical sonography is an excellent option for students seeking a career in ultrasound tech. Through online coursework and in-person labs, the program offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for the workforce.

Designed around the needs of working enrollees, the program's flexible online format helps students balance school with other responsibilities. The program's major courses and general education requirements strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Faculty advisors can help learners build a degree plan to customize their course of study. The online school also supports distance learners through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.

Along with other financing opportunities, online learners qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant.

State Fair Community College Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,812

Graduation Rate: 33%

Transfer Credits Accepted: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,200
Out-of-state
$5,688
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,928
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health

  • Omaha, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health offers an online bachelor's in imaging sciences from its Omaha campus. The degree ranks among the country's top programs. Learners develop the knowledge and skills to prepare for a career in ultrasound tech. At the private institution, students can choose from in-person and online learning.

The online format provides flexibility for enrollees who work full time. Faculty advisors can help students design a custom degree plan based on their interests and career goals. Online students also benefit from academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.

To help defray degree costs, online students can use scholarships, grants, and loans to pay for school.

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 940

Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Online Master's Programs: 5

Admission Rate: 92%

Graduation Rate: 65%

Transfer Credits Accepted: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,089
Out-of-state
$15,089
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,038
Out-of-state
$12,038
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
1,212
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Questions About Ultrasound Tech Schools

How long does it take to become an ultrasound technician?

Ultrasound technicians can practice with an associate degree. Full-time students can earn this degree in two years.

Does an ultrasound technician need to be licensed or certified?

Some employers prefer candidates with certification. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography offers certification in this field.

Is an ultrasound tech the same as a sonographer?

Yes. These two terms refer to the same profession. Employers use the titles interchangeably.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Why Get a Degree in Ultrasound Technology?

Online ultrasound technician degrees train learners to work with precision. Graduates create images that doctors use for accurate diagnosing purposes. The degree also helps students build their communication and people skills.

Earning a sonography degree online helps learners enter the workforce quickly and conveniently. An online format lets students continue working while earning their degree. They can build their resumes and continue earning a paycheck while in school.

How Much Does an Ultrasound Technician Degree Cost?

Students at two-year schools spend an annual average of $10,300, according to EducationData.org. However, cost varies by school type and learners' residency status. Students can save money by attending a public in-state school. Learners attending private or out-of-state schools typically spend more.

Degree-seekers who pursue a career that only requires an associate degree usually spend less on higher education. Many schools charge per-credit tuition. Students who finish a degree quickly can avoid rising tuition rates.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online learners should budget for extra expenses, such as scrubs and protective gear for clinical site visits. Some schools charge online degree-seekers to access virtual classroom platforms or databases. Online programs often require a premium subscription to video-conferencing sites like Zoom.

Online students should also budget for materials and books. They can save money by renting or buying used or digital versions.

How Much Do Ultrasound Tech Graduates Make?

Ultrasound technicians earn an annual average salary of $62,560, according to Jan. 2022 Payscale data. Technicians with less than one year of experience earn an annual average of about $53,000. The same professionals with more than 20 years of experience earn about $66,560.

Geographic location impacts salary. For example, Californian medical sonographers earn a mean annual wage of $108,400, according to the BLS. Medical sonographers in West Virginia earn $62,920.

Employer type may also influence pay. For example, medical sonographers working for private practices may earn less than professionals who work in hospitals.

Courses in an Ultrasound Technician Program

Ultrasound technician coursework teaches degree-seekers how to create precise medical images. Ultrasound technicians need an eye for detail and the ability to troubleshoot technological issues.

Some ultrasound technician programs let learners specialize in a topic. For example, some schools offer concentrations in diagnostic medical or obstetric sonography. Most associate degrees require 60 credits. However, ultrasound technician programs may vary in length.

See below for three common classes in ultrasound technician programs. Keep in mind that class titles and descriptions vary by school.

How to Become an Ultrasound Technician

Most employers require some formal higher education and on-the-job training to begin practicing. Entry-level ultrasound technicians may need to gain supervised experience. Some learners attend ultrasound technician schools online while working full time.

After earning a certificate or associate degree, learners can apply for certification. Not every employer requires certification. However, gaining certification can make candidates more competitive. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography offers various certifications in this field.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

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AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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