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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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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.

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.

• Patient Preparation

  Ultrasound technicians must know how to encourage patient cooperation to create a clear image. This class teaches best communication practices. Learners discover how to mentally and physically prepare patients for an imaging procedure. They also learn how to accurately record a patient's medical history for a medical professional to review.

• Musculoskeletal System Sonography

  Enrollees study the components of the musculoskeletal system. They also learn how to take images of this system. Students learn best practices for working with patients experiencing pain and injury. Coursework covers how to take sonograms of sprains, arthritic joints, and cysts.

• Abdominal Sonography

  This class focuses on capturing images of organs in the abdomen. Learners discover the location of the liver, kidneys, spleen, and pancreas. They also learn how to identify abnormalities, like gallbladder stones. Some classes highlight obstetric sonography.

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.

Online Ultrasound Technician Schools 2022