If you have been looking for ways to change your career path for some time, you might have found a field of medical expertise known as ultrasound. To a lot of people, this seems like a great way to work in health care – interesting and challenging, while still being easier to do than becoming a doctor.
But how do you become an ultrasound technician? There are a few different ways to go. First off, there are three different degrees of education to choose from.
Just getting a certificate. This takes between 1 and 2 years of full-time study after finishing high school. If you already have a high school diploma, then you should continue.
You could get a associates degree. This takes longer, at up to 3 years of studies.
Finally, there is the option of getting a bachelor’s degree. This is the most time-consuming way to go, at 4 years of school, but remember that the wage you will earn depends on your level of education and experience, so an extra year spent on the books may be well worth it.
Ultrasound technician schools
To become an ultrasound technician, you must study at one of the schools accredited by the Allied Health Education Program Accreditation Commission (CAHEEP) or you can study in a clinic for a year under the supervision of the Society for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS)). Doing so would make you eligible for membership of ARDMS – American Registry of Diagnostic Sonographers. All these acronyms may be a bit confusing, but it all boils down to having the right credentials – as this will help you get a job and a better wage. Be sure to check out the webpages of these sites to learn more of these advantages.
Ultrasound technician salary
Speaking of wage, what should you expect to be paid in your new career? This will always depend on where you work, what you do and what your levels of education and experience are – but the average annual salary for a newly graduated ultrasound technician was around 63,000$ in 2009. With time – and given the right job and workplace – you can make a lot more than that though – up to 85,000$ annually has been reported.
