Ultrasound Degree
For people who are yet undecided which career path to pursue, they might want to consider a promising career in ultrasound technology. According to the Bureau of Labor’s 2008 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the demand for ultrasound sonographers is expected to increase by 19% through 2016, which is way faster than the average growth rate of all known specialties. The rise of demand for ultrasound technologists is brought about by the increasing number of patients and physicians who choose ultrasound procedures as an alternative to radiologic methods. Moreover, there is a rapid and significant development in ultrasonography technology, thus, it is expected that the number of job placements in this field would continue to increase in the coming years. In fact, according to the American Hospital Association, there is a high vacancy rate for jobs relating to ultrasound imaging. This is attributed to the increasing number of aging ultrasound sonographers with concurrent limited number of schools that offer ultrasound programs and classes. Aside from the growing demand for ultrasound techs, the salary rates and benefits are competitive, too. According to the US Labor Bureau, as of May 2007, the mean salary rate of an average ultrasound technologist in the United States earns $60,590 annually.
The first step of prospective sonographers toward a career in ultrasound technology is to earn a certificate, an associate degree, or a baccalaureate degree in ultrasonography. Ultrasound degrees are obtained through education and training from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or CAAHEP-accredited colleges, universities and hospitals that offer ultrasound programs. The years of study and training depend on the program of choice. A diagnostic medical ultrasonography certificate or diploma is obtained by healthcare professionals who wish to specialize in ultrasounography after completing a year of specialized ultrasound program. Some healthcare workers, like nurses, can also get a certificate in sonography. For an associate degree, two to three years of study in an accredited ultrasound school is required for completion. To attain a bachelor’s degree, four years of ultrasound classes that focus on knowledge and skills in ultrasonography is mandatory.
Each ultrasound program has its particular prerequisites. In general, completion of courses in biology, chemistry, physics and instrumentation, anatomy and physiology, pathology, patient care, medical ethics and imaging and display techniques is a requirement before an ultrasound degree is awarded.
There is no licensure or certification requirement for ultrasound sonographers but it is recommended to register with the American Registry of Diagnostic Sonographers or ARDMS after obtaining an ultrasound degree. This is to establish the sonographer’s professional competency that will give him a competitive edge and have better job opportunities and career advancements. Registration with ADRMS requires the sonographer to pass its certification examination. An associate or baccalaureate degree is required to be eligible to sit for the exam. After passing the ADRMS certification examination, the sonographer gains the title of registered diagnostic medical sonographer or RDMS. Once registered, the RDMS should complete at least 30 hours of continuing education every three years for the renewal of registration. RDMS can either attend CAAHP – accredited ultrasound programs or pursue education credits through trade organizations, such as the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography.