Ultrasound technician how long

For those already trained in another medical field, a certificate program can take approximately a year to complete with necessary requirements met. Depending on your choice of work environment and your location, your job search could take time. A sonography program will provide you with the necessary education for a successful career in ultrasound.

Some of the required courses may include:. Due to the technical nature of these courses, the ultrasound program can be challenging at times. Ready to start your career in medical imaging? Diagnostic sonography is a great choice for you. To learn more about our sonography program, reach out to us today by calling Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin. Employment Growth, New Jersey. New York. North Carolina. Ultrasound technicians enjoy a varied and challenging career helping others to better health. Here is a list of eight reasons why to consider becoming an ultrasound technician. Ultrasound technicians work in an environment that continues to expand its capabilities. They learn to use state-of-the-art equipment to identify and diagnose abnormalities or disease.

The timely identification and treatment of disease plays a vital role in a positive outcome and favorable prognosis. Ultrasound technicians might be the first to notice a spot or shade that requires in-depth examination. By working with doctors and nurses, ultrasound technicians are a line of defense in the prevention of disease.

Ultrasound technicians may attend classes or seminars to learn new techniques or equipment. They have many opportunities to enhance their education and continue learning, or choose to advance to another healthcare position. Advance your training with certifications in specialties like cardiac and obstetrics. Depending on education and experience, ultrasound technicians can earn their certificate in a little over a year.

Two-year programs are the most common choice and offer additional education and training in less time than it takes to earn a bachelor's degree. Ultrasound technicians can enhance their education by earning specialized certifications or go on to become registered nurses, physician assistants or physicians.

Non-clinical ultrasound technicians may work in department leadership, as sonography educators, research sonographers or in ultrasound system sales. Working as an ultrasound tech is rarely boring since techs work with many different medical professionals and patients throughout the day.

They fulfill many technician responsibilities as well as perform office duties throughout the day. Ongoing training classes and seminars mean techs are always learning something new. Tailor your education to your current position, education and career goals so you can choose a program that fits your lifestyle and meets your goals. College credits you already earned may meet some education requirements, check with an advisor.

You can become a specialist to enhance your career or choose to work exclusively in research. Aspiring ultrasound technicians can choose between one and four-year programs, depending on their current level of education or job role. Healthcare professionals currently employed can enroll in a one-year certificate or diploma program that adds to their existing training. Students without a healthcare background choose between two and four-year programs dependent on career goals.

Check if there are local or regional accredited programs for the benefits mentioned. Courses include standard writing and academic coursework, learning designed specifically for ultrasound technicians and externships that provide hands-on, real-world education. For those already employed in healthcare, a one-year certificate program provides the training current professionals need to become ultrasound technicians.

Radiographers, CT and MRI technicians, registered nurses, physician's assistants, occupational therapists and similar professions are eligible to enter this short program, often completed within one year to 18 months.