Ultrasound technicians, also known as medical sonographers, operate noninvasive medical imaging devices. The images they produce play a crucial role in diagnosing patients. However, unlike other high-impact medical careers, becoming an ultrasound technician requires only an undergraduate education.
Explore the best colleges for ultrasound technicians, and find an online program that can help you launch your career.
Degree at a Glance
Typical Program Length: Four years for first-time college students, 2-3 years for transfer students
Typical Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma for first-time students, associate degree with prerequisites for transfer students
Top Skills Gained: Obstetric, pediatric, neurologic, and cardiac sonography techniques
Popular Concentrations: Cardiac, vascular
Popular Online Programs
The Top Ultrasound Tech Programs Online
Price Check
Some of the best public colleges for online ultrasound technician degrees do not charge out-of-state tuition.
Why Become an Ultrasound Tech?
Like other careers for healthcare majors, ultrasound technicians can specialize in many areas, such as abdominal, cardiac, or pediatric sonography. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the need for these professionals will grow by 13% between 2024 and 2034. This projection suggests a strong job market, one that enables graduates to explore open positions nationwide and negotiate a competitive starting salary.
What to Expect From an Online Ultrasound Tech Program
Online, asynchronous courses appeal to adult learners who want or need a flexible educational experience. Asynchronous learning allows you to schedule coursework around your career or family commitments. Some programs also offer an accelerated option, enabling you to graduate sooner than your peers and potentially save money on a bachelor's degree.
Like some other health science degree programs, a bachelor's in ultrasound technology requires in-person clinical rotations. Your college's academic advisors can help you find placements within commuting distance.
Ultrasound Tech Licensing and Certification Requirements
Certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) can bolster your resume and may qualify you for professional advancement. ARDMS' certification options include a generalist pathway and four specializations:
Cardiac sonography
Vascular technology
Musculoskeletal sonography
Midwife sonography
Earning an ARDMS certification requires meeting specific educational requirements and passing an exam. You maintain your certification by completing continuing education courses from approved providers.
Ways to Save on an Ultrasound Tech Program
Although the best colleges for ultrasound technician programs charge an affordable tuition rate, you can further reduce your out-of-pocket expenses by exploring these and other financial aid strategies.
Apply for Federal Financial Aid: Filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually may qualify you for federal grants and low-interest loans. This aid includes the TRIO programs, as well as eight grants for veterans and low-income degree-seekers.
Start Your Education at a Community College: Earning an associate-for-transfer degree at your local community college may save you thousands of dollars on your college education. Community colleges charge in-district or in-state students the most affordable tuition rates.
Explore State Financial Aid: Your state may offer generous financial aid for first-time college students, such as lottery-funded scholarship programs. Eligibility requirements may include graduating from an in-state high school with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ultrasound Tech Programs
Depending on the employer, the two terms may refer to the same job. However, in some clinical settings, sonographers have extra specialization options and pathways for professional advancement. For this reason, a bachelor's degree in medical sonography can prepare you for this more intensive role.
