Ultrasound technicians, also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, use specialized equipment to create images of a patient’s internal organs, vessels, and tissues. These images are used by physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions. To become a certified ultrasound technician, you need to complete a formal education program and obtain a certification. In this article, we’ll discuss what degree you need to be an ultrasound technician, the types of programs available, and the certification requirements.
What Degree Do You Need to Be an Ultrasound Technician?
The degree you need to become an ultrasound technician depends on the specific program you choose. Most ultrasound programs are offered at the associate’s and bachelor’s degree levels, although some programs may also offer a certificate or diploma.
Associate’s degree programs typically take two years to complete and cover topics such as patient care, medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and ultrasound technology. These programs also include clinical experiences that allow students to gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.
Bachelor’s degree programs typically take four years to complete and include additional coursework in subjects such as healthcare ethics and management. These programs may also include additional clinical experiences.
Types of Ultrasound Technician Programs
There are several types of ultrasound technician programs available, including:
- Diploma Programs – These programs typically take one year to complete and may include courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and ultrasound technology. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) certification examination.
- Certificate Programs – These programs typically take one year to complete and may include courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and ultrasound technology. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the ARDMS certification examination.
- Associate Degree Programs – These programs typically take two years to complete and may include courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and ultrasound technology. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the ARDMS certification examination.
- Bachelor’s Degree Programs – These programs typically take four years to complete and may include courses in healthcare ethics and management, in addition to courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and ultrasound technology. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the ARDMS certification examination.
Ultrasound Technician Certification Requirements
To become certified as an ultrasound technician, you must complete an accredited program and pass the ARDMS certification examination. The ARDMS certification examination is a multiple-choice exam that tests your knowledge of ultrasound technology, patient care, and medical terminology.
Once you pass the ARDMS certification examination, you will be designated as a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS). This credential is required in order to work in most healthcare settings.
Frequently Asked Questions about Being an Ultrasound Technician
Q. What degree do you need to be an ultrasound technician?
A. You need to complete a formal education program and obtain a certification. Most ultrasound programs are offered at the associate’s and bachelor’s degree levels, although some programs may also offer a certificate or diploma.
Q. How long does it take to become an ultrasound technician?
A. It depends on the type of program you choose. Diploma and certificate programs typically take one year to complete, while associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs typically take two and four years to complete, respectively.
Q. Is certification required to work as an ultrasound technician?
A. Yes, certification is required in order to work in most healthcare settings. To become certified, you must complete an accredited program and pass the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) certification examination.
Q. What topics are covered in an ultrasound technician program?
A. Ultrasound technician programs typically cover topics such as patient care, medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and ultrasound technology. Associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs may also include additional coursework in subjects such as healthcare ethics and management.
Q. What type of job can I get as an ultrasound technician?
A. As an ultrasound technician, you may work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and physician offices. You may also specialize in a particular area, such as obstetrics or cardiology.
Conclusion
Becoming an ultrasound technician requires completing a formal education program and obtaining certification. There are several types of programs available, including diploma, certificate, associate’s, and bachelor’s degree programs. Once you complete an accredited program, you must pass the ARDMS certification examination in order to practice as an ultrasound technician. With the right education and certification, you can pursue a rewarding career as an ultrasound technician.
