There are some things you should know about ultrasound technology if you are thinking about going to school to be an ultrasound technologist, or ultrasound tech. This guide will help you understand what an ultrasound technologist does, as well as how to become an ultrasound tech.
What is Medical Sonography and How is it Used?
Medical sonography, or ultrasound uses sound waves of a frequency greater than 20 kHz, typically between 2-18MHz, to produce images of anatomical structures. These images may then be used for diagnosis or treatment of various conditions. An ultrasound technologist usually works in a hospital or medical office setting, operating specialized equipment. One of the most common uses of ultrasound technology is to take images and measurements of a fetus to allow doctors to get a better idea of whether the fetus is growing at the expected rate and whether there are any birth or genetic defects. Of course, many parents look forward to the ultrasound because they want to know whether the baby is a boy or a girl. This is something that a skilled ultrasound technician will sometimes be able to determine.
Ultrasound is also used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. Ultrasound examinations can be used to locate the cause of pain or to allow physicians to observe the body's internal organs, including the heart, liver, kidneys, thyroid and the eyes. Besides helping to diagnose conditions, ultrasound can be used to help physicians locate the cells and tissues they need to extract for biopsies.
How Long Does it Take to Become an Ultrasound Tech?
Ultrasound technologists must complete an accredited training program. Depending on the program, it can take anywhere from one to four years to complete. Many colleges that offer ultrasound tech associate's and bachelor's degrees also offer a one-year certificate ultrasound technologist program. Since technicians with more education often make more money, it might be wise to continue working toward a bachelor's degree even if you initially enter the profession with an ultrasound tech certificate. A good place to start looking for training programs to help you prepare for ultrasound technician jobs is theultrasoundtechnician.com. It is also important to remember that you will have to maintain your skills and undergo continuing education to keep your certification current.
Some ultrasound tech schools require prospective students to have a background in health care or science before enrolling in ultrasound tech classes. The courses you take will include anatomy, physiology, physics and medical ethics. Many ultrasound tech colleges also have a waiting list to get into their ultrasound tech training programs. If you are unable to attend a program at a local accredited ultrasound tech school, you can study to become an ultrasound tech online. Online ultrasound tech schools are a great option for people who lead busy lives as well; you can easily find accredited programs online which offer flexible scheduling.
What's the Salary and Job Outlook for Ultrasound Techs?
So how much does an ultrasound technologist make? The average ultrasound technologist salary ranges from $59,000 to $70,000 per year. The average ultrasound tech salary can vary from one part of the country to another but nationwide only 10% of ultrasound tech jobs pay less than $54,274. On the other end of the spectrum, roughly 10% of ultrasound technologist jobs pay more than $76,241 per year. The median salary for an ultrasound tech is approximately $64,700.
In addition, you can become specialized in various areas of ultrasound—you can become an echocardiographer (and examine hearts) or a vascular sonographer (and examine blood vessels). Being an ultrasound technologist requires that you are able to work on a team and are dedicated to people’s health care. If you're looking for a technical job in the medical field that you can train for quickly, a career as an ultrasound technologist might be just what you need.