![]() ![]() Prospective students in the United States are advised to see out an accredited sonography program through the Commission on Accreditation on Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and students in Canada are advised to research accredited programs listed with the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). Students are typically required to complete some type of clinical hours in their program, which gives them the opportunity to test out their newfound skills and knowledge in an actual healthcare setting, often under the supervision of an experienced professional. 19 percent of sonographers reported having a postsecondary certificate.17 percent of sonographers reported having a bachelor’s education.47 percent of respondents working as sonographers reported having an associate degree.Interestingly, O*NET (2020) profiles three unique education pathways for sonographers: There are also some certificate-based programs, and some colleges and hospitals also offer one-year certificate programs, according to the BLS.Īdvanced education might be useful to allied health professionals who are interested in entering administration, education, or research or even in becoming sales representatives or consultants. According to the BLS, both associate degree and bachelor’s degree programs in sonography are available career pathways. There many educational pathways for becoming a sonographer. What Kind of Degree Does a Sonographer Need? Understanding technical equipment: Most of the tools that medical sonographers use are technologically-based-and not just the physical pieces themselves, but also the software and programs that are recording the sound waves being transmitted.Possessing interpersonal skills: Since sonographers work so closely with patients, sometimes in uncomfortable situations, they must be able to put them at ease, particularly to be able to obtain the precise kinds of images they need.Having physical stamina: Not only must sonographers be able to help lift and move around people, but sonographers are also often on their feet much of their workday.Having good hand-eye coordination: Sonographers must be able to focus on what they see on the screen, but also be able to move the transducer around on the patient’s body at the same time.Being detail-oriented: Sonographers must be able to complete very exact work to obtain the images they need.According to a May 2019 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these include: There are many traits important to becoming an effective sonographer. When the images have been obtained or during the process of obtaining them, sonographers need to check images to ensure they are high-quality and focused on the specific areas needed.ĭiscover what to expect from a career as a sonographer, including how to join this high-growth career. However, a sonographer’s job doesn’t stop there. The transducer bounces high-frequency sound waves off the area being imaged, allowing a computer to build pictures from there. They also typically use a small tool called a transducer that is placed upon a patient’s skin in the area to be imaged. Some of the technologies sonographers use on the job range from A-Mode ultrasound machines to pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasound units, according to O*NET (2020). In fact, the BLS reports that sonography is often the first imaging test that is performed to help diagnose specific diseases. These images can be important in detecting a variety of diseases, including heart and vascular disease, which according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is the leading cause of death in the United States. Medical sonographers use a variety of tools to create images of specific parts of the body, including organs and tissues, which may include the abdomen, blood vessels, breasts, heart, and female reproductive systems, according to the SDMS. In short, sonographers are critical in providing a bigger picture perspective of a patient’s health to confirm whether or not further medical care is needed. For example, the average annual salary is generous at $75,780 ( BLS May 2019)-especially for an occupation that typically requires only an associate degree.Īccording to the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), sonographers enjoy working as an integral member of a larger healthcare team, creating high-tech images to aid physicians and doctors in diagnosing illnesses, and working one-on-one with healthy and seriously ill patients. Why would someone want to become a sonographer? There are many reasons why this is a desirable career path. Certification Guides Career Guides Interviews & Features
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