A career as a diagnostic medical sonogram professional does require plenty of education, even if you’re planning to start from the bottom. Most private practices and clinics require at least a one-year certificate from a diagnostic medical sonogram school, while hospitals and well-known facilities may require a four year degree and on-the-job experience.
After finishing high school, it’s time to go to college and get an Associate’s and Bachelor’s degree in sonography, including a specialty of your choice. While you can learn multiple disciplines, each course is its own educational marathon. A comprehensive program can last as many as four years depending on the degree desired. Professional organizations will warn students to choose a program from an accredited school and one that meets standards by way of a minimum curriculum.
A diagnostic medical sonogram school will also prepare students for the work that is ahead, including consultations with patients (who may be healthy or very sick), as well as an education in using ultrasound equipment, and all the aspects related to this science.
You must also make a decision regarding specialization. There are actually several subcategories to consider including breast and gynecology/obstetrics, as well as the abdominal area, which includes blood vessels, the liver and urinary tract. There is also specialties that focus on heart health called echocardiology, and vascular sonography that analyzes blood flow of various blood vessels around the body. Other categories or specialization include Neurosonology, which is only concerned with the brain and spine, as well as ophthalmology, which concerns eyes and related muscles.
Is this a career field worth investing time and money in? The future of sonography remains bright, as this is a growing field in terms of technology and projected employment opportunity. More work will be required for the next several years in both rural and urban locations. You have your choice of working in a fast-moving hospital or a clinic or a private practice office. Sonographers can also apply at public health facilities, labs, and other medical locations.
Last but not least, what’s the story on job promotions after attending diagnostic medical sonogram school and gaining experience? You can advance in this type of career and you don’t have to go back to school if you wish not to. Instead, you can find opportunities in teaching, hospital administration, research, or even outside the medical field and with commercial companies who work with such devices for research purposes.
Why not contact a school right now to learn more about your options?
