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You may be wondering what major you need to become an ultrasound technician. The answer may surprise you – there is no one specific major that you need to pursue in order to enter this field. Instead, you can choose from a variety of different majors that will help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this rewarding career.
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General Info
Becoming an ultrasound technician requires completing an accredited educational program and passing a certification exam. A major in diagnostic medical sonography is not required, but many programs offer this option. Admission to an accredited program generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent, although some programs may have additional requirements.
What is an ultrasound technician?
An ultrasound technician, also called a diagnostic medical sonographer, is a professional who uses special equipment to create images (sonograms) of the inside of the human body. These images are used by physicians to help diagnose and treat various medical conditions.
Ultrasound technicians typically work in hospitals, clinics, or private medical practices. They may also work in research laboratories or in the pharmaceutical industry. Most ultrasound technicians work full time; some may work evenings or weekends to accommodate patient scheduling needs.
What are the responsibilities of an ultrasound technician?
An ultrasound technician, also called a diagnostic medical sonographer, uses special equipment to direct sound waves into a patient’s body. These waves create echoes that bounce back and create images that can be used to diagnose medical problems.
Ultrasound technicians usually work in hospitals, but they may also work in private clinics, diagnostic centers, and doctor’s offices. They typically work full time, but some may work part time or on an on-call basis.
Ultrasound technicians must be able to stand for long periods of time and lift patients onto examination tables. They must have good hand-eye coordination to operate the equipment and be able to see small images on a screen. They must be able to pay attention to detail and have good interpersonal skills to deal with patients who may be anxious about their procedures.
Major
The major you need to become an ultrasound technician is diagnostic medical sonography. This field of work requires the use of sonographic equipment to produce images of patients’ internal organs, blood flow, and other areas of the body for diagnostic purposes.
What major do I need to become an ultrasound technician?
To become an ultrasound technician, you will need to complete an accredited diagnostic medical sonography program. Most of these programs are two-year associate’s degree programs, although some schools offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs in diagnostic medical sonography. You can also find certificate programs that will train you to become an ultrasound technician, although most employers prefer to hire technicians who have completed a formal education program.
What are the best schools for ultrasound technician majors?
There are many schools that offer ultrasound technician programs, but not all of them are created equal. Some programs may be better suited for your needs than others, so it’s important to do your research before you decide on a school.
Here are a few things to consider when you’re looking for the best ultrasound technician schools:
-The accreditation of the program. Make sure the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
-The location of the school. You may want to consider a school that’s close to home so you can save on costs like transportation and housing.
-The cost of the program. Make sure you understand the cost of tuition and other associated expenses before you commit to a program.
-The length of the program. Some programs may be shorter or longer than others, so make sure you choose a program that fits your schedule and needs.
-The faculty at the school. Meet with some of the faculty members at potential schools and ask about their experience in the field and their teaching methods.
-The clinical rotations offered by the school. Make sure the school offers clinical rotations in settings that interest you so you can get the most out of your education.
Certification
In order to become an ultrasound technician, you will need to complete an accredited training program and pass a certification exam. There are many accredited programs available, and you can find one that fits your needs and schedule. Once you have completed a program, you will be eligible to take the certification exam.
What certification do I need to become an ultrasound technician?
In order to become an ultrasound technician, you will need to obtain certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). There are two ways to qualify for the ARDMS certification examination: completion of an accredited educational program and/or clinical experience.
If you have completed an accredited educational program, you will eligible to take the certification examination. There are a number of accredited educational programs available, both at the undergraduate and graduate level. Once you have completed an accredited program, you will be able to register for the ARDMS certification examination.
If you have not completed an accredited educational program, you may still be eligible to take the ARDMS certification examination if you can document at least one year of full-time clinical sonographic experience. In order to document your clinical sonographic experience, you will need to submit a Practice Eligibility Application (PEA) along with supporting documentation, such as letters from your employers verifying your clinical experience. Once your PEA has been approved, you will be able to register for the ARDMS certification examination.
You can learn more about the certification process on the ARDMS website.
What are the best certification programs for ultrasound technicians?
Although certification is not required in most states, many employers prefer or require certification. Certification shows that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform ultrasound procedures competently. There are several certification programs available, but not all are equal. The best certification programs are those that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs have been reviewed and found to meet high standards for quality and integrity.
