Aspiring ultrasound technicians must
typically complete at least an associate's degree program in diagnostic
medical sonography. In some cases, a bachelor's degree in this area
might be required. Though not common, a few schools throughout the
United States offer online degree programs for ultrasound technicians.
Online Associate's Degree Programs for Ultrasound Technicians
Most online associate's degree programs for ultrasound technicians
emphasize ultrasound procedures, sonographic instrumentation and medical
terminology. A 2-year online program in
diagnostic medical sonography
can result in an Associate of Applied Science or an Associate of
Science degree. Some online programs also offer certificates in
diagnostic
medical sonography in addition to an associate's degree.
Distance education programs resulting in an associate's degree for
ultrasound technicians are typically presented in a combination of
on-campus and online classes. In many cases, program requirements
include a clinical experience at a local hospital, imaging center or
clinic. An online associate's degree in diagnostic medical sonography
generally takes two years to complete.
Online Diagnostic Medical Sonography Courses
Program coursework for online associate's degree programs for
ultrasound technicians generally includes introductory courses in
sonographic instrumentation and procedures, such as those used for
vascular, cardiovascular, abdominal and gynecological purposes.
Additional courses might include medical terminology, sectional anatomy,
pathophysiology, sonographic physics and imaging ethics. A clinical
practicum might also be part of the curriculum.
Introduction to Medical Sonography
Introductory or foundation courses typically offer study in the
history and theories of sonography. Ultrasound uses, medical
terminology, and legal and ethical issues in the field might also be
discussed.
Sonographic Instrumentation
Instrumentation courses focus on the operation and maintenance of
ultrasound equipment. How equipment is used for different ultrasound
procedures and the function of instrumentation components are likely to
be addressed.
Sectional Anatomy
The anatomy of several areas of the body most commonly subject to
ultrasound procedures is addressed in these courses. Body areas include
the pelvis, thorax, abdomen and nervous system. Some courses might use
ultrasound images for illustration.
Graduates of an online associate's degree program in diagnostic
medical sonography are prepared for entry-level positions at hospitals
or diagnostic imaging centers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics (BLS), job growth for ultrasound technicians was expected to
be 18% between 2008 and 2018. The BLS further reported that the yearly
median salary for ultrasound technicians was just over $63,000 in 2009 (
www.bls.gov).
Upon completion of an online associate's degree program, graduates
can pursue a bachelor's degree in diagnostic medical sonography or a
related area. Continuing education might also include training sessions
held by the manufacturing companies of imaging machines and
instrumentation.
Online Bachelor's Degree Programs for Ultrasound Technicians
An online bachelor's degree program for ultrasound technicians
generally provides students with advanced courses in many of the topics
covered in a 2-year program. Students can choose to pursue a degree in
diagnostic medical sonography, radiologic sciences or radiation
sciences. A 4-year online program in these areas of study most commonly
results in a Bachelor of Science degree. In some cases, an associate's
degree is required to enroll in an online bachelor's degree program.
Online bachelor's degree programs for ultrasound technicians can be
conducted entirely online, or in a combination of live instruction and
Web-based classes. Some schools require completion of clinical labs,
while others offer only non-clinical programs. Most programs will take
four years to complete.
Online Diagnostic Medical Sonography Courses
The curriculum of an online bachelor's degree program for ultrasound
technicians will typically address intermediate and advanced sonographic
procedures, instrumentation, physics, anatomy and patient care. Courses
might also be taken in pharmacology, pathology, and current health care
trends and issues.
Sonographic Applications
Courses in specific ultrasound procedures comprise a large portion of
the curriculum of an online bachelor's degree program in medical
sonography or radiologic sciences. Students learn procedures and
principles of abdominal, vascular, obstetrical, gynecological and breast
sonography.
Physics
Physics courses in an online bachelor's degree program for ultrasound
technicians address ultrasound physics, Doppler physics, ultrasound
principles and basic equipment. Parameters, ultrasound transducer and
the effects of medical imaging on the human body are other topics of
discussion.
Patient Care
Patient care courses teach students how to physically and mentally
comfort patients during medical imaging exams. Patient care theories and
techniques are discussed.
Graduates of an online bachelor's degree program for ultrasound
technicians might qualify for more advanced positions in the field. They
might also choose an area of specialization, such as cardiovascular
technician or obstetric sonographer. According to the BLS, salaries will
vary depending on specialization and employer type. Annual median wages
can range between $31,000 and $67,000, as reported by the BLS in 2009.
Graduates of an online bachelor's degree program can pursue voluntary
certification for diagnostic medical sonographers. Certifying
organizations include the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical
Sonography and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
Continuing education requirements might apply in order to maintain
certification.
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