[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4″]An online certificate in sonography or ultrasound technology will give you the education and hands-on experience needed for a career in echocardiography, obstetric ultrasounds, or neurosonography.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Sonographers and ultrasound technicians work on the front lines of a life-giving and life-saving profession. They produce diagnostic images of the human body that assist physicians with early disease detection, pregnancy tracking, and medical procedures. Aspiring professionals can pursue an array of training options, including ultrasound certificate programs, sonography certificate programs, and ultrasound tech certificate programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This field is appealing to professionals because of its accessible training requirements and positive career outlook. The [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm/” target=”_blank”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link] (BLS) projects 11% job growth in this field from 2023-2033, which is higher than the average rate for all occupations. [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.diagnosticimaging.com/view/covid-19-and-the-sonographer/” target=”_blank”]COVID-19 impacted[/hen-ui-link] how sonographers complete their daily tasks safely, but the demand for these essential care providers has not slowed.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This page provides a detailed look at different training programs, a list of possible career pathways, and a ranking of the best accredited online sonography and ultrasound certificates.[/hen-ui-text] ​ [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] ​ ​ [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=””]Best Online Certificate in Ultrasound and Sonography Degree Programs[/hen-ui-heading] ​ ​[hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How We Chose These Schools”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At TheBestSchools, we use trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools without bias. Our ranking methodology helps prospective students from various backgrounds find the best fit. We consider key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability so every type of student can find the best fit for them.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Learn more about how our formula works on [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”]our ranking methodology page[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] ​ [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”what-are”]What Are Online Sonography and Ultrasound Certificates?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online sonography certificate programs can look quite different depending on the school. They typically run 1-2 years and feature a blend of didactic instruction, lab work, and clinical experience. Most programs emphasize over 1,000 hours of practical clinical experience in hospitals or medical clinics, along with training in on-campus simulation centers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students in an ultrasound certificate program learn to operate the imaging technology and instrumentation. They also gain specialized medical knowledge to help them analyze diagnostic images. Some programs offer concentrations in cardiac, abdominal, or musculoskeletal sonography.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prospective students typically need a two-year healthcare degree for admission. Ultrasound tech certificate programs appeal to different types of people, including students coming directly from a medical degree, medical professionals switching fields, and sonographers looking for advancement opportunities.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After completing a sonography certificate program, graduates may pursue employment as a sonographer or ultrasound technician. Many employers, however, prefer candidates with professional certification from organizations like [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ardms.org/” target=”/"_blank"”]American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers[/hen-ui-link]. Some states even require licensure, which means certification is mandatory.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Sonography and Ultrasound Certificate Program, Certification, and Degree Program Overview[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students can earn sonography and ultrasound postsecondary degrees through community colleges, four-year colleges, and universities. Students can pursue certificates through technical schools, colleges, universities, and hospital clinics. Finally, students can earn certifications from industry organizations. Typically, certificate programs train students, whereas certifications test experienced professionals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”secondary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Sonography/Ultrasound Certificate” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Length: 1-3 years, but this can vary.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prerequisite Education and Experience: [/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Completed associate or bachelor’s of science degree in a health field[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]*May already have working experience in the medical field[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]*May already be a practicing sonographer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Who May Offer Them?[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Technical or vocational schools[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Colleges[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospitals[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Internship/Clinical Experience Included in Program?[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]*If you’re a practicing sonographer, you may only need to take supplemental courses for your certificate.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Continuing Education Required to Maintain Certificate? Yes[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Example Certificates: [/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Obstetrics and gynecology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diagnostic medical sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cardiac sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pediatric cardiac sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cardiovascular technology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Vascular sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Abdominal and ophthalmologic sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Sonography/Ultrasound Certification”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Required in Every State?[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]No, only Oregon, New Hampshire, North Dakota, and New Mexico require licensing. However, employers and insurance providers usually prefer that sonographers and ultrasound techs have certification.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When to Pursue: [/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After students/professionals have completed an accredited sonography program, either through a certificate in sonography, associate’s degree in sonography, or bachelor’s degree in sonography.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]*Program must include clinical experience.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Granted Through: 3 options:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ardms.org/home-2/” target=”/"_blank"”]American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.arrt.org/pages/earn-arrt-credentials/credential-options/sonography/” target=”_blank”]American Registration of Radiologic Technologists[/hen-ui-link] (ARRT) *ARRT certification requires at least an associate’s degree to be eligible for a certification exam.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://cci-online.org/” target=”_blank”]Cardiovascular Credentialing International[/hen-ui-link] (CCI)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Exam Required for Certification: 3 options:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ardms.org/get-certified/SPI/” target=”/"_blank"”]ARDMS SPI exam[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.arrt.org/pages/earn-arrt-credentials/initial-requirements/primary-requirements/” target=”_blank”]ARRT exam[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://cci-online.org/credentials/get-credentialed/” target=”_blank”]CCI exam(s)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Continuing Education Required to Renew Certification? Yes[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ardms.org/get-certified/” target=”/"_blank"”]Example ARDMS Credentials After Completing Certification[/hen-ui-link]: [/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Registered Musculoskeletal Sonographer (RMSKS)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.arrt.org/pages/earn-arrt-credentials/credential-options/” target=”_blank”]Example ARRT Credentials After Completing Certification[/hen-ui-link]: [/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Registered Radiologist Assistant (R.R.A.)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Mammography (M)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Vascular Interventional Radiography (VI)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Sonography/Ultrasound Degree”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Required to Become a Sonographer or Ultrasound Tech?[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]No, but it makes students/professionals more competitive in the job market and allows them to pursue multiple specializations and prepare for different certifications.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Types of Ultrasound Technician Degrees: [/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Two-year associate[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Four-year bachelor’s[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Example Degrees: [/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Associate of applied science in diagnostic medical sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of science in vascular ultrasound[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of science in diagnostic medical sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of science in radiation science[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”what-to-expect”]What to Expect From Online Sonography and Ultrasound Certificate Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The list below highlights popular ultrasound certificate program concentrations. These tracks teach students how to take and analyze images in various anatomical regions. Students learn specialized scanning techniques for those areas of the body, along with possible life-saving disease detection techniques.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Sonography and Ultrasound Certificate Concentrations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Vascular sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Breast ultrasound[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]General ultrasound[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Fetal echocardiography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Adult echocardiography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pediatric echocardiography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Obstetrics and gynecological ultrasound[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diagnostic medical sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cardiac sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Abdominal ultrasound[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Neurosonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pediatric sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Musculoskeletal sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Midwife sonography[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Sonography and Ultrasound Certificate Courses[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”tertiary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In this course, students learn how sonography equipment works, how it impacts the body, and how it can be used safely.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Patient Care and Safety”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This course teaches students how to provide care responsibly. Learners may also examine equipment safety protocols, communication standards, and potential health and safety risks of the profession.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical Terminology”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical terminology courses teach students the language of healthcare and sonography. Enrollees learn medical terms, abbreviations, spelling, and pronunciation to ensure they can communicate effectively with patients and other professionals.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Image Evaluation”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This course teaches students techniques and standards for scanning and evaluating diagnostic images. Learners examine images and test out their training in labs and clinical experiences.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Cross-Sectional Anatomy”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In cross-sectional anatomy courses, students learn to identify parts of the body in ultrasounds, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance images.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Vascular Ultrasound”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This course focuses on the vascular ultrasound and teaches techniques for producing optimal images. Students learn the anatomy of the vascular system and the fluid dynamics in the body.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”choosing”]Choosing an Online Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To choose the best ultrasound tech certificate program, prospective students need to know what to look for in an online program and [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/how-to-pick-a-college/”]how to pick a college[/hen-ui-link]. Learners need to consider their own career goals, interests, and academic history to find the best match.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For example, candidates should explore accredited programs with curricula that emphasize practical training and offer specializations they’re interested in. Ideal programs should also feature scheduling options and admission requirements that the applicant can reasonably satisfy.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”accreditation”]Accreditation for Sonography and Ultrasound Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prospective students need to [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]pay attention to accreditation[/hen-ui-link] for all college and university programs. All schools should hold [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.chea.org/regional-accrediting-organizations” target=”_blank”]regional accreditation[/hen-ui-link] with the proper organization or else students may lose out on financial aid and employment opportunities.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Moreover, sonography certificate programs and ultrasound tech certificate programs should possess programmatic accreditation from the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.caahep.org/” target=”/"_blank"”]Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs[/hen-ui-link] (CAAHEP). This can influence postgraduate certification, licensure, and employment.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”careers”]Sonography and Ultrasound Careers[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Healthcare professionals in the sonography and ultrasound field enjoy a strong employment outlook. Their specialized training makes them part of a thriving workforce that the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm/” target=”_blank”]BLS projects[/hen-ui-link] will grow faster than the average rate for all occupations between 2019-2029. The majority of these specialists work in hospitals, physician offices, outpatient care centers, and diagnostic labs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These professionals also tend to earn much more than the median annual wage for all occupations. As per the BLS, diagnostic medical sonographers earn median annual wages of [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm/”]$82,570[/hen-ui-link], cardiovascular technologists earn $66,170, and health technicians earn $57,920. The sections below detail possible career paths.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”secondary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Diagnostic Medical Sonographer” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/diagnostic-medical-sonographer/”]Diagnostic medical sonographers[/hen-ui-link] possess the skills and training to work in an array of sonographic fields. Rather than focus on one speciality, diagnostic medical sonography certificate programs provide comprehensive training, covering abdomen, gynecology, and vascular sonography. Students learn the skills and imaging techniques to work in various settings and with different patient types.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Abdominal Sonographer”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prospective sonographers can specialize in abdominal imaging via degrees, certificates, and certifications. Training covers abdominal scanning techniques and image analysis, along with common diseases and ailments these scans typically look for. Many ultrasound certificate programs include abdominal sonography as one of the main components.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Breast Sonographer”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students can enroll in ultrasound tech certificate programs that offer specialized training in breast sonography. These programs typically cover breast anatomy and imaging techniques, along with image analysis of benign and malignant lesions. Graduates can pursue breast sonography certification as well.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Neurosonographer”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prospective neurosonographers can pursue a degree or certificate in this field, which also qualifies them for certification. These sonography certificate programs teach learners to use specialized transcranial dopplers to examine the brain and nervous system and measure blood flow.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Gynecological Sonographer”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many ultrasound certificate programs, diplomas, and degrees offer specialized gynecological sonography training. Students learn the techniques and tools used in obstetrics and gynecological ultrasound exams. They also examine the typical sonographic anatomy of the pelvic region, uterus, and ovaries.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Echocardiographer”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prospective echocardiographers and cardiac sonographers can pursue a certificate or degree that may also lead to professional certification. This speciality delves into the evaluation of heart images, looking at the function, chamber size, and surrounding anatomy of the heart. Students learn to calibrate tools and identify signs of heart disease and other issues.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Vascular Sonographer”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]One of the more common ultrasound tech certificate programs, vascular sonography certificate programs familiarize students with the primary anatomy, instrumentation, and typical procedures of the field. Enrollees also learn how to conduct specialized ultrasounds, such as venous duplex, cerebrovascular duplex, and arterial duplex scans.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Musculoskeletal Sonographer”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Musculoskeletal sonography certificate programs prepare students for specialized careers and certifications. Enrollees explore the anatomies and pathologies of the musculoskeletal system and learn scanning basics. Advanced training covers scanning techniques for soft tissues and the upper and lower extremities.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”organizations”]Sonography and Ultrasound Organizations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Sonography and ultrasound organizations provide students and professionals alike with excellent education and career benefits. Members can access industry news and research, find scholarships, and get career support. They can also enroll in continuing education programs, attend events, and advance their careers with professional development workshops.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Sonographers and ultrasound technicians may join national organizations, but regional chapters and field specialist organizations feature a more limited membership pool. Some of the largest and best professional organizations in this field include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”http://www.ardms.org/Pages/default.aspx” target=”_blank”]American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”http://asecho.org/” target=”_blank”]American Society of Echocardiography (ASE)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aium.org/” target=”_blank”]American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.sdms.org/” target=”_blank”]Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://cci-online.org/” target=”_blank”]Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] ​ ​ [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”faqs”]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] ​ [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How Long Does It Take to Get a Sonography and Ultrasound Certificate?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most sonography certificate programs take between 1-2 years to complete, but the length can vary.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is It Better to Have a Certificate or Degree in Sonography?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Sonography certificate programs provide much of the same training as specialized sonography degrees. Since most certificate programs require prospective students to possess a healthcare-related degree for admission, both pathways amount to a similar level of education.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can You Get a Sonography Degree Online?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While many ultrasound tech certificate programs feature online courses, clinical requirements typically need to be completed on-site at a medical clinic or hospital. Students may also need to satisfy laboratory and simulation center requirements on campus.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How Do I Become a Certified Sonographer?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many employers require sonographers to possess certification with an organization like the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ardms.org/” target=”/"_blank"”]American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)[/hen-ui-link]. These credentials typically require candidates to pass an examination.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How Do I Become an Ultrasound Technician?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm/” target=”_blank”]According to the BLS[/hen-ui-link], ultrasound technicians usually need a two-year healthcare degree and certificate or a bachelor’s degree for employment. Some employers may require certification or licensure as well.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn more, do more.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h5″]More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”218,201,253″][/hen-ui-article-row] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]