Diagnostic Medical Sonography: Programs

How Long are most diagnostic medical sonography Programs?

A sonography program, or also known as, ultrasound technician program, typically lasts anywhere from 18-24 months. Most programs are set up with the first year consisting of full time coursework in conjunction with some part time clinical experience. The clinical work is excellent hands on training for ultrasound tech students. The second portion of the education typically consists of part time coursework in addition to part time clinical experience (usually 32 hours per week). It is important to research each program individually because each school varies in their requirements for certification.

What is the cost?

For in-state programs the range is anywhere from $1800-$6000 for the 18-24 month associate’s program. There are programs available that can cost less then $1800 and some that cost upwards of $60,000. The cost of the program largely depends on if you’re paying in state or out of state tuition, the length of the program, and the type of school you choose to attend. Technical Schools are generally the least expensive option and you can even do many of these programs on-line.

Are there waiting lists to get into a program?

Often, this highly competitive field has a wait for admittance into a program. Many more students apply than they have room for so some must be placed on a wait list. Most schools accept between 18-25 students into each program cycle and some have as many as 60-100 applying. You never know which schools will have room for students, so always try no matter if a program has a wait list and how long the list is. Acceptance varies from one program to the next, and wait lists are common in ultrasound technician programs.

The individuals who have the best chance of being accepted right away have completed a college degree, have previous experience in the health care industry, and have already completed the necessary prerequisites. Schools also look at grade averages when making a decision.