Ultrasound technology is vital in modern healthcare because it allows doctors to get a detailed look at the interior structures of a patient’s body without requiring an invasive procedure. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. So, what does it take to get one of these jobs, and how much time do you need to spend in training before you can join this growing field?
Understanding Sonography Jobs
Let’s first take a more detailed look at what diagnostic medical sonographers do so that we can better understand the educational requirements for the job.
Ultrasound technology uses high-frequency sound waves to safely and non-invasively create images of organs, tissues, and blood flow inside the body. Although ultrasound is probably best known for its use during pregnancy, it’s also used to evaluate the condition of internal organs; evaluate inflammation and injuries to joints, ligaments, and muscles; and check on blood flow, to name just some of the most common applications.
Because of the wide variety of conditions it can be used quickly and non-invasively evaluate, ultrasound technology
DMS vs. Ultrasound Technician
In modern healthcare facilities, ultrasound procedures might be done by a diagnostic medical sonographer or by an ultrasound technician. Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably (including here on our site, since we know that students might be more familiar with the term “ultrasound technician”), there is actually a difference.
The Mayo Clinic explains it this way: “Diagnostic medical sonographers, or simply sonographers, have more advanced education and training… while an ultrasound technician may have shorter certification focused on operating equipment.”
Now you might read that and think that getting the training needed to start a DMS career would take too long to be practical for your life circumstances. But this in-demand career could be more accessible than you think!
The Healthcare Career College DMS program
At Healthcare Career College, students who want to start a career as diagnostic medical sonographers have two different program options to choose from.
For students who want to learn the fundamentals of ultrasound technology and enter the job market as fast as possible, HCC offers a 19-month diploma program. HCC also offers the option of a more in-depth 24-month associate’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography program.
Whichever version of the program you choose, you’ll get the hands-on training, technical knowledge, and industry experience you need to be qualified for this growing field. The program covers:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Medical Terminology
- Physics and Instrumentation
- Abdominal Sonography
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Introduction to Vascular and Echocardiography
- Musculoskeletal Sonography
- Breast Sonography
- Emergency Sonography
- Small Parts including Thyroid, Scrotum and Prostate
At the conclusion of your training from HCC, you’ll be prepared to work as an ultrasound technology pro in hospitals, doctor’s offices, imaging centers, urgent care centers, and other healthcare facilities.
HCC Helps You Start a Healthcare Career Faster
Healthcare Career College provides the intensive, accelerated training that students aspiring to join the growing medical field in the Los Angeles area want. In two years or less, you can be ready to start working in the medical industry as a diagnostic medical sonographer. Click here to learn more about the program options or contact us today.
Key Takeaways
What does a diagnostic medical sonographer do?
Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound technology to create images of organs, tissues, muscles, blood vessels, and developing babies, helping doctors diagnose and monitor medical conditions.
Where can sonographers work after completing training?
Sonographers can work in hospitals, physician offices, imaging centers, urgent care facilities, and other healthcare settings.
How long does it take to become a sonographer?
Training can take as little as 19 months through a diploma program or about 24 months through an associate degree program, depending on the educational path chosen.