The completion of a degree from accredited ultrasound technician programs is the primary requirement to become qualified to perform the job responsibilities of a medical sonographer. Ultrasound technicians are becoming in demand today that is why there is an increasing number of ultrasound schools offering accredited programs. In order to have the top ultrasound tech school for the completion of any programs related to ultrasound sonography, basic knowledge about ultrasound technology is needed. Here are some tips, which will help you in finding accredited ultrasound programs.
Programs related to ultrasound sonography should be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. CAAHEP is the responsible organization, which gives accreditation to qualified ultrasound sonography programs. CAAHEP makes sure that the programs follow the standards set by the organization regarding the number of students in a classroom as well as the standard for teaching.
It is recommended to take CAAHEP accredited programs because it is easier to get ultrasound technician license from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. ARDMS also issues license for the non-CAAHEP accredited programs but the process is different and tedious compared to the process of graduates from CAAHEP accredited programs.
Before deciding which CAAHEP accredited sonography program is the best for you, make sure that you have made up your mind of what degree you will pursue. In the medical sonography field, there are at least three categories for the degree type: the one-year certificate program, the associate degree program and the bachelor degree program.
One-year certificate programs for learning the basic principles and techniques of ultrasound sonography are not intended for all aspiring technicians. This category should be chosen with caution because several small career schools promise that you will have a bright future upon taking this program. Yes, it is true that this program will be useful but not for students who just graduated from high school. This program is intended for medical professionals who are already working in the field of allied health. This program is intended to help doctors/physicians and other medical professionals to have added expertise that they can use in their field.
The associate degree program, which will be completed in two years, is appropriate for the high school graduates. Bachelor degree program is the best choice for aspiring technicians that guarantee good jobs and high income after graduation.
After contemplating of the degree program you will pursue, take time to list narrow down all the accredited ultrasound technician programs in your area. Some of the training institutes providing accredited programs in your locality are the community colleges and big universities. You may consider the location of the schools from your residence, the facilities of the school as well as the training centers where you will have your clinical training once theoretical education is completed. Usually, financially incapable students are accepted in community colleges given that they are residents of the place. If money is not a problem, include the big ultrasound tech universities in your list.
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