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How long is an ultrasound tech program?
The average length of an accredited ultrasound tech program is two years, although some programs may be as short as 18 months.
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Introduction
ultrasound tech program can last anywhere from 1-4 years, depending on the level of education you are pursuing. For those who want to enter the field as quickly as possible, there are certificate programs that can be completed in as little as 12 months. However, most employers prefer to hire candidates who have at least an associate’s degree in ultrasound technology. These programs usually take two years to complete. If you want to further your education and advance your career, you can pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in ultrasound technology. These programs typically take four years and two years to complete, respectively.
Types of Programs
There are two types of programs that offer certification to become an ultrasound technician – Certificate and Associate’s Degree. The certificate program can be completed within one year, whereas the associate’s degree takes two years to complete.
Certificate
Completing a certificate program in ultrasound technology typically takes between one and two years. These programs are typically offered at community colleges and technical schools. Students in a certificate program take courses that focus on anatomy, physiology, medical ethics and patient care. They also complete clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience performing ultrasounds.
Associate’s Degree
An ultrasound tech associates degree program generally takes two years to complete, although some schools may offer a three-year program. During the first year, students generally take general education courses such as English and math. The second year is focused on more specific ultrasound technician coursework, including human anatomy and physiology, medical ethics and imaging physics. Students also typically complete a clinical practicum during their second year in order to gain real-world experience.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography can be completed in four years of full-time study. This type of program generally requires the completion of between 120 and 128 semester credits, which is equivalent to approximately 40 classes. While the majority of these classes are focused on diagnostic medical sonography, students also complete general education coursework in topics such as English, math and the sciences. Some programs also include clinical rotations, which give students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience performing ultrasound examinations under the supervision of a licensed ultrasound technologist.
How Long each Program Takes
The length of an ultrasound tech program can differ based on certain factors. Some programs may take as little as a year to complete while others may take up to four years. The length of the program also largely depends on the type of certification you are looking to obtain.
Certificate
A certificate in diagnostic medical sonography usually takes about one year to complete, if you attend school full time. If you’re already working in the medical field and want to become a diagnostic medical sonographer, you may be able to find a certificate program that can be completed in as little as six months.
Associate’s Degree
An Associate’s degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography takes about two years to complete. The first year focuses on general education courses, and the second year focuses on core Diagnostic Medical Sonography courses.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography can be completed in four years, although some students may be able to complete the program in three years if they enroll in a summer session.
Conclusion
The length of an ultrasound tech program can vary depending on the type of program you enter. There are certificate, diploma, and degree programs available, and each type of program has different requirements. Certificate and diploma programs may take as little as one year to complete, while degree programs may take two or more years. The length of time you spend in an ultrasound tech program also depends on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
