 Program Description
The Ultrasound Technologist program prepares graduates for entry-level employment as an Ultrasound Technologist with specialization in general sonography (Abdominal & Small Parts, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Vascular ultrasound). Working in hospital imaging centers, physicians' offices or clinics, the Ultrasound Technologist plays a very important role on today's medical diagnosis and treatment team. Upon completion of the Ultrasound Program Pre-requisite classes students may take the National Registry Exam (ARDMS, SPI) and a specialty exam upon program completion.
Earnings
According to the statistics of US Labor Deportment, Median annual earnings of diagnostic medical sonographers were $48,660 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $41,420 and $56,020 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,800, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $66,680. Median annual earnings of diagnostic medical sonographers in 2002 were $50,390 in offices of physicians and $47,530 in hospitals.
Job Outlook
According to the statistics of US Labor Deportment, Employment of Ultrasound Technologists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012 as the population grows and ages, increasing the demand for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic technology. In addition to job openings due to growth, some job openings will arise from the need to replace Ultrasound Technologists who leave the occupation permanently.
Opportunities should be favorable because Ultrasound Technology is becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to radiologic procedures, as patients seek safer treatment methods. Unlike most diagnostic imaging methods, Ultrasound Technology does not involve radiation; so harmful side effects and complications from repeated use are rarer for both the patient and the Ultrasound Technologist. Ultrasound Technology technology is expected to evolve rapidly and to spawn many new Ultrasound Technology procedures, such as 3D-ultrasound for use in obstetric and ophthalmologic diagnosis. However, high costs may limit the rate at which some promising new technologies are adopted.
Hospitals will remain the principal employer of Ultrasound Technologists. However, employment is expected to grow more rapidly in offices of physicians and in medical and diagnostic laboratories, including diagnostic imaging centers. Health facilities such as these are expected to grow very rapidly through 2012 due to the strong shift toward outpatient care, encouraged by third-party payers and made possible by technological advances that permit more procedures to be performed outside the hospital.
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