Sonographers are highly skilled professionals qualified by technological education to provide client services under the supervision of a doctor of medicine or osteopathy. The sonographer may provide this service in a variety of settings where the physician is responsible for the use and interpretation of sonographic procedures. Sonographers assist physicians in gathering sonographic data necessary to reach diagnostic decisions. Sonographers work in a variety of health care settings such as hospitals, clinics, physician offices, self-employed, educators, equipment sales, and manufacturer applications specialists. The job prospects for sonographers are excellent nationally, with availability subject to the needs of each geographic region.
Salaries vary by region, facility, registry status, and years of experience.
Completion of the program does not guarantee employment. The program provides didactic, laboratory, and clinical instruction. The program begins in the Fall semester of each year. The clinical portion of the program consists of orientation to the clinical aspects of medical sonography, demonstrations in the use of sonographic equipment, and an opportunity to participate under close supervision in actual sonographic procedures in assigned health care facilities. Graduates may take the ultrasound physics, abdomen, and OB-GYN national registry examinations upon graduation.