Reasons to Earn an Ultrasound Technician Associate Degree
Earning an Ultrasound Technician Associate degree is a great way to get into the medical field, where you will have direct contact with patients. During your program, you will learn the correct medical terminology and technical skills to operate sonographic equipment and make medical diagnosis.
Ultrasound Technician Associate Degree Career Opportunities
Occupational Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job opportunities for sonographers or ultrasound technicians should be favorable over the next seven years. Sixty percent of sonographers in the U.S. were employed by hospitals as of May 2004 with the rest found in physician or medical offices and laboratories.
Salary Information
According to Salary.com, ultrasound technicians in the U.S. were making average annual salaries of between $54,809 and $63,711 a year as of May 2007.
Ultrasound Technician Associate Degree Specifics
Required Courses
The majority of what you will learn during your Ultrasound Technician Associate degree program will be very technical in nature. You will need to be familiar with some common medical terminology as well. You will take courses specific to the following types of sonography procedures:
- Vascular Sonography
- Abdominal Sonography
- Obstetric Sonography
- Small Parts Sonography
Skills You Will Learn
You will have the technical skills needed to operate sonographic machinery upon completing your Ultrasound Technician Associate degree program. You will also have developed the right people skills in order to communicate effectively with patients and physicians. Other skills you will take with you may include:
- Ability to diagnose and interpret sonographic readings
- Ability to operate sonographic devices and machinery
- Ability to provide adequate patient care and relations when needed
