Pursuing an education in ultrasound technology allows you to train in a shorter timeframe and begin working sooner than you might expect. Even so, this path still requires commitment, and it’s helpful to know the timeline upfront as you make this significant decision about your future.
So how long does it take to become an ultrasound tech? To put it simply, it commonly takes 2 years if you choose to earn an associate degree. In this article, we’ll break down how long it takes to become an ultrasound technologist and what the timeline looks like.
What Does an Ultrasound Tech Do?
An ultrasound technologist — sometimes called a sonographer — creates images of the organs, tissue, or blood inside the body. They operate medical equipment that uses high-frequency sound waves to record images.
Ultrasound technologists share these images with physicians for diagnosis. It’s a specialized healthcare role that requires education and clinical training.
How Long Does It Take to Become an Ultrasound Tech?
For many ultrasound technologists, it takes about 2 years to earn a degree and enter the field. However, the educational path you choose will affect how long it takes. The options available to you include:
Certificate
A certificate program in sonography takes about 1 year to complete. However, most certificate programs require you to have training in another healthcare field, such as nursing, to qualify.
Associate Degree
This is the most common path for new ultrasound technologists to take. It typically takes 2 years to earn an associate degree. Completing a 2-year program can help you meet the educational requirements for sonography certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Bachelor’s Degree
Some schools offer bachelor’s programs in sonography. If you choose this path, it will take about 4 years to earn your degree.
How Long Is Ultrasound Tech School?
Ultrasound technology school takes anywhere from 2 to 4 years, depending on the degree path you choose. However, some schools may offer faster programs. At American Career College, the Ultrasound Technologist program takes about 20 months, which may enable you to complete your training in less time.
Regardless of the route you choose, your ultrasound technology program will include these components:
- Classroom instruction, lectures, and exams
- Hands-on training in labs using ultrasound equipment
- Supervised clinical training in healthcare settings
What Do You Learn in Ultrasound Tech School?
In ultrasound technology school, you’ll study anatomy and physiology, learn about diagnostic imaging concepts, and practice operating advanced equipment. Some classes you can expect to take in an ultrasound technology program include:
- Medical terminology
- Sonographic anatomy
- Patient care
- Ultrasound physics
- Imaging techniques
- Diagnostic imaging protocols
This coursework will help prepare you to operate sonographic equipment, capture ultrasounds, optimize images, and document findings. You’ll also receive training on safety protocols and patient-centered care.
Do You Need Prerequisites for Ultrasound Tech School?
It depends on the school, but many ultrasound technology programs do not have prerequisites. Some schools may require you to take science and math classes, but many programs include this general education coursework as part of the curriculum.
Example Timeline: Ultrasound Technologist Program at American Career College
Curious what an ultrasound technology program actually looks like? At American Career College, this 20-month program offers a blended format, where you take classes online and come to campus for hands-on training.
In the on-campus labs, you’ll apply what you’ve learned to practice creating images and build your confidence with using industry-current equipment. Later in the program, you’ll complete clinical hours in local healthcare facilities under the supervision of licensed instructors.
ACC’s Ultrasound Technologist program includes 118.5 total credits across 8 terms, including over 900 clinical hours. After you graduate, you’ll be eligible to apply for sonography certification through ARRT.
Is Becoming an Ultrasound Tech Right for You?
If you want to work in healthcare but you’re not sure if ultrasound technology is the right fit, it’s helpful to consider a few factors, starting with the timeline. Many roles in healthcare require 4 years of school or more. Ultrasound technology stands out because you can often finish school in 2 years or less, making it a good option if you want to start working sooner.
Some other factors to consider as you weigh a career in ultrasound technology include:
- Type of work: As an ultrasound technologist, you’ll spend your days meeting with patients and collaborating with physicians. This career may appeal to you if you enjoy interacting with others.
- Technical knowledge: Ultrasound technologists work with highly advanced medical equipment and need to stay up-to-date on advancements in the field. It’s a good role for someone who feels comfortable with the latest technology and enjoys continued learning.
- Work environment: Many ultrasound techs work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and diagnostic labs. As you consider your future career, think about the type of work environment you want to have.
Explore the Ultrasound Technologist Program at ACC
If you decide to earn an associate degree in ultrasound technology, it will take about 2 years to train for this career. An associate program combines coursework and supervised clinical experience to help you prepare for the role, so you feel confident when you’re ready to enter the field.
ACC’s Ultrasound Technologist program offers a blended learning format with online coursework and hands-on training. You’ll have access to industry-current labs at our Orange County campus and clinical training opportunities at area healthcare facilities. This 20-month program can help you prepare to begin working in the exciting field of ultrasound technology!
Want to learn more? Reach out today to request more information about the Ultrasound Technologist program at ACC-Orange County!
