Ultrasound technicians, also known as sonographers, use sophisticated imaging machines to perform diagnostic tests on patients. This technology utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal organs, tissues, and other structures. Once sonographers create these pictures, doctors and other health care providers use them to diagnose, monitor, and treat a variety of medical conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and pregnancy.

Utah Ultrasound Technician Schools

In order to qualify for certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), you must complete training via a sonography program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Utah students can choose from two online schools with CAAHEP accreditation:

  • Washburn University: WU offers distance learning in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Graduates receive a certificate upon completing the program, and are eligible to take the ARDMS examinations. Students work closely with experienced, registered ultrasound professionals. In addition, they earn their clinical hours in local hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices, thanks to Washburn's affiliation with a variety of medical centers.

  • Jackson College: This school also offers distance learning for students interested in a career as an ultrasound technician. Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in General Sonography. In addition to their core coursework, students take general education courses. Like Washburn, students complete clinical studies at area facilities.

If you prefer a live classroom setting, you'll find accredited programs in all five of the states surrounding Utah: Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, and Wyoming.

What to Expect from Utah Sonography Programs

Ultrasound technician programs teach a variety of skills, such as medical ethics, patient care, and how to use sonographic equipment. While coursework may vary by school and specialty, most programs include instruction in:

  • Diagnostic imaging
  • Medical terminology
  • Physics
  • OB/GYN sonography
  • Anatomy
  • Sonographic instrumentation

In addition, many degree programs require general education studies, such as English, Mathematics, History, and Psychology courses. Students can also expect to receive hands-on training with the very same ultrasound machines used in actual health care facilities. This usually occurs during the clinical portion of their training, where students get the chance to work under the supervision of a professional sonographer at a local hospital or clinic.

Utah Ultrasound Technician Licensing and Certification

The state of Utah does not require ultrasound technicians to be licensed. However, ARDMS certification is required by most employers, and can increase your earning potential and employability. To apply for ARDMS certification, you must submit a Clinical Verification Form, a completed application, and the application fee. You then must pass two exams: Sonography Principles and Instrumentation, as well as your specialty exam.

Finally, you must submit your transcripts from a CAAHEP-accredited program when you apply for credentials. Please note that ARDMS returns incomplete applications, but does not reimburse application fees.

Resources for Utah Ultrasound Technicians

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Metro Areas Rated for Popularity for:
Sonographers

Listed below are metro areas ranked by the popularity of jobs for Sonographers relative to the population of the city. Salary data was obtained from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

2019 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2018-28 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov

Metro Area
Jobs
Annual Median Salary
Provo-Orem140$68,490
Ogden-Clearfield110$80,850
Salt Lake City300$71,890

Sources:

  1. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians, Bureau of Labor Statistics, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm, accessed October 18, 2016
  2. CAAHEP Accredited Programs, CAAHEP, http://www.caahep.org/Find-An-Accredited-Program/, accessed October 18, 2016
  3. Get Certified, ARDMS, http://www.ardms.org/get-certified/Pages/default.aspx, accessed October 18, 2016
  4. Ultrasound Jobs in Utah, Indeed, http://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=Ultrasound&l=utah, accessed October 18, 2016

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