Becoming a Medical Sonographer
You would probably recognize a sonographer as the person that takes your ultrasounds when you are pregnant, but they perform many different tasks with ultrasounds. They use ultrasounds to check kidneys, hearts, reproductive organs, and other internal structures. If you are interested in the medical field but don’t want to work with blood or needles, you may want to consider becoming a sonographer.
Education Background
If you want to be a medical sonographer, begin by taking classes in high school such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, English, and computer courses in order to have a stable background that will help you in your training. Because you will be using technology and working with anatomy, it is important that you understand these areas.
Training
To begin your training, start by researching and applying to accredited programs. You will usually spend two to three years completing an associate degree in medical sonography. You can find these programs at local colleges or you can get an online degree and take courses like anatomy, biology, English, and algebra.
Certification
Once you have completed your degree you will have to register with the American Registry of Medical Sonographers, which will allow you to take a licensing exam. Very few employers will hire you without these requirements, so it is crucial that you finish the licensing process. Keep in mind that you may have to continue taking classes to keep your certification once you have become employed.
Employment
After becoming certified, you can work at hospitals, clinics, or other organizations that perform ultrasounds. Complete a résumé and begin applying wherever you can. If you already have an organization in mind, check their requirements before you finish your training.
