Massachusetts Ultrasound Tech Programs

New graduates celebrate with their families at their nursing commencement ceremony.

How to Become a Sonography Technician in Massachusetts and Sonography Programs in Massachusetts

Sonography technicians are most well-known for performing ultrasounds on pregnant women. There are many different areas that you can specialize in with your training. This is a good position for those who enjoy working with technology, since some of the very latest options are used. You will also have to cope with a lot of physical activity while working with patients. Those who are determined and willing to work hard will find that this is a great opportunity. You can specialize in different areas, and will enjoy a good salary.

You can find work as a sonographer with a certificate or Associate's degree, as long as your credentials are from an accredited school. Your training will cover equipment usage, as well as provide an introduction to the different areas of the body where ultrasounds are used. This may include the uterus, the abdominal area or the heart. Certification from the Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography is recommended, because many employers only hire certified technicians. You can receive this certification by taking and passing the Registry's exam. You'll find many more great opportunities available to you.

This is a fast-paced job that requires some flexibility in your hours. You may have to be on-call, or work on weekends and holidays. Part of your job will involve preparing patients for their ultrasounds, and answering any questions that they may have. You will have to operate the equipment, while making sure that all images are clear enough to use. You will sometimes have to help adjust patients' positions to get clearer images. As with any other medical job, you will have the training to know what to do in the event of an emergency. Ultrasound technicians can expect to know how to handle any number of situations.

Sonography is a field that is projected to grow by 44 percent through 2020. In many cases, ultrasounds have replaced other procedures for making a diagnosis, requiring additional staff who are trained in equipment usage. Less invasive procedures like ultrasounds are the preferred method for diagnosing many different illnesses. Salaries for this type of position are quite high, often averaging around $65,000 per year. Specialty hospitals offer higher wages that may average over $70,000 per year. Other good career prospects include college-affiliated hospitals and outpatient imaging centers. Boston and its surrounding suburbs have many places to choose from for program graduates who need employment.

Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
239 Causeway Street, Second Floor
Boston, MA 02114
Phone: (617) 973-0800
Fax: (617) 973-0984

Massachusetts Nurses Association

• Massachusetts Department of Health