Rhode Island Ultrasound Tech Programs

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

How to Become a Sonographer in Rhode Island and Sonography Programs in Rhode Island

Sonography is the use of sound waves to create images of the body's internal organs. Sonography is a non-invasive diagnostic process that's very easy to complete. Many patients will opt for a sonogram whenever possible. Diagnostic medical sonographers are the professionals responsible for providing these services. The sonographer will prepare the patient by explaining the procedure and applying a special gel to the skin. The sonography wand is then moved over the skin. The sonographer will capture images that will be used to diagnose the patient's problem. Keep reading to learn more about how to become a sonographer in Rhode Island and sonography programs in Rhode Island.

There are many different specialties that sonographers can pursue. Most will perform sonograms on a specific area of the body, such as the breast or abdomen. Obstetric sonographers perform one of the best-known types of sonography by doing ultrasounds for expectant mothers. There are several different courses of study that a sonographer can pursue. Those with a background in another healthcare field can often take a certificate program that lasts for a year or less to learn how to become a sonographer. If you don't have medical experience, you should pursue an associate of applied science or bachelor's degree in sonography.

Rhode Island has two sonography programs that students can pursue. The Community College of Rhode Island offers a two-year associate of applied science degree in diagnostic medical sonography. This includes both didactic and clinical education in this field. The Sanford-Brown Institute in Cranston, Rhode Island offers both cardiovascular sonography and diagnostic medical sonography. This program includes anatomy and physiology with clinical practice to help students recognize the patterns on various organs and understand proper techniques for using sonography equipment. Completion of either program will prepare graduates for a degree as a diagnostic medical sonographer in a hospital or clinical setting.

Certification for diagnostic medical sonographers is optional. However, obtaining certification will increase employment opportunities in a field that can be very competitive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment opportunities in this job to increase 44 percent between 2010 and 2020. This is extremely fast. The mean hourly wage for diagnostic medical sonographers in Rhode Island is $75,410, or about $36.25 an hour. Those with earnings in the top ten percent of the field make more than $94,490 while those with earnings in the bottom ten percent earn under $62,080. This can be a very rewarding and lucrative career for healthcare professionals.

Rhode Island Board of Nurse
Registration and Nursing Education
105 Cannon Building
Three Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: (401) 222-5700
Fax: (401) 222-3352

Rhode Island State Nurses Association

• Rhode Island Department of Health