Sonography Programs in Alaska

How to Become a Medical Sonographer in Alaska and Sonography Programs in Alaska

Diagnostic medical sonographers use sound waves in a method known as sonography to take images of the body’s internal organs. There are many different types of sonography but perhaps one of the best known is the ultrasound that is performed for pregnant women. Other areas of sonography include abdominal, breast, and musculoskeletal sonography. As a diagnostic medical sonographer, you would be responsible for preparing patients, performing the sonogram, identifying abnormal images, and recording all findings for the patient’s record. Most sonographers work in hospitals though some may be employed in physicians’ offices, laboratories, or outpatient care centers throughout the state of Alaska.

In the state of Alaska, there’s no certification requirement for sonographers. However, individuals who are interested in this career can increase their employability by obtaining certification. Employers nearly always prefer to hire those with professional licensure from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). In order to sit for this exam, you must have completed some form of professional training in the field of sonography. Though many different types of training are acceptable, one of the most comprehensive choices is a college education in sonography. Transcripts are required to participate in the exam. Exams for ARDMS certification are offered in Fairbanks and Anchorage, Alaska.

The University of Alaska Anchorage offers a Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program. Upon completion, graduates of the program receive an Associate of Applied Science degree. The program lasts for six consecutive semesters that take place over the course of two years. The first year of classes take place on campus followed by a year of clinical rotation. This program admits only ten students each year, so admission is highly competitive. If you’re interested in learning about how to become a sonography in Alaska and sonography programs in Alaska, you should understand the level of competition early on and strive to stay at the top of the class.

The job outlook for diagnostic medical sonographers is very good. Nationally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that job growth in this field will be 44 percent over the 2010 to 2020 decade. This is much higher than the national average. In the state of Alaska, the mean annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers is $76,460. This equates to about $36.76 an hour. Those with earnings in the top ten percent for this occupation make more than $92,870 while those with earnings in the bottom ten percent earn less than $62,870. The annual median wage for this job in Alaska is $76,730. p>