Sonography Schools in Texas

Sonographers, also known as ultrasound technicians, use imaging technology specifically designed to detect ultrasounds (or sound waves) to help physicians diagnose medical conditions. Ultrasound equipment is typically used to see the development of the fetus, determine the baby’s sex or due date. However, since the equipment uses sophisticated radiation-free technology, sonographers are also employed to produce images of the body’s internal structures in order to medically diagnose the patient. Thus, sonographers are also known as diagnostic medical sonographers since they could also perform the first imaging test in order to detect symptoms and aid recovery. The healthcare industry in Texas is recognized for its strong research and innovation, making Texas an attractive location to pursue an education in sonography. From 2006-2010 alone, the number of sonographers who graduated in Texas increased by 122%. (EducationNews)

1. Admission Requirements
2. Types of Programs
3. What You May Learn
4. Other Requirements
5. Outlook for Sonographers in Texas
6. Why study and practice sonography in Texas

Admission Requirements

The requirements for gaining admission into a sonography program may vary from school to school, but generally you may need to:

• Provide transcripts and letters of recommendation
• Pass an entrance test and background check
• Go through a physical and drug screening
• Get CPR certification

Some of these programs are specifically designed for healthcare professionals, therefore before applying you may have to already be certified as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) or certified nurse aide.^

Types of Programs

There are various programs you could take in order to become a sonographer. You could enroll in a bachelor’s program and study for four years; enroll in an associate’s program and study for two years; or finish your education within a year with a postsecondary certificate. Typically, those who are interested in becoming sonographers pursue an associate’s degree, and those who have already completed their formal education in healthcare but are interested in enhancing their learning about sonography pursue a certificate.
Texas, in particular, has around 20-30 schools and community colleges offering education in diagnostic sonography. Students who do not know which program to choose may narrow down their options by focusing on a number of factors, such as tuition fees, location and reputation. But an important factor to consider is whether the program has been accredited by organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).^

What You May Learn

The type of courses you study under a particular program may vary from school to school, as well as between associate and certificate programs. Usually, students are introduced to basic concepts related to healthcare and sonography, and then they may choose a more specialized field to focus on, such as cardiac or vascular sciences. Most programs also combine classroom learning with more practical training in the form of clinical components.
Therefore, a typical curriculum may include some of the following courses:

• Patient care skills
• Cardiovascular concepts
• Ultrasound physics and technology
• Physiology and anatomy
• Electrocardiography and echocardiography

Students may specialize in the following fields:

• Musculoskeletal sonography – Imaging ligaments, tendons, muscles and joints
• Breast sonography – Imaging breast tissues
• Abdominal sonography – Imaging abdominal cavity and nearby organs
• Obstetric and gynecologic sonography – Imaging female reproductive systems
• Neurosonography – Imaging nervous systems

Other Requirements

The state of Texas does not require a sonographer to get a license. However, chances of employment for such professionals could improve if they receive certification by passing the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) exam.
The ARDMS is an organization that offers candidates the opportunity to become a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS). The exam will consist of basic sonography principles and methodology, as well as more technical questions depending on an applicant’s specialization, such as adult echocardiography, fetal echocardiography or pediatric echocardiography.
In order to qualify for such an exam, applicants may either graduate from an accredited CAAHEP program, or gain 1-year of clinical experience.^

Outlook for Sonographers in Texas

Most diagnostic sonographers work in hospitals, but they may also find work in outpatient care facilities, diagnostic laboratories and physicians’ offices. In 2013, over 58,250 sonographers were employed in the U.S., with an annual median wage of $66,410. (The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - BLS)^

Why study and practice sonography in Texas

• With approximately 4,400 sonographers in 2013, Texas was the third highest employing state of sonographers. In fact, nearly 6% of all sonographers are in the state of Texas.
• Texas has also experienced the highest growth rate for sonographers from 2006-2010, with 40% increase in employment level as compared to 20% increase in the rest of the country.
• The hourly mean wage earned by sonographers in Texas amounted to $31.48. (BLS)

Texas also has some of the highest employing metropolitan areas for sonographers, such as Dallas and Houston.

A career in sonography has high prospects of growth. In fact, it’s been projected that for the decade 2012-2022, employment opportunities for sonographers are expected to increase by 46%. With technological advancements, medical practices will steadily replace more expensive and invasive methods of diagnosis with sonography. The imaging technology used in sonography is considered more affordable.
Salaries for sonographers are expected to increase too with an aging baby boomer population creating demand for such services as well as the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Therefore, pursuing an education in sonography, especially in Texas, may benefit one’s future substantially. In the end though, it is important to remember that the work itself may significantly outweigh the amount of money earned. Helping to save human lives is after all one of the biggest career perks anyone could ask for.^