Individuals who wish to work in this field will need to obtain a 2 or 4-year degree. Typically, the educational path will include first training in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. Sonographers will then go on to obtain specialized training in the field of gynecological sonography. This training will take place in the job setting. However, most educational facilities provide gynecological and obstetrics courses within the diagnostic medical sonography program. People who wish to work in this field should obtain an associate's degree (2 years) or bachelor's degree (4 years) first. The coursework will typically cover pertinent subjects, including patient care, physics, medical ethics, physiology, and anatomy. Most of the programs involve both clinical training and classroom coursework, thereby providing students with both knowledge and hands-on experiences. People who obtain an associate's degree are eligible for entry-level positions within this sector. Those who earn a bachelor's degree qualify for professional registration. In many cases, this translates into more job responsibilities and higher pay. Individuals who already work as sonography technicians and want to specialize can do so by enrolling in programs offered by vocational schools and hospitals. Online courses are also available for individuals who wish to specialize in a specific area or earn continuing education credits.

More About Coursework

Most obstetrical/gynecological classes cover sonography terminology and reference planes. The coursework will also include the physiology of the woman's pelvis during pregnancy and in non-impregnated stages of life. During courses, students will learn about identifying and recording sonography images. Deviations and abnormalities that appear on images of the impregnated uterus will also be discussed.

Qualifications And Credentials

While sonography technicians are not generally required to obtain licensure, employees tend to prefer job candidates who have attained professional accreditation and registration. To become registered, students must take a test after their educational, training, and employment requirements are completed. The test contains an instrumentation and physics section and is administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. You can learn more about this organization by visiting their website at www.ardms.org.

Roles And Responsibilities

There is a wide range of job duties that sonography technicians may complete. Some of them include determining which equipment to use, preparing patients for the procedure, and properly positioning the patient. Sonography technicians also examine images both during and after the sonogram procedure to decide which of them are most in compliance with the physician's requirements. Technicians also keep equipment working properly. Finally, sonography technicians are responsible for maintaining the patient's records.

Job Outlook

In May 2016, diagnostic medical sonographers earned an average annual salary of $69,650 (BLS). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an employment growth rate of 39%, which is must faster than the national average.