Ultrasound technicians, also known as sonographers, are often associated with pregnancy.
The first time a mom-to-be sees a glimpse of her unborn baby is through an ultrasound.
As magical as that is, there is much more to the profession.
It will blow your mind to discover what you can see.
In addition to the reproductive system, an ultrasound tech can see into the body and get a closer image of the abdomen, prostate, heart, and blood vessels.
This vital information is then used by a doctor to make a diagnosis or put together a treatment plan.
If this sounds like the type of rewarding work you would like to get into, you have found the right place!
By the end, you will know everything about becoming an ultrasound technician.
Go to Section:
- The Best Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs
- #1 Washburn University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
- #2 State Fair Community College Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- #3 Concorde Career College Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Cardiovascular Sonography Programs
- #4 High Desert Medical College Ultrasound Technician Program
- #5 Jackson College General Sonography Program
- #6 Oregon Institute of Technology Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- #7 Hunter Business School Hybrid Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
- #8 California Career Institute Hybrid Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
- #9 Institute of Ultrasound Diagnostics Sonography Program
- #10 Washburn University Online Sonography Certificate Programs
- #11 Misericordia University Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- #12 Concordia University Wisconsin Online/Hybrid B S in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- #13 Bellevue College Bachelor of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- #14 Labette Community College Hybrid Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
- What Courses Are in an Online Ultrasound Technician Training Program?
- Can You Earn an Ultrasound Technician Program Certification Completely Online?
- How Long Does it Take to Earn an Ultrasound Technician Program Certification Online?
- How Much Does an Online Ultrasound Technician Program Certification Cost?
- Benefits of Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs
- Drawbacks of Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs
- Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs – Summary Table
- Types of Online Ultrasound Technician Certifications
- 4 Self-Study Tips for Online Ultrasound Technician Students
- Becoming a Certified Ultrasound Technician
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Best Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs
#1 Washburn University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
About the School
Washburn University offers online diagnostic medical sonography certificates for students who already hold an associate degree or higher in a healthcare field.
The school’s program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and has delivered hybrid instruction since the early 2000s.
Coursework is delivered online, while clinical rotations can be completed close to a student’s home.
Typical class sizes are around 30 to 35 students.
Courses Offered
Students choose one‑year advanced certificate tracks, including general abdominal and OB/GYN sonography, adult cardiac sonography, or vascular sonography.
The curriculum includes online didactic courses such as ultrasound physics, anatomy, medical terminology, and sonographic techniques, plus hands‑on clinical experience in imaging facilities.
Program Cost
Estimated total costs for the program range from about $17,800 to $21,100, depending on the specialty track chosen.
Tuition is charged at around $493 per credit hour, with additional expenses for textbooks of about $618 to $818 and other supplies.
Students may still need to cover their own computer, internet access, health insurance, and CPR certification costs.
Contact Information
- Address: 1700 SW College Ave., Topeka, KS 66621
- Phone: (785) 670-2170
- Website: Visit School Website
#2 State Fair Community College Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
About the School
State Fair Community College offers a hybrid associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography with tracks in general and cardiac sonography.
The program includes online theory classes, on‑campus labs, and clinical internships to ensure students gain both knowledge and hands‑on experience.
It is accredited by CAAHEP and prepares students for national ARDMS certification.
Courses Offered
The curriculum includes foundational sonography topics such as anatomy and physiology, ultrasound physics, scan labs, patient care, and professional practice.
In addition to web‑based lectures, students participate in hands‑on labs and complete required clinical hours at approved healthcare facilities.
Program Cost
Program length is about 22 months.
Tuition per credit hour can range from approximately $351 to $482, depending on residency status, and the total estimated cost for the program varies by track and status.
This does not include books, fees, or living expenses during clinical rotations.
Contact Information
- Address: 3201 W 16th St, Sedalia, MO 65301
- Phone: (660) 596-7420
- Website: Visit School Website
#3 Concorde Career College Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Cardiovascular Sonography Programs
About the School
Concorde Career College offers hybrid sonography programs that blend online coursework with required in‑person labs and clinical placements.
The college focuses on preparing students for employment in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic imaging centers with practical scanning experience.
Courses Offered
Students complete core courses in anatomy, physiology, ultrasound physics, OB/GYN sonography, vascular sonography, and cardiac sonography, depending on the chosen track.
The curriculum includes laboratory sessions on campus as well as clinical rotations at affiliated health facilities.
Program Cost
Programs typically run about 20 months.
The estimated total tuition and fees can be around $49,000 to $51,000, with additional expenses for textbooks and clinical supplies.
Clinical requirements take many hours and are scheduled throughout the program.
Contact Information
- Address: 10933 Marks Way, Miramar, Florida 33025
- Phone: (754) 206-7959
- Website: Visit School Website
#4 High Desert Medical College Ultrasound Technician Program
About the School
High Desert Medical College provides a hybrid ultrasound technology associate program designed to give students both theoretical and practical experience.
Accredited training includes a blend of online classroom instruction, on‑campus labs, and clinical externships to help prepare students for careers in sonography.
Courses Offered
Coursework covers ultrasound fundamentals such as medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, ultrasound physics, abdomen and OB/GYN sonography, vascular sonography, and lab procedures.
Clinical externship experiences are integral, offering scanning practice under supervision.
Program Cost
The program can be completed in either 108 weeks for morning/afternoon schedules or 123 weeks for evening schedules.
Approximate tuition is $47,394 with additional fees bringing the total estimated cost to about $59,120.
Contact Information
- Address: 701 West Avenue K, Suite 123, Lancaster, CA 93534
- Phone: (661) 940-9300
- Website: Visit School Website
#5 Jackson College General Sonography Program
About the School
Jackson College’s general sonography program offers an associate degree combining classroom learning, lab work, and clinical practice.
This comprehensive approach prepares students for roles in hospitals and imaging centers.
Courses Offered
The curriculum includes abdominal and obstetric/gynecologic imaging, ultrasound physics, professional practice, and expanded modalities such as breast and vascular scanning.
Clinical internships give real‑world experience.
Program Cost
Tuition is based on billing contact hours with varying rates for in‑district, out‑of‑district, and out‑of‑state students.
Total costs depend on residency and include student services and course fees.
Contact Information
- Address: 2111 Emmons Road, Jackson, MI
- Phone: (517) 796-8140
- Website: Visit School Website
#6 Oregon Institute of Technology Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
About the School
Oregon Tech offers a bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography that includes rigorous academic coursework and extensive hands‑on training.
The program is fully accredited and prepares students to sit for board exams, with a reputation for strong employment outcomes.
Courses Offered
Students study advanced sonographic imaging techniques, including abdominal, obstetric, breast, and vascular sonography, as well as professional practice and critical thinking.
A significant senior externship is included for practical experience.
Program Cost
The program typically spans four years.
Estimated yearly tuition is approximately $14,132 for in‑state students and $35,177 for out‑of‑state students.
Additional clinical and laboratory fees may apply.
Contact Information
- Address: 3201 Campus Drive, Klamath Falls, OR 97601
- Phone: 727-210-2350
- Website: Visit School Website
#7 Hunter Business School Hybrid Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
About the School
Hunter Business School provides vocational training, including a hybrid diagnostic medical sonography program.
This program combines classroom instruction with clinical externships, preparing students for sonography careers through hands-on experience.
Courses Offered
Students take courses in anatomy, physiology, sonography fundamentals, and clinical procedures as part of the program’s blended curriculum.
Classroom theory is reinforced with clinical placements in healthcare facilities.
Program Cost
The program is about 2,470 hours long, and tuition is approximately $44,150.
Additional registration, supplies, and clinical costs bring the total closer to $47,100.
Students should anticipate expenses for travel to externships and certification fees.
Contact Information
- Address: 3601 Hempstead Tpk, Medford, NY 11763
- Phone: 212-772-4490
- Website: Visit School Website
#8 California Career Institute Hybrid Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
About the School
California Career Institute offers a hybrid‑online AAS in diagnostic medical sonography that combines online coursework with hands‑on clinical training.
The program focuses on preparing students with both the theoretical grounding and practical skills needed in diagnostic imaging.
Courses Offered
Coursework includes sonographic principles, anatomy, patient care, and ultrasound procedures.
Students complete clinical hours at approved healthcare sites to develop scanning expertise.
Program Cost
This program typically lasts about two years.
Exact tuition and fees vary, and students should contact the school for current figures and financial aid options.
Contact Information
- Address: 12100 S. Hawthorne Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 90250
- Phone: (714) 539-5959
- Website: Visit School Website
#9 Institute of Ultrasound Diagnostics Sonography Program
About the School
The Institute of Ultrasound Diagnostics offers an accelerated sonography training program with online didactic components and required hands‑on clinical experience.
Students learn under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Courses Offered
The curriculum includes abdominal sonography, obstetrical and gynecologic sonography, ultrasound physics and instrumentation, and mandatory clinical practice segments.
Program Cost
Tuition and fees for the one‑year program are about $15,524.50.
This includes a base tuition of $12,500 plus lab, technology, books, and required professional fees.
Contact Information
- Address: One Timber Way, Suite 203, Daphne, AL 36527, United States
- Phone: +1 800-473-2485
- Website: Visit School Website
#10 Washburn University Online Sonography Certificate Programs
About the School
This represents the online certificate offerings within Washburn University’s diagnostic medical sonography department for experienced healthcare professionals seeking specialization.
Courses Offered
Three advanced certificate options allow specialization in areas like abdominal, cardiac, or vascular sonography.
Didactic coursework is completed online while clinical experience occurs at approved local facilities.
Program Cost
Estimated totals for these certificates range from about $17,800 to $21,100, depending on concentration and associated costs for materials.
Contact Information
- Address: 1700 SW COLLEGE AVE, TOPEKA, KANSAS 66621
- Phone: (785) 670-1030
- Website: Visit School Website
#11 Misericordia University Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
About the School
Misericordia University provides a bachelor’s degree in sonography that prepares students to practice in a variety of clinical settings.
The program emphasizes clinical competency, professional behavior, and diagnostic expertise.
Courses Offered
Students study anatomy and physiology, sonographic physics, obstetric and vascular imaging, and clinical practicum experiences to develop proficiency in ultrasound techniques across specialties.
Program Cost
Total costs vary depending on residency status and specific course fees; prospective students should consult the school for exact figures.
Contact Information
- Address: 301 Lake St, Dallas, PA 18612
- Phone: 1-866-262-6363
- Website: Visit School Website
#12 Concordia University Wisconsin Online/Hybrid B S in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
About the School
Concordia University Wisconsin’s program is designed as an online bachelor’s completion track for licensed sonographers.
It emphasizes career advancement and builds on prior credentials.
Courses Offered
Students complete courses required to finish the bachelor’s degree, including general education, sonography electives, and professional practice subjects, in a flexible online format.
Program Cost
Tuition is about $500 per credit hour
Total degree requirements are 120 credits, with transfer options available for many students.
Contact Information
- Address: 12800 North Lake Shore Drive, Mequon, WI 53092
- Phone: 262-243-5700
- Website: Visit School Website
#13 Bellevue College Bachelor of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
About the School
Bellevue College offers a Bachelor of Applied Science degree with components delivered online alongside clinical experiences, preparing graduates for a range of ultrasound imaging roles.
Courses Offered
The program includes sonographic physics, anatomy, clinical practicum, and professional skills to support comprehensive imaging practice.
Program Cost
Specific tuition and fees vary by residency and year; students should contact Bellevue College directly for current figures.
Contact Information
- Address: 3000 Landerholm Circle SE, Bellevue, WA 98007
- Phone: 425-564-2012
- Website: Visit School Website
#14 Labette Community College Hybrid Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
About the School
Labette Community College’s sonography associate degree combines online lectures with required clinical rotations near a student’s home.
The program has been accredited since 2013.
Courses Offered
Core courses include sonography physics, anatomy, OB/GYN imaging, vascular sonography, and clinical practicum across semesters with weekly clinical hours during scheduled rotations.
Program Cost
Total estimated cost ranges from about $14,000 to $20,000 based on residency status.
The program spans about 14 months with online lectures and clinical hours scheduled at local sites.
Contact Information
- Address: 200 S 14th St, Parsons, KS 67357, United States
- Phone: 620-206-5968
- Website: Visit School Website
Schools Summary Table
What Courses Are in an Online Ultrasound Technician Training Program?
While each school may differ in course name and specifics, the overall programs will be sure to have you on the same level as other graduates across the US.
Here is a list of what you should expect to go over:
- Ultrasound Physics
- Ultrasound Scanning
- Abdominal Ultrasound Technique
- Essentials of Sonography
- Midwife Sonography
- Cardiac Sonography
- Ethics
- Pathophysiology
- Instrumentation
- Human Anatomy
- Sectional Anatomy
- Fetal Echocardiography
- Adult Echocardiography
- Pediatric Echocardiography
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Can You Earn an Ultrasound Technician Program Certification Completely Online?
While much of the program can be done online, there will be some requirements for on-site practice.
This would take place either in a clinic or a hospital.
In addition, there may be laboratory assignments that will also need to be done in person.
How Long Does it Take to Earn an Ultrasound Technician Program Certification Online?
You can expect to finish an ultrasound tech certification program in under two years.
Most students finish around the one-year mark.
How Much Does an Online Ultrasound Technician Program Certification Cost?
School costs vary, but for this program, you can expect to pay at least $105 per credit hour.
With programs running between 65 and 75 credits, you can expect to pay $8,000 or more to complete the program and be certified.
Benefits of Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs
A lot can be done online.
The great thing about the programs these days is how much you can do online.
That way, long before you are in the lab or in a hospital getting hands-on experience, you are committing the information to memory.
Studying from the comfort of your home
You can go over and over the equipment parts and terms from the comfort of your home before heading out and learning them in person.
Studying at your own pace
Most of the online programs do allow you to progress at your own pace.
That is helpful for students who are employed or have personal commitments that would make going to a facility on a schedule difficult.
Knowing in advance what labs are coming makes it easier to plan for the future.
Drawbacks of Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs
Need to come in person for the labs
One big drawback of the online certification program is having to come in person for the labs.
To be fair, it would be hard to learn thoroughly without touching the equipment to gain experience, but it can deter those who were hoping to avoid having to go anywhere.
This is not a job that can be done remotely
Working online can make you comfortable with the job in a remote capacity.
Unfortunately, this is not really a job that can be done remotely.
It is important to remember the beauty of being a sonographer, which makes pushing through worth it.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs – Summary Table
| Benefits of Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs | Drawbacks of Online Ultrasound Technician Training Programs |
|---|---|
| A lot can be done online | Need to come in person for the labs |
| Studying from the comfort of your home | This is not a job that can be done remotely |
| Studying at your own pace |
Types of Online Ultrasound Technician Certifications
Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Getting this certificate under your belt means you have in-depth knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and patient care.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
To be able to sit for this exam, students must have graduated from a program and be approved for or are currently working in obstetrics.
This test is put together by the American Obstetrics Association.
Cardiac Sonography
Becoming a certified cardiac sonographer will require a year-long program that is focused on matters of the heart.
By the time you are done, you will practically know a heart like the back of your hand.
During the program, you will learn about anatomy, hemodynamics, disease processes, as well as patient treatment.
Pediatric Cardiac Sonography
Similar to cardiac sonography, an ultrasound tech would need to be familiar with imaging equipment to take specific representations of the heart.
The difference is that the hearts are smaller since you would be working in the pediatrics department.
Point of Care Ultrasound
This certification is for everyone in the medical field who does diagnostic tests that happen outside of laboratories.
This could include near-patient testing, using point-of-care devices, quality management, operator training, being compliant, and how to serve as a liaison between the labs.
Vascular Sonography
Adding this certificate to your resume means you’re an expert on getting vascular ultrasounds.
Abdominal and Ophthalmologic Sonography
These are two very different areas of the body, but they still share a certification.
The abdomen would be the midsection, and the ophthalmologic is about the eyes.
After you get certified in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, there are continuing education courses you can take that will lead to higher credentials.
- Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)
- Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS)
- Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT)
- Registered Musculoskeletal Sonographer (RMSKS)
- Registered Radiologic Assistant (RAA)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR)
- Mammography (M)
- Vascular Interventional Radiography (VI)
4 Self-Study Tips for Online Ultrasound Technician Students
1. Stay on Schedule
The best thing you can do, especially during an intensive study program, is to get a calendar or a planner.
When you get a syllabus for each class, go through it and jot down important dates on the calendar.
Do so in pencil in case the dates change.
Even when you are going through it at your own pace, you can put together a realistic schedule.
The more you have written down a plan, the more likely you are to stick to it.
2. Take a Breather
It can be hard to pace yourself when you’re eager to get through the course.
If you start out going full throttle, you might take the wind from your sails before you have had the chance to get hooked.
When you plan your study sessions, factor in enough time to get up and walk around or get a snack.
The last thing you need is to burn out when you have quite a bit of work to do.
Once burnout starts, it is tough to slow that train down.
3. Watch Videos
No, we do not mean cute kitten videos.
We are fortunate enough to live in a day and time where there is a video for just about everything online.
One way to jump-start a study session is to go look up a video on the topic and see what you get.
If you begin with footage of what you are going over, there might be tidbits from the viewing that you pick up.
A little extra learning can only benefit you.
The video will also get you more engaged in the topic.
4. Dedicated Space
A great way to stay locked in when you are learning complicated equipment is to have a safe space you can study in.
This is especially important if you find yourself easily distracted.
Another benefit of a study room is that you can control the noise coming into it, at least that is the hope.
Also, since this is your space, you can spread out.
If you need to pull out a bunch of papers or print out several sheets to make a body, you can do that.
Not everyone can have a room in their home to study in, but that does not mean you cannot still find space for that purpose.
If you need to get out of the house, whether it be every day or every once in a while, your local community may be able to help.
From libraries to coffee shops, there are places you can go to study if you are looking for them.
Becoming a Certified Ultrasound Technician
Getting images of what’s going on inside someone’s body can be incredibly rewarding.
It is an important tool a doctor can use to analyze what’s happening with the symptoms of a patient.
Comforting patients and exercising patience with them can make such a difference in their care.
Putting aside a multitude of free time over the next year will be worth the sacrifice after taking an online ultrasound technician training program.
Not only is it incredibly convenient, but it is the open door to a whole new career in an ever-growing industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for an ultrasound technician?
On average, a sonographer earns approximately $76,000 per year.
This is a general salary, but there are different types of certifications with specialties.
If your focus is on something specific as opposed to ultrasounds in general, the pay could be less.
Of course, it also depends on location and the type of setting.
What are the required exams to get certified?
ARDMS SPI:
This is about the basics of sonography and how to use instruments.
This is really the first step towards domination of the field.
Without passing this exam, you cannot move on to any other specialties.
This test can be taken from anywhere on the internet.
If you have trouble and don’t pass, you can try again after 60 days.
ARRT:
The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists test has a number of disciplines to choose from, so when you register, make sure it’s for sonography.
What this exam is looking for is your fundamental knowledge as an ultrasound technician.
The ARRT exam can be taken up to three times within three years.
CCI:
Becoming a Registered Cardiac Sonographer will require passing this test.
To get to this level, you will already have needed to pass the ARDMS SPI.
To get a seat, you’ll have to apply early.
There are only two date ranges a year when the test can be taken, February and August.
Are ultrasound techs in demand?
The need for professionals who can get internal images is high.
Whether you are working at a hospital or clinic, ultrasounds are done quite frequently.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has listed a projection of a 23% increase in the field that has been going on for the past few years and is expected through 2026.
Compared to the national average of new jobs, this is a massive increase for ultrasound techs.
After becoming certified as an ultrasound tech, what other educational options are there?
Getting certified is a great way to get your foot in the door in the medical field.
It is a specialty that has good job prospects and security.
One downfall of stopping at a certificate is being unable to advance as easily.
Sure, there are still places that will hire you with one certification, but to advance your pay, it might be beneficial to keep going.
Otherwise, you can keep getting various certifications in the ultrasound specialties.
That might get expensive, though.
The next step up would be to get an associate’s degree in sonography.
Having a degree means you have had more in your studies than sonography alone.
More and more employers are requiring degrees, whether or not it makes you more knowledgeable about the subject at hand.
If you decide to take it even further and get a bachelor’s degree, you should already have experience as a technician as well as an associate’s degree.
Here, instead of getting multiple certificates, you can choose a specialty as part of the degree plan.
Part of the schooling will likely include management.
This might be a great decision after you have been an ultrasound tech for a while and are trying to pivot your career to teaching the skill or moving up into a department director or something similar.
