Online Sonography Programs: Finding the Right School
How do sonography programs work online? How much do they cost and will they fully prepare you for a career after graduation? This guide will answer these questions to help you select just the right online sonography program to start your career journey. Find information on top schools, certification requirements, salaries and job prospects, and more.
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EduMed’s Top Online Sonography & Ultrasound Tech Schools
What the Experts Say: How to Find the Right Sonography Program for You
The sonography programs featured in this guide have been selected for accreditation, clinical training depth, and graduate outcomes. But sonography is a hands-on field, and program quality on paper doesn’t always reflect the clinical experience students actually get. Equipment access, specialty rotations, and the strength of a program’s clinical site network matter a great deal. Our experts share what to look for.
Pursue Multiple Specialty Credentials
Your specialty credentials are essential for landing certain jobs in sonography. Even if you think you know what area you want to work in, I’d recommend looking for a program that prepares you for multiple specialty exams or makes it easy to add additional credentials later. A generalist with only one credential will find themselves locked out of a big portion of job postings.
Prepare for Physical Demands Too
As a sonographer, there may be times when you see something concerning during an exam, but you must remain calm and professional because interpreting results is not your role. The job can also be incredibly physically demanding, with long hours and repetitive scanning movements, so make sure you’re prepared for both the emotional and physical demands of the field.
Sonography Student Q&A
Is sonography and ultrasound tech the same?
No, but they are quite similar. Both sonographers and ultrasound techs use ultrasound technologies for diagnostic imaging of body organs and systems.
However, sonographers typically have advanced and specialized training, focusing more on the interpretation of diagnostic images. Along with additional training, sonographers often obtain certifications based on their specific areas of specialization.
Can you learn ultrasound tech school online?
Partially. Online sonography and ultrasound tech programs are almost always presented in a hybrid format in which students complete didactic coursework online.
However, due to the nature of sonography/ultrasound practice, it is necessary for students to attend in-person training to gain hands-on experience in operating ultrasound equipment.
What is the difference between CAAHEP and ABHES?
The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) are both professional organizations involved in the accrediting of sonography education programs. The main difference between the two is that the CAAHEP accredits individual sonography programs while the ABHES accredits the educational institutions that offer sonography education programs.
Therefore, both CAAHEP and ABHES accreditation are indications of quality academics. However, the CAAHEP is considered the primary accreditor for most sonography programs providing the more direct path to eligibility to take ARDMS certification exams.
How can I pay for my ultrasound and sonography tech program?
As you explore online sonography/ultrasound program options, it’s impossible not to become aware of the substantial costs involved. Fortunately, there are a number of financial aid resources available to qualifying students to help them pay for their educations, including:
- Scholarships and grants
- Tuition discounts
- Employer tuition reimbursement
- Tuition deferment and installment plans
- Student loans and loan forgiveness programs
Landing one or more of these funding sources may significantly cut your sonography/ ultrasound program’s total price tag. But you have to find and apply to them first. So, be sure to make contacting the financial aid offices at each of the schools you’re considering a top priority during your program search.
Is sonography harder than nursing?
Both occupations are challenging. Sonography, however is often seen as more technically demanding due to the specialized nature of ultrasound imaging. On the other hand, nursing demands a broader foundation of medical knowledge and skills, and involves a higher level of patient interaction.
So, if you’re trying to decide between a career in nursing and sonography, it’s important that you take the time to carefully consider your own personal and intellectual strengths and weaknesses in light of the unique professional requirements of each occupation.
How Online Sonography & Ultrasound Tech Programs Work
Students looking for an in-demand career in healthcare can earn an accredited sonography degree online. But before signing on to any specific program, it’s critical that you explore the varied program details to find the one program that best fits your professional and personal needs and preferences.
These hybrid-formatted programs combine online didactic coursework with hands-on training typically attended in-person on campus or at a healthcare facility in the school’s or student’s local area.
Additionally, sonography and ultrasound tech programs vary in length due primarily to the specific credential offered (certificate, diploma, associate degree, bachelor’s degree.)
This guide delves into all of these issues in detail. But to get you started on your program search, here are spotlights of three exemplary sonography programs available today that feature online options.
A.S. in Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Santa Fe College
Santa Fe College’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography, A.S. program is delivered in collaboration with the area’s local and regional hospitals and imaging centers. Classroom theory and hands-on lab experiences combine to provide students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for competent practice.
Finishing all degree requirements allows students to take any of a number of sonography certification exams offered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.
Duration: 80 credit hours
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $13,447.25 (Florida residents); $35,537.65 (non-Florida residents)
Admissions Requirements:
- Posses a 3.0 or higher college GPA
- Completion of prerequisite work
Curriculum:
- Principles and Protocols of Imaging
- Sonographic Cross-Sectional Anatomy
- Abdominal Sonography
- Obstetrics/Gynecology Sonography
- Medical Sonographic Physics
- Professional Aspects of Sonography
- Neurosonology and Superficial Structures
- Abdominal Sonography
- Obstetrics/Gynecology Sonographb
- Vascular Sonography
- Clinical Education
- Vascular Sonography
- Abdominal Sonography Review
- Sonographic Physics and Instrumentation Review
- Special Topics/Seminars
Best For: Florida residents wanting preparation for specialty sonography exams.
Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography – State Fair Community College
State Fair Community College’s CAAHEP-accredited AAS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is a great choice for students with technical, observational, communication, and critical-thinking skills. Safe use of ultrasound for diagnosing trauma and disease is the focal point of the program that combines classroom theory, laboratory experience, and clinical application.
This program features both general and cardiac degree tracks, with online didactic courses, in-person scanning labs, and clinical internships. Completing this program enables you to take specialized certification exams — which some employers require — to make you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
Duration: 22 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $25,816 (in-district); $29,616 for (MO residents); $33,566 (non-MO residents)
Admissions Requirements:
- Completion of prerequisite general education and science courses
- Preparation of an eligible application with an advisor
- An additional application separate from the school’s main application
Curriculum:
- Program Prerequisites
- English Composition I and II
- Public Speaking
- U.S. History Before 1877
- U.S. History Since 1877
- American/National Government
- Mathematical Reasoning and Modeling
- Precalculus Algebra
- Statistical Reasoning
- Human Anatomy with Lab
- Human Physiology with Lab
- Medical Terminology
- Survey of Physics with Lab or Radiation Production and Characteristics
- Program Requirements
- Patient Care and Health Care Communication
- Ultrasound Scanning Lab I
- Seminar in Sonography
- Sonography Principles and Instrumentation I and II
- Ultrasound Lab II
- Sonography Clinical I, II, and III
- Vascular Sonography I, II, and III
- Allied Health Career Development
- Cardiac Track
- Cardiac Ultrasound I, II, III, and IV
- General Track
- General Sonography I, II, and III
- OB/GYN Sonography I, II, and III
Best For: Students residing in Missouri in or near Sedalia.
Advanced Certificates in Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Washburn University
Washburn University offers three Diagnostic Medical Sonography Advanced Certificates in:
- Abdomen Extended & OBGYN Sonography
- Adult Cardiac
- Vascular
These certificates are available to students who currently possess an associate degree or higher from an approved healthcare program. Students are free to pursue an additional certificate upon finishing their first program.
These certificate programs are CAAHEP accredited and prepare students to obtain professional certifications from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).
Duration: 12 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $21,100 (Abdominal Extended and OB/GYN Certificate); $17,842 (Cardiac Certificate); $17,807 (Vascular Certificate)
Admissions Requirements:
- Associate degree or higher in a healthcare program with hands-on patient care clinical rotations
- Other hands-on healthcare certifications/licenses may be considered
- Completion of required sonography pre-requisites
Curriculum:
- Abdomen Extended/OBGYN Curriculum
- Intro to Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Sonography Principles & Instrumentation I, II, and III (III with Registry Review)
- Abdomen Sonography Procedures I and II
- OBGYN Sonography Procedures I and II
- Sonography Clinical I and II
- General Sonography Procedures III and Registry Review
- General Sonography Clinical III
- Cardiac Curriculum
- Intro to Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Sonography Principles & Instrumentation I, II, and III
- Cardiac Sonography Procedures I and II
- Cardiac Sonography Clinical I, II, and III
- Cardiac Procedures III and Registry Review
- Vascular Curriculum
- Intro to Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Sonography Principles & Instrumentation I, II, and III (III with Registry Review)
- Vascular Sonography Procedures I, II, and III (III with Registry Review)
- Vascular Sonography Clinical I, II, and III
Best For: Those who want a boost in their current educational standings.
Find a Sonography Program Near You
Online sonography programs are available in nearly every state. Among the states offering the widest variety of programs are:
Tuition & Fee Comparison
One of the biggest concerns of prospective sonography students is education cost. And while they may seem quite steep, it’s important to remember that total program costs can vary, sometimes substantially, from program to program.
Common factors impacting cost include:
- Credential type (certificate, associate degree, bachelor’s degree)
- Program length
- Whether the program is offered by a public or private school
- Whether the student is an in-state or out-of-state resident (public school programs only)
It’s also important to again remind yourself of the wide range of financial aid resources out there that can help lower your total sonography program price tag.
Bearing all of that in mind, the chart below offers a look at the current tuition and fees costs for four current online sonography programs.
| School Name | Program Type | Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
School Name | Program Type Associate of Applied Science | Tuition & Fees $13,447.25 (FL residents); $35,537.65 (non-FL residents) |
School Name | Program Type Associate of Applied Science | Tuition & Fees $25,816 (in-district); $29,616 for (MO residents); $33,566 (non-MO residents) |
School Name | Program Type Post-Grad Certificate | Tuition & Fees $21,100 (Abdominal Extended and OB/GYN Certificate); $17,842 (Cardiac Certificate); $17,807 (Vascular Certificate) |
School Name | Program Type Bachelor of Science | Tuition & Fees $44,468 (est.) |
Salary & Career Potential for Sonographers & Ultrasound Techs
U.S.
$96,590
Alabama
$68,180
Alaska
$105,670
Arizona
$100,040
Arkansas
$81,500
California
$128,530
Colorado
$108,410
Connecticut
$103,230
Delaware
$98,530
District of Columbia
$112,020
Florida
$82,940
Georgia
$83,250
Hawaii
$124,430
Idaho
$99,920
Illinois
$100,660
Indiana
$85,040
Iowa
$86,480
Kansas
$96,310
Kentucky
$91,230
Louisiana
$80,710
Maine
$95,230
Maryland
$99,210
Massachusetts
$107,480
Michigan
$82,490
Minnesota
$102,850
Mississippi
$76,520
Missouri
$100,130
Montana
$101,000
Nebraska
$82,670
Nevada
$95,980
New Hampshire
$103,760
New Jersey
$103,150
New Mexico
$87,210
New York
$103,920
North Carolina
$86,010
North Dakota
$84,340
Ohio
$82,870
Oklahoma
$83,670
Oregon
$120,220
Pennsylvania
$82,710
Rhode Island
$92,820
South Carolina
$83,290
South Dakota
$80,820
Tennessee
$80,640
Texas
$92,580
Utah
$100,100
Vermont
$104,100
Virginia
$95,660
Washington
$121,340
West Virginia
$76,820
Wisconsin
$102,090
Wyoming
$100,650
Data reflects national numbers, not school-specific information.
United States
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virgin Islands
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Data reflects national numbers, not school-specific information.
Is Online Sonography School Right for Me?
This may seem like an obvious first question, but it’s important to give it some real time and thought in answering it.
You need to be sure that your individual personality and study preferences work well with online program formats and content delivery methods. You’ll also need to make sure any program you consider meets certain minimum academic standards.
So, before applying to any sonography program, be sure you have solid answers the following questions:
- Is the online program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP)?
- Does the program meet the standards of the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers?
- Is the online format synchronous or asynchronous?
- Are there in-person elements such as labs and clinicals?
- Does the school accept financial aid?
Certification and Specializations
Professional certification is an important step in your sonographer career path.
Obtaining any of a number of professional certifications demonstrates to potential employers that you have attained a requisite level of knowledge and skills in the specific area of the certification. In fact, it is common for employers to require professional certification of its sonographer job applicants.
There are a variety of professional certifications you can choose from to demonstrate your competency and enhance your resume, many offered by the following three major certification organizations:
The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (ARDMS)
To earn an ARDMS credential, you must complete an accredited sonography program and have 12 months of full-time clinical sonography experience. ARDMS exam specialties include:
- Abdomen
- Breast
- Fetal Echocardiography
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Pediatric Sonography
- Adult Echocardiography
- Pediatric Echocardiography
- Vascular Technology
The American Registry of Radiological Technologists (ARRT)
ARRT certification requires an associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited sonography program. ARRT exam specialties include:
- Vascular Sonography
- Breast Sonography
Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)
A combination of education and clinical experience is required for CCI certifications. The requirements will vary depending on specific exam.
CCI exam specialties include:
- Advanced Cardiac Sonographer
- Register Congenital Cardiac Sonographer
- Registered Cardiac Sonographer
- Registered Phlebotomy Sonographer
- Registered Vascular Specialist
Video Guide: What Degree Do You Need to Be an Ultrasound Tech?
Learn about the education and training you need to become a sonographer or ultrasound tech.
