Inside Sonography & Ultrasound Tech Programs with Financial Aid
Interested in launching a career in radiology? Explore online sonography and ultrasound tech programs and learn how you can maximize your financial support.
Are you fascinated by the human body and eager to contribute to the medical field? Sonography, also known as ultrasound technology, offers a rewarding career that allows you to make an impact in patients’ lives without pursuing an advanced degree. To become a sonographer, you’ll need enroll in a sonography program and earn at least an associate’s degree in sonography (some employers prefer a bachelor’s degree). There are many accredited online sonography programs, including accelerated options, that make it easy to earn your degree.
Ideal for working adults, online sonography programs feature self-paced learning modules, online lectures, and clinical placements at healthcare facilities near you so you can fit learning into your busy schedule. While online sonography programs offer greater flexibility and can be completed quickly, they can still be costly. Fortunately, many schools offer scholarships, grants, payment plans, and other forms of financial aid to lessen the financial commitment that comes with earning an associate or bachelor’s degree.
So, what online sonography and ultrasound tech programs offer financial aid to students? In this guide, we’ll explore several financial-aid friendly sonography programs and give you an in-depth overview of the types of financial aid you can expect. Use our helpful checklist below to ensure you don’t miss any steps.
Program Profiles: Sonography & Ultrasound Tech Programs with Financial Aid
So, are you ready to launch a career as a sonographer or ultrasound tech? If so, you have plenty of high-quality educational options, including several exceptional online sonography programs that offer multiple financial aid options. Below we’ve highlighted three financial-aid friendly sonography programs that are 100% online, combining a high-quality education with convenience and affordability.
Specifically designed for sonographers registered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), the online Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography from Oregon Tech builds upon existing qualifications and experience, opening the door to management positions, education, and further specialization. The 100% online program provides a broad curriculum that covers several specialties including abdominal, pelvic, obstetrical, and musculoskeletal sonography. You’ll also explore healthcare management, technology, and pathology. Plus, you’ll gain hands-on experience through several labs and externships.
Tuition: $308 per credit
Financial Aid: The Oregon Institute of Technology is committed to making education affordable, providing multiple financial aid opportunities. Online students who are enrolled in at least 6 credit hours may be eligible for federal grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Additionally, the Oregon Tech Foundation awards more than $1,000,000 annually in scholarships to help make education more affordable.
Boise State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Advanced Medical Imaging, Diagnostic Medical Sonography Modality that will prepare you for the RDMS or ARRT exams and covers sonography physics, instrumentation, abdominal and obstetrics/gynecology procedures, and Doppler techniques. As the first accredited online bachelor’s program in diagnostic medical sonography in the U.S., the program offers 7-week courses, local clinical opportunities, and part- and full-time options, allowing you to start your career as an ultrasound technologist, sonographer, field clinical specialist, imaging manager, or lead technologist quickly. Additionally, the program provides advanced medical imaging modality options in interventional radiology, interventional cardiology, computer tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging.
Tuition: $395 per credit
Financial Aid: Boise State makes it easy to fund your education.In addition to federal financial aid, Boise State offers several ways to pay for your education including scholarships, payment plans, military benefits, and employer reimbursements. Some scholarships are offered automatically to students who meet specific criteria.
Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Health Professions with concentration in Medical Imaging. Designed for individuals who want to advance their careers in the medical imaging field, the program includes a mix of general healthcare courses, medical imaging specific courses, leadership development, and electives. Ideal for those with an associate degree in radiologic technology, LSUA’s online program will prepare you for careers as a radiographer, magnetic resonance or nuclear medicine technologist, sonographer, radiation therapist, or ultrasound technician.
Tuition: $325 per credit
Financial Aid: LSUA prides itself on its commitment to making education more affordable by offering several ways to pay for your education.In addition to federal financial aid, LSUA offers pay-as-you-go tuition to help make earning a top-tier education more affordable. Additionally, there are many scholarships, grants, and other financial aid programs to help students pay for their degree program.
Most Common Funding Options for Sonography Students
With so many federally- and privately- funded financial aid options, it can be overwhelming to find the right option for you. Let’s explore the three most common types of financial aid: grants, scholarships, and federal loans. Each has unique eligibility requirements, so understanding them will help you find the best fit for your needs.
Scholarships
In simplest terms, scholarships are essentially free money awarded based on merit, need, or a specific program of study. There are many scholarships designated for students pursuing healthcare professions, with some specifically for those looking to pursue sonography and ultrasound technology. Scholarships are offered by individual schools, professional organizations, ultrasound equipment manufacturers, or even local hospitals looking to invest in the future of the field. When researching scholarships, it’s imperative to thoroughly review the application requirements and deadlines as both can vary greatly.
- Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (SDMS) Foundation Scholarship
- American Society of Radiologic Technologists Foundation Scholarship
- The American College of Radiology Scholarship
Grants
Grants are need-based financial aid awarded by federal and state governments or nonprofit organizations. Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment, making them a valuable resource for sonography students. Like scholarships, grants can be awarded based on need or merit, helping to reduce financial commitment. At the federal level, Pell Grants are a great option for undergraduates with financial need, and state grants may be available based on residency and program focus.
- Health Resources and Service Administration Grants
- Federal Pell Grants
- Radiological Society of North America Grants
Loans
Private and federal loans are another option to help fund your education. Unlike grants and scholarships, loans do require repayment, but many offer flexible repayment options. Federal loans typically come with a lower interest rate than privately funded loans from a bank. The most common loan for undergraduate students is the Stafford Loan, with eligibility based on financial need. Remember, federal loans add to your overall debt burden, so borrow responsibly and only what you truly need. Additionally, you should carefully consider your earning potential as a sonographer or ultrasound technician to ensure you can comfortably manage loan repayments.
Financial Aid Eligibility & Application Checklist
Each type of financial aid will have different eligibility and application requirements, so it’s important you do your research before applying. By following this financial aid application checklist, you’ll increase your chances of receiving the support you need to pursue a career in radiology.
Complete the FAFSA Early
The first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early to determine your eligibility for federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. The online form opens in October for the following fall semester. Filing early maximizes your chances of receiving aid and allows schools to consider you for their own financial aid packages. You can fill out the form by visiting the FAFSA website.
Thoroughly Review Eligibility Criteria & Requirements
Each financial aid option will have different requirements and eligibility criteria. Thoroughly review both for each scholarship and grant you consider to ensure it’s the right fit for you and you have all the details to apply. You can typically find these details on the program website or within the application.
Check Deadlines and Apply Early
Deadlines for financial aid differ, and many grants and scholarships have a strict application window. Missing the application deadline can result in disqualification. Make sure you track key dates and apply early whenever possible to demonstrate your commitment and allow ample time for processing if additional materials are required.
Gather the Necessary Documents
Financial aid applications often ask for additional materials, such as an essay, statement of purpose, or letters of recommendation. Many of these materials take time to complete so it’s imperative to develop and collect these documents in advance so you don’t miss the deadline. Make sure you review requirements for each scholarship or grant to build your application folder and ensure you have everything needed.
Receive Feedback on Supplemental Materials
If the scholarships or grants require essays, letters of intent, or portfolios, seek feedback from a trusted source. Ask your professors, advisors, or career counselors for honest feedback on your application materials so that you can ensure you’re submitting your best work. Since this will add an additional step before you can submit your materials, make sure you factor this into your timeline to meet deadlines.
Review Award Letters
If you’re selected for scholarship or grant, you’ll receive an award letter that outlines all the details. Be sure to read this letter carefully to fully understand the types and amounts of aid you’ve been awarded. If you’ve received multiple offers, compare award packages from different schools and programs to determine the most financially beneficial option. If you have any questions about your awards, contact your school’s financial aid office or the organization awarding your funds.
