Find D.C.’s Sonography Programs in 2024
When you think of an ultrasound, your mind might immediately go to the image of the expectant mother, hearing her baby’s heartbeat for the first time. But an ultrasound technician (known as a diagnostic medical sonographer in the industry) does much more than that. Using sophisticated equipment, they image the organs, muscles, tissues, and blood vessels of the human body. They work closely with physicians, who use those images to detect, diagnose, and prevent disease.
If you are interested in becoming a part of this rewarding career, start by requesting information from one of the ultrasound technician schools near Washington D.C. If you don’t see an ultrasound program in your area, you might consider a neighboring state, or one of the many other healthcare programs available, some of which are listed below. You’ll have the opportunity to speak with a representative of the school, so be prepared with a list of things you would like to discuss.
Connect with Educational Programs near You
CAAHEP Accredited Diagnostic Sonography Programs
When you’re considering which school to attend, one of the more important factors to research is the accreditation. For a school or program to be accredited means that they have undergone rigorous training and inspection from an outside agency, and it attests to the quality of education the institution provides.
In diagnostic medical sonography, the most widely recognized accrediting agency is the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The successful completion of one of these accredited DMS programs is the most comprehensive and direct way students can earn eligibility to sit for the ARDMS Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) examination.
Washington D.C. does not currently have any programs accredited by the CAAHEP, but there are still plenty to choose from near you.
Ultrasound Programs in Nearby States
Certification Requirements in Washington D.C.
Like most of the rest of the country, Washington D.C. has no specific licensure or certification requirements for ultrasound technicians to practice their trade. However, the typical employer will prefer or even require a professional certification, so it’s wise to consider how you’ll obtain that in order to make yourself competitive in the job market.
The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is the most well-known and regarded certification organization. They administer tests in sonography and many of its related specialties, and you must pass one of those tests to be awarded their certification. There are two testing centers in the District of Columbia, plus many more in the surrounding area. Find the locations and their contact information on the ARDMS website at ardms.org, or by calling the testing company Pearson Vue at 1-877-258-9220.
The ARDMS has identified several different prerequisites for taking their test, but you only need to meet one of them. Read through your options on their website to determine which one will be the easiest for you to qualify for.
Additional Certification Information
Certification overview
About the ARDMS
How Much do Ultrasound Technologists Earn in Washington D.C.?
In the District of Columbia, ultrasound technicians earn a mean annual salary of $99,860 in 2021, which makes it the 2nd highest paying region in the nation (conditions in your area may vary).
Job Growth
The industry is experiencing significant growth, with O*Net predicting an increase in employment for ultrasound techs of 14% in the decade spanning 2020 to 2030. Part of this growth can be attributed to the aging population, both locally and nationally. As we age as a country, our citizens place a demand on the health care system. Trained and educated ultrasound technicians will be needed to treat those people, and to fill their vacated positions as they begin to retire.
Learn More
Sonographer overview
Other jobs in healthcare
Is a job in healthcare the right one for you?
Frequently asked questions
What does an ultrasound technician do?
There’s much more than just imaging internal organs. Learn more at: ultrasoundschoolsinfo.com/ultrasound-technician. Get a complete job description, as well as first-hand accounts of what it’s like to be a sonographer.
How do I get started?
We’ll walk you through all of the steps, starting when you’re still in high school or before you’ve started any formal post-education program, all the way through finding a job and advancing in your career. Get Started Now.
How long do I have to go to school?
Most degree programs are completed within two years, though program length may vary depending on specific program requirements.
How do I know if it’s right for me?
In order to be successful in the field, you’ll need more than just technical knowledge. Here’s how you’ll know if you’ve got what it takes.
What other jobs can I get in healthcare?
There are many careers available within the healthcare industry, and we’ll introduce you to many of them here.
