Explore Massachusetts’ Sonography Programs for 2024
Diagnostic medical sonographers are highly trained professionals that play an important role in healthcare. The images they provide to physicians are used to diagnose and treat illness and disease and well as monitor pregnancies.
Ultrasound programs in Massachusetts are rigorous and often competitive to get into, but the career can be very rewarding. Ultrasound techs have the ability to make a difference in the lives of their patients, and it is one of the highest paying careers available with just an Associate Degree. We will explore the topic further below, as well as connect you with accredited schools where you can receive the education you need in order to start your career as a sonographer.
How to Become a Sonographer in Massachusetts
- Apply to an Accredited Ultrasound Program. The accreditation of a program is one of the more important factors to consider when selecting your school. The CAAHEP is the most widely recognized accrediting body, and Massachusetts has five ultrasound programs that have received their recognition.
- Get Your Degree. Sonographers must have at least an Associate of Science degree in DMS. Some schools offer Bachelor’s degrees, and there are also accelerated Certificate programs for those who meet the educational prerequisites.
- Pass the Certification Exam. While Massachusetts does not require that sonographers be certified, your prospective employer likely will. Graduating from a CAAHEP accredited program will qualify you to sit for the exams offered by the ARDMS.
Connect with Educational Programs near You
Why Should You Choose an Accredited Diagnostic Sonography Program?
When a school or program becomes accredited, it means that an outside agency has reviewed and certified the quality and standards of an educational program.
The most widely recognized accrediting body for sonography programs is the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). A school receives accreditation from the CAAHEP once it has met their DMS Accreditation Standards and Guidelines. The schools also have to pass a series of program reviews, including a self-study review and a site visit.
Graduating from a CAAHEP accredited program will qualify you to sit for the ARDMS Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) exam, as well as a specialty exam. Passing both of the exams will allow you to receive professional ARDMS certification in diagnostic medical sonography.
If you’re currently enrolled in or have been accepted to a CAAHEP accredited program, you’re also eligible to apply for the UltrasoundSchoolsInfo $1,000 scholarship. Click here to learn more.
Accredited Ultrasound Schools in Massachusetts in 2024
The following programs have been accredited by the CAAHEP and offer certificates or degrees in diagnostic medical sonography as of October 2023:
| School | Programs | Prerequisites | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bunker Hill Community College 250 New Rutherford Ave Boston, MA 02129 |
Associate of Science Degree in General or Cardiac Sonography | College level prerequisite courses and completion of TEAS VI exam. | Apply online at no cost |
| MCPHS University – Boston 179 Longwood Ave Boston, MA 02115 |
Bachelor’s Degree in DMS or a fast-track degree for those who qualify | Prerequisites vary depending on degree and track chosen. | Begin application or request information here. |
| Middlesex Community College Springs Road – Building 6 Bedford, MA 01730 |
Associate in Science degree – DMS | College-level prerequisite courses, transcripts, and three Health Recommendation Forms | Downloadable application to Middlesex |
| Regis College 235 Wellesley Street Weston, MA 02493 |
Bachelor of Science Degree in Medical Imaging with a concentration in medical sonography | GPA and certain high school course requirements in math and science | Request information or apply online here |
| Springfield Technical Community College One Armory Square, Suite 1 PO Box 9000 Springfield, MA 01102 |
Associate in Science degree, DMS | Prerequisite courses in high school and college-level with a grade of C or better. | Applications due by March 31st of each year |
| * This information is obtained from a number of sources, is provided without charge, and is believed to be accurate. Please contact us with updates. | |||
What Do The Students Have to Say?
“Since sonography is a growing field with quickly advancing technology, it is important for universities and institutions to keep up in order to prepare students as well as possible. MCPHS University has advanced and updated equipment, as well as an on-campus screening lab constantly available for student use and practice.” Jessi K., Fall 2020 USI scholarship finalist and student at MCPHS U.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Sonography Students in MA
Determining how to pay for school is one of the more stressful aspects of higher education for many students. Learning how grants, loans, and scholarships work can feel daunting, but it’s important to know how the different financial aid options may affect you and your family. Visit our Financial Aid Portal to learn more.
Below are some of the scholarships available for those who qualify. Visit each scholarship to learn more and apply.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility Requirements | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultrasound Schools Info | $1,000 | Aspiring sonographer currently enrolled in/accepted to a CAAHEP accredited DMS program. | Ultrasound Schools Info Attn: Scholarship Committee PO Box 3026 Bellingham, WA 98227 scholarship@ultrasoundschoolsinfo.com |
| Agnes M. Lindsay Scholarship Program | Varies | Students from rural MA demonstrating financial need. | Contact your financial aid director. |
| Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship Program | Up to $6,500 per year | For students pursuing 2-4 year STEM degrees in MA. | Complete the application. |
| Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography Student Scholarship | $2,500 | Awarded to students enrolled in a CAAHEP accredited sonography or cardiovascular technology program. | Complete the application found on the SDMS website. |
How Much do Ultrasound Techs Make in Massachusetts?
The mean annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers in Massachusetts was $95,310, which is significantly higher than the national mean of $84,410 (BLS, 2022). Those at the top of their field in the 90th percentile earned an average wage of around $121,000 a year in MA, while those just entering the field made up to $64,000. Conditions in your area may vary.
Certification Requirements in Massachusetts
Massachusetts does not currently require that ultrasound techs possess credentials or licensure from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). However, most employers do, so it’s a smart thing to consider if you want an advantage over other potential job candidates.
The only way to earn ARDMS certification is by taking and passing their exam. In order to qualify, you must meet one of their prerequisites, one of which is graduating from a degree program at a CAAHEP accredited school. Once you have, you can take the exam at one of the various testing locations in Massachusetts:
- 500 W Cummings Park #1950, Woburn, MA 01801
- 31 St James Ave # 725, Boston, MA 02116
- 295 Devonshire St, Boston, MA 02110
- 186 Alewife Brook Pkwy, Cambridge, MA 02138
- 255 Park Ave, Worcester, MA 01609
- 1414 Main St, Springfield, MA 01144
- 20 William St, Wellesley, MA 02481
- 331 State Rd suite c, Dartmouth, MA 02747
Additional Certification Information
Certification overview
About the ARDMS
Tips on Passing the SPI
Heather Christensen, PA-C, CSS
Heather Christensen, PA-C, CSS is a Physician’s Assistant and graduate of Northeastern University in Massachusetts. In her practice, she uses ultrasound to teach individuals how to exercise properly in order to resolve or prevent problems in their back and other parts of their body’s core. Heather is the founder of UltrasoundCore.com and the creator of two Core Ultrasound exams. She was also a presenter of Core Ultrasound at the 2017 SDMS conference in Orlando.
Ultrasound Technician Schools in Boston
Boston, Massachusetts is a great place to enter the medical imaging field because it’s well known for its excellent healthcare. TIME magazine’s book Healthiest Places to Live (2014) named Boston the country’s “best city for healthcare”, and the ninth healthiest place to settle down. Boston is also characterized by the high life expectancy and quality heart disease treatment and cancer centers.
Accredited Sonography Programs in Boston
There are over 100 universities in and around Boston, as well as institutions offering other allied health or medical imaging programs. Attending a sonography program in Boston can help you become a part of the rapidly growing healthcare and sonography industry.
Frequently asked questions
What does an ultrasound technician in Massachusetts do?
Sonographers do much more than just image internal organs. They also work closely with other members of the healthcare team and patients, and evaluate the images they capture. Learn more on our ultrasound technician career overview page. 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 as a medical sonographer in Massachusetts?
We’ll walk you through all of the steps, starting when you’re still in high school or before you’ve started a 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, which will allow you to earn an Associate’s Degree, though program lengths may vary depending on particular program requirements. You can also go to school longer and receive a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree, which will allow you to advance your career and increase your salary.
How do I know if sonography is right for me?
In order to be successful in the field, you’ll need more than just technical knowledge. Click here to find out about the qualities that make a great sonographer.
What other jobs can I get in healthcare?
There are many careers available within the healthcare industry other than diagnostic sonography, and we’ll introduce you to many of them here.
