Using the power of sound waves, diagnostic medical sonographers perform ultrasound imaging procedures on patients, which allows them to capture photos of their internal organs, tissues, or vascular system. Medical teams use these images to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, as well as monitor the growth of a fetus.
Sonography as a career is becoming increasingly popular in part because of the relatively high salary, short educational and training period, and the strong job market. We will go into each of these topics further, as well as connect you with accredited ultrasound technician schools where you can receive the education you need to become a sonographer.
How to Become a Sonographer in Michigan in 2023
- Apply to a Program.The accreditation of the program you are interested in is one of the most important factors to consider, and it’s best to find one accredited by the CAAHEP. Michigan has 12 schools that offer CAAHEP accredited DMS programs.
- Get Your Degree. Sonographers must have a minimum of an Associate of Science degree in diagnostic medical sonography. Depending on your previous education and experience, you may qualify for an accelerated certificate program, or you may wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree.
- Pass the Certification Exam. Certification, typically by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is required by almost every prospective employer. Graduating from a CAAHEP accredited sonography program will qualify you to sit for their exam.
Why Choose a CAAHEP Accredited Diagnostic Sonography Program?
Accreditation by an outside agency is the process that a school or program goes through that provides an independent assessment of the quality of education that they provide. The primary accrediting body for sonography programs is the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). A school becomes accredited by CAAHEP once it has met their DMS Accreditation Standards and Guidelines as well as passed a series of program reviews, including a self-study review and a site visit.
The successful completion of a recognized Michigan DMS program is the most comprehensive and direct way students can earn eligibility to sit for the ARDMS Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) exam, as well as a specialty exam. Passing both of their exams will allow you to receive professional certification in diagnostic medical sonography.
Accredited Sonography Programs in Michigan
The following programs have been accredited by the CAAHEP and offer certificates or degrees in DMS as of December, 2022:
| School | Programs Offered | Prerequisites | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ascension Providence Hospital 16001 W. Nine Mile Southfield, MI 48075 |
21-month Certificate program in Vascular, Abdominal-Extended, or ObGyn sonography. | Applicant must have completed a 2-year Allied-Health education program or be enrolled in Concordia’s Bachelor’s DMS degree program. | Applications must be received by December 16th of each year. |
| Baker College of Owosso 1020 S Washington St, Owosso, MI 48867 |
AAS in Sonography with concentrations in either Adult Cardiac, Abdominal-Extended, or ObGyn sonography | This is a direct-admission program for high performing high school seniors. | Application deadline is December 15th |
| Carnegie Institute School of Allied Health 550 Stephenson Highway Troy, Michigan 48083 |
Diploma programs offered in Invasive Cardiovascular Technology, Adult Echocardiography, and Noninvasive Vascular Study | A minimum of an Associate Degree is required for application, plus prior Allied Health training and recent clinical work experience. | Admissions requirements can be found here. |
| Delta College 1961 Delta Rd University Center, MI 48710 |
Degree or Certificate program in ObGyn or Abdominal-Extended sonography | Graduation from an accredited Allied Health program, or successful completion of certain prerequisite courses. | Request information from Delta here. |
| Ferris State University 1201 S. State Street, Big Rapids, Michigan USA 49307 |
Associate of Science degree in DMS with concentrations available in Abdominal-Extended or ObGyn sonography. | Successful completion of certain prerequisite courses. | Applications are accepted between February 1st and February 15th. |
| Grand Valley State University 1 Campus Drive Allendale, MI 49401 |
GVSU offers the only Bachelor’s degree program in Michigan, in a variety of concentrations. | Admittance is selectively granted to students who have completed two years worth of prerequisite coursework. | Visit the Admissions Office website for more information. |
| Henry Ford Hospital 2799 West Grand Blvd. Detroit, MI 48202 |
DMS Certificate program in ObGyn or Abdominal-Extended sonography. | Prior education and experience is required, along with 40 hours of documented patient-care experience. | Students interested in applying to one of the programs, call (800) 436-7936. |
| Jackson College 2111 Emmons Rd. Jackson, MI 49272 |
Associate in Applied Science degree with four specialties offered. | Successful completion of prerequisite courses. | Request information here. |
| Kirtland Community College 4800 W 4 Mile Road Grayling, MI 49738 |
Associate in Applied Science degree with four specialties offered. | Successful completion of prerequisite courses. | Begin the application process here. |
| Lake Michigan College 2755 E. Napier Avenue Benton Harbor, MI 49022 |
Associate in Applied Science degree in Abdominal-Extended or ObGyn Sonography. | Successful completion of prerequisite courses. | Learn more about the application process. |
| Lansing Community College 600 N. Grand Avenue Lansing, MI |
AAS in DMS or a Certificate in Vascular Technology. | This is a selective-admission program and students are evaluated on a point-system basis. | Download the pdf to learn more about applying. |
| Oakland Community College 2480 Opdyke Rd, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 |
18-month accelerated program resulting in an Associate of Applied Science degree in DMS. | Successful completion of prerequisite courses and an HESI admission assessment. | Create an account and apply online. |
| * This information is obtained from a number of sources, is provided without charge, and is believed to be accurate. Please contact us with updates. | |||
If you’re currently enrolled in or have been accepted to a CAAHEP accredited program, you’re also eligible to apply for the UltrasoundSchoolsInfo semi-annual $1,000 scholarship. Click here to learn more.
What do the Students Have to Say?
“I am so grateful for this program at Baker College Owosso. I have met wonderful lifelong friend. I have learned things about myself that I didn’t know about. I have also challenged myself more than ever.” Haylee B., 2020 USI scholarship finalist and student at BCO.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work study programs are available to many students who meet the qualifications.
Visit our Financial Aid center to learn about the various programs and ensure you’re protected as you go through the process.
Below are just a few of the scholarships available to those students who qualify in Michigan:
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility Requirements | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultrasound Schools Info | $1,000 twice a year | 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 |
| Gerber Foundation | Varies | Academically competitive students from select high schools in Newaygo, Muskegon, or Oceana Counties are invited to apply. | Applications must be received by 4:00 pm on February 28th of each year. Create an account and apply. |
| Grand Rapids Community Foundation | Variety of scholarships available. | The Kent County Foundation offers a variety of needs-based scholarships. | Applications are accepted between December 1st and March 1st. Students need only submit one application to apply for several scholarships. |
| Flegenheimer Family Scholarship | Varies | Students must reside in Saginaw County | Visit the Saginaw Community Foundation scholarship website to learn more. |
How Much do Ultrasound Techs Make in Michigan?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean annual salary for sonographers in Michigan is $66,020, or $31.74 per hour. Conditions in your area may vary.
The salary you earn depends on a number of factors, including type of employer, level of education and experience, and the area in which you work. For example, outpatient care centers tend to pay the most, and larger imaging centers and hospitals offer competitive benefit programs in addition to the base salary.
Certification Requirements in Michigan
Michigan does not require practicing ultrasound technicians to receive certification. However, most employers prefer or require professional certification by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), which provides the most highly regarded certification to sonographers.
The only way to earn ARDMS certification is by taking and passing their exam. In order to qualify, you must meet their one of their prerequisites. Students who obtain their degree at a CAAHEP accredited institution will automatically qualify to sit for their exam, often in the last semester of school.
Additional Certification Information
Frequently asked questions
What does an ultrasound technician in Michigan 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 Michigan?
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. 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.