Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in New Mexico. Explore medical imaging educational and career opportunities near you.
Using the power of sound waves, diagnostic medical sonographers (DMS) perform ultrasound imaging procedures on patients, which allows them to capture photos of their internal organs 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 is becoming increasingly popular because of the potentially high salary, relatively short education and training period, and the fact that job availability is expected to increase by 23.5% by 2026 in New Mexico (CareerOneStop). We will go into each of these topics later, as well as connect you with accredited ultrasound technician schools where you can receive the education you need to become a sonographer.
Connect with Educational Programs near You
CAAHEP Accredited Diagnostic Sonography Programs
The most well known organization that accredits 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. The school must also pass a series of program reviews, including a self-study review and a site visit. This makes sure that the students are receiving quality education that prepares them to enter the healthcare workforce.
The successful completion of a recognized New Mexico 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.
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.
Accredited Sonography Schools in New Mexico in 2020
The schools below have been accredited by CAAHEP and offer degrees or certificates in diagnostic medical sonography as of September 2020:
| Institution Name | Location | Program Director | Initial Accreditation Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central New Mexico Community College | 525 Buena Vista Dr SE Albuquerque, NM 87106 |
Nicole Arredondo BS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT | 10/17/2003 |
| Dona Ana Community College | 3400 S Espina St MSC 3DA PO Box 30001 Las Cruces, NM 88003 |
Darla Matthew BAS, RT(R)(S), RDMS | 9/16/2005 |
Certification Requirements in New Mexico
As of 2020, New Mexico is one of only four states that requires practicing sonographers to receive a license (click here for more information). The state requires that medical imagers get certified from either the Cardiac Credentialing International (CCI), the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), or the most highly regarded certification body, the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
The only way to earn ARDMS certification is by taking and passing their exam. In order to qualify, you must meet their prerequisites. Once you have, you can take the exam at the following testing location in New Mexico:
- 7300 Menaul Blvd NE #22nd, Albuquerque, NM 87110
Additional Certification Information
Certification overview
About the ARDMS
How Much do Ultrasound Techs Make in New Mexico?
The mean annual wage for practicing sonographers in New Mexico is $66,460, or $31.95 per hour,* according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is a bit lower than the national average of $75,780. In addition, those working at the top of their field in the 90th percentile made $93,510* a year, while those in the lower 10th percentile earned $20,020*.
The salary you may earn depends on a number of factors, including type of employer, level of education and experience, and geographic location. For example, outpatient care centers tend to pay the most, while larger imaging centers and hospitals typically offer competitive benefit programs as well as a base salary. Additionally, receiving an Associate’s Degree is required to become an entry level sonographer, while earning a Bachelor’s Degree can qualify you for higher paying job positions.
Ultrasound Technician Schools in Albuquerque
Approximately 330 sonographers work in New Mexico every year, and earn a mean annual salary of $62,740* (BLS 2019). While unemployment rates are relatively high in New Mexico, jobs in healthcare are some of the most recession resistant. Medical imaging jobs in New Mexico are expected to increase by 23.5% within the next 6 years (CareerOneStop) as the demand for healthcare increases due to New Mexico’s popularity as a retirement state.
Get started on a career as a sonographer and become a part of the booming healthcare industry by attending a school or program in the Albuquerque area.
Frequently asked questions
What does an ultrasound technician in New Mexico 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 New Mexico?
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.
*Conditions in your area may vary.