Sonography is a very important profession, and is growing even more as technology continues to advance. As the Baby Boomer population continues to age, there will be an increased need for diagnostic sonographers.

Before choosing a school to attend, make sure it is accredited, as some employers will require it. You can read more about accredited schools at the bottom of this article.

The practice requires years of education, but the ultimate salary and career satisfaction are worth the years of hard work. The first step to becoming a sonographer is to obtain a quality education from an ultrasonography program. Listed below are a few of the best sonography colleges in the USA, as well as info on where you can find one near you:

Mayo School of Health Sciences

Students at Mayo’s school of health sciences have the advantage of easy access to one of the best hospitals in the world. After completing the 21 month program, students are eligible to receive a certificate of completion. They also have the option to continue on for a bachelor’s degree.

After taking general courses, students can specialize in areas such as peripheral vascular, obstetrics and gynecology. The courses and clinics prepare students to take the certification exams administered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

Website link: Mayo School of Health Sciences sonography

Montgomery College

Located in Maryland, Montgomery is a system of community colleges with multiple campuses devoted to giving students the tools they need for successful careers.

Sonography students at Montgomery can either earn a certificate in sonography or an Associates in Applied Science (AAS). The curriculum there is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Students are required to take 33 credits worth of general education classes. After that, they take fundamental sonography classes and choose a specific track for their remaining courses.

Website link: Montgomery college

University of California San Diego

The sonography program at the University of California San Diego is hosted by the UCSD Medical Center.

Its 12-month program focuses on patient care and in-depth research. Students split their time between the classroom and the UCSD Medical Center, where they participate in valuable clinical experiences. By working with the Medical Center, the sonography program receives access to the center’s medical library, state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment, and a multitude of talented professionals.

Website link: University of California San Diego

New York University

The ultrasonography program at New York University falls under the umbrella of the School of Continuing and Professional Sciences (NYU SCPS). NYU’s sonography program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. This organization is the premiere accrediting agency for ultrasonography.

Students in NYU’s sonography program take classes in sonographic physics, cardiovascular principals, doppler echocardiography, obstetrics, cardiology and several others. Students are also required to participate in multiple clinics in order to gain experience.

Website Link: New York University Sonography

Rush University

Rush University’s College of Health Sciences has a great sonography program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Upon completion of the 21-month program, students are eligible to receive Bachelor of Science degrees and take their certification exams.

In addition to rigorous coursework, students are required to take part in clinics at leading Chicago hospitals.

Website link: Rush University

University of Colorado Denver

As part of Denver’s renowned Department of Radiology, the sonography program requires students to work hard to obtain the necessary medical knowledge and skills to become great sonographers. The program runs between September and August. Classes and labs all take place at the University of Colorado Hospital.

In order to gain admission to the University of Colorado’s sonography program, students must first obtain an Associate degree from an accredited allied health program or Bachelor of Science in a field related to medicine.

Website link: University of Colorado Denver

Other Options And Accreditation

Obviously there are several more sonography colleges out there. Before you chose a school, make sure that it is actually accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) if you are in the United States. You can visit their website here, where you can also search for accredited sonography colleges near you.