There are four items to consider when choosing the best medical sonography program: equipment, admissions requirements, accreditation, and faculty. Medical sonography programs can be organized within a larger community college or in a dedicated medical technician school. Medical sonography is the use of ultrasound and sonographic equipment to conduct diagnostic tests and treatments.
The best medical sonography program should have a wide range of equipment available for student use. This includes ultrasound units and patient mannequins. Check the average class size to ensure you will have ample opportunity to use this equipment. Look for specialized training options, such as the use of large, sonographic equipment for cancer treatments. These additional skills will increase your employment opportunities.
In order to qualify for admission to medical sonography programs, you must have high school courses in biology and English. The best schools are usually located near a large hospital or diagnostic center. This allows opportunities for job placement programs and guest lecturers who are currently working in the field.
If you are looking at the best medical sonography program in the country or state, take note that the admissions standard is higher to reflect the increased demand. Review the requirements and reputation and evaluate for yourself if this is truly the best program for you. For example, a student with family responsibilities may find that a program with online course options is the best program for him. Another student may decide that a part-time program with courses in the evenings and weekends works best for himm. Think about your daily life, what will fit and find the program that works for you.
When looking for a medical sonography program, always check the accreditation status of the school. An accredited school has been reviewed by an independent third party. Courses from an accredited school can be transferred to other post-secondary institutions. This is very important, as many people change careers and the ability to use credits earned in the medical sonography program toward other certificates reduces the time and cost of other training programs.
Most medical sonography programs provide the biographies of their faculty or instructors on their website. The information listed typically includes the academic credentials, work experience, special training, and any awards they have received. Talk with your admissions counselor about these instructors and determine if any of them are actually involved in teaching.
People who report the greatest satisfaction from a medical sonography program have a clear career plan in mind. The program is between one and two years in length, and most courses have a 65 percent pass requirement. Students who are motivated, focused, and disciplined have the greatest chance of success.