Can a Non-Medical Student Do Diagnostic Medical Sonography

DMS Atlanta

Are you a non-medical student ready to enter the medical field through sonography? If so, you can certainly change your career path. But, regardless of your educational background, the journey towards becoming a diagnostic medical sonographer is the same.  

Requirements for Becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Whether you’re getting ready to graduate high school or you’re currently in a college program, these are the requirements for becoming a diagnostic medical sonographer:

  • Attend an accredited medical sonography program: You’ll need to complete a diagnostic medical sonography program such as the one offered through Cambridge. This program will teach you everything you need to know about the human body and the equipment you’ll use on a daily basis in your career.
  • Complete necessary externship or clinical hours: As part of your program, you’ll need to complete some externship or clinical hours to practice sonography in the field. This will occur at local healthcare facilities such as hospitals or clinics.
  • Consider certification: Once you obtain your degree, you can consider certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or CCI Cardiovascular Credentialing International. Although certification isn’t required to work in the field, some employers require them.

Diagnostic medical sonographers must hold an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in sonography. Your Associate program will take slightly over two years to complete. To further specialize in a field of your choice or become an educator or leader in a sonography department, you’ll need a Bachelor’s degree.

Understanding Certificate Programs for Current Health Professionals

Are you a nurse or current healthcare professional looking to take a new route in your career? If so, there are sonography certificate programs available for current professionals already working in the field that take approximately 12 to 18 months to complete.

Yet, you must be a current allied health professional with applicable work experience prior to entering these programs. They’re only offered in select schools, hospitals and universities.

Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Through Cambridge

Diagnostic medical sonography is a rewarding career for those interested in joining the medical field. To learn more about Cambridge’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program or for answers to your questions, call us at 877-206-4279.

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