Do You Need to Be Good at Math to Become an Ultrasound Tech

Ultrasound technician at work

Ultrasound technicians spend their time performing diagnostic imaging procedures to find and diagnose medical conditions and injuries. To become an ultrasound technician, there are several skills you’ll need for career success. Should you be good at math to become an ultrasound tech? The answer is: It helps.

Solid Math & Science Skills Are Requirements for a Sonography Course

To become a sonographer, you must obtain an Associate degree and proper licensing to start practicing. Sonography programs require prerequisite courses that include math and science. For example, you’ll need to take and pass college algebra as well as anatomy and physiology.

Because of the nature of these courses, solid math and science skills are critical for program success. Algebra is also used in the actual process of sonography. For example, you’ll need to use math to determine the circumference of the abdomen before beginning an ultrasound of the stomach.

Other Skills You Should Have as an Ultrasound Technician

The good news is that ultrasound equipment has come a long way. Many of the challenging equations you would need to solve can be completed by ultrasound equipment. So, even if your math skills aren’t perfect, you’ll still find success as an ultrasound technician.

There are other skills you need that may even be more important than your math ability. These include:

  • Patient compassion: You’ll play a key role in patient care. And in some cases, you may be involved with patients struggling through difficult diagnoses and health concerns. You’ll need to be able to show compassion to your patients and deliver support.
  • Hand-eye coordination: Ultrasound requires you to use your hands to perform diagnostic imaging procedures. You’ll need good coordination to ensure you’re collecting images of the correct organs.
  • Physical strength: You’ll also need physical strength to position patients for ultrasound images and manage heavy ultrasound equipment safely.
  • Critical thinking: As a sonographer, there will be moments where you’ll need to make judgment calls about concerns you find while performing imaging procedures. This is where your critical thinking skills will be incredibly important.

Become an Ultrasound Technician With Cambridge

Even if you struggle with math, that’s okay. Cambridge is here to support you through your program so you can have the medical career of your dreams. To learn more about our Diagnostic Medical Sonography program or to apply today, give us a call at 877-206-4279 or send us a message.

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