Top Online Ultrasound Technician Schools (2024)

An ultrasound technician degree can lead to new and exciting career opportunities. Here, we list the top online schools.

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UpdatedMay 13, 2024

Top Online Ultrasound Technician Schools (2)Edited by

Edited by Rebecca Munday Click to Read Full Biography Contributing Editor

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

With an aging baby boomer population, now is a great time to begin a healthcare career in the United States. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the healthcare profession will grow much faster than average over the next decade.

Becoming an ultrasound technician is a great way to join this in-demand field. Ultrasound techs typically need only an associate degree, so you can begin work in as little as two years. Online programs are also available, making education more convenient for those with job or family commitments.

Find the best online ultrasound tech schools and how to get started in this career.

Popular Online Healthcare Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Online Ultrasound Technician Schools

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

#1 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools of 2024

State Fair Community College

  • Sedalia, MO
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-District | $351
In-State | $416

Credits to Graduate: 80.5

State Fair Community College's associate of applied science in diagnostic medical sonography prepares students for national registry exams. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

The hybrid curriculum offers general and cardiac tracks, and enrollees can complete each track's 80.5 credits in 22 months. Students take online courses and do lab work on campus in Sedalia, Missouri.

Coursework covers patient care, sonography principles and instrumentation, and vascular sonography. A clinical internship gives hands-on experience at a site in Missouri. Admission requires prerequisite general education and science courses and a pre-entrance exam.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$4,200

Out-of-state

$5,688

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

Not provided

Out-of-state

Not provided

Retention Rate

60%

Acceptance Rate

Not provided

Students Enrolled

3,785

Institution Type

Public

Percent Online Enrollment

74%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Higher Learning Commission

#2 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools of 2024

Jackson College

  • Jackson, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $185-$209
Out-of-State | $277

Credits to Graduate: 80

The associate of applied science (AAS) in general sonography at Jackson College offers abdomen/superficial structures and obstetrics/gynecology specialties. The CAAHEP-accredited program prepares enrollees to sit for national registry exams. Degree-seekers complete online coursework and in-person clinicals.

The curriculum requires limited general education coursework. The major covers medical terminology, sonographic techniques, and sonographic instrumentation. Enrollees get 1,350 hours of supervised clinical experience at sites in Michigan or in affiliated states.

Students begin the AAS in the summer. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate and prerequisite coursework.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$5,700

Out-of-state

$9,810

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

Not provided

Out-of-state

Not provided

Retention Rate

100%

Acceptance Rate

Not provided

Students Enrolled

4,103

Institution Type

Public

Percent Online Enrollment

89%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Higher Learning Commission

#3 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools of 2024

Santa Fe College

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $106
Out-of-State | $383

Credits to Graduate: 80

Santa Fe College's associate of science in diagnostic medical sonography involves a partnership with local hospitals and imaging facilities. The degree prepares enrollees for specialty sonography exams and national registry exams. Students complete a blended curriculum of online and on-campus courses in Gainesville, Florida.

The program's 80 credits include prerequisite entrance requirements, and degree-seekers take technical courses as part of a cohort. Key topics covered include principles and protocols of imaging, professional aspects of sonography, abdominal sonography, and obstetrics/gynecology sonography.

Enrollees complete clinical internships at hospitals in Florida. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate, prerequisite courses, and a minimum 2.5 college GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$1,872

Out-of-state

$7,418

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

Not provided

Out-of-state

Not provided

Retention Rate

Not provided

Acceptance Rate

Not provided

Students Enrolled

12,830

Institution Type

Public

Percent Online Enrollment

55%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools of 2024

Hinds Community College

  • Raymond, MS
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $118
Out-of-State | $220

Credits to Graduate: 69

Students complete Hinds Community College's associate of applied science (AAS) in diagnostic medical sonography on campus in Raymond, Mississippi. Students enter the program after they complete a JRCERT radiologic technology program. The CAAHEP-accredited AAS offers select classes online.

The 69-credit curriculum covers the introduction to ultrasound, physics and instrumentation, abdominal sonography, and obstetrics and gynecology sonography. Enrollees complete a series of clinical experiences in person at local facilities.

The program ranks among the nation's most affordable ultrasound tech schools. Admission requirements include a high school diploma or equivalency and prerequisite coursework.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$3,500

Out-of-state

$6,550

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

Not provided

Out-of-state

Not provided

Retention Rate

60%

Acceptance Rate

Not provided

Students Enrolled

10,802

Institution Type

Public

Percent Online Enrollment

44%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Online Ultrasound Tech Schools of 2024

Lamar Institute of Technology

  • Beaumont, TX
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $80
Out-of-State | $500

Credits to Graduate: 65

Lamar Institute of Technology's associate of applied science (AAS) in diagnostic medical sonography offers diagnostic medical and cardiac programs. The AAS holds CAAHEP-accreditation and prepares enrollees to sit for national registry exams. Students complete classroom coursework and supervised clinical experience.

The curriculum includes ultrasound physics, diagnostic electrocardiography, and cardiovascular concepts. Students complete 91 lab hours and a series of practic*ms. The program only accepts a small number of students each year.

Texans pay a very competitive tuition rate. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate and prerequisite coursework.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$1,920

Out-of-state

$11,712

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

Not provided

Out-of-state

Not provided

Retention Rate

54%

Acceptance Rate

61%

Students Enrolled

4,487

Institution Type

Public

Percent Online Enrollment

54%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Our Ranking Methodology

At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system to help you find the best schools for your needs. Our most important metric, affordability, accounts for 60% of our weighted formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rate.

You can learn more about our school ranking methodology here.

Price Check

Tuition and fees for an associate degree at a private school cost almost five times as much as tuition at a public school, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Why Get a Degree in Ultrasound Technology?

Online ultrasound technician degrees train learners to work with precision and communicate with other healthcare team members well. Graduates create images doctors use for accurate diagnosing purposes.

Earning a sonography degree online helps learners enter the workforce quickly and conveniently. An online format lets students continue working while earning their degree. They can build their resumes and continue earning a paycheck while in school.

How Much Does an Ultrasound Technician Degree Cost?

Students at two-year schools spend an annual average of $11,950, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). However, the cost varies by school type and learners' residency status. Students can save money by attending a public in-state school. Learners attending private or out-of-state schools typically spend more.

Since the minimum degree required for ultrasound technicians is an associate degree, degree-seekers usually spend less on higher education. Many schools charge per-credit tuition. Students who finish a degree quickly can avoid rising tuition rates.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online learners should budget extra expenses, such as scrubs and supplies for clinical site visits.

Some schools charge online degree-seekers to access virtual classroom platforms or databases. Online programs often require a premium subscription to video-conferencing sites like Zoom.

Online students should also budget for materials and books. They can save money by renting or buying used or digital versions.

How Much Do Ultrasound Tech Graduates Make?

Payscale reports that ultrasound technicians make an average hourly wage of $31.65, as of March 2024. This amounts to an average yearly salary of $67,300.

The top 10% of professional earners make over $98,000 a year, and the bottom 10% make less than $50,000. Location, education, and experience can impact how much ultrasound techs make.

Courses in an Ultrasound Technician Program

Ultrasound technician coursework teaches degree-seekers how to create precise medical images. Ultrasound technicians need an eye for detail and the ability to troubleshoot technological issues.

Some ultrasound technician programs let learners specialize in an area of the body. For example, some schools offer concentrations in diagnostic medical or obstetric sonography. Most associate degrees require 60 credits. However, ultrasound technician programs may vary in length.

See below for three common classes in ultrasound technician programs. Keep in mind that class titles and descriptions vary by school.

  • Patient Preparation: Ultrasound technicians must know how to get patient cooperation to create a clear image. This class teaches best communication practices, and learners discover how to mentally and physically prepare patients for an imaging procedure. They also learn to record a patient's medical history for a medical professional to review.
  • Musculoskeletal System Sonography: Enrollees study the components of the musculoskeletal system and learn how to take images of this system. Students learn best practices for working with patients experiencing pain and injury. Coursework covers how to take sonograms of sprains, arthritic joints, and cysts.
  • Abdominal Sonography: This class focuses on capturing images of organs in the abdomen. Students discover the location of the liver, kidneys, spleen, and pancreas and learn how to identify abnormalities, like gallbladder stones. Some classes highlight obstetric sonography.

How to Become an Ultrasound Technician

  1. 1

    Earn your high school diploma or GED certificate.

    Getting your high school diploma or its equivalent is required before applying to associate degree programs.

  2. 2

    Earn an associate degree from an accredited ultrasound technician program.

    Getting your associate degree in ultrasound technology is the most common route to this career.

  3. 3

    Gain experience.

    Students in ultrasound tech programs often get to work alongside established professionals, gaining hands-on clinical experience. This experience helps them qualify for more job opportunities, certifications, and higher pay.

  4. 4

    Get certified.

    The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists administer certification for sonographers and ultrasound technicians. While certification may not always be required, employers may prefer certified candidates.
  5. 5

    Obtain licensure, if required.

    Most states do not require ultrasound techs to become licensed. However, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Oregon require ultrasound techs to be licensed. More states may require licensure in the future. Be sure to check the requirements for your state.

Why is accreditation important?

Frequently Asked Questions About Ultrasound Tech Schools

What's the difference between an ultrasound tech and a sonographer?

While the job titles of ultrasound tech and sonographer are sometimes used interchangeably, the two roles have some important differences. An ultrasound tech operates ultrasound equipment but typically doesn't evaluate the images captured in the ultrasound. A sonographer operates the ultrasound technology and interprets ultrasound images. Sonographers typically have more training than ultrasound techs.

Does an ultrasound technician need to be licensed or certified?

Some employers prefer candidates with certification. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography offers certification in this field.

How long does it take to become an ultrasound technician?

Many ultrasound technicians choose to earn an associate degree to enter the profession, which most commonly takes about two years. It may be possible to earn your associate degree faster with an accelerated program. You may enter the field faster with a certificate program that lasts only one year.

What are the disadvantages of being an ultrasound technician?

Being an ultrasound technician can be physically draining, as these healthcare professionals are usually on their feet most of the time. They may also work in busy and stressful medical environments. Additionally, there may not be much room for career advancement as an ultrasound tech.

How much does ultrasound school cost?

Tuition costs for an associate degree can vary, but the average annual tuition cost for public two-year schools was about $11,593 in the 2022-2023 school year, according to NCES.

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AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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Top Online Ultrasound Technician Schools (2024)

FAQs

What is the best online school for ultrasound technicians? ›

Best Online Sonography and Ultrasound Tech Schools
#School NameAcademic Counseling
1Lamar Institute of TechnologyBeaumont, TXCareer PlacementYes
2State Fair Community CollegeSedalia, MOCareer PlacementYes
3Hinds Community CollegeRaymond, MSCareer PlacementYes

What is the shortest ultrasound tech program? ›

For students looking for a fast-paced and competitive education in Ultrasound Diagnostics, the one-year program offered at the Institute of Ultrasound Diagnostics is the fastest way to begin a career as a sonographer.

What is the best accreditation for sonography programs? ›

The best associate degree for future sonographers is a CAAHEP-accredited associate degree in sonography. This degree prepares graduates for entry-level positions in the field and fulfills the educational requirements to become a sonographer.

Is ultrasound tech school harder than nursing? ›

You could argue that nursing degrees cover more complex concepts and require more comprehensive medical knowledge than sonography programs. However, sonography school requires more clinical hours and final exams than nursing school.

What degree is best for ultrasound technician? ›

Most sonographers hold an associate degree, but if you're looking to move into management, earning a bachelor's degree in diagnostic medical sonography could be the best path. A bachelor's degree usually takes four years and offers more opportunity to explore different ultrasound specialties.

What is the best state for ultrasound technicians? ›

10 best states for ultrasound technologists in 2024
  1. Massachusetts. Total Ultrasound Technologist Jobs: ...
  2. Rhode Island. Total Ultrasound Technologist Jobs: ...
  3. Maine. Total Ultrasound Technologist Jobs: ...
  4. New Hampshire. Total Ultrasound Technologist Jobs: ...
  5. Connecticut. ...
  6. Vermont. ...
  7. New Jersey. ...
  8. North Dakota.

What is the lowest paid ultrasound tech? ›

Ultrasound Tech Salary Overview

The top 10% of sonographers earn $116,300, in contrast to the bottom 10%, who earn $63,680, according to the BLS's data. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 median salary; projected job growth through 2032.

What is the best ultrasound tech school in the US? ›

Nine Other Ultrasound Technician Programs
College/UniversityInstitution TypeLocation
Vanderbilt University4-year, PrivateNashville, TN
University of Oklahoma - Tulsa4-year, PublicTulsa, OK
Johns Hopkins University4-year, PrivateBaltimore, MD
Kettering College4-year, PrivateKettering, OH
4 more rows

Is sonography the same as ultrasound? ›

An ultrasound is a tool used to take a picture. A sonogram is the picture that the ultrasound generates. Sonography is the use of an ultrasound tool for diagnostic purposes.

Is it better to have a certificate or degree in sonography? ›

Because degree programs have more course requirements, degree-holders gain more knowledge and experience. This may qualify them for more for sonographer positions or different specialties within sonography, such as pediatric sonography or abdominal sonography.

What kind of sonography makes the most money? ›

Earning Potential in Sonography Specialties

The highest-paying sonography specialties include: OB/GYN sonography. Vascular sonography. Neuro sonography.

Is becoming an ultrasound tech hard? ›

The Reality of Becoming a Sonographer: Hard Work and Dedication. I'm frequently asked if my job is as easy as it looks. And while it's true that experienced sonographers make the job seem effortless, the reality is that it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to become a sonographer.

What is the hardest thing about being an ultrasound tech? ›

Medical Sonography Can Be Physically Demanding

The job of an Ultrasound Technician requires you to be on your feet almost the entire day. You need to position patients, which can require turning them over or lifting them into place.

Do you have to be smart to be an ultrasound tech? ›

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.

What is the difference between a radiology tech and an ultrasound tech? ›

Radiologic technologists typically operate equipment that uses radiation to create medical images. Ultrasound technologists, on the other hand, operate equipment that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images. Each type of equipment calls for specialized training.

How long does it take to become an ultrasound tech in California? ›

Typically, you can earn a certificate in one to two years, while a degree may take two to four years to complete, depending on which path you choose. Regardless of the program you complete, you're likely to take courses in similar areas. Some classes you may take in a sonography program include: Anatomy and physiology.

How long is ultrasound tech school in Georgia? ›

You can study to become an ultrasound technician at 2-year, public schools in Georgia. A diploma program, which includes clinical experiences, can be completed in 4 and a half years. You can earn an associate's degree in 2 years, and a certificate may be earned in a year and a half.

How much is ultrasound tech school in California? ›

Program Tuition and Fees
ProgramTuition
Radiologic Technology (B.S.) Day Schedule29,200.00
Radiologic Technology (B.S.) - Evening Schedule29,200.00
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Adult Cardiac Sonography Concentration (B.S.)29,120.00
Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Abdominal Extended and OB/GYN Concentration (B.S.)28,600.00
8 more rows

How long is ultrasound tech school in Texas? ›

1) Pima Medical Institute – Houston & El Paso

To become an ultrasound technician in TX, you can consider PMI's 86-credit associate degree program that will take you 22-months to complete. It includes 675-hour theoretical studies, 510-hour lab training, and 1080-hour clinical externship.

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