As you read this article, you’ll learn more about CAAHEP-accredited online medical sonography programs.
We’ll discuss sonography degree options, course requirements, duration of studies, sonography cost implications, admission criteria, and more.
Can you get a sonography degree online? Yes. We’ll open our discussion by reviewing these programs’ accreditation status without delay.
CAAHEP-Accredited Sonography Education Online
Do you want to complete a sonography program but are worried about your tight schedule? Then, opt for online courses. Such programs can be typically completed online.
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It will allow you to balance your academic, work, and family commitments. Like on-campus programs, it will provide the education needed to work effectively.
Accreditation Status for Sonography Tech Schools
Checking whether it’s certified before enrolling in an online sonography course is vital.
Completing accredited programs qualifies you to take certification and license exams. Moreover, employers prioritize candidates who finish courses that recognized agencies fully approve.
Luckily, most online sonography courses in the U.S. are fully certified by CAAHEP, among other authorized agencies. This means they have met all the standards aligned with these agencies.
Accredited programs equip students with high-quality education and experience in the field.
Degree Options
You can choose from three different options online to enter the field of sonography. They have a certificate, an associate’s, and a bachelor’s degree.
Whether online or on-campus, certificate programs are designed for clinical workers who wish to add to their knowledge or change careers.
Such courses culminate in classroom instruction and field experience, which can be finished in under one year.
For those needing a background in healthcare, associate’s and bachelor’s degrees are for you. Such programs can be completed in under 2-4 years.
You’ll receive classroom instruction and engage in field experience during this period. Before completing your studies, you’ll have the knowledge and expertise to thrive.
Course Requirements
The study syllabus for online sonography programs is extensive.
Students will delve into a rich curriculum spanning various aspects of the field. This ranges from theoretical understanding to practical application in a real-world situation or setting.
During your study term, you’ll cover a range of topics.
These include medical terminology, physics and instrumentation, sonography principles and techniques, anatomy and physiology, imaging of the female reproductive system, radiology fundamentals and clinical assessment, introduction to computer information systems, and more.
In addition to coursework, you’ll also be required to pick an area of specialization.
You can choose from obstetrics and gynecology, abdominal, breast, vascular, cardiac, echocardiography, and diagnostic medical sonography.
All these specialties aim to provide options to dive deeper into specific areas of sonography.
They’ll also allow you to hone your skills and enhance your employability in the medical field. Because each field has unique pros and cons, you must choose an area that aligns with your career goals.
You can consult an academic advisor if selecting a specialization area is tricky.
Schools Offering Online Sonography Programs
Many schools in the country offer sonography courses online.
A few are the Oregon Institute of Technology, Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health, Fort Hays State University, Misericordia University, and Advent Health University.
Relevant authorities fully accredit each of these schools. So, after completing your studies, you’ll be eligible to take the national board exams to receive certification or license.
Cost Implication
Knowing the cost implication is critical before taking an online sonography program.
This will help you make informed financial decisions. Additionally, you can make all the necessary preparations for your academic journey in good time.
The typical cost of a sonography program online is between $5,000 and $75,000.
However, the amount can be more or less depending on several factors. These include the school’s location, choice of program, duration of studies, residential status, and more.
In addition to tuition costs, additional charges can add up to your overall budget. They include registration, lab, and technology fees. So, when drafting a budget, ensure to consider these factors.
You can also check with your preferred institution for the exact cost implication.
Entry Conditions
Securing admission to a sonography program isn’t automatic. Certain conditions must be met.
These conditions differ from one school to the next and from program to program. However, most schools demand applicants to have at least a high school diploma or GED.
You’ll also be required to provide some reference letters, past academic transcripts, a minimum GPA of 2.75, a personal statement, and a language proficiency test (for international students).
Some schools may require you to complete prerequisite courses in physiology, biology, math, anatomy, and physics before being admitted.
Best 20 Online Sonography Programs in the US
Are you looking for flexible sonography courses in the U.S.? Then you’ve come to the right place. This guide will outline the top 20 online sonography programs in the USA.
As you proceed, you’ll learn about their program offer and possibly their tuition cost. Without any delay, let’s get into the business of the day.
Oregon Institute of Technology
This school is perfect for those interested in completing an online abdomen and OB/GYN degree.
It offers an accredited B.S. in diagnostic medical sonography in the specialties mentioned earlier. The study curriculum integrates medical science, ultrasound courses, and general education.
All these academic activities can be completed online, allowing students to engage with coursework without strict time constraints. The tuition fee at this institution is around $65 per course.
You’ll be required to complete at least 192 quarter credits during your study term.
Misericordia University
Misericordia University is renowned for providing an online B.S. in medical sonography.
Their study curriculum features core courses like advanced fetal and pediatric, breast and vascular sonography, and an intro to vascular sonography.
Other topics include breast, vascular, and fetal sonography courses and a liberal arts foundation.
Students must also complete a clinical externship in addition to coursework. The graduation rate at this institution ranges from 72% to 80%, and the tuition is $35,940.
Washburn University
Washburn University can also provide you with the best online education. They offer an online bachelor of health science in medical imaging for aspiring sonographers.
Students can take their classes and assignments online. Some courses you’ll take during your study program include health information systems, public health management, and more.
You can also specialize in cardiac, vascular, and general sonography. Their program enrollment options are full-time and part-time. The tuition fee is $379 to $417/credit, and their graduation rate is around 56%.
Fort Hays State University
For those living in Kansas and surrounding areas, you can enroll for your online B.S. in medical diagnostic imaging. Their program is designed for candidates with a certificate or associate degree in radiography from an accredited school.
Coursework covers bone densitometry techniques, cross-sectional anatomy, preceptor leadership, and advanced patient care for imaging professionals.
Fort Hays State University offers part-time and full-time study options. Its graduation rate is 47%, and tuition costs roughly $243/credit.
Marian University
Feel free to enroll for your studies at this institution. They offer accredited online B.S. in diagnostic medical sonography.
The program coursework features 60 credits, and each class lasts around seven weeks. Some topics you’ll cover during your studies include health administration, psychology, management courses, and more.
Marian University has a 47% graduation rate and a 65% retention rate. Tuition costs around $500/credit, and the program can be completed full-time or part-time.
Keiser University
Keiser University offers one of the best online sonography programs in the U.S. You can obtain a B.S. in imaging sciences. However, students must complete 122-128 credit hours.
Some courses you’ll offer during your studies include management in healthcare, health law and ethics, mammography, and more.
You can align your education to meet your unique career goals by offering these classes. To be eligible for this online program, you must complete an accredited associate degree, diploma, or certificate in the discipline.
Pitt Community College
Come to Pitt Community College to obtain an online sonography degree.
The school has a 100% acceptance rate, ranking it among the top in the country. Students can specialize in areas of their choice. 3 The tuition cost at this learning facility is around $25,000.
Lewis-Clark State College
Lewis Clark State is an above-average public college that offers a quality education. It provides a B.S. in sonography for candidates interested in entering the industry.
With an 87% acceptance rate, you’re more likely to secure admission to this school. After your studies, you’ll be qualified to take the professional exams, allowing you to work unrestricted.
Southeastern Technical College
Are you living in Georgia? Then, consider enrolling in your sonography studies at this institution. The school has a 100% acceptance rate, making you more likely to secure admission.
Moreover, they offer popular majors like liberal arts and humanities, health service preparatory studies, welding, and sonography courses.
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
MCPHS is renowned for offering sound education to aspiring sonographers. One of their objectives is to prepare future healthcare leaders.
The school has over 100 undergrad, graduate, professional, and certificate courses, so you’re sure to find your program type. You can complete your studies either online or on campus.
Chattanooga State Community College
Chattanooga State Community College offers online sonography programs.
These programs equip you with the knowledge and skills to work effectively in sonography. During your study period, the school will provide the resources necessary to succeed in higher education.
They’ll also aim to help students become part of a vibrant and growing community of students, faculty, and alumni. Their online programs are fully certified so that you can take the national exams.
Sacred Heart University
Sacred Heart University offers online sonography courses to help you stay current with industry and employment trends. You’ll receive both classroom instruction and practical experience in the field during your studies.
This will help you work effectively in the field. After completing your online coursework, you’ll be expected to gain experience in a real-world setting.
State Fair Community College
Do you reside in Missouri? State Fair Public College is ideal for you. The school offers outstanding online sonography programs.
Apart from providing quality education to students, the school also has a tremendous acceptance rate of 100%. Once you meet their admission requirements, you’ll have higher odds of being admitted.
Great Basin College
Great Basin College offers outstanding education and training for aspiring sonographers. Its B.S. in DMS program prepares students to enter or advance in healthcare.
During your study term, you’ll develop the ability to provide primary patient care, apply ultrasound principles, assess ultrasound images, and make professional judgments.
Lamar Institute of Technology
Lamar Institute of Technology provides a CAAHEP-certified Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Their program prepares students for careers in hospitals, clinics, and office settings.
During your two years of study, you’ll learn to perform ultrasounds to diagnose fetal anomalies, congenital disorders, tumors, and other diseases.
University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati is an excellent place to acquire the training and education needed to become a sonographer.
You can complete your bachelor’s degree within four years of full-time studies. However, academic programs are designed for those with experience in radiation therapy and medical imaging.
Jackson College
If you want a sonography degree or certificate, come to this school. They offer a vascular sonography certificate and an associate applied science in general sonography degree.
The courses are fully certified by CAAHEP, among other authorized agencies. You can take the national board exams after completing all coursework and clinical experience.
AdventHealth University
AdventHealth University is renowned for offering high-quality education. You can complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree in sonography online.
The program will provide you with the extensive knowledge needed for interactive sonography industry classes. It also includes hands-on learning experiences, internships, externships, and research projects.
Gulf Coast Ultrasound Institute
As the name implies, you can be trained to become a competent sonographer at this school. The school provides various sonography courses online for those interested in flexible studies.
You’ll cover multiple topics during your study term, including abdominal, primary care ultrasound, adult echocardiography, anesthesiology sonography, and more.
Core Ultrasound
Core Ultrasound has offered quality education and training to aspiring sonographers for several years.
You can complete your studies online and qualify for the national board exams. However, the school has some non-accredited content geared explicitly toward advanced users.
There are many more online sonography programs you can explore in the U.S. The ones we’ve listed above are just a few out of many. However, we hope you find a program that meets your career goals.
While deciding on a school, review their study outcome, entry essentials, tuition cost, and more.
Choosing the Best Online Medical Sonography Program
Not all sonography programs will align with your career goals or equip you with the needed knowledge and experience. Some will succeed in leading you astray.
For this reason, we will help you select the best sonography program. That way, you’ll avoid wasting your time and resources.
To select a top-notch program, ensure it meets the basic standards. Check whether recognized agencies accredit the course. Go through the checklist thoroughly before sending your application.
Also, they opt for courses with clinical experience in their curriculum. Such programs will provide you with clinical experiences to improve your credibility as a qualified candidate.
Moreover, ensure that you check the course content of your preferred program.
The best sonography programs are those with course content that provides thorough theoretical knowledge and training opportunities.
If your program course content doesn’t include classroom instruction and clinical experience, then it’s a huge red flag.
Perks and Cons of Taking Online Sonography Programs
There are many benefits of taking an online sonography degree. One of them is the flexibility of learning.
Online courses allow you to study while attending to family and work commitments. Because there’s an option for self-paced, they are ideal for those looking for a customizable study schedule.
Online sonography programs offer many learning modalities, including lectures, interactive modules, and virtual simulations that can be accessed anytime and anywhere.
Completing online courses is also cheaper than on-campus courses. You won’t have to worry about accommodation, transport, food, and other living expenses.
However, online studies offer limited practical learning opportunities. Because classes are taken online, you’ll not have the privilege of lab work and other practicum experiences.
Additionally, there is no room for interacting with lecturers and classmates, so maintaining motivation and discipline can be challenging.
Online sonography programs are the gateway to medical school without attending school in person. As you can see above, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge needed to thrive in the field.
However, you may not get as much experience as those studying on campus.
Before choosing a learning format, ensure to weigh the pros and cons. One must carefully consider the potential impact on their future career opportunities. tab
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