How To Become an Ultrasound Technician in Pennsylvania 2025

Thinking about a career as a medical sonographer in Pennsylvania? From working with expectant mothers to assisting in emergency care, this role is both meaningful and in demand. In this article, we'll walk you through ultrasound tech requirements, training options, and career paths. Keep reading to learn how to get started.

What Is an Ultrasound Technician?

An ultrasound technician, also known as a medical sonographer, uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. Such diagnostic images help physicians monitor and treat a variety of medical conditions.

These health care professionals work closely with patients, explaining procedures and ensuring comfort during exams. They also operate and maintain imaging equipment, review scans for accuracy, and collaborate with doctors to capture the most useful diagnostic views. Though often associated with gynecology sonography, ultrasound technicians play key roles in cardiac sonography, abdominal imaging, and other medical specialties.

How To Become an Ultrasound Tech in Pennsylvania

Schooling to become an ultrasound tech in Pennsylvania involves both academic and hands-on training. From prerequisite courses to certificate programs, each step helps prepare you for a rewarding healthcare career.

Step 1: Complete Prerequisite Coursework

Before applying to a diagnostic medical sonography program in Pennsylvania, you'll need to complete certain prerequisite concentrations. These ultrasound tech requirements typically include anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, and medical terminology.

Some programs may also require courses in mathematics and physics. Widener University, located 20 minutes south of Philadelphia, requires students to earn a C or better in math and English, and a B or better in anatomy and physiology I and II, as well as college physics.

Step 2: Attend a Program Information Session

Many accredited ultrasound technologist programs in Pennsylvania require prospective students to attend an information session before applying. These sessions provide an overview of the program, including its schedule, clinical commitments, academic expectations, and application process.

For instance, the Pennsylvania Institute of Technology offers virtual information sessions where applicants can learn about admission requirements and meet program staff.

Step 3: Apply to an Accredited Sonography Program

After completing prerequisites and attending an information session, you can apply to a diagnostic medical sonography program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Programs are offered at various institutions across Pennsylvania, including community colleges and universities. The South Hills School of Business & Technology offers a CAAHEP-accredited program that prepares students for careers in medical sonography.

Step 4: Complete Classroom and Clinical Training

Accredited sonography programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. Students study ultrasound physics, patient care, pathology, and various imaging techniques.

Clinical rotations in medical settings allow students to apply their knowledge and develop practical skills. Bucks County Community College's program, for instance, includes both didactic and clinical components to prepare students for entry-level positions.

Step 5: Pass Certification Exams

License requirements do not exist on the state level, as ultrasound techs are certified nationally. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) offers certification exams, including the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) exam and specialty exams in areas like abdomen, obstetrics/gynecology, or vascular technology. To earn certification, you must meet specific prerequisites and pass the required exams.

Step 6: Begin Your Career and Pursue Continuing Education

With certification in hand, you're ready to apply for positions in hospitals, outpatient clinics, physicians' offices, and imaging centers. Many new graduates start as general sonographers and later specialize or pursue advanced credentials.

Continuing education is essential to stay current with technology and maintain certification. Over time, experienced sonographers may take on leadership roles, train new technicians, or move into education or sales within the medical imaging field.

Types of Ultrasound Technician Careers in Pennsylvania

Ultrasound technicians in Pennsylvania can pursue careers in various medical specialties based on their certification and clinical experience. Each path offers unique opportunities to work with different patient populations and diagnostic needs.

• Prenatal sonography: Often referred to as an ultrasound tech for pregnancy, this role focuses on monitoring fetal health and development during pregnancy.
• Neonatal and pediatric sonography: Perfect for those who want to be an ultrasound tech for babies, this specialty involves imaging for newborns and children.
• Neurosonology: These ultrasound techs examine the brain and nervous system, especially in infants.
• Breast sonography: This role assists in evaluating breast abnormalities and guiding biopsies.
• Emergency sonography: These techs provide rapid imaging in trauma or emergency situations.

FAQs About How To Become an Ultrasound Technician in Pennsylvania

If you're considering a career as a medical sonographer, you likely have questions about education, certification, and job opportunities. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about becoming an ultrasound technician in Pennsylvania.

How Long Does it Take To Become an Ultrasound Tech in Pennsylvania?

Becoming an ultrasound technician in Pennsylvania typically takes about two years. The Pennsylvania Institute of Technology offers a 24-month associate degree program in diagnostic medical sonography. This program combines classroom instruction with clinical experience, preparing students for certification and entry-level positions in the field.

How Long Does It Take To Become an Ultrasound Tech After High School?

Becoming an ultrasound technician after high school takes about two years. Monroe College offers a five-semester associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography that takes less than two years. It combines academic coursework with clinical experience to prepare students for certification and entry-level positions.

How Much Does It Cost to Become an Ultrasound Technician in Pennsylvania?

The cost to become an ultrasound technician in Pennsylvania varies by institution. Saint Joseph's University - Lancaster charges $697 per credit, plus program-specific fees of $5,575 for certain courses. With programs typically requiring around 70 to 80 credits, total costs can range from approximately $54,000 to $61,000. Costs can be mitigated with financial aid.

How Much Does an Ultrasound Tech Make in Pennsylvania?

Sonography tech salaries in Pennsylvania are competitive, with professionals earning a median annual wage of $84,470 as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Factors like specialization, experience, and work setting can influence pay, with hospitals and outpatient care centers typically offering the highest compensation.

Become an Ultrasound Technician

Becoming a medical sonographer in Pennsylvania offers a rewarding career with strong job prospects, diverse specialties, and competitive pay. Whether you're passionate about pregnancy care or advanced diagnostics, the path is clear with the right education and certification. Find more opportunities for ultrasound technicians on Learn.org.