7 Things to Know Before Studying Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Technology Choosing to study in the Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Technology program at Florida National University is a great decision for students interested in a career the imaging field. Prospective students considering their various career options have a lot of doors open to them, which is why it’s important to take a closer look at a program before diving in. In this article, you can learn all about diagnostic medical sonography technology and some interesting sonography facts to help you decide if this is the career for you.

What is Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Technology?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Technologists “use special equipment to direct high-frequency sound waves into areas of a patient’s body. What is a sonographer? Sonographers operate equipment that collects reflected echoes and form images that may be videotaped, transmitted, or photographed for interpretation and diagnosis by a physician” (BLS). In other words, sonographers perform sonograms and ultrasounds. Professionals in the field are also known as ultrasound technologists. They are trained to record, read, and decipher the ultrasound waves that bounce off of various parts inside of the human body. This fascinating practice requires specific training and certification, which can be earned through an accredited program like the diagnostic medical sonography degree offered by Florida National University (FNU).

Becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?

Before starting down this career path, students should understand that this challenging program is very rewarding. Imagine being the first person to lay eyes on a beautiful new baby, or the individual who played a pivotal role in helping doctors diagnose a particular ailment.

Is being a sonographer hard? As with anything in the medical field, there is a great amount of dedication required to learn the r material and practice to perform the various exams. The level of difficulty is only determined by the level of dedication. Those committed to this field, will more easily excel as a sonography student . These are just a few of the benefits related to pursuing this degree. Those who are interested in starting this new journey should continue reading to learn more about what being a diagnostic medical sonographer means, and what the Florida National University program has to offer.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Technologist: Job Prospects

An important factor when deciding on a career is the types of jobs available, along with the salary expected for positions in the field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Technologists can expect median annual wages of $60,570, as of May 2021. Accordingly, U.S. News rates this career in their 100 Best Jobs feature. It is obvious that this career path is a positive step to take. Additionally, the BLS suggests that the expected job growth from 2021-2031 is set to increase by 10%, which is considered much faster than the average for all jobs. Pair this information with the price and time it takes to complete an associate’s education, and students are likely to have a great return on their investment.

Daily Life as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Full-time sonographers typically work about 40 hours a week. However, some positions may require the sonographer to be on call in the evening and on weekends, just like doctors. In this type of role, you must be ready to report to work on short notice. A sonographer’s work is often conducted in a low-lit examination room to allow better for visualization of the images; and on occasion, they may perform the procedure at a patient’s bedside.

Due to the physical demands of this profession, the program at Florida National University, ensures that the clinical training includes the most up-to-date information on safe scanning techniques and proper boy mechanics as a means of lowering the likelihood of future injury.

Are There Male Sonographers?

Part of being a sonographer might be affected by your gender. Males interested in becoming sonographers might not know that 70% of sonographers are women. Just as with gynecologists, this can present a challenge for men when they realize some female patients prefer female sonographer for breast, abdominal and pelvic ultrasounds. Conversely, male patients might feel the same way, preferring a male sonographer for scrotal and pelvic ultrasound procedures. Religious reasons aside, the gender of sonographers is becoming a much more infrequent concern among patients. Gender is also less of a concern in sonography specialties that involve areas of the body like stomach and back where modesty is not a big issue.

Students seeking careers in the medical sonography field may be very interested in ultrasound technology which is less gender specific. To this effect, it should be noted that Magic Leap, an advanced digital imaging company headquartered in Plantation, FL was recently assigned a patent related to various methods and systems for sonography application in ophthalmology diagnostics.

Sonographer Career Pathway:

Obtaining a degree is the only first step for many students hoping to enter the workforce. To become a professional diagnostic medical sonographer, students must complete an exam to obtain certification.

Students enrolling in Florida National University’s program will be pleased to know that it was designed to help prepare students to pass the registry exam. In other words, upon graduating from this program, students should have enough knowledge and skills readily available to complete the exam—and, hopefully, pass it! The courses offered through the Florida National University Diagnostic Medical Sonographer associate degree program are tailored to prepare students to pass the registry and work as sonography professionals. Obtaining the registry opens doors of opportunity for the student, as this is the foundation for a prospective professional’s career!

Where do Sonographer Technologists Work?

After obtaining the registry, where do sonographer technologists work? These individuals are typically employed by private offices, hospitals, medical centers, clinics, and less frequently, emergency rooms and urgent care facilities. Florida happens to be an excellent location to begin a career in diagnostic medical sonography. In fact, the BLS highlights Florida as the state with the third-highest employment level in the occupation. Therefore, obtaining a degree in this subject in the state of Florida is a great move—students can begin networking with professionals in the field where it is so highly needed.

About Our Diagnostic Medical Sonography Technology Program

Students who wish to participate in Florida National University’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program must first understand the nature of the program, requirements, and expectations. The first thing to know is that Florida National University is a private school accredited to grant degrees by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). We have two campus locations in South Florida, and offer assistance to students seeking financial aid. Florida National University offers scholarships, opportunities to participate in school events and even community outreach. Most of the general education courses can be completed online for the convenience of students who need to balance their work schedules with family life.

Florida National University’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography Technology program is designed to prepare the student for performing ultrasound procedures. The student will be trained to develop his or her skills  in the interpretation of sonographic images.

The student will be able to conduct ultrasound procedures in the abdomen, pelvis and small parts. Training will cover the organs of the abdomen and pelvis and obstetrical and fetal evaluations.

The classes offered at Florida National University develop students into talented, well-rounded technicians with general knowledge covering all aspects of the field.

Ultrasound vs. Sonogram — What’s the Difference?

Many individuals have questions about the difference between an ultrasound and a sonogram before entering the program. Interestingly, an ultrasound (sends and reads the wave) which then creates a sonogram (a photo rendered from sound waves bouncing off of parts inside the body).

To be clear, an “ultrasound technician” and a “medical sonographer” are two names for the same job title. Other titles interchangeably used include “sonographer,” “ultrasonographer” and “registered diagnostic medical sonographer,” (RDMS). Regardless of the title, this professional relies on sound waves to image the interior of the human body so doctors can diagnose and treat medical conditions. Now that you know all about diagnostic medical sonography, it’s time to make the move.

FNU: Developing our Medical Future

If you are interested in obtaining your degree in diagnostic medical sonography, then look not further than Florida National University. Our Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Technology Associate Degree program is designed to help students of all ages and backgrounds excel in the field. Ready to learn and apply your skills needed in the field? Apply to Florida National University now!