Sonography

The Profession

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Who They Are

Sonographers provide direct patient care in a wide variety of specialties to collect diagnostic images called sonograms.

What They Do

Sonographers use ultrasound technology to diagnose, monitor and treat a variety of medical conditions. More doctors are turning to sonographers for images because they do not expose patients to radiation the way x-rays do. The types of images that sonographers will be able to take are expected to evolve rapidly.

Where They Work

Hospitals will continue to be the main employers of sonographers. However, employment is expected to grow rapidly in doctors' offices. New jobs will also be created in medical labs, including diagnostic imaging centers. Facilities such as these are expected to grow rapidly because of the shift to outpatient care.

Outlook

Careers in sonography are growing much faster than average. In the next ten years, the sonography career is expected to grow by 14%. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Education

The Bachelor of Science in Health Professions (BSHP) Sonography at the University of Minnesota Rochester track delivers upper-division curriculum designed to prepare students to become competent, entry-level sonographers in an environment based on teamwork and mutual respect.

Students will have the opportunity to train in the following specialties: abdomen, obstetrics, gynecology, and peripheral vascular. The program offers an exceptional educational experience by providing high-quality didactic and clinical experiences that prepare students to:

  • Perform patient assessments
  • Acquire and analyze data obtained using ultrasound and related diagnostic technologies
  • Provide a summary of findings to the physician to aid in patient diagnosis and management
  • Use independent judgment and systematic problem solving methods to produce high quality diagnostic information and optimize patient care

Preparing to Apply