Ultrasound technicians are healthcare specialists who use special equipment to create noninvasive images of the insides of bodies to detect medical conditions such as blood clots, pregnancies, and enlarged spleens. To become an ultrasound technician, you can pursue an associate degree, which is a satisfactory place to begin for an entry-level position. Alternatively, you can earn a bachelors or masters degree, which can increase opportunities for positions like ultrasound department manager, executive leadership, teaching at the college or university level, or becoming involved in research.

Ultrasound technician schools offer associate degrees in medical sonography, and students can choose from majors such as cardiovascular sonography and diagnostic medical sonography. Some schools also offer bachelors degrees in medical imaging and radiation sciences - sonography. The University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center offers a bachelors program in medical imaging and radiation sciences - sonography that stands out for its quality. The program incorporates subject-specific classes and general education courses in its curriculum, and learners gain a theoretical and practical understanding of medical imaging and radiation sciences, preparing graduates for the workforce.

To become an ultrasound technician, you must also pass a certification exam administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) . There are a number of specializations from the ARDMS, ARRT, and Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) that can increase your earning power and ability to find well-paying jobs.