How Much Do Ultrasound Technicians Make for 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Ultrasound or sonography technicians are among the highest paid among associate degree holders in the United States. As a career planning advisor with over 10 years of experience, I know that medical sonography or ultrasound is a fast-growing field, specializing in using sound waves to examine the internal organs of the human body. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this specialized field, you would want to know how much ultrasound technicians make. This guide discusses just that, plus everything else you need to know about a career as an ultrasound technician.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming an Ultrasound Technician

The average ultrasound technician salary is $89,020 per year.
Ultrasound technicians in California are the highest-paid, earning an average of $122,670 per year.
Cardiac sonographers are the highest paid among ultrasound technician specializations, making an average base salary of $87,803.
Ultrasound technicians working in outpatient care centers make the most money, earning an average of $123,020 per year.
You can earn more as an ultrasound tech by pursuing higher education, such as a bachelor's degree from an associate degree, and by earning additional certifications.

How much do ultrasound technicians make?
How do you become an ultrasound technician?
What specializations are available for ultrasound technicians?
What are the best online programs to become an ultrasound technician?
What can you do with a medical sonography degree?
What is the highest-paid type of ultrasound technician?
Are ultrasound technicians in demand?
Is becoming an ultrasound technician degree worth it?
What are the benefits of becoming an ultrasound technician?
What are good alternatives to a medical sonography program?
What certifications and licenses are essential for ultrasound technicians?
What Are the Emerging Technological Trends in Ultrasound?
Which professional organizations can enhance my career as an ultrasound technician?
How can public health education benefit my ultrasound technician career?
What soft skills are essential for an ultrasound technician?
How do I achieve higher pay as an ultrasound technician?
What is the role of continuing education in advancing an ultrasound technician's career?
How to Transition into the Ultrasound Tech Field from Other Careers
Are there other affordable educational options for a career in healthcare?
What are the challenges faced by ultrasound technicians?
Can pursuing additional advanced degrees elevate my career prospects?
Other Things You Should Know About Ultrasound Technician Salary

Here's What Ultrasound Technicians Have to Say About Their Degrees

I always loved science and helping people. Diagnostic medical sonography perfectly combines those passions! The classes were fascinating, learning about anatomy and how ultrasound images work. But the most rewarding part is seeing the joy on parents' faces during a pregnancy scan. It's an incredible privilege to witness those special moments. -Clara
The hands-on learning in the diagnostic medical sonography program was invaluable. Practicing on phantoms and then real patients under supervision built my confidence and skills. The instructors were amazing, always patient and encouraging. Now, working in cardiology, I use my ultrasound skills daily to diagnose heart conditions. It's a great feeling knowing I play a role in helping patients get the care they need. -David
The diagnostic medical sonography program was intense, but so worth it. The job market is fantastic, and I landed a position in a radiology department right after graduation. The best part? The variety! One day, I might be scanning a pregnant belly; the next, I'm examining an abdomen or a blood vessel. It's a constantly changing field that keeps things interesting. -Dianne

How much do ultrasound technicians make?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average ultrasound technician salary is $89,020 per year, or $42.80 per hour.

The BLS also reports that the median annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers was $84,470 as of May 2023. That means the bottom 10% of ultrasound technicians make $63,680, while the top 10% make $116,300.

As with any other occupation, your actual ultrasound technician salary would still depend on your employer, your experience, your location, your specialization, and the certifications you have earned.

When compared against the salaries of other health-related associate degree careers, an ultrasound technician salary is still relatively higher. An EKG technician salary, for one, is an average of $70,270 per year. That is significantly less than an ultrasound technician salary of $89,000. The same goes for those who took coding bootcamps online, although some enjoy higher-than-average rates.

Ultrasound technicians also make more per hour compared to respiratory therapists. A respiratory therapist salary per hour is about $37.48.

The chart below shows the top-paying states for ultrasound technicians in the country. Leading the list is California, where the average ultrasound technician salary is $122,670 per year.

How do you become an ultrasound technician?

You can become an ultrasound technician by completing a medical sonography degree program. There are different kinds of medical sonography degrees, each representing various levels of education.

1. Associate Degree in Medical Sonography

Average time to complete: 2 years; 6-8 months for some accelerated sonography programs online

The focus of the study: Medical sonography associate degrees teach students the basics. Ultrasound, picture interpretation, patient care, and anatomy and physiology are taught.

Typical courses/subjects covered: anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, sonographic physics, obstetric and gynecologic sonography, abdominal sonography, vascular sonography

Common learning format and delivery: Community colleges and vocational schools provide medical sonography associate degrees. They teach students through lectures, labs, and clinical rotations.

Entry-level jobs: diagnostic medical sonographer, obstetric and gynecologic sonographer, abdominal sonographer, or vascular sonographer

2. Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Sonography

Average time to complete: 4 years

The focus of the study: Medical sonography bachelor’s degrees build on associate degrees. It explores advanced sonographic techniques, research methods, and field leadership.

Typical courses/subjects covered: advanced sonographic techniques, sonographic instrumentation, research methods in medical sonography, cross-sectional anatomy, pathophysiology, healthcare management

Common learning format and delivery: Universities offer medical sonography bachelor’s degrees. They give complete training through didactic coursework, laboratory sessions, clinical internships, and research projects.

Entry-level jobs: lead sonographer, clinical instructor, research sonographer, or sonography department manager

3. Master’s Degree in Medical Sonography

Average time to complete: 1-2 years (beyond the bachelor’s degree)

The focus of the study: Medical sonographers who want to specialize can get a master’s degree. The curriculum emphasizes research, advanced clinical practice, and field leadership.

Typical courses/subjects covered: advanced imaging techniques, clinical decision-making in sonography, evidence-based practice, sonographic education and mentoring, and healthcare policy.

Common learning format and delivery: University-based medical sonography master’s degrees need advanced curricula, research, and clinical practicums. Professionals may work online or part-time.

Entry-level jobs: sonography program director, sonographic researcher, advanced practice sonographer, or sonography consultant

4. Doctoral Degree in Medical Sonography

Average time to complete: 3-5 years (beyond the master’s degree)

The focus of the study: Medical sonography education ends with a doctorate. It prepares leaders in academia, research, advanced clinical practice, and policy.

Typical courses/subjects covered: advanced sonographic research methods, healthcare leadership, advanced clinical practice, health policy analysis, and teaching and curriculum development.

Common learning format and delivery: Medical sonography doctoral programs at select universities demand advanced research, coursework, and clinical experiences. Faculty mentors help students write Ph.D. dissertations.

Entry-level jobs: clinical or research director, educator, consultant

5. Certificate in Medical Sonography

Average time to complete: Varies (typically 12-24 months)

The focus of the study: Medical sonography certificates are shorter programs focused on certain sonography subjects. These programs are for those with a healthcare degree or considerable diagnostic imaging experience.

Typical courses/subjects covered: Certificate programs vary by expertise. Medical sonography certificate programs include diagnostic, cardiovascular, obstetrics & gynecology, and musculoskeletal.

Common learning format and delivery: Medical sonography certificate programs generally include clinical training. They teach pupils specialty-specific sonographic procedures.

Entry-level jobs: diagnostic medical sonographer, cardiovascular sonographer, obstetric and gynecologic sonographer, musculoskeletal sonographer.

What specializations are available for ultrasound technicians?

Ultrasound technicians can specialize in various areas to focus their expertise and career paths. Here are some common specializations:

Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) is a popular specialization in which ultrasound is used to image the female reproductive system. This includes monitoring pregnancies, diagnosing gynecological conditions, and performing image-guided procedures.
Abdomen (AB). This specialization focuses on using ultrasound to image organs within the abdomen, such as the liver, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, and intestines. This helps diagnose various abdominal conditions like gallstones, appendicitis, and tumors.
Echocardiography. This specialization involves using ultrasound to image the heart, assess its structure and function, and diagnose heart conditions like valve abnormalities, heart failure, and coronary artery disease.
Vascular Technology. This specialization focuses on using ultrasound to image blood vessels throughout the body, including arteries and veins. This helps diagnose vascular conditions like blockages, aneurysms, and blood clots.
Pediatrics. This specialization involves using ultrasound for imaging infants and children. It requires specialized skills and knowledge of pediatric anatomy and physiology.
Neurosonology. This less common specialization uses ultrasound to image the brain and nervous system, although X-rays and MRIs are often preferred for these areas. However, it can be helpful in diagnosing certain neurological conditions in infants.
Musculoskeletal. This specialization uses ultrasound to image muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. This helps diagnose musculoskeletal conditions like sports injuries, arthritis, and pain syndromes.
Small Parts. This specialization focuses on using ultrasound to image small organs and structures, such as the breasts, thyroid gland, testicles, and lymph nodes. It can be used for screening, diagnosis, and image-guided biopsies.

Specific program offerings and specializations may vary depending on the institution. It's always recommended to research the curriculum and specializations available at the programs you're considering.

What are the best online programs to become an ultrasound technician?

When considering a career in ultrasound technology, finding the right program is essential for building a strong foundation and preparing for specialization. Many prospective students now turn to their choice of an online ultrasound tech school to gain their credentials flexibly while balancing other commitments. This section highlights key elements of online ultrasound programs and why they can be an excellent option for future ultrasound technicians.

Online ultrasound tech programs offer a convenient learning path, allowing students to complete much of their coursework virtually. This format suits those who need to manage work, family, or other responsibilities alongside their studies. Online programs typically provide:

Self-paced learning options that fit around your schedule
Access to diverse resources, including virtual labs, recorded lectures, and interactive learning modules
Clinical placement assistance, which connects you to nearby healthcare facilities for hands-on experience

What can you do with a medical sonography degree?

Medical sonography degree online or traditional lead to a career as an ultrasound technician, These professionals are valued in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic imaging institutes, and most of them work in private healthcare. Diagnostic medical sonographers, cardiovascular technologists, and vascular technologists are job options for medical sonography graduates.

When you start your journey into learning how to become a diagnostic medical sonographer, consider these potential career paths and skills:

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer. Performs ultrasounds on patients to assist doctors in diagnosing and treating diseases. Accurate images require knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and ultrasound physics.
Specialized Sonographer. For an in-depth understanding and career progress, specialize in obstetrics and gynecology, abdominal sonography, vascular sonography, or musculoskeletal sonography.
Clinical Instructor. Educate and train aspiring sonographers, sharing their knowledge and expertise to prepare the next generation of professionals in the field.
Research and Development. Collaborate with researchers and industry professionals to improve imaging techniques, develop new technologies, and enhance diagnostic capabilities.

The image below shows that a majority of ultrasound technicians work in hospital settings.

Where do most ultrasound technologists work?

What is the highest-paid type of ultrasound technician?

Ultrasound technicians who specialize have the chance to earn higher salaries. According to Salary.com, OBGYN, cardiac, and vascular ultrasound technicians are three of the highest-paid among the different specializations. Specifically, OBGYN sonographers earn an average base salary of $76,197 per year, cardiac sonographers earn $87,803 per year, and vascular sonographers earn $84,015 per year.

You can see that these specialized ultrasound techs earn way more than their other laboratory counterparts. Dialysis technician salary, for instance, is $44,800 per year, while medical coder salary is medical coder salary is between $32,218 and $42,553.

You may also want to look into ultrasound technician salary based on the industry one works in. The top-paying sonographers are in outpatient care centers, community and enterprise management, and specialty hospitals.

The chart below shows the top-paying industries for diagnostic medical sonographers. Leading the pack are those who work in outpatient care center, making an average of $123,020 per year, or $59.15 per hour.

Here's a look at the median salary of sonographers:

Are ultrasound technicians in demand?

Yes, ultrasound technicians are in demand. In fact, the overall employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 10% from 2022 to 2032, which growth rate is much faster than the average for all occupations.

You can expect about 9,600 openings for diagnostic medical sonographers, along with and cardiovascular technologists and technicians each year over the same 10-year period. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who switch to different occupations or exit the labor force, including to retire.

The chart below shows the projected employment growth rate for ultrasound technicians, compared with the employment growth rate for other health-related jobs.

Is becoming an ultrasound technician degree worth it?

An important consideration when evaluating whether becoming an ultrasound technician is worth it is the cost of completing a medical sonographer degree program and how soon you can get a return on this investment. That means examining whether you can earn enough from becoming an ultrasound technician to be able to recoup all the expenses that went into your education.

To give you an idea of how much the degree costs, a five-semester diagnostic medical sonography program at Tarrant County College, which is a public community college is $7,319. At Northwestern Medicine, which is a private, non-profit institution, a diagnostic medical sonography program costs $11,500.

Of course, you can always look into available financial aid and scholarship programs to help you with the costs. And if you get such financial assistance, that will make being an ultrasound technician all the more worth it.

You should also factor in your individual goals, interests, and tolerance for challenges in the equation.

What are the benefits of becoming an ultrasound technician?

The benefits of pursuing a diagnostic medical sonography degree and completing a sonography program include the following:

High Demand and Job Security. The job market for ultrasound technicians is projected to grow faster than average, with a steady need for qualified professionals. This translates to good job security and ample employment opportunities.
Competitive Salary. Ultrasound technicians can earn a competitive salary.
Relatively Short Training. An ultrasound technician degree can be obtained in as little as two years through an associate's program, allowing you to enter the workforce faster than other healthcare professions.
Meaningful Career. You will play a vital role in healthcare, assisting physicians in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions using ultrasound technology. This can be a fulfilling way to contribute to patient care.
Variety and Specialization. The field offers opportunities to work in different healthcare settings and potentially specialize in a specific area, such as obstetrics, cardiology, or pediatrics, catering to your interests.

The image below shows that nearly 59,000 ultrasound technicians specialize in cardiovascular sonography and are employed as such, which also illustrates how variety and specialization are the path to advancing your career in the field.

Cardiovascular sonographers employed in 2022

What are good alternatives to a medical sonography program?

The following associate degree programs are good alternatives as they are also in a health-related field:

Nurse. You can pursue an associate’s degree in nursing and become a registered nurse. A degree in nursing offers broader career options and you can continually advance in your career by upgrading to a bachelor's degree, then a master’s degree, and even a doctorate.
Radiologic Technologist. You can work with various imaging technologies like X-ray and CT scans. This requires a similar educational pathway but with a focus on different equipment. Note, however, that the average rad tech salary is slightly lower than that of medical sonographers.
Medical Assistant. This provides a broader range of patient care tasks but with less specialized training in imaging technologies.
Respiratory Therapist. You can specialize in treating and managing patients with breathing difficulties using various techniques and equipment, like administering oxygen therapy, performing airway clearance procedures, and assisting with mechanical ventilation. You can take advantage of a
Dialysis Technician. A dialysis technician operates machines that clean a patient's blood when their kidneys can't do it themselves. They monitor patients during treatment, ensuring their safety and comfort.

Working in highly technical environment, you are arguably only a few steps from realizing an engineering degree. As an engineer, you can potentially find more lucrative opportunities with better mobility prospects. If this occurs to you, you might find any of the easiest engineering degrees just what you need.

What certifications and licenses are essential for ultrasound technicians?

Certifications and licenses underscore professional credibility and unlock opportunities in advanced clinical roles. Ultrasound technicians benefit from pursuing industry-recognized credentials that validate specialized skills and adherence to regulatory standards. Acquiring certifications often involves rigorous assessments and practical evaluations, which can enhance one’s technical proficiency and marketability. Additionally, state licensing may be required depending on regional regulations, ensuring that practitioners meet ongoing quality and safety benchmarks. For professionals exploring economical options to augment their qualifications, consider medical certificate programs as part of a broader credentialing strategy.

What Are the Emerging Technological Trends in Ultrasound?

Recent advancements in imaging technology are reshaping the role of ultrasound technicians. Enhanced systems now incorporate artificial intelligence for improved image analysis and diagnostic precision, requiring technicians to adopt new technical skills and stay updated on software innovations. Moreover, the integration of telemedicine is expanding opportunities for remote imaging consultations and second opinions, which can lead to evolving workflow practices. Professionals are also finding value in cross-training in areas such as healthcare administration, where familiarity with billing and coding classes online can streamline operational efficiencies and foster collaborative environments.

Which professional organizations can enhance my career as an ultrasound technician?

Ultrasound technicians can benefit significantly from joining professional associations that offer access to industry guidelines, specialized training, and networking opportunities. Membership in organizations, such as the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography or local healthcare alliances, provides professionals with up-to-date clinical practices, ethical standards, and emerging technological insights. These groups often facilitate mentorship programs, job postings, and salary benchmarking—resources that support informed career decisions. For instance, evaluating compensation metrics, including comparisons like biology major salary, can help establish realistic progression goals while reinforcing professional credibility.

How can public health education benefit my ultrasound technician career?

Advancing your expertise through targeted public health education can broaden your understanding of healthcare systems, policy, and epidemiology—areas that complement technical skills in diagnostic imaging. By integrating public health perspectives, ultrasound technicians can develop strong leadership and management capabilities while gaining insights into population health trends and preventative care. This multidisciplinary approach may lead to roles in administrative oversight, quality improvement, or community-based health programs, positioning you for enhanced career opportunities and potentially higher compensation. For a cost-effective way to expand your qualifications, explore cheap MPH online programs.

What soft skills are essential for an ultrasound technician?

Ultrasound technicians benefit from a well-developed set of soft skills that enhance patient interaction and streamline teamwork. Strong communication skills enable technicians to clearly explain procedures and address patient concerns, while empathy and active listening foster trust during sensitive examinations. In addition, problem-solving and adaptability are critical when adjusting to rapidly changing clinical environments and unexpected imaging challenges. Developing these interpersonal skills can also complement administrative capabilities; for instance, pursuing a cheapest online healthcare administration degree can further refine leadership and organizational proficiency.

How do I achieve higher pay as an ultrasound technician?

Here are some strategies you can use to achieve higher pay as an ultrasound technician:

Education and Specialization

Pursue a Bachelor's Degree. While an associate's degree qualifies you for entry-level positions, a bachelor's degree in ultrasound technology or a related field can open doors to higher-paying leadership or supervisory roles.
Specialize in a High-Demand Area. Specializing in areas like echocardiography, vascular technology, or neurosonography allows you to develop advanced skills and expertise, potentially leading to higher salaries. These specializations often require additional training or certification exams.

Experience and Credentials

Gain Experience. The more experience you accumulate, the more valuable you become to employers. This can translate to higher pay as you demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
Earn Additional Certifications. Consider pursuing certifications beyond the minimum requirement for your state. Certifications in specific areas showcase your expertise and can make you a more attractive candidate for higher-paying positions.

Work Location and Setting

Negotiate Salary. Don't be afraid to negotiate your salary when offered a position. Research average salaries for ultrasound technicians in your area and with your experience level to have a strong starting point for negotiation.
Consider Location. Salaries for ultrasound technicians can vary depending on geographic location. Working in areas with a higher cost of living might translate to a higher salary.
Explore Different Settings. Certain healthcare settings, like private practices or outpatient clinics, might offer higher salaries compared to hospitals or public health facilities.

Additional Strategies

Develop Additional Skills. Learn new skills like phlebotomy or basic patient care to become a more versatile healthcare professional, potentially increasing your earning potential.
Take on Leadership Roles. Volunteer for leadership opportunities within your department or professional organizations. Demonstrating leadership qualities can position you for higher-paying supervisory or management roles in the future.
Stay Updated in the Field. Continuously update your knowledge by attending conferences and workshops and participating in continuing education programs. Staying current with advancements in ultrasound technology can make you a more valuable asset.

What is the role of continuing education in advancing an ultrasound technician's career?

Continuing education is critical in advancing the career of an ultrasound technician, enabling professionals to stay current with technological advancements and new practices in the field. It helps technicians improve their skills, increase their marketability, and potentially earn higher salaries. Here are several key benefits of continuing education for ultrasound technicians:

Stay Updated with Technology: Ultrasound technology is constantly evolving, with newer, more advanced machines and diagnostic techniques emerging. Continuing education allows technicians to stay informed about these advancements and become proficient in using cutting-edge equipment.
Expand Expertise: Specializing in areas such as vascular, pediatric, or cardiac sonography can make ultrasound technicians more valuable. Continuing education offers specialized training that can open up higher-paying roles and opportunities for career growth.
Certifications: Obtaining additional certifications in areas like echocardiography or neurosonology through continuing education programs can improve qualifications and boost earning potential. Many employers favor candidates with multiple certifications.
Professional Development: Participation in workshops, seminars, and conferences enhances professional development, allowing ultrasound technicians to network with peers, share knowledge, and learn from industry experts.
Job Security and Competitiveness: As healthcare standards evolve, continuing education ensures that ultrasound technicians maintain the skills required to remain competitive in the job market, increasing job security and potential for promotion.

How to Transition into the Ultrasound Tech Field from Other Careers

Transitioning into the field of ultrasound technology can be a viable path for individuals currently working in related healthcare or technical professions. For those without prior experience in diagnostic imaging or patient care, there are numerous education pathways and bridging programs designed to facilitate this career shift.

For individuals coming from adjacent fields, such as nursing, radiologic technology, or respiratory therapy, many institutions offer fast-track programs or certifications tailored for professionals who already have a medical background. These compressed programs focus on core sonography competencies, allowing the individual to adapt to their new role more efficiently. Additionally, professionals from non-healthcare sectors who demonstrate strong technical and analytical skills may also consider certificate programs that provide foundational knowledge in ultrasound imaging.

Affordable entry points into sonography include pursuing short-term certifications that deliver high career returns. Enrolling in certificate programs that pay well can provide a cost-effective way to gain a recognized qualification, greatly enhancing one’s earning potential and employability. These programs often cover essential topics such as patient care ethics, ultrasound instrumentation, and diagnostic accuracy.

Lastly, building relevant clinical experience is key for a seamless transition into this field. Internships, part-time work in healthcare settings, or volunteering for diagnostic projects can significantly enhance familiarity with the profession, making the transition more successful.

Are there other affordable educational options for a career in healthcare?

For those interested in a career in healthcare but not necessarily in ultrasound technology, there are other affordable educational options to consider. Pursuing a career as a medical assistant, for example, can be a rewarding and lucrative path. To learn more about affordable educational options in this field, you can explore Affordable online medical assistant programs. This can provide a cost-effective way to gain a recognized qualification in healthcare and enhance one's earning potential and employability.

What are the challenges faced by ultrasound technicians?

While a career as an ultrasound technician offers many rewards, it also comes with its set of challenges. It's important to understand these aspects before committing to the profession. Being aware of the potential obstacles can help prepare you for the demands of the job and allow you to develop strategies for success. Here are some of the common challenges ultrasound technicians face:

Physical Demands and Long Hours: Ultrasound technicians often work long shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially in hospitals or emergency settings. The role requires you to be on your feet for most of the day while performing imaging procedures, which can lead to physical strain. Repetitive motions, such as holding the ultrasound probe or adjusting equipment, may cause fatigue or musculoskeletal issues over time. It's important for technicians to practice good ergonomics and take breaks when possible to reduce the risk of injury.
Emotional and Psychological Stress: Ultrasound technicians play a vital role in diagnosing medical conditions, some of which may be serious or life-threatening. They may be required to conduct ultrasounds on patients who are experiencing pain or distress, and occasionally, they may need to deliver difficult news to patients or their families. The emotional toll of working with patients who are dealing with serious health issues, or witnessing challenging medical situations, can be overwhelming for some. Developing emotional resilience and seeking support from colleagues can help mitigate these stresses.
Pressure to Produce Accurate Results Quickly: Ultrasound technicians are responsible for producing high-quality, accurate images that assist doctors in diagnosing and treating patients. The pressure to perform efficiently, while ensuring the images are clear and precise, can be stressful, especially during busy shifts. Technicians must balance the need for speed with the need for accuracy, which can lead to stress in high-pressure environments like emergency rooms or during time-sensitive procedures.
Dealing with Difficult Patients: Interacting with patients who may be anxious, uncomfortable, or in pain can present challenges for ultrasound technicians. Additionally, some patients may have difficulty following instructions or remain still during the imaging procedure, which can affect the quality of the results. Strong communication skills and patience are essential for handling these situations and ensuring the patient is comfortable and cooperative throughout the process.
Risk of Burnout: The combination of long hours, physically demanding tasks, and emotional strain can lead to burnout in some ultrasound technicians. As with any healthcare profession, the risk of exhaustion, disengagement, or mental fatigue is a concern, particularly for those working in fast-paced or high-stress environments. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance, seeking regular professional development, and practicing self-care are important strategies to avoid burnout.

If you’re interested in taking on the challenges of this rewarding career, you might want to explore programs from the best ultrasound tech schools, which offer quality education.

Can pursuing additional advanced degrees elevate my career prospects?

Advanced academic credentials can pave the way for roles in management, research, and interdisciplinary healthcare initiatives. By expanding your expertise through further study, you may access leadership positions and integrated clinical roles that transcend traditional diagnostic work. For professionals exploring a broader horizon in healthcare, obtaining additional qualifications offers strategic advantages and reinforces long‐term career resilience. Consider advanced programs—such as the Pharm D degree online—to diversify your skill set and amplify your potential in evolving healthcare environments.

Other Things You Should Know About Ultrasound Technician Salary

What is the lowest paid ultrasound tech?

Generally speaking, entry-level ultrasound technicians with an associate's degree and minimal experience typically earn the lowest salaries in the field.

How much do ultrasound technicians make in NYC?

According to the BLS, ultrasound technicians in New York earn an annual average wage of $94,180. Those who work in the New York-Newark-Jersey City and NY-NJ-PA metropolitan area earn an annual mean wage of $96,700.

How long does it take to become an ultrasound technician?

The time to become an ultrasound technician depends on your chosen program:

Associate's degree: This is the most common pathway, taking approximately 18-24 months of full-time study.

Certificate program: These accelerated programs can be completed in as little as 12 months, but may not be as widely accepted by employers.

Bachelor's degree: This path takes 4 years but might qualify you for broader career options or leadership roles.

What degree is best for an ultrasound technician?

An associate's degree is the standard for ultrasound technicians, but a bachelor's degree in diagnostic medical sonography is a better route for those aiming for management roles. It takes four years to qualify, but it will allow you to delve deeper into various ultrasound specialties.

References:

United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023: 29-2032 Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. BLS.

Salary.com. (2024, May 28). Vascular Ultrasound Technician Salaries in the United States. Salary.com.

Salary.com. (n.d.). Ob Gyn Ultrasound Technician Salary in the United States. Salary.com.

Salary.com. (n.d.). Cardiac Ultrasound Technician Salary in the United States. Salary.com.
Salary.com. (2024, May 28). Certified Dialysis Technician Salary in the United States. Salary.com.