The demand for qualified medical professionals continues to grow throughout the country. People who want to join a career field that will provide solid job stability and high earning potential often consider entering the ultrasound technology profession. However, joining this profession can require that potential applicants be knowledgeable about all aspects of this industry. They can prepare themselves for this career by taking these facts about ultrasound technology into consideration.
Identifying Universities with Ultrasound Technology Programs
Before they begin their formal training, aspiring ultrasound technologists must identify what colleges in Kansas offer this program. Three universities in this state currently offer accredited degree programs in this field. Students can choose from Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas University in Lawrence, and Fort Hays State University in Hays. All three universities offer career placement services and financial aid for students who want the best assurance of finishing their degrees and finding work after graduation.
Educational Background and Prior Training
As with any career training, students can benefit from having prior medical training or education at their disposal. While all three universities welcome novices in this industry, students who have CPR training, CNA certification, or taken classes in biology, chemistry, and anatomy may fare better in their studies. All students entering into the program must have taken the state-mandated ACT college admission test, as well as have a high school diploma or GED to their credit.
Formal Training in College
Throughout the course of their degree program, students will learn their trade through classroom training, as well as out-of-class internships and observation periods. Their courses will vary from ultrasound ethics to more advanced topics like ultrasound instrumentation. When they finish their basic courses, students will then be introduced to clinical observations and internships that will allow them to gain hands-on experience in this field. While they complete their out-of-class clinics, they will remain under the supervision of their professors, as well as hospital staff to ensure that they comply fully with current medical guidelines.
Certification or Licensing Requirements
The state of Kansas currently allows medical establishments to dictate what, if any, licenses or certifications must be obtained by applicants for positions in this field. People who obtain formal licensing or certification through the state upon graduation from college arguably have the best chances of finding viable employment in this industry. Students wishing to obtain a license or certification should contact their academic advisor or program chair for information. Kansas University, for example, offers its own certification through its partnership with the University of Kansas Medical Center. Additionally, students can also choose to be certified through the American Registry of Diagnostic. They can obtain information about this process by visiting www.ardms.org and completing the testing recommendations listed on the website.
Salaries and Earning Potential
The salary for an ultrasound technician in Kansas ranges from $20,000 per year upwards to $40,000 or more, depending on a person’s experience in this industry. These numbers are below the national average salary for this position as listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which reports the national average for ultrasound technicians as $58,000. However, considering that Kansas has a lower than average cost of living, people who are keen to remain in the state may find that the salaries available for this career suit their earning purposes.
Retraining and Continuing Education
As with most careers, ultrasound technologists must undergo periodic retraining or continuing education to stay current in their skills and knowledge. Because the medical industry continues to embrace new technology, people in this field must know how to utilize these new resources to their benefit, as well as the benefit of their patients. Employers may send ultrasound technologists for training or continued education every year or every two years to ensure they stay current on the available information that pertains to their career choice. Most employers pay for this training and provide additional compensation, such as travel expenses and hotel rooms, for people who agree to go comply with this continued education requirement. People who refuse to comply could be turned down for promotions and raises.
With the medical industry growing, more qualified workers are needed to join the field of healthcare. People looking to enjoy job stability and solid earning potentials can prepare for a career in ultrasound technology by taking these key facts into consideration.