In short
Ultrasound technicians, or diagnostic medical sonographers, usually earn an associate degree in sonography and then a professional credential, such as one from the ARDMS. They scan patients and capture images for doctors to read. The May 2025 median pay was $96,590, and BLS projects 13.9% growth from 2025 to 2035.
| Median pay | $96,590 a year, about $46.44 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| Typical way in | Associate degree |
| Jobs in the U.S. | About 92,200 (2025) |
| Outlook, 2025 to 2035 | Projected growth of 13.9% |
| Openings each year | About 6,000 on average, including replacements |
| Common credentials | ARDMS registry exams (RDMS and others) |
| Specialties | Abdominal, obstetric, vascular, cardiac |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025 to 2035 and May 2025 wages, BLS. National figures; pay where you live can be higher or lower, and starting pay is lower than the median.
The job
You position the patient, apply gel, move the transducer and adjust settings until the images are clear. You look for abnormal findings and flag them for the radiologist. Patients may be anxious, in pain or expecting good news about a pregnancy, so people skills matter.
Getting in
Programs accredited by CAAHEP are the safest choice because most credentials require graduation from one. Seats are limited and prerequisites usually include anatomy, physics and math. Some people with another healthcare credential take a shorter certificate.
Physical demands
Repetitive scanning can strain shoulders and wrists. Good technique and ergonomic equipment help.
Questions people ask
How long does it take to become an ultrasound tech?
Usually about two years for an associate degree.
Do ultrasound techs need a license?
Only a few states license sonographers, but most employers require a credential.
What is the highest-paying sonography specialty?
Pay varies by employer and region more than specialty; check local postings.