Sonography Programs in Aurora, Colorado

Becoming a Sonographer in Aurora, Colorado

Are you considering a career as a Sonographer in Aurora, Colorado? Sonographers, also known as Diagnostic Medical Sonographers or Ultrasound Technicians, play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, using specialized equipment to create images of internal body structures that help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

This guide covers everything you need to know about becoming a Sonographer in Aurora, including local educational programs, employment opportunities, certification requirements, and more.

About Aurora, Colorado

Aurora, Colorado, located just east of Denver, is one of the largest cities in the state and a hub for healthcare and education. Known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and its diverse cultural landscape, Aurora is home to neighborhoods like Cherry Creek, the Anschutz Medical Campus area, and the Southlands region. For more information about what Aurora has to offer, visit the official city website at AuroraGov.org.

Sonography Programs in Aurora, Colorado

If you’re looking to enroll in a Sonography program near Aurora, you’re in luck! Several schools offer accredited programs to prepare you for a career as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer:

1. University of Colorado Hospital – Anschutz Medical Campus

   • Program: 12-month Certificate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
   • Description: This program is located on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora and is designed for individuals who already hold a degree in a related healthcare field. The program provides hands-on training at the hospital, one of the region’s top medical facilities.
   • Learn more at University of Colorado Hospital.

2. Concorde Career College – Aurora

   • Program: Associate Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS)
   • Description: Concorde’s program offers a comprehensive training curriculum, including didactic, laboratory, and clinical experiences. Students graduate with the skills needed for entry-level sonography positions.
   • Located in Aurora, the school provides flexible scheduling options for students.
   • Visit their program page at Concorde Career Colleges.

3. Pima Medical Institute – Denver (Approximately 10 miles from Aurora)

   • Program: Associate Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
   • Description: Just a short drive from Aurora, Pima Medical Institute’s program combines classroom instruction with clinical training. This is a CAAHEP-accredited program that prepares students for ARDMS certification.
   • Learn more at Pima Medical Institute.

Sonographer Employment Opportunities in Aurora

As one of the fastest-growing cities in Colorado, Aurora is home to numerous healthcare facilities and hospitals that regularly employ Sonographers. Here are some of the top healthcare employers in the area:

1. University of Colorado Hospital (UCH)

   • Location: Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
   • Description: An award-winning hospital specializing in a variety of medical services, UCH offers excellent career opportunities in diagnostic imaging.
   • Employment Opportunities: Check out their careers page at UCH Careers.

2. Children’s Hospital Colorado

   • Location: Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
   • Description: One of the nation’s leading pediatric hospitals, Children’s Hospital Colorado provides state-of-the-art care and frequently hires Diagnostic Medical Sonographers specializing in pediatric imaging.
   • Employment Opportunities: Visit Children’s Hospital Careers.

3. Medical Center of Aurora

   • Location: Aurora
   • Description: A full-service hospital and one of the top healthcare institutions in the area, the Medical Center of Aurora offers roles across various specialties, including sonography.
   • Employment Opportunities: Explore opportunities at Medical Center of Aurora Careers.

Prerequisites for Sonography Programs

To enroll in a Sonography program in Aurora, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Education: A high school diploma or GED equivalent. Some programs may require prior coursework in anatomy, physiology, physics, or related sciences.
• Age: Students are generally required to be at least 18 years old.
• Other Requirements: Depending on the program, you may need to pass an entrance exam, complete a background check, and/or provide proof of immunizations.

Sonographer Certification Requirements

While Colorado does not require Sonographers to obtain state licensure, certification is a must for most employers. The most recognized certification is offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

• Eligibility: Graduating from a CAAHEP-accredited program qualifies you to sit for the ARDMS examination.
• Exam: The ARDMS exam typically includes a general Sonographic Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) test and a specialty exam in areas such as abdomen or obstetrics/gynecology.
• Learn more and register at the ARDMS Official Site.

Additionally, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers certification through their Sonography program. Learn more at ARRT Sonography.

Licensing Requirements

The state of Colorado does not currently require Sonographers to hold a state license. This means that once you are certified by a national organization like ARDMS, you can begin practicing without additional state-level credentials.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Sonographer in Aurora, Colorado, is a great choice for those interested in healthcare. With accredited programs available locally and growing demand for skilled Sonographers, now is the perfect time to start. Contact a school today to learn more about their Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs and take the first step toward your future career!

For more information about the job outlook and salary expectations for Sonographers, visit the BLS page on Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.