Sonography Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Becoming a Sonographer in Des Moines, Iowa

If you’re considering a career as a Sonographer in Des Moines, Iowa, you’re on a promising path in the healthcare field. Sonographers, often referred to as Ultrasound Technicians or Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, play a vital role in patient care through the use of imaging technology. This guide will walk you through the educational pathways, certification requirements, and job opportunities available to Sonographers in Des Moines.

About Des Moines

Des Moines is the capital city of Iowa and a hub for healthcare services in the state. Known for its mix of urban amenities and friendly community atmosphere, Des Moines offers a supportive environment for both education and career development in Sonography. Popular attractions such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the Historic East Village add to the city’s appeal. Learn more about the city by visiting the official Des Moines website.

Sonography Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Several educational institutions in or near Des Moines offer Sonography programs. Here are three top options to consider:

1. Mercy College of Health Sciences
   Located in the heart of Des Moines, Mercy College offers a five-semester Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Students can specialize in General or Cardiovascular Sonography tracks. The program combines rigorous coursework with practical clinical experience. Learn more about their program here.

2. Allen College (Located ~100 miles from Des Moines, in Waterloo)
   Allen College provides a Bachelor of Health Sciences Degree in Sonography. Their program emphasizes a blend of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical education practicums. For more information, visit their program page here.

3. University of Iowa (Distance Education) (Located ~115 miles from Des Moines, in Iowa City)
   The University of Iowa offers flexible online and distance education options in Sonography and related imaging disciplines. This is a great option for students who prefer a remote learning environment. Explore their distance education options here.

Sonographer Employment Opportunities in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to several healthcare facilities that employ Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Below are some key employers in the area:

1. UnityPoint Health – Des Moines
   This healthcare system operates multiple hospitals and clinics in the metro area, including Iowa Methodist Medical Center. UnityPoint is a major employer of Sonographers, offering dynamic opportunities within a collaborative healthcare team. Explore their careers page here.

2. MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
   Located in the downtown area, MercyOne is one of the largest healthcare providers in Iowa. They frequently hire certified Sonographers for roles in diagnostic imaging. Learn more about their career opportunities here.

3. Broadlawns Medical Center
   A community-focused medical center, Broadlawns provides comprehensive healthcare services, including diagnostic imaging. They are a key employer of Sonography professionals in Des Moines’ northwest neighborhoods. Visit their employment page here.

Prerequisites for Sonography Programs

To enroll in a Diagnostic Medical Sonography program in or near Des Moines, students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Educational Background: A high school diploma or GED is required. Some programs may also require completion of prerequisite college-level courses, such as anatomy or physics.
• Minimum Age Requirement: Students must usually be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Certain programs may require standardized test scores or program-specific entrance exams.
• Background Checks: A criminal background check and drug screening may be necessary.
• Health Requirements: Proof of immunizations and a physical exam may also be required.

Sonographer Certification Requirements

While Iowa does not currently require state licensure for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, certification is highly recommended and often mandated by employers. Here are the primary certification steps:

• Credentialing Organization: The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is the leading certifying body. Learn more about ARDMS here.
• Exams: The certification process includes the Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) exam and a specialty exam, such as Abdomen or Obstetrics and Gynecology.
• Accredited Program: Graduating from a CAAHEP-accredited program is critical for eligibility to sit for ARDMS certification exams. Review accredited programs at CAAHEP.

Licensure Requirements

Currently, Iowa does not require state licensure for Sonographers. However, if you plan to operate radiation machines in certain capacities, registration with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is required. This is not directly related to Sonography certification but is worth noting for specific healthcare environments. Learn more about Iowa’s radiological health regulations here.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Sonographer in Des Moines, Iowa, is an exciting and rewarding career choice. Whether you’re drawn to working in hospitals, imaging centers, or specialty clinics, the demand for skilled Sonographers continues to grow. Take the first step today by researching local programs and contacting schools to learn more about their admissions process. With the right training and certification, you’ll be well on your way to joining this vital and respected profession.

Learn more about the career outlook for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers here.