Sonography Programs in Akron, Ohio

Becoming a Sonographer in Akron, Ohio

If you’re looking to become a Sonographer in Akron, Ohio, you’re exploring a fulfilling and dynamic career in healthcare. Sonographers, also known as Diagnostic Medical Sonographers or Ultrasound Technicians, use specialized imaging equipment to help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Whether you’re interested in abdominal, vascular, or obstetric sonography, there are several educational and certification pathways to help you achieve your career goals.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a Sonographer, including local educational opportunities, employment options, and certification requirements.

About Akron, Ohio

Located in Northeast Ohio, Akron is a city rich in history and opportunity. Known as the “Rubber Capital of the World,” Akron has grown into a hub for healthcare, research, and education. Healthcare professionals are in high demand here, with major institutions like the Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa Health headquartered locally. For more about Akron, visit the city’s official website: AkronOhio.gov.

Sonography Programs in Akron, Ohio

If you’re considering a career as a Sonographer, Akron offers a range of educational programs to help you get started. Below are a few local schools providing Sonography training:

1. Summa Health School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography

   • Location: Akron
   • Program Details: Summa Health offers a comprehensive Diagnostic Medical Sonography program that combines classroom instruction with clinical training at their healthcare facilities. Students focus on abdominal, obstetrics, gynecology, and vascular sonography.
   • Program Page: Summa Health Sonography Program

2. The University of Akron

   • Location: Downtown Akron
   • Program Details: The University of Akron provides prerequisite courses that prepare students for transfer to a CAAHEP-accredited sonography program. It’s an excellent choice for students seeking foundational education in healthcare.
   • University Website: uakron.edu

3. Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C): Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program

   • Location: Cleveland, approximately 40 minutes from Akron
   • Program Details: This CAAHEP-accredited program offers an Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. It includes didactic instruction and hands-on clinical education in various specialties such as general, vascular, and cardiac sonography.
   • Program Page: Tri-C Sonography Program

If you’re willing to commute, Tri-C provides access to an accredited and reputable program, which is essential for meeting certification requirements.

Sonographer Employment Opportunities in Akron

Akron’s strong healthcare sector offers abundant job opportunities for Sonographers. Below are some of the top employers in the city:

1. Cleveland Clinic Akron General

   • Location: Downtown Akron
   • Description: Part of the renowned Cleveland Clinic Health System, Akron General is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering specialized imaging services and employing skilled Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.
   • Careers Page: Akron General Careers

2. Summa Health

   • Location: Multiple sites across Akron
   • Description: Summa Health is one of the largest integrated healthcare delivery systems in Ohio, employing Sonographers across its hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialty clinics.
   • Careers Page: Summa Health Careers

3. Children’s Hospital Medical Center of Akron (Akron Children’s Hospital)

   • Location: Main campus in Highland Square
   • Description: Specializing in pediatric care, Akron Children’s Hospital frequently hires Sonographers trained in pediatric and general sonography.
   • Careers Page: Akron Children’s Hospital Careers

These facilities are excellent places to start or grow your sonography career, offering competitive salaries and professional development opportunities.

Prerequisites for Sonography Programs

Before enrolling in a Sonography program, ensure you meet the following prerequisites:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Completion of prerequisite coursework (e.g., anatomy, physics)
• Minimum GPA (varies by program)
• Passing score on entrance exams (e.g., TEAS test)
• Background check and drug screening
• Proof of immunizations and physical fitness for clinical work

Sonographer Certification Requirements

Certification is a key step in becoming a Sonographer. In the United States, ARDMS certification is widely recognized and often required. To obtain ARDMS certification:

1. Graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited Sonography program.
2. Pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) exam.
3. Pass a specialty exam in your focus area (e.g., Abdomen, OB/GYN, Vascular).

Visit the official ARDMS website for more information: ARDMS.org.

Requirements to Become a Sonographer in Akron, Ohio

In Akron, meet the following requirements to pursue a career in medical sonography:

1. Educational Requirements: Complete an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Sonography, ensuring the program is CAAHEP-accredited.
2. Certification: Obtain ARDMS certification by passing the necessary exams.
3. Clinical Training: Fulfill program-required clinical hours.
4. Compliance: Follow Ohio’s healthcare regulations, though specific licensure isn’t required.

Licensure Requirements

Currently, Ohio does not mandate state licensure for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. However, adhering to healthcare regulations and obtaining national certification remain critical to career success.

Get Started Today

A career as a Sonographer in Akron, Ohio, is both exciting and rewarding. With excellent local educational programs and top-tier healthcare employers, you have all the tools to succeed. Take the first step by reaching out to a school today to learn more about its Sonography programs and requirements. Your journey toward a fulfilling healthcare career begins now!