Sonography Programs in Amarillo, Texas
Becoming a Sonographer in Amarillo, Texas
If you’ve ever wondered how to join the healthcare field as a Sonographer, Amarillo, Texas, offers various paths and opportunities to begin this rewarding career. A Sonographer, also known as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer or an Ultrasound Technician, uses specialized equipment to create images of the body’s internal structures, aiding physicians in making accurate diagnoses. This guide will detail everything you need to know, from education to employment opportunities in Amarillo, Texas.
About Amarillo
Amarillo, located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, is a city that combines a rich cultural history with a welcoming community. Known for attractions like Palo Duro Canyon State Park and the iconic Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo offers an inviting environment for students and professionals alike. For more information about Amarillo, visit the official Amarillo city website.
Sonography Programs in Amarillo, Texas
For aspiring Sonographers in Amarillo, there are excellent local educational opportunities. Below are the primary institutions in the area offering Sonography programs:
Amarillo College
- Program Offered: Associate in Applied Science in Sonography
- Location: Amarillo College’s Washington Street Campus, Amarillo
- Description: This CAAHEP-accredited program provides in-depth training with a mix of classroom learning, hands-on lab work, and clinical practicums. Graduates are well-prepared to sit for the ARDMS certification exams.
- Website: Amarillo College Sonography Program
South Plains College (Levelland)
- Program Offered: Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Associate Degree
- Location: Levelland, approximately 120 miles from Amarillo
- Description: South Plains College offers a comprehensive Sonography program focusing on abdominal, obstetrics, and gynecology imaging. It also provides preparation for national certification exams.
- Website: South Plains College Sonography Program
Lubbock Christian University
- Program Offered: Pre-Health Sciences with a focus on Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Location: Lubbock, approximately 120 miles from Amarillo
- Description: This program serves as a foundation for students planning to specialize in Sonography. While it is not explicitly a Sonography program, students can use it to prepare for future certification pathways.
- Website: Lubbock Christian University
Sonographer Employment Opportunities in Amarillo
Amarillo boasts a range of healthcare facilities that employ Sonographers. Here are some major employers:
BSA Health System
- Location: Near Medi Park, Amarillo
- Description: BSA Health System is one of the largest healthcare providers in the Panhandle. They frequently hire Sonographers for roles in diagnostic imaging.
- Website: BSA Health System Careers
Northwest Texas Healthcare System
- Location: Medical District, Amarillo
- Description: This comprehensive hospital offers a variety of medical services, including Diagnostic Medical Sonography. They regularly post job openings for certified professionals.
- Website: NWTHS Careers
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Amarillo Campus)
- Location: Harrington Regional Medical Campus, Amarillo
- Description: This academic and healthcare facility provides opportunities for Sonographers to work in an environment focused on research and patient care.
- Website: TTUHSC Amarillo
Prerequisites for Sonography Programs
To enroll in a Sonography program, certain prerequisites must typically be met:
- Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or GED is necessary. College-level prerequisites in anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology may also be required by some schools.
- Minimum Age: Applicants must usually be at least 18 years old.
- Entrance Exams: Many programs require applicants to complete competency tests such as the TEAS Test.
- Background Checks: Criminal background checks are generally mandatory for programs that include clinical rotations.
- Medical Requirements: Proof of immunizations and up-to-date health records may be required before starting clinical training.
Sonographer Certification Requirements
In Texas, certification is not a legal requirement to practice as a Sonographer, but most employers prefer or require it. Certification enhances employability and demonstrates your expertise. The primary certification option is through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS):
- ARDMS Certification
- Graduates from CAAHEP-accredited programs are eligible for ARDMS exams, including the SPI (Sonography Principles and Instrumentation) examination.
- More information: ARDMS Official Website
Other national certifications include options from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Their credentials for Sonographers are highly respected nationwide. Learn more at the ARRT website.
Licensure Requirements
Texas does not require state licensure for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. However, obtaining national certification through ARDMS or ARRT is often necessary to secure employment.
Licensure Reciprocity
As Texas does not currently mandate licensure for Sonographers, there are no reciprocity agreements required for out-of-state professionals. Most employers in Amarillo will consider nationally certified candidates regardless of their state of origin.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Sonographer in Amarillo, Texas, is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing and respected profession within healthcare. With certification, local training options, and a range of employment opportunities, there’s no better time to begin. Contact a local school today to learn more about Sonography programs and take the first step toward your new career.