Sonography Programs in Arlington, Texas
Becoming a Sonographer in Arlington, Texas
Are you considering a rewarding career in healthcare as a Sonographer in Arlington, Texas? As a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, also known as an Ultrasound Technician, you’ll play a critical role in patient care by utilizing ultrasound technology to help diagnose medical conditions. This guide covers everything you need to know about Sonography programs, certifications, and employment opportunities in Arlington, Texas.
There are several paths to becoming a Sonographer. You can pursue an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography or complete a certificate program if you already have a healthcare background. Read on to discover the steps to start your journey in this exciting field.
About Arlington, Texas
Arlington, Texas, located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, is known for its excellent quality of life, family-friendly attractions, and robust healthcare system. Home to landmarks like AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, and the University of Texas at Arlington, this city offers a supportive environment for students and professionals alike.
For more about Arlington, visit the official city website.
Sonography Programs in Arlington, Texas
If you’re looking to enroll in a Sonography program near Arlington, Texas, you have excellent options to consider. These programs provide the education and hands-on training you’ll need to start your career:
Tarrant County College
- Location: Fort Worth, Texas (approximately 20 minutes from Arlington)
- Program: Tarrant County College offers a CAAHEP-accredited Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Students can pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree or a Level 2 Certificate in Sonography. The program includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical rotations to prepare students for ARDMS certification.
- Learn more about Tarrant County College’s Sonography program.
El Centro College (Dallas College)
- Location: Dallas, Texas (about 30 minutes from Arlington)
- Program: El Centro College offers a highly regarded CAAHEP-accredited Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. This program includes a mix of academic coursework and clinical practice in local healthcare facilities.
- Visit El Centro College’s Sonography program page.
Weatherford College
- Location: Weatherford, Texas (approximately 50 minutes from Arlington)
- Program: Weatherford College provides a CAAHEP-accredited Diagnostic Medical Sonography AAS program. The curriculum includes comprehensive training in abdominal, vascular, and obstetrics/gynecology ultrasound imaging techniques.
- Explore Weatherford College’s Sonography program.
Sonographer Employment Opportunities in Arlington
Arlington’s healthcare sector is thriving, offering multiple opportunities for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Here are some of the top healthcare facilities that may have job openings for Sonographers:
Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital
- Location: Central Arlington
- Description: Part of the Texas Health Resources network, this full-service hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including diagnostic imaging, and often hires Sonographers to join their team.
- Visit their careers page.
Medical City Arlington
- Location: South Arlington
- Description: This 432-bed hospital provides advanced diagnostic imaging services and is known for its state-of-the-art facilities. They frequently post job openings for Sonographers in various specialties.
- Explore employment opportunities at Medical City Arlington.
USMD Hospital at Arlington
- Location: North Arlington
- Description: A leading healthcare provider in the region, this facility offers comprehensive imaging services, making it a potential employer for Sonographers.
- Check their job openings.
Prerequisites for Sonography Programs
To enroll in a Sonography program in Arlington, you’ll need to meet the following common prerequisites:
- Educational Background: A high school diploma or GED equivalent is mandatory. Some programs may require prerequisite courses in anatomy, physics, or medical terminology.
- Entrance Exams: Certain schools may require placement tests, such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
- Age Requirement: Applicants must typically be at least 18 years old.
- Background Check: Most programs require a criminal background check and drug screening.
- Immunizations: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations is generally required to participate in clinical rotations.
Sonographer Certification Requirements
In Texas, certification is not legally required to work as a Sonographer. However, obtaining the RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer) credential through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) significantly enhances your employability. Here’s how to achieve certification:
- Graduate from a CAAHEP-Accredited Program: This will automatically qualify you to sit for the ARDMS exam.
- Pass the ARDMS Exam: The exam covers both general and specialty areas, such as abdominal or vascular Sonography.
- Maintain Your Credential: ARDMS certification requires continuing education for renewal.
For more information, visit the official websites of:
- American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)
- American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
Licensure Requirements
Texas currently does not require licensure for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. However, certifications such as RDMS are highly valued by employers and demonstrate your professional competency.
Get Started Today
Becoming a Sonographer in Arlington, Texas, is a rewarding career path with plenty of growth potential. With a range of accredited programs nearby and strong demand for Sonographers in local healthcare facilities, this is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a Sonography program today to take the first step toward a fulfilling career in diagnostic medical imaging!