Sonography Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Becoming a Sonographer in Virginia Beach, Virginia

If you’re considering a career in healthcare and have a passion for working with advanced imaging technology, becoming a Sonographer in Virginia Beach, Virginia, could be the perfect path for you. Sonographers, also known as Diagnostic Medical Sonographers or Ultrasound Technicians, play a vital role in patient care by using ultrasound equipment to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a Sonographer in Virginia Beach, including educational paths, local programs, certification requirements, and more.

About Virginia Beach

Located along the southeastern coast of Virginia, Virginia Beach is known for its rich coastal history, miles of sandy beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s home to thriving neighborhoods such as Town Center, Sandbridge, and Kempsville, offering a mix of urban and suburban living. For more information about the city, visit Virginia Beach’s official website.

With its robust healthcare system and proximity to several accredited educational institutions, Virginia Beach is an excellent place to begin your journey to becoming a Sonographer.

Sonography Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

To become a Sonographer in Virginia Beach, you’ll need to complete a formal educational program in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Here are three schools offering programs suited to aspiring Sonographers in the region:

1. Tidewater Community College (TCC)

   • Location: Virginia Beach Campus
   • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
   • Description: TCC offers a CAAHEP-accredited program covering abdominal, vascular, and obstetric/gynecologic sonography. Students also complete clinical practicums at local healthcare facilities.
   • Learn More: TCC Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program

2. Sentara College of Health Sciences

   • Location: Chesapeake, VA (approximately 20 minutes from Virginia Beach)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
   • Description: Sentara’s program emphasizes hands-on training through clinical rotations in Sentara healthcare facilities, preparing students for ARDMS certification exams.
   • Learn More: Sentara College of Health Sciences

3. ECPI University

   • Location: Newport News, VA (roughly 40 minutes from Virginia Beach)
   • Program: Accelerated Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
   • Description: ECPI offers an accelerated program for students interested in entering the workforce quickly. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience.
   • Learn More: ECPI University Sonography Program

If you’re interested in online learning, consider exploring accredited online options through institutions like Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) or Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA).

Sonographer Employment Opportunities in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach boasts a strong healthcare system with multiple facilities that employ Sonographers. Here are some of the top employers in the area:

1. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital

   • Neighborhood: Hilltop
   • Description: Part of the Sentara Healthcare System, this hospital offers advanced imaging services and employs certified Sonographers in various specialties.
   • Employment Opportunities: Sentara Healthcare Careers

2. Chesapeake Regional Medical Center

   • Location: Chesapeake, VA (nearby Virginia Beach)
   • Description: This independent regional hospital is known for its dedication to innovation and quality care, offering opportunities for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.
   • Employment Opportunities: Chesapeake Regional Careers

3. Bon Secours Health System – DePaul Medical Center

   • Neighborhood: Norfolk, VA (approximately 25 minutes from Virginia Beach)
   • Description: Part of the Bon Secours Health System, this facility employs Sonographers in various departments.
   • Employment Opportunities: Bon Secours Careers

Prerequisites for Sonography Programs

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

• Education: A high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum Age: Generally 18 years or older.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require college assessment exams like the SAT, ACT, or TEAS.
• Background Check and Health Screening: Many programs mandate background checks, drug screenings, and proof of immunization.

Sonographer Certification Requirements

In Virginia Beach, certification is not legally required but is highly valued by employers. Here’s what you need to know about certification:

• Certifying Organization: The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is the most recognized body. Learn more at ARDMS.
• Exams: You’ll need to pass the Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) exam and a specialty exam, such as Abdomen, OB/GYN, or Vascular Technology.
• Eligibility: To qualify, you must graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited program and meet ARDMS prerequisites.

Licensure Requirements

Virginia does not require a state-specific license to work as a Sonographer. However, certification from a recognized organization like ARDMS is typically preferred or required by employers.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Sonographer in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is an exciting journey that can lead to a rewarding career in healthcare. Start by researching local Sonography programs, meeting the necessary prerequisites, and preparing for certification. Contact a school today to learn how you can begin your education and start making a difference in patients’ lives through diagnostic imaging.

For more information on the Diagnostic Medical Sonographer profession, including job outlook and salary data, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Sonographers.