Key Points

• A Diagnostic Medical Sonographer operates ultrasound equipment to produce internal images for medical diagnosis.
• To become one in Maryland, you must complete an accredited sonography program, gain clinical experience, and pass the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) exam.
• Most programs take 18 months to 4 years, depending on the degree level.
• The average salary in Maryland is $92,610 per year, with nationwide job growth projected at 13% (BLS).

What is a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?

A Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, also called an ultrasound technician, uses sound wave technology to capture images of organs, tissues, and blood flow. These images are critical for diagnosing illnesses, monitoring pregnancies, and guiding medical procedures.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate ultrasound and Doppler imaging equipment
• Capture clear, accurate diagnostic images
• Identify and document abnormalities for physician review
• Prepare and position patients for procedures
• Maintain imaging records and ensure equipment safety

Where Do Diagnostic Medical Sonographers Work?

Sonographers are in demand across various healthcare settings in Maryland, including:

• Hospitals: Perform a wide range of imaging procedures for inpatients and emergency cases.
• Diagnostic Imaging Centers: Specialize in ultrasound and radiology services.
• Physician’s Offices: Assist doctors in routine and specialized imaging.
• Outpatient Clinics: Provide imaging services for non-hospitalized patients.
• Maternity Wards: Monitor pregnancies and assist in prenatal care.
• Research & Educational Institutions: Conduct medical imaging studies and train future sonographers.

Education and Certification Requirements

Education

To become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Maryland, you must:

• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Enroll in a CAAHEP-accredited sonography program
• Complete coursework in anatomy, physics, patient care, and imaging procedures
• Gain clinical training through supervised hospital or lab experience

Programs may be offered as:

• Certificate programs – 12 to 18 months
• Associate degrees (AAS) – About 2 years (most common)
• Bachelor’s degrees (BS) – 4 years, for advanced positions or management

Certification

While Maryland doesn’t require certification by law, nearly all employers prefer certified sonographers. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) offers the RDMS credential, which is the industry standard.

To earn it, you must:

1. Pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) exam
2. Pass one specialty exam (Abdomen, OB/GYN, Vascular, or Echocardiography)

How to Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Maryland

Becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Maryland involves five steps:

1. Research and Choose an Accredited Sonography Program

Start by selecting a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)-approved school in Maryland.

💡 Tip: Use Dreambound to compare accredited sonography programs by cost, schedule, and city.

2. Complete a Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program

Enroll in a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree program that includes both classroom and clinical experience. Coursework covers:

• Human anatomy and physiology
• Ultrasound physics and instrumentation
• Abdominal and obstetric imaging
• Patient care and medical ethics

Many programs offer clinical rotations, allowing students to gain real-world experience before graduation.

3. Gain Clinical Experience

Hands-on clinical training helps you master scanning techniques, patient communication, and diagnostic image evaluation. Many hospitals and imaging centers hire top-performing students directly after rotations.