How to Become a Medical Sonographer in Oklahoma
A career as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer is a gateway to a high-paying and in-demand role in healthcare. Since 2023, medical sonographers have had 11% job growth and about 9,400 jobs each year. With Oklahoma seeing a steady demand for medical imaging professionals, earning your certification can open doors to jobs in hospitals, imaging centers, and specialty clinics.
Key Points
- A Diagnostic Medical Sonographer operates ultrasound equipment to create internal body images for diagnostic purposes.
- To become a sonographer in Oklahoma, you must complete an accredited program and obtain ARDMS certification.
- Most sonography programs take around 2 years to complete.
- Tuition for ultrasound tech schools in Oklahoma varies, typically costing $5,000–$25,000 depending on the institution.
- The average sonographer salary in Oklahoma is $78,800 per year ($37.88 per hour).
- Job growth in Diagnostic Medical Sonography is expected to grow by 11 to 15% nationally through 2033—significantly faster than other healthcare roles!
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What is a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?
A Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (also called an Ultrasound Technician) is a highly trained medical professional who uses specialized imaging equipment to capture detailed images of internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. These images help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare patients for imaging procedures and explain the process
- Operate ultrasound equipment to capture high-quality diagnostic images
- Analyze images for abnormalities and document findings
- Collaborate with doctors and radiologists to assist in patient diagnosis
- Ensure patient safety by following imaging protocols
Where does a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer work?
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers work in various healthcare environments, with some roles offering specialized career paths:
- Hospitals: Work in emergency, inpatient, and outpatient imaging
- Imaging Centers: Focus solely on diagnostic ultrasound services
- Physician Offices: Assist doctors with in-house imaging needs
- Outpatient Clinics: Provide imaging for scheduled patient visits
- Specialty Areas: Some professionals specialize in obstetric, cardiac, or vascular sonography
Educational Requirements to Become a Sonographer in Oklahoma
To become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Oklahoma, you must complete an accredited ultrasound program and earn a recognized certification.
Education Options
- Associate Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (2 years): Completing an associate degree is the most common route to becoming a sonographer. Anatomy, physiology, and physics are some of the topics you'll learn from this course.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Sonography (4 years): A bachelor's degree is the path to more advanced career roles and other unconventional options such as being a sales marketing representative, researcher, and more!
- Certificate Programs (12–18 months): For those already in healthcare like radiologic technologists, and nurses, who want to advance their careers, this is an ideal option!
Most programs combine classroom learning with hands-on clinical training in hospitals or imaging centers.
It is important to note that Oklahoma does not have any additional state-specific licensing requirements for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.
How to Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Oklahoma
1. Choose an Accredited Program
Search for CAAHEP-accredited sonography programs in Oklahoma. Programs that meet accreditation qualify you for ARDMS certification after graduation.
2. Enroll in Your Sonography Training
Once you've selected a state-approved program, enroll and complete coursework in anatomy, physics, and patient care. Hands-on clinical experience is required to build technical skills!
3. Complete Clinical Training
Most sonography programs require 1,000+ hours of supervised hands-on experience in hospitals or diagnostic labs. This real-world training is critical for success.
4. Obtain Your Sonography Certification (ARDMS)
After graduating, you must pass the ARDMS exam to earn your Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) certification.
Exam breakdown:
- Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) Exam: Covers imaging fundamentals.
- Specialty Area Exam: Choose between abdominal, vascular, OB/GYN, or cardiac sonography.
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5. Apply for Jobs & Start Your Career
Once certified, you can start applying for sonography jobs in Oklahoma. Explore job postings on trusted job boards such as My Next Move or network with professionals through associations like the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) for more job opportunities!
Where to Find Sonography Programs in Oklahoma?
Dreambound is the largest platform for finding Diagnostic Medical Sonography classes in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and other areas. Search programs based on cost, schedule, and financial aid options.
Explore top sonography schools near you today!
Career Paths & Opportunities for Sonographers
- Obstetric/Gynecologic Sonographer: Specialize in pregnancy and reproductive health imaging.
- Cardiac Sonographer (Echocardiography): Focus on heart-related ultrasound scans. Top cardiac sonographer earners make around $125,000 annually!
- Vascular Sonographer: Examine blood flow and identify circulatory issues.
- Sonography Instructor: Teach future sonographers in training programs.
- Sonography Equipment Sales/Research: Work with medical imaging technology companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a diagnostic medical sonographer make in Oklahoma?
The average salary for a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Oklahoma is $78,800 per year based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Oklahoma sonographer salary range is around $64,130 to $95,220.
How long is sonography school in Oklahoma?
It takes about 2 years to complete a CAAHEP-accredited associate degree program in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Some specialized certificate programs take 12–18 months for those with prior healthcare experience.
Do you need a license to be a sonographer in Oklahoma?
No state license is required, but most employers require ARDMS certification to work as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer.
How much is ultrasound tech school in Oklahoma?
The cost of a sonography program varies by school and degree type:
- Community Colleges: $5,000–$15,000
- Universities: $10,000–$25,000
- Certificate Programs: $3,000–$12,000
Financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans may be available!
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer offers a dynamic and fulfilling career in healthcare. By completing the right education and earning certification, you can access numerous job opportunities and growth potential. With Dreambound, finding the perfect program and advancing your career has never been easier.
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Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.