Top 11 Cardiac Sonographer Certifications

Certifications for a cardiac sonographer are important in the job market because they demonstrate the individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in performing cardiac ultrasound. Additionally, certifications show employers that the individual has met the standards of quality set by their profession and is committed to continuing their professional development. Certification also helps to establish credibility with employers, patients, and other healthcare providers. Finally, having certification can help a sonographer stand out from other applicants when seeking employment or promotions.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Cardiac Sonographers and explains how they can help to advance a cardiac sonographer's career.

What are Cardiac Sonographer Certifications?

Cardiac sonographer certification is a credential that demonstrates a professional's knowledge and expertise in performing ultrasound procedures to assess the health of the heart. It is offered by several organizations, including the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE).

Cardiac sonographer certification can help professionals demonstrate their level of competence in performing cardiac ultrasounds. It also helps employers ensure that they are hiring qualified individuals to perform these important diagnostic tests. Certification can also open doors to new job opportunities, as many hospitals and other healthcare facilities prefer to hire individuals who have obtained this type of specialized training. Additionally, certified professionals may be eligible for higher salaries than those without certification. Lastly, cardiac sonographers who maintain their certification through continuing education courses may stay up-to-date on the latest advances in their field and gain an edge over less experienced colleagues.

Pro Tip: When pursuing cardiac sonographer certification, make sure to research the requirements for each credentialing board and understand the differences between them. Each board has its own set of eligibility criteria that must be met in order to become certified, so understanding these requirements ahead of time can help you plan your path towards certification.

Related: What does a Cardiac Sonographer do?

Top 11 Cardiac Sonographer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Cardiac Sonographers today.

1. Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS)

Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) is a professional certification program offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). The RDCS credential is designed to recognize sonographers who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and expertise in the field of cardiac ultrasound.

It typically takes between two to three years to complete the requirements for the RDCS credential. This includes completing a minimum of 1,500 hours of clinical experience in cardiac ultrasound, passing an exam administered by ARDMS, and meeting other educational requirements.

In order to become an RDCS, you must first meet all of the prerequisites for taking the exam. These include having completed an accredited ultrasound program and having obtained a minimum number of clinical hours in cardiac ultrasound. Once you have met these prerequisites, you can then register with ARDMS to take the RDCS exam.

The cost of registering for the RDCS exam varies depending on your location and whether or not you are a member of ARDMS. In general, it costs around $400-$500 USD to register for the exam.

2. Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS)

A Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) is a health care professional who has specialized training and experience in the field of cardiac ultrasound. The RCS designation is awarded by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). To become an RCS, an individual must pass a comprehensive exam which covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, physics, instrumentation, patient care, and image acquisition.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the exam. During this time, candidates should study for the exam using ARDMS-approved materials and practice exams. Candidates can also attend review courses or seminars offered by various organizations.

To take the exam, candidates must submit an application along with their fee to ARDMS. The fee for the RCS certification exam is $400 USD. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their RCS credential from ARDMS and be recognized as a Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS).

3. Certified Cardiac Sonographer (CCS)

A Certified Cardiac Sonographer (CCS) is a professional who has been trained and certified in the use of ultrasound technology to diagnose and treat cardiac conditions. The CCS credential is offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). To become certified, individuals must demonstrate competency in cardiac sonography through an examination process that includes both written and practical components.

The ARDMS offers two pathways to certification: the traditional pathway, which requires completion of an accredited program, and the alternative pathway, which allows individuals with relevant experience to take the exam without completing a formal educational program. Both pathways require applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, physics, instrumentation, patient care, and image acquisition and analysis.

The traditional pathway typically takes one to two years to complete depending on whether or not you are enrolled in a full-time or part-time program. The alternative pathway requires applicants to have at least two years of clinical experience in cardiac sonography prior to taking the exam.

To become certified as a CCS, you must submit an application form along with your fee ($375 for members of ARDMS or $475 for non-members). After submitting your application form, you will be required to schedule an appointment with a proctoring center where you will take your exam. Once you have passed your exam successfully, you will receive your certification from ARDMS.

The cost of becoming certified as a CCS varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of ARDMS; however, it typically ranges from $375-$475 USD.

4. Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT)

A Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) is a professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases. RVTs use specialized imaging equipment such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose and treat vascular conditions. RVTs are trained to interpret images, perform diagnostic tests, and provide therapeutic treatments for patients with vascular diseases.

To become an RVT, individuals must complete a two-year accredited program in vascular technology. These programs are offered at community colleges, universities, technical schools, or through online courses. Upon completion of the program, students must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

The cost of becoming an RVT varies depending on the school or program chosen. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $2,000 - $10,000 per year depending on the type of school and location. Additionally, there is a fee associated with taking the ARDMS certification exam which ranges from $200 - $400.

Once certified as an RVT, individuals may pursue continuing education opportunities to stay up-to-date on current technologies and advancements in the field of vascular technology.

5. Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS)

Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) is a credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to perform invasive cardiovascular procedures. RCIS certification is offered by the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).

To become an RCIS, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of two years of full-time experience in an invasive cardiovascular technology program or at least one year of full-time experience in an accredited program. Applicants must also pass a written exam and complete continuing education credits.

The process to become an RCIS typically takes about three months from start to finish. To begin, applicants must submit their application materials online and pay the associated fees. Once their application has been approved, they will be scheduled for the written exam. After successfully passing the exam, applicants will receive their RCIS certification card within four weeks.

The cost to become an RCIS varies depending on the applicant’s status and whether they are taking advantage of any special offers or discounts. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 to apply for the credential, which includes a $200 non-refundable application fee and a $200 examination fee. Additionally, there may be additional fees for late applications or re-applications as well as fees for continuing education credits.

6. Certified Echocardiography Technician (CET)

Certified Echocardiography Technician (CET) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of echocardiography. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test used to assess the structure and function of the heart. The CET credential is awarded by the National Board for Cardiovascular Technology (NBCVT).

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including completing an accredited echocardiography program and passing a written exam. Depending on the program, it can take anywhere from one to two years to complete an accredited echocardiography program.

The cost of obtaining the CET credential varies depending on your location and other factors. Generally, you can expect to pay between $200-$400 for the application fee and testing fee combined.

Once you have completed all of the necessary steps, you will need to submit your application along with any required documentation to NBCVT for review. Once approved, you will be eligible to sit for the CET exam which covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, patient assessment, instrumentation and procedure techniques, image acquisition and analysis, basic hemodynamics and more.

7. Certified Congenital Cardiac Sonographer (CCCS)

Certified Congenital Cardiac Sonographer (CCCS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the practice of congenital cardiac ultrasound. The certification is administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

To become certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience in congenital cardiac ultrasound, pass an ARDMS-administered written exam, and complete an ARDMS-approved clinical practicum. The written exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, instrumentation, scanning techniques, and safety. The clinical practicum requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in performing congenital cardiac ultrasound exams on patients.

The entire certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. Applicants should plan to spend at least 40 hours studying for the written exam and another 40 hours completing the clinical practicum.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the applicant’s location and chosen testing center. In most cases, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 for all fees associated with taking the written exam and completing the clinical practicum.

8. Fetal Echocardiography Certification (FEC)

Fetal Echocardiography Certification (FEC) is a certification for medical professionals who specialize in performing fetal echocardiograms. A fetal echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the baby’s heart before birth, used to assess the health of the baby’s heart and detect any abnormalities.

To get Fetal Echocardiography Certification, applicants must have completed a minimum of 24 months of clinical experience in fetal echocardiography, or equivalent training as approved by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM). Applicants must also pass a written examination administered by the AIUM. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy and physiology, instrumentation, imaging techniques, and interpretation.

The cost for Fetal Echocardiography Certification is $1,500 USD for AIUM members and $2,000 USD for non-members. The certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued and can be renewed upon successful completion of a renewal examination.

Overall, obtaining Fetal Echocardiography Certification requires significant time and effort on behalf of the applicant; however, it can be an invaluable asset to any medical professional working in this field.

9. Advanced Cardiac Imaging Certification (ACI)

Advanced Cardiac Imaging Certification (ACI) is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of medical professionals in the field of advanced cardiac imaging. It is offered by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and is available to any physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who has completed an accredited training program in advanced cardiac imaging.

The ACI certification process includes a written exam that covers topics such as patient selection, image acquisition, interpretation, and reporting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in advanced cardiac imaging techniques through a hands-on skills assessment.

To be eligible for ACI certification, candidates must have completed an accredited training program in advanced cardiac imaging within the past five years and must have at least one year of clinical experience with advanced cardiac imaging procedures. In addition, candidates must be licensed to practice medicine in their state or country.

The cost for the ACI certification exam is $1,500 USD for ACC members and $2,000 USD for non-members. The fee includes access to the online study materials and the exam itself. Once certified, ACI holders are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education requirements and passing a recertification exam.

10. Adult Echocardiography Certification (AEC)

Adult Echocardiography Certification (AEC) is a certification program offered by the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE). It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of those who perform adult echocardiography. The AEC program is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers the fundamentals of adult echocardiography, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, imaging techniques, and clinical applications.

To become certified in Adult Echocardiography, you must first complete an ASE-approved training program or have equivalent experience. Once you have met the educational requirements, you can register for the AEC examination. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy and physiology, imaging techniques, and clinical applications. You must pass this exam with a score of at least 75% to earn your certification.

The entire process usually takes about six months to complete from start to finish. The cost of the exam varies depending on whether you are an ASE member or non-member; members pay $350 while non-members pay $450. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam and submitting your application materials.

11. Pediatric Echocardiography Certification (PEC).

Pediatric Echocardiography Certification (PEC) is a credential awarded by the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) to individuals who have demonstrated expertise in pediatric echocardiography. PEC certification is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of competency in the field and are committed to providing quality care for children with heart diseases.

To obtain PEC certification, applicants must first meet the ASE’s eligibility requirements, which include completion of an accredited echocardiography training program, at least two years of experience performing pediatric echocardiograms, and successful completion of the ASE Pediatric Echocardiography Examination. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, clinical indications for echocardiograms, image acquisition and interpretation, and patient management.

The entire process typically takes about six months from start to finish. After submitting an application to the ASE along with proof of eligibility requirements and passing score on the examination, applicants will receive their PEC certification within 4-6 weeks.

The cost for obtaining PEC certification varies depending on whether or not you are already an ASE member. For non-members, it costs $400 plus a $50 application fee; for members, it costs $200 plus a $50 application fee.

Do You Really Need a Cardiac Sonographer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is yes, if you want to become a cardiac sonographer. Cardiac sonographers are medical professionals who use specialized ultrasound equipment to diagnose and monitor cardiovascular conditions. These professionals require a specific level of expertise, so it is important that they have the proper training and credentials to work in the field.

A cardiac sonography certificate is one of the most important requirements for becoming a cardiac sonographer. This certificate demonstrates that an individual has received the necessary training and education required by employers in order to perform their duties effectively. The certification process involves completing a specified number of hours of clinical experience and passing an exam administered by an accredited organization. This ensures that individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely perform their job duties.

In addition to obtaining a certificate, cardiac sonographers must also be licensed in order to practice in some states. Licensing requirements vary from state to state but usually involve passing an exam as well as completing continuing education courses every few years in order to stay up-to-date on advances in technology and techniques used in the field.

Overall, obtaining a cardiac sonographer certificate is essential for anyone interested in entering this profession. It not only confirms that an individual has received the necessary training and education, but also demonstrates their commitment to providing quality care for patients with cardiovascular conditions.

Related: Cardiac Sonographer Resume Examples

FAQs About Cardiac Sonographer Certifications

Q1. What is a Cardiac Sonographer Certification?

A1. A Cardiac Sonographer Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of cardiac sonography. It is awarded by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) to individuals who have successfully completed the required coursework and passed the associated examinations.

Q2. How long does it take to complete a Cardiac Sonographer Certification?

A2. The duration of the program depends on the type of certification you are seeking, as well as your own level of experience and education in the field. Generally, it takes approximately one year to complete all requirements for certification.

Q3. What kind of job opportunities are available with a Cardiac Sonographer Certification?

A3. With a Cardiac Sonographer Certification, individuals can pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, private practices, and other healthcare settings that require specialized knowledge in cardiac sonography. These positions may include roles such as echocardiographers, vascular technologists, or ultrasound technicians.

Q4. What qualifications do I need to become certified as a Cardiac Sonographer?

A4: In order to become certified as a Cardiac Sonographer, you must meet certain educational requirements set by ARDMS including completing an approved program in diagnostic medical sonography or an equivalent program recognized by ARDMS that provides instruction in cardiac sonography; passing an examination administered by ARDMS; and meeting any additional requirements outlined by ARDMS for specific certifications.

Q5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my Cardiac Sonographer Certification?

A5: Yes, there are continuing education requirements for maintaining your certification status with ARDMS which includes completing 24 credits every two years from approved continuing medical education providers or other sources approved by ARDMS such as self-study programs or attending conferences related to cardiac sonography.