Top 10 Ultrasound Technologist Certifications

Certifications are important for ultrasound technologists in the job market because they demonstrate that a technologist has the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely and accurately in an ultrasound setting. They also provide employers with a baseline of competency and can help differentiate one technologist from another when it comes to hiring. Certifications can also lead to higher salaries and more job opportunities. Lastly, certifications can help build trust between patients and the technologist since they can be used as proof that the technologist is qualified to perform ultrasounds.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Ultrasound Technologists and explains how they can help advance an ultrasound technologist's career.

What are Ultrasound Technologist Certifications?

Ultrasound technologist certification is a voluntary, professional certification program offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). This program is designed to recognize qualified individuals who have met specific educational and clinical experience criteria in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. This certification demonstrates an individual's knowledge, skill and expertise in the use of ultrasound technology to produce high-quality medical images used to diagnose a variety of medical conditions.

This certification can help both employers and patients alike by providing assurance that those performing diagnostic imaging tests are knowledgeable and highly skilled in the use of ultrasound technology. For employers, this certification may help them attract qualified professionals for their organization as well as provide assurance that their staff has met certain criteria for competency. For patients, this certification may provide peace of mind knowing that their health care provider has achieved a level of expertise in the use of ultrasound technology.

In addition to providing assurance to employers and patients, ultrasound technologist certification may also be beneficial for those seeking career advancement opportunities in the field. Obtaining this certification may lead to higher salaries or promotions within an organization or even open up new job opportunities altogether. It can also serve as a sign of commitment to ongoing professional development and can demonstrate dedication to excellence in patient care.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing an ultrasound technologist certification, make sure you understand the requirements for obtaining a license in your state. Each state has different requirements that must be met before practicing as an ultrasound technologist.

Related: What does an Ultrasound Technologist do?

Top 10 Ultrasound Technologist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Ultrasound Technologists today.

1. American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)

The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is a professional organization that provides certification and registration for sonographers. ARDMS certification is the gold standard in the field of diagnostic medical sonography and is required by many employers.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by ARDMS. The exam covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, instrumentation, patient care, and safety. Once an applicant passes the exam, they are eligible to receive their ARDMS certification.

It typically takes several months to prepare for the ARDMS exam. Applicants should take time to review study materials and practice tests in order to be adequately prepared for the exam.

To get certified through ARDMS, applicants must first register online or by mail with ARDMS and pay the applicable fee. After registering, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule their exam date and time at a Pearson VUE testing center near them.

The cost of getting certified through ARDMS varies depending on which specialty exams you take and how many you take at once. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 per specialty exam plus a $50 application fee for each specialty exam taken.

2. American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is a professional certification organization that provides credentials to individuals in the field of radiologic technology. It is recognized as the gold standard for certifying radiologic technologists and technicians.

To become certified through the ARRT, an individual must meet certain educational requirements, pass an exam, and abide by a code of ethics. The educational requirements vary depending on the type of certification being sought but typically include completing an accredited program in radiologic technology and meeting any state licensing requirements.

Once all educational requirements are met, applicants must pass the ARRT Certification Exam. This exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as patient care, radiation safety, imaging procedures, and equipment operation. The exam takes about three hours to complete and costs $200 for members or $250 for non-members.

To maintain certification status with the ARRT, individuals must complete 24 credits of continuing education every two years and pay an annual renewal fee of $50 for members or $75 for non-members.

Overall, becoming certified through the ARRT can take several months depending on how quickly you complete your educational requirements and pass the exam.

3. Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)

Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) is a professional organization that provides credentials to individuals in the field of cardiovascular technology. CCI is dedicated to promoting excellence in patient care and advancing the practice of cardiovascular technology. It offers a variety of credentials, including Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS), Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT), and Certified Cardiac Device Specialist (CCDS).

To obtain a credential from CCI, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having completed an accredited program in cardiovascular technology or having passed an examination administered by CCI. The application process typically takes between four and six weeks to complete. Applicants must submit their application along with supporting documents, such as transcripts and letters of recommendation.

The cost for obtaining a credential from CCI varies depending on the type of credential being sought. For example, the fee for obtaining an RCS credential is $225 USD, while the fee for obtaining an RVT credential is $250 USD. In addition to these fees, applicants may also be required to pay additional fees for any additional exams they may need to take in order to qualify for their desired credential.

Overall, obtaining a credential from CCI can be a lengthy process that requires dedication and commitment. However, it can also be very rewarding as it can open up many opportunities for individuals who are looking to further their career in the field of cardiovascular technology.

4. American College of Radiology (ACR)

The American College of Radiology (ACR) is a professional organization that provides education and accreditation to radiologists, radiation oncologists, medical physicists and other medical professionals involved in the practice of radiology. The ACR accredits imaging facilities, such as MRI centers and mammography clinics, ensuring they meet standards for safety and quality. It also offers continuing education programs for radiologists and other healthcare professionals.

It typically takes about six months to receive ACR accreditation. To get started, you must complete an application form with information about your facility or practice. You will then be asked to provide documentation related to your facility’s personnel, equipment, policies and procedures. Once the application is approved, you will be required to submit additional documents for review before receiving your accreditation certificate.

The cost of ACR accreditation varies depending on the type of facility or practice being accredited. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Additionally, there may be ongoing fees associated with maintaining your accreditation status over time.

Overall, obtaining ACR accreditation is an important step in ensuring that your imaging facility meets the highest standards of safety and quality care for patients.

5. National Certification Board for Ultrasound Professionals (NCBUP)

The National Certification Board for Ultrasound Professionals (NCBUP) is a non-profit organization that provides certification in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. This certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the field of ultrasound technology, and it is recognized by many employers as a sign of professionalism.

In order to become certified by the NCBUP, an individual must first meet certain educational requirements. These include completing an accredited ultrasound program and passing the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) exam. Once these requirements are met, individuals can then apply for NCBUP certification.

The application process typically takes between 4-6 weeks, depending on the number of applications received. The cost of applying for NCBUP certification varies depending on the type of certification sought and whether or not additional exams are required. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$400 to apply for NCBUP certification.

Once an individual has been approved for certification, they must then take part in continuing education courses every two years in order to maintain their status as a certified professional. Additionally, they must also adhere to all applicable standards set forth by the NCBUP in order to remain certified.

6. American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)

The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) is a professional organization that provides education, certification, and advocacy for radiologic technologists. It was founded in 1920 and currently has over 150,000 members.

ASRT offers two types of certification: the Registered Technologist (RT) credential and the Certified Radiologic Technologist (CRT) credential. To become an RT, you must have completed an accredited radiography program and passed the ARRT certification exam. To become a CRT, you must have completed an accredited program in computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or sonography and passed the ARRT certification exam.

It typically takes about two years to complete the educational requirements for either type of certification. After completing your program, you will need to register with ASRT to take the ARRT exam. The cost of registration varies depending on whether you are a student or a practicing professional; it can range from $50 to $250. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your RT or CRT credentials from ASRT.

In addition to providing certifications, ASRT also offers continuing education courses and other resources for radiologic technologists. These include online courses, seminars, conferences, publications, webinars, and more.

Overall, becoming certified through ASRT can be an invaluable asset for any radiologic technologist looking to advance their career in this field.

7. Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS)

The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) is a professional membership organization that serves as the leading advocate for sonographers in the United States. It was founded in 1970 and has since grown to become the largest organization of its kind in the world. The SDMS provides its members with education, resources, and support to help them excel in their profession.

To become a member of the SDMS, one must have completed an accredited educational program in diagnostic medical sonography or a related field. Additionally, applicants must pass a certification examination administered by either the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). Once these requirements are met, individuals can apply for membership online through the SDMS website.

Membership fees vary depending on whether one is applying as an individual or as part of an institution. For individual memberships, there is an annual fee of $150 USD. Institutions can purchase group memberships at discounted rates; however, they must meet certain criteria to qualify for this discount.

In addition to providing educational resources and support to its members, the SDMS also offers certifications in various areas of sonography such as vascular technology and obstetrics/gynecology sonography. These certifications require additional training and examinations administered by ARDMS or CCI before they can be obtained.

8. Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS)

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS) is a nonprofit organization that works to ensure the quality of education and training programs in diagnostic medical sonography. It is recognized by the United States Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency for diagnostic medical sonography educational programs. The JRC-DMS is responsible for evaluating and accrediting educational programs in the field of diagnostic medical sonography, which includes ultrasound, echocardiography, vascular technology, and other related specialties.

It typically takes up to 18 months for an institution or program to receive accreditation from the JRC-DMS. To obtain accreditation from the JRC-DMS, institutions must submit an application and pay a fee. The fee varies depending on the type of program being accredited. For example, a two-year associate degree program would have a fee of $3,000 while a four-year bachelor's degree program would have a fee of $4,500.

In addition to submitting an application and paying the appropriate fee, institutions must also provide documentation demonstrating that their program meets all criteria established by the JRC-DMS standards for accreditation. This includes providing evidence that faculty members are qualified to teach courses in diagnostic medical sonography; that students are receiving adequate clinical experience; and that there are sufficient resources available to support student learning. Once all criteria have been met and reviewed by the JRC-DMS staff, a decision will be made regarding whether or not an institution or program has met all standards necessary for accreditation.

9. American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM)

The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) is a professional organization that promotes the safe and effective use of ultrasound in medicine. It is dedicated to advancing the science, safety, and quality of medical ultrasound through education, research, advocacy, and accreditation. AIUM provides resources for physicians, sonographers, and other healthcare professionals on the latest advances in ultrasound technology.

To become an AIUM member, you must have a degree from an accredited school of medicine or osteopathy or be certified by an approved certifying body. Membership applications can be obtained from the AIUM website or by contacting the AIUM office directly. The application process typically takes about two weeks to complete.

The cost of membership depends on your profession and experience level. Physicians pay $275 per year while sonographers pay $175 per year. There are additional fees for certification exams and other services provided by AIUM.

In addition to membership benefits such as discounts on educational materials and access to exclusive resources, members also receive recognition for their commitment to excellence in medical ultrasound practice through awards programs such as the AIUM Ultrasound Quality Assurance Program (UQAP).

10. National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is a non-profit organization that provides certification for healthcare professionals. It offers certifications in a variety of areas, such as medical coding and billing, medical assisting, phlebotomy, and pharmacy technician.

To become certified through the NHA, individuals must complete an accredited program in their chosen field and pass an exam. Depending on the type of certification desired, the process can take anywhere from one to four months.

In order to get certified with NHA, individuals must first register for an exam. This can be done online or by mail. Once registered, applicants will receive information about how to prepare for the exam and what materials they need to bring on test day.

The cost of taking an NHA certification exam varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally speaking, exams range from $90-$200 USD per attempt. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam and/or obtaining study materials.

Do You Really Need a Ultrasound Technologist Certificate?

The answer to this question largely depends on the individual's career aspirations. In general, an ultrasound technologist certificate is not required to become a certified ultrasound technician; however, it can be beneficial for those who want to further their education and increase their job opportunities.

For some individuals, an ultrasound technologist certificate may not be necessary due to the fact that they already have experience and qualifications in the field of medical imaging. For others, having a certificate could open up more positions or higher-level positions within the field of medical imaging. Additionally, having an ultrasound technologist certificate could help individuals stand out from other job candidates and demonstrate their commitment to learning and growing in the field of medical imaging.

Ultimately, whether or not individuals need an ultrasound technologist certificate depends on the individual’s specific goals. If someone wants to advance their career in medical imaging or if they want to become certified as an ultrasound technician then obtaining a certificate will likely be beneficial for them. However, if someone does not plan on furthering their education or advancing in the field then a certificate may not be necessary for them.

Related: Ultrasound Technologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Ultrasound Technologist Certifications

Q1. What is an Ultrasound Technologist Certification?

A1. An Ultrasound Technologist Certification is a credential that recognizes professionals who have the knowledge and skills to perform ultrasound examinations and sonography procedures. It is awarded by professional organizations such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

Q2. How do I become certified as an Ultrasound Technologist?

A2. To become certified as an Ultrasound Technologist, you must meet certain educational and clinical experience requirements, pass a comprehensive exam, and maintain your certification with continuing education credits.

Q3. How long does it take to get an Ultrasound Technologist Certification?

A3. The time it takes to get an Ultrasound Technologist Certification depends on the individual's educational background and experience level. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete all of the necessary requirements for certification.

Q4. What are the benefits of having an Ultrasound Technologist Certification?

A4. Having an Ultrasound Technologist Certification can help you stand out from other applicants when seeking employment in this field and can also help you advance in your career by opening up opportunities for higher salary positions or promotions within your organization. In addition, having a certification can also demonstrate your commitment to safety standards and patient care quality within the medical imaging profession.

Q5. Are there any costs associated with obtaining an Ultrasound Technologist Certification?

A5. Yes, there are costs associated with obtaining an Ultrasound Technologist Certification, including application fees, exam fees, and continuing education credits required for maintaining certification status over time.