Best Online Sonography Programs

Learn about the top online bachelor's in sonography programs. Compare tuition rates, specializations, and employment opportunities.
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Updated on June 3, 2022
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Healthcare professionals use sonography to gain insights into the inner workings of the body, aiding diagnosis and guiding physicians during procedures. A bachelor's in sonography program trains students in anatomy, physiology, and the technique of ultrasound.

A bachelor's in sonography prepares students for various careers in distinct areas of sonography, such as obstetrics and gynecology, abdominal sonography, breast sonography, and vascular technology. In addition, students can also take up positions in consultancy, education, and sales and market representation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical sonographers made a median annual wage of $75,920 in May 2020.

An online bachelor's degree at a top online school in sonography usually takes 2-4 years, with several colleges adding a two-year major to a two-year general education curriculum.

Read on to learn more about these programs.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Sonography Program?

Expertise in sonography requires a detail-oriented mind. Enhanced hand-eye coordination and other technical skills are required to operate the machines. Students should also have the physical strength to move patients who need assistance and exhibit flexibility, patience, and emotional intelligence while dealing with them.

Each scan requires constant focus and concentration, and professionals cannot afford to be distracted, even in a busy environment.

A bachelor's in sonography program offers various specializations across universities. Potential options include the following:

  • General — vascular
  • Cardiac — vascular
  • Healthcare administration
  • Gynecologic sonography
  • Pediatric echocardiography
  • Neonatal sonography
  • Patient care

Many colleges offer online degree completion programs that last 1-3 years. However, these programs are only for individuals already working as sonographers who hold an associate degree. Prospective students must be working professionals and have access to adequately equipped laboratories.

Although course credits vary from college to college, all programs require a minimum number of credits obtained from the bachelor's program in addition to those transferred from associate-level education and previous work experience.

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.

Related Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Sonography Program?

Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging

This course introduces students to the science of radiology. X-rays, nuclear medicine, ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are some processes that students learn about in this course.

Sonographic Scanning and Instrumentation

This course trains students to understand and use sonographic technology and equipment, anatomical positioning, and preparation procedures of sonography. Additional topics include various modes of sonography and their applications.

Obstetric and Gynecological Sonography

In this course, students learn about the sonographic scanning of obstetric and gynecology patients. They learn about the anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system and the procedures of scanning the pelvis and uterus.

Cardiovascular Physiology and Sonography

In this course, students learn about cardiac and echocardiographic processes and the distinction between the two. The course includes an in-depth study of the anatomy, functions, and related terminology of the heart.

Comprehensive Sonography

This course provides an exhaustive study of different types of sonography procedures, including cardiac, vascular, neurological, and musculoskeletal scanning practices.

What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Sonography Program?

In many cases, online bachelor's in sonography programs only admit ultrasound and sonography technicians who already hold a certificate or associate degree in the field. An online sonography program offers these professionals a flexible way to advance their careers and secure more advanced positions.

Application

Many colleges and universities use platforms that allow students to submit a single application for multiple colleges. One such platform is the Common Application. Students can complete and submit applications through online forms, which open according to spring and fall semester cycles. These applications typically require a fee.

Test Scores

Many entrance exams test math, verbal, and analytical skills to judge prospective students' qualifications. Many schools use standardized tests such as ACT or SAT. This requirement is less prevalent in degree completion programs.

Letters of Recommendation

Many online sonography programs require a minimum of two letters of recommendation from supervisors in medical settings. Program coordinators, as well as directors and physicians sharing the workplace, can write these letters.

Essays

College essays help admissions departments get to know the personal motivations and ambitions of each student. In essays for sonography programs, colleges often seek a cover letter format that highlights technical specializations and experience.

Official Transcripts

Online bachelor's in sonography programs often require official transcripts that prove completion of prerequisite courses from an accredited higher education institution. These courses may include physics, statistics, anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and pathophysiology. Many programs also accept transfer credits for completed coursework.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Sonography Degree?

Career Outlook

Healthcare professions, including sonography, are among the fastest-growing career fields in the United States. The BLS projects 19% job growth for diagnostic medical sonographers between 2020 and 2030.

In addition to the various medical fields with diagnostic sonography, graduates with a bachelor's in sonography can also pursue careers in consulting or education. Degree-holders can also choose to sell or market sonographic equipment or further the field through research or technology.

According to the BLS, medical sonographers earned a median annual salary of $75,920 as of May 2020.

Career Paths

Cardiac Sonographer

Cardiac sonographers work in collaboration with doctors to assess the heart conditions of patients through detailed images. Job duties include recording patient data, performing sonography and echocardiograms, assisting physicians in diagnosing patients with heart conditions, and performing administrative duties, such as scheduling appointments.

Average Annual Salary: $68,320 (Payscale, December 2021)

Ultrasound Supervisor

Ultrasound supervisors explain imaging processes to patients and introduce them to testing procedures. They also establish and facilitate communication between patients and ultrasound professionals and give technical directions to ultrasound staff. They also make sure that equipment is working correctly.

Average Annual Salary: $84,040 (Payscale, December 2021)

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic medical sonographers professionals take and analyze sonographic images of various body parts and diagnose various ailments in patients. They can also differentiate between normal and abnormal imaging testing results and educate patients about sonographic procedures.

Average Annual Salary: $64,900 (Payscale, December 2021)

Health Educator

Health educators develop and implement health promotion strategies across communities. They also teach people about disease prevention. They can work for individual clients, research institutes, hospitals, government agencies, corporate institutions, or community service organizations.

Average Annual Salary: $46,730 (Payscale, December 2021)

Sales Manager

Sonography degree-holders can also sell and market sonographic equipment. Sales managers lead sales teams to achieve targets by building awareness and promoting new and updated ultrasound technology. They are also responsible for hiring and training sales members, evaluating performance, and setting quotas.

Average Annual Salary: $50,820 (Payscale, December 2021)

Sonography Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Continuing Education

For specific leadership roles in medicine and education, professionals generally need a master's degree in sonography. Sonographers can usually advance their careers with work experience in addition to a bachelor's degree. However, a master's in the field can lead to increased pay and job opportunities.

A master of health science degree in clinical and diagnostic science is a common next step for bachelor's degree-holders. Professionals can also advance their careers through professional certifications from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in Sonography Program?

Cost

According to the Education Data Initiative, the average in-state student at a public four-year university spent $25,615 per academic year as of 2021. Online students can often reduce this figure by saving on fees like room and board. Make sure to perform in-depth research on additional fees outside of tuition to find the true cost of attendance.

Program Format

Consider whether you'd like to enroll in a full-time, part-time, or accelerated program based on your professional and familial commitments. Also, if you are enrolling online, consider whether asynchronous or synchronous learning works better for you. Synchronous delivery involves live, online courses, while asynchronous delivery does not.

Location

Keeping in mind the needs of out-of-state students, most online bachelor's in sonography programs do not include any on-campus elements. However, some programs may include lab requirements that you must complete in person. In case you need to complete on-campus requirements, consider enrolling at a nearby school.

Accreditation

Only consider enrolling at schools that hold regional accreditation. This third-party process evaluates the quality of a school's programs and resources. If you enroll at a school that doesn't hold accreditation, you will not be able to receive federal financial aid.

Student Support

Most colleges offer academic advising to help students plan their courses. Many schools also offer mentorship programsto provide learners with academic, social, and career guidance. In addition, learners can also take advantage of internship opportunities to apply their sonography knowledge in a medical setting.

2021 Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Sonography Programs

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Best Online Bachelor's in Sonography Programs

  1. Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
    Location

    Omaha, NE

    Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health offers students a BS degree in medical imaging that acts as an online degree completion program. Designed for graduates of an associate in radiologic technology program, students complete bachelor's degree requirements through classes such as imaging procedures in computed tomography, mammography, and advanced magnetic resonance imaging.

    When reviewing applicants, this program considers prior college performance and requires proof of professional certification. Prospective learners submit an application along with a written statement, transcripts, and a career awareness questionnaire.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $580 per credit
    • Program Length: 2 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 122 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: Yes
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • Program Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  2. Fort Hays State University
    Location

    Hays, KS

    Tuition

    $12420

    Fort Hays State University's medical diagnostic imaging degree offers associate degree holders a clear path towards completing their bachelor's degree. Alongside transferred credits, online course requirements include topics such as digital radiography, principles of diagnostic medical sonography, and mammography for radiologic technologists.

    Applicants to this online bachelor's in sonography program must hold an associate degree or certificate in radiography and have a minimum GPA of 2.75 in past college-level classes.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $227 per credit
    • Program Length: 18-24 months
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 124 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: Yes
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  3. Siena Heights University
    Location

    Adrian, MI

    Siena Heights University is a private, Catholic institution based in Michigan. Designed for working radiologic technologists, this degree completion program's "inverted major" structure allows students with previous academic and/or professional experience in radiologic technology to skip additional sonography coursework and instead focus on liberal arts classes.

    Prospective students must submit official transcripts from all previous postsecondary institutions. Additionally, applicants should submit proof of certification and must complete their last 30 credits at Siena Heights.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $540 per credit
    • Program Length: 12-24 months
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: Yes
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  4. Misericordia University
    Location

    Dallas, PA

    Misericordia University is a Pennsylvania-based private institution that offers a fully online bachelor's degree completion program for certified sonographers. Additionally, the school offers a hybrid bachelor's in sonography that students can complete as a traditional four-year option. Core sonography classes include topics such as intro to vascular sonography, pathophysiology for healthcare, and breast sonography.

    Degree completion students must hold sonography credentials and provide Misericordia with official transcripts. High school seniors must have a minimum 3.0 GPA or finish in the top 50% of their graduating class.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $430 per credit
    • Program Length: 24-48 months
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 125 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: Yes
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online, Hybrid
    • School Status: Private
    • Program Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
    • School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  5. AdventHealth University
    Location

    Orlando, FL

    AdventHealth University is an Orlando-based private institution that specializes in healthcare-related disciplines. In addition to general education requirements, students tackling an online bachelor's in sonography explore diagnostic imaging, advanced topics in sonography, and research methods in allied health.

    Prospective students must hold an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography from a regionally accredited institution. Additionally, applicants must submit official transcripts with a 2.5 minimum GPA.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $540 per credit
    • Program Length: 18 months
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 78 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: Yes
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Sonography Programs

Is a bachelor's in sonography worth it?

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Sonography is one of the fastest-growing careers in healthcare. Between 2020 and 2030, the BLS projects 19% job growth for diagnostic medical sonographers. Furthermore, diagnostic medical sonographers earned a median annual salary of $75,920 as of May 2020. As such, the career provides stability, high demand, and solid wages.

What can I do with a bachelor's in sonography?

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Bachelor's degree-holders in sonography can pursue careers in consulting, education, imaging administration, equipment manufacturing, and healthcare. Between 2020 and 2030, the BLS projects 19% job growth for diagnostic medical sonographers, which translates to 19,100 new jobs during that period.

Sonography graduates can also work as sales and marketing representatives to sell sonographic equipment or as research scientists to develop new sonographic equipment and uses for technology.

Are sonography majors in high demand?

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Yes. The BLS projects 19% job growth for diagnostic medical sonographers between 2020 and 2030. The BLS attributes this high projected growth rate in large part to the increasing medical needs of the aging baby boom generation.

What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's in sonography?

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According to the BLS, diagnostic medical sonographers who work in outpatient care centers earned the highest median wage at $96,780 as of May 2020. Hospital sonographers earned the next highest median annual salary at $76,060.

How much money can I make with a bachelor's in sonography?

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According to the BLS, diagnostic medical sonographers made a median annual wage of $75,920 in May 2020. There is high variance in salary for these professionals, as the top 10% of earners in the field made more than $96,790 annually, while the lowest 10% earned less than $30,140 per year.

Keep in mind that location, title, experience, and certifications can all impact salary potential.

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BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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