Career Guide
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer or Ultrasound Technician
An Ultrasound Technologist (also known as a Sonographer) is a specially trained medical imager who uses sound waves to create images of organs and tissues within the body. Although most people only think of ultrasound as it relates to pregnancy, that is only a small part of the job. Regions of the body where ultrasound is frequently used include: abdominal (gallbladder, liver, kidneys) and gynecological (uterus and ovaries) regions, blood vessels in the neck and extremities, and diagnostic areas including breast, thyroid, and testicular sonography. These professionals can be found working all shifts in hospitals, clinics, and physician’s offices.
Degree Requirements
Most entry-level positions require at least an Associate's Degree. While MCC does not offer any degrees or certificates in Sonography, there are several paths to the profession:
- Earn your AAS (Associate of Applied Science)
A local option is
SUNY Alfred State College. The following MCC courses meet the entrance requirements for Alfred State if not taken in high school: BIO 120 or 133 & 132, MTH 104, PHY 100. CHE 100 is also recommended. Additional schools can be found under "Institutions" below.
- Earn your BPS (Bachelor of Professional Studies)
Complete the
AAS in Radiologic Technology at MCC and then apply to the
BPS in Ultrasound at SUNY Upstate Medical University.
- Earn your BS (Bachelor of Science)
Locally, there are programs at
RIT and
SUNY Upstate Medical University. You can view the
MCC Transfer Pathway Guide for RIT and the
SUNY Upstate Medical Ultrasound web page for details about courses to take. Note that these programs are very competitive and accept a small number of students.
- Earn your Associate degree at MCC and then a Certificate at RIT
A
Certificate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Ultrasound) or
Certificate in Echocardiography (Cardiac Ultrasound) is available to all registered allied health practitioners as well as to those holding an associate or bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline. BIO 144 & 145, PHY 145 &146, and MTH 165 or higher are required. Students are advised to connect with RIT to discuss.
Criteria for Acceptance
A strong foundation in math and science is needed. See specific programs for details as entrance requirements vary. An interview may be part of the application process. The bachelor degree programs are especially competitive. RIT's program has limited seats for transfer students.
MCC Prerequisite Courses
It is important to note that MCC does not offer any degrees or certificates specifically in Sonography. However, there are courses offered at MCC that could be used towards a degree elsewhere. These may include BIO 144 & 145, PHY 145 &146, and math courses. Be sure to check with the transfer institution.
Application Notes
Be advised that a prior felony conviction may impede a student’s ability to participate in a required clinical experience.
Institutions
AAS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
BS/BPS in Diagnostic Ultrasound Sonography
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY - note that Upstate also offers: Medical Imaging Science/CT and MRI, Radiation Therapy, and other health related degrees. The BS degree is for students with the needed prerequisite courses; no specific type of degree is required. The BPS degree is offered in CT, MRI, Radiation Therapy or Ultrasound and is for students who have an associate's degree in radiography, the required prerequisite courses, and ARRT certification and/or ARRT certification-eligibility in radiography (X-ray).
To Search for Accredited Programs: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Under Profession, look for Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Other Important Information
While every effort is made to ensure that the information in this guide is accurate, students are advised to contact transfer institutions for specific course requirements and the most up-to-date information.
Updated 09/18/2025