by 
Jobs in the medical and ultrasound field are expected to see a 27% growth by 2024 in Arkansas.
This means you have higher chances of getting hired and earning a high salary.
Let’s see the requirements for becoming an ultrasound technician in this state.
Article Table of Contents
Schooling Requirements
The state does not require a certain license for this specialization, however, you should consider getting one as companies do require it.
The most popular certification is the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), for which you need to pass a test.
To take the test you need to attend a program approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or have a year of job experience.
If you choose to pursue higher education, the program might last up to 4 years after which you will receive a bachelor’s degree.
You can also opt for a certification or associate’s degree, in which case the program is usually shorter.
You will need to complete 300 to 1,500 hours of practice, based on the chosen program.
You also need to take 30 and up to 120 credits.
The topics covered in the course include:
- General Pathophysiology
- Patient Care
- Abdominal Sonography
- Small Parts Sonography
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Arkansas State University | 2105 E. Aggie Road, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401 |
| Blue Cliff College | 3448 N College Ave Fayetteville, AR 72703 |
| University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences | 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 563 Little Rock, Arkansas 72205-7199 |
| University of Arkansas | 5210 Grand Avenue PO Box 3649 Fort Smith, AR 72913 |
Sonography Training Courses
Diagnostic medical sonography courses have a duration of 2-4 years and about 1,000 hours of practical experience.
These cover topics as:
- Survey of Disease
- Survey of Medical Terminology
- Medical Sonography Theory
- Anatomy and Physiology
MRI Technologist Training Courses
This program teaches you how to operate MRI machines and covers:
- Orientation to MRI Technology
- Fundamentals of MRI Technology
- Basic Patient Care
- Law and Ethics in Medical Imaging
Vascular Sonography Courses
This specialty is widely used in diagnosing patients by taking photographs of blood vessels.
The topics cover:
- Medical Sonography
- Neurosonography
- Abdominal Sonography
- Vascular Technology
Radiology Training Courses
These courses typically last for 4 years and include the following topics:
- Digital Image Acquisition and Display
- Advanced Modalities in Imaging
- Fundamentals of Radiographic Technology
- Fluoroscopy
Echo Tech Training Courses
This specialization deals with heart issues, and the following topics are covered:
- Echocardiography Terminology
- Anatomy of the Heart
- Electrical Conduction System of the Heart
- Cardiac Cycle
Job Opportunities in Arkansas
In order to get a better position, consider which of the previous specialties would be right for you.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Little Rock | $70,977 |
| Fort Smith | $66,409 |
| Fayetteville | $68,830 |
| Springdale | $68,830 |
| Jonesboro | $70,235 |
| Rogers | $68,417 |
| Conway | $70,290 |
| North Little Rock | $70,977 |
| Bentonville | $68,280 |
| Pine Bluff | $68,348 |
Regional Salary in Arkansas
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO | 100 | $76,850 | $36.95 | $98,110 | $63,040 |
| Fort Smith, AR-OK | 30 | $72,890 | $35.04 | $89,760 | $58,690 |
| Jonesboro, AR | 30 | $75,240 | $36.17 | $87,420 | $64,800 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR | 190 | $73,750 | $35.46 | $83,740 | $62,470 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Ultrasound technicians can work in schools, hospitals, clinics or doctor’s offices.
You will also be able to make connections while in school, which can help you get a job right after graduation.
Before you decide which program to choose, do research on what they offer and how long the course is.
Read the full guide: How to Become an Ultrasound Technician
Ultrasound Technicians by State