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In Iowa, ultrasound tech jobs are meant to grow by 25% until 2024, which means there are plenty of opportunities in this state.
The state does not require a license to practice, however, many companies do request it.
The ultrasound tech certifications in Iowa are managed by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
Let’s have a look at the requirements and training schools in this state.
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Training Requirements
The certification programs usually last for about 12 months.
However, if you are looking to pursue a bachelor’s or associate’s degree, these last between 2 and 4 years.
You will also need 30, 60, or 120 credits to complete training.
Make sure the chosen training program also includes around 1700 hours of practice in a clinic or hospital setting.
After the program is completed, you will need to pass an exam.
The school you choose should be based on how long you are willing to study.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Allen College | 1990 Heath St, Waterloo, Iowa 50703 |
| Eastern Iowa Community College District | 101 W 3rd St, Davenport, IA 52801 |
| Iowa Central Community College | 1 Triton Cir, Fort Dodge, IA 50501 |
| Mercy College of Health Sciences | 928 Sixth Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50309 |
| St Luke’s College | 2720 Stone Park Blvd, Sioux City, Iowa 51104 |
| University of Iowa | 101 Jessup Hall, Iowa City, Iowa 52242 |
| Vatterott College | 7000 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321 |
Some schools also offer scholarships to students in need, which will help you start off your career.
The program coursework for ultrasound techs includes:
- Sonographic Cross-Sectional Anatomy
- Principles of Imaging
- Procedures of Medical Imaging
- Professional Ethics in Sonography
Specialization coursework
If you get a specific specialization, you will be able to get a better job and thus a higher salary.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Des Moines | $73,877 |
| Cedar Rapids | $72,457 |
| Davenport | $72,128 |
| Sioux City | $63,537 |
| Iowa City | $71,861 |
| Waterloo | $69,036 |
| Ames | $73,189 |
| West Des Moines | $73,877 |
| Ankeny | $73,877 |
| Council Bluffs | $72,200 |
Regional Salary in Iowa
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids, IA | 50 | $83,990 | $40.38 | $103,660 | $68,550 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA-IL | 90 | $78,630 | $37.8 | $95,120 | $63,710 |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | 160 | $81,280 | $39.08 | $103,500 | $66,180 |
| Iowa City, IA | 80 | $82,570 | $39.7 | $100,870 | $67,330 |
| Sioux City, IA-NE-SD | 40 | $78,230 | $37.61 | $91,770 | $60,620 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls, IA | 40 | $76,870 | $36.96 | $94,080 | $65,100 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
These specializations are as follows:
MRI Technology programs
The mandatory classes include:
- Radiographic Imaging Equipment
- Radiographic Pathology
- Clinical Experience in MRI Technology
MRI techs take 3D scans of the body and use them in diagnostics.
Vascular Sonography Programs
This specialization deals with blood vessels in diagnostics.
The classes include:
- Cardiovascular Monitoring
- Scanning Applications
- Ethical Issues in Healthcare
- Anatomy and Physiology
Radiology Tech Classes
This deals with scanning techniques in diagnostics, as well as safety and imagery.
The classes include:
- Radiation Protection
- Imaging Techniques
- Equipment Operation and Maintenance
- Physics of Medical Imaging
Echo Tech Classes
This specialization deals with the heart and preventing heart disease.
Coursework includes:
- Sonography Physics
- Echocardiography
- Cardiac Pathology Studies
- Interdisciplinary Cardiac Imaging
During your training, you will also be taking classes on:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Diagnostic Procedures I, II, III
- Healthcare Communication
- Patient Safety and Procedures
- Inter-professional Issues
- Basic Math, English and Sciences courses
Exam requirements
After graduation from a school that is approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, you will need to pass an exam.
The ARDMS site is a good resource in learning more about the exam requirements.
Sometimes, those that work in the field for up to a year without a license are also accepted to take the exam.
How to Get Hired in Iowa
Many of the state’s employers are located in Des Moines, the biggest city of the state.
As an ultrasound tech, you can find a job at one of the many companies available in the city or in other smaller cities.
Read the full guide: How to Become an Ultrasound Technician
Ultrasound Technicians by State