Medical sonography
is a growing, well-paying career.
Medical sonography training is completed within two years and medical sonographers earn about $60,000 annually (as of 2010). It's a career choice that has its rewards and its unique challenges.
Pros
Sonographers are relatively well-paid. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median wage for sonographers in 2008 was $61,980. The middle 50 percent earned between $52,570 and $73,680 annually. With a growing older population, the need for sonographers is expected to increase by 18 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the BLS.
Cons
Those pursing sonography careers should have an interest in science as classes in anatomy, physiology and physics are typically required. Medical sonographers spend many hours standing and may be required to take equipment to patient hospital rooms to perform testing. They also should be able to lift more than 50 pounds. Since more than half of all sonographers work in hospitals, they may have to work evenings, weekends and overtime.
Fun Fact
The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) has more than 20,000 members nationwide.
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