Ultrasound technician (ultrasound tech) and diagnostic medical sonographer (sonographer) are very similar careers and are typically used to describe the same or very similar programs of study in Rhode Island (RI).
For the purpose of this guide, we shall use the terms ultrasound tech schools in Rhode Island and sonography schools in Rhode Island interchangeably.
Below you will find information on requirements to become an ultrasound tech in Rhode Island as well as details on some of the top ultrasound technician schools and related programs near you.
Requirements to Become an Ultrasound Tech in Rhode Island
Ultrasound techs in Rhode Island will typically have earned either a 2-year associate’s degree or a 4-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, followed by certification from a recognized certifying body.
Accredited Ultrasound Tech Schools in Rhode Island
Ultrasound tech schools in Rhode Island are accredited by the CAAHEP.
Accreditation confirms that a school delivers a high level of quality education ensuring that students are well prepared for certification and entry into the healthcare field as an ultrasound technician.
There are currently 2 accredited ultrasound tech schools in Rhode Island.
| College | Metro Area | Concentration | Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community College of Rhode Island | Warwick | General, Cardiac, Vascular | Associates Degree |
| Rhode Island Hospital | Providence | General | Diploma |
Most schools offer either an associate’s degree program that can be completed in as little as 2 years. Some schools will also offer a 4-year bachelor’s degree or even a 1-year certificate program.
Certification and Licensing in Rhode Island
Certification and licensing is not a requirement to work as an ultrasound tech in Rhode Island however most employers will have a preference for candidates who have obtained certification.
In order to become certified, you will need to successfully pass the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exams.
An associate’s degree from an accredited school is a necessary prerequisite to taking these exams.
Other certification options are available to those wishing to specialize in a particular area such as cardiac and ophthalmic including the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Opthalmology (JCAHPO).
If you have any further questions about certification or licensing for ultrasound techs in Rhode Island you can contact;
State Board: Rhode Island Department of Health – Radiologic Health Program
Website: health.ri.gov
Phone: (401) 222-1038
Ultrasound Tech Salary in Rhode Island
| Average Salary | $92,460 |
| Hourly Wage | $44.45 |
| Top 10% | $119,460 |
| Bottom 10% | $69,540 |
| Employed | 220 |
The average ultrasound tech salary in Rhode Island is $92,460 and is 19% more than the national average salary for ultrasound technicians.
This equates to an hourly pay of $44.45.
The average salary for ultrasound techs in Rhode Island has grown substantially by 29%, or $21,060, since 2016.
The above data is taken from studies released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2021.
Salary Range
- The top 10% of earners in the profession in Rhode Island make an average salary of $119,460 whilst the bottom 10% or entry level ultrasound techs make just $69,540 per annum.
| Area name | Average Salary | Hourly Wage | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providence-Warwick | $90,390 | $43.46 | 270 |
Employment
There are currently 220 persons employed as ultrasound technicians in Rhode Island (2021). This represents a fall of -39%, or -140 jobs, since 2016.
Career Outlook for Ultrasound Techs in Rhode Island
Average salaries have experienced a growth of 29% since 2016 whilst the number of jobs for the profession in Rhode Island has experienced a fall of -39% over the same period.
Going forward the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment growth of 12% between 2019 and 2029. This is much faster than the average for all other professions.
The table below compares salary and employment for ultrasound techs with similar or related healthcare careers in Rhode Island.
| Career | Salary | Employed |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrasound Tech | $92,460 | 220 |
| X Ray Tech | $74,670 | 760 |
| Cardiovascular Tech | $85,590 | 160 |
| Nuclear Medicine Tech | $103,170 | 50 |
| MRI Tech | $89,920 | 170 |