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 New Mexico (NM).
For the purpose of this guide, we shall use the terms ultrasound tech schools in New Mexico and sonography schools in New Mexico interchangeably.
Below you will find information on requirements to become an ultrasound tech in New Mexico as well as details on some of the top ultrasound technician schools and related programs near you.
Requirements to Become an Ultrasound Tech in New Mexico
Ultrasound techs in New Mexico 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 New Mexico
Ultrasound tech schools in New Mexico 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 New Mexico.
| College | Metro Area | Concentration | Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central New Mexico Community College | Albuquerque | General | Associates Degree |
| Dona Ana Community College | Las Cruces | General | Certificate, Associate |
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 New Mexico
Certification and licensing is not a requirement to work as an ultrasound tech in New Mexico 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 New Mexico you can contact;
State Board: New Jersey Dept of Environmental Protection
Website: www.xray.nj.gov
Phone: (609) 984-5890
Ultrasound Tech Salary in New Mexico
| Average Salary | $73,780 |
| Hourly Wage | $35.47 |
| Top 10% | $91,820 |
| Bottom 10% | $57,470 |
| Employed | 470 |
The average ultrasound tech salary in New Mexico is $73,780 and is 5% less than the national average salary for ultrasound technicians.
This equates to an hourly pay of $35.47.
The average salary for ultrasound techs in New Mexico has risen by 9%, or $5,900, 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 New Mexico make an average salary of $91,820 whilst the bottom 10% or entry level ultrasound techs make just $57,470 per annum.
| Area name | Average Salary | Hourly Wage | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque | $73,010 | $35.10 | 310 |
| Las Cruces | $69,750 | $33.54 | 30 |
Employment
There are currently 470 persons employed as ultrasound technicians in New Mexico (2021). This represents a decrease of -6%, or -30 jobs, since 2016.
Career Outlook for Ultrasound Techs in New Mexico
Average salaries have experienced an increase of 9% since 2016 whilst the numbers of jobs for the profession in New Mexico have experienced a decrease of -6% 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 New Mexico.
| Career | Salary | Employed |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrasound Tech | $73,780 | 470 |
| X Ray Tech | $60,770 | 1,370 |
| Cardiovascular Tech | $53,330 | 370 |
| Nuclear Medicine Tech | $77,710 | 120 |
| MRI Tech | $72,300 | 140 |