2025 Best Online Sonography Programs
Our ranking of the best online sonography programs highlights accredited colleges producing the highest number of graduates in diagnostic medical sonography.
Key Takeaways:
- At #1, Oregon Institute of Technology leads with 81 graduates from its online bachelor鈥檚 in diagnostic medical sonography, delivering top outcomes with median earnings of $87,197.
- Concordia University - Wisconsin has the highest recommendation rate on our list of 92%.
Read our methodology for details on rankings. Below our analysis, we include an interview with Wayne Lowry, founder of Best Direct Primary Care, who notes how online sonography programs enable healthcare professionals to enhance their technical competence without leaving their current roles.
2025 Best Online Sonography Programs
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon Institute of Technology | 81 | $9,660 | $87,197 | N/A | |
| Marian University - Wisconsin | 16 | $16,050 | $57,360 | N/A | |
| Concordia University - Wisconsin | 6 | $14,700 | $52,839 | 92% |
Inside the Few Online Sonography Degrees Redefining a Hands-On Field
Online sonography programs are rare and that scarcity makes the ones that do exist all the more valuable. Diagnostic medical sonography relies on hands-on imaging, supervised clinical rotations, and access to advanced ultrasound equipment. These requirements have traditionally confined the field to on-campus study. Only a handful of institutions have successfully translated that experience online.
Among those programs, Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) stands out by scale alone, graduating 81 online students, compared to 16 at Marian University (MU) and just six graduates at Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW). Each of these schools has solved the challenge of online sonography and specifically how to merge didactic coursework with clinical proficiency across distance.
Interestingly, each of these programs takes a slightly different approach:
OIT limits admission to credentialed ARDMS sonographers already working in full-service labs, ensuring every student can complete practical components on site.
MU uses a two-phase model, combining online theory with a structured hospital-based immersion through major clinical affiliates.
CUW focuses on degree completion for certified professionals, integrating ethics, leadership, and healthcare management training to expand career mobility.
Because of some of the structural constraints of this field, online sonography remains a specialized, niche category rather than a mainstream online major. Yet for those already working in the field, these online programs offer a chance to advance into supervisory, educational, or management roles without pausing clinical employment.
What Students Can Expect From an Online Sonography Program
Online bachelor鈥檚 degrees in sonography are built for experienced professionals seeking advancement. Students typically enter into the program with ARDMS, ARRT, or CCI credentials and then they are able to complete upper-division coursework focused on healthcare management, research literacy, patient communication, and advanced imaging concepts.
At OIT, for instance, enrollees must already hold dual ARDMS registries in Abdomen and OB/GYN 鈥� a selectivity that ensures every student has substantial clinical experience already. OIT鈥檚 model allows learners to apply up to 80 transfer credits from professional registries, completing remaining coursework online while continuing to scan patients in a full-service lab.
MU鈥檚 program takes a hybrid approach. Students complete didactic coursework online before entering a 21- to 24-month hospital immersion at partner institutions like Aurora St. Luke鈥檚 and UW Hospital. The structure provides exposure to tertiary care environments where students can refine advanced scanning techniques and handle complex diagnostic cases.
CUW, by contrast, emphasizes personalized mentorship and ethical formation, pairing faith-based healthcare philosophy with professional development. Students can transfer up to 84 credits, finish in under two years, and even add a minor in Leadership or Management. (If you're eyeing an administrative or educator role, this could be a good fit.)
An online sonography bachelor's degree is not about avoiding clinicals. Instead, these schools have found a way to incorporate these aspects into students鈥� existing professional lives. Also, the programs act as accelerators rather than entry points.
Why Some Sonography Programs Online Lead to Higher Earnings
Earnings data from these programs provide another important perspective when making the decision about which is the best sonography program for you.
For example, graduates of OIT鈥檚 bachelor鈥檚 in diagnostic medical sonography report median annual earnings of $87,197 four years after graduation, which is nearly on par with the national median of $89,340 reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (). However, the salary data we show in the graph below is for just four years after graduation.
OIT鈥檚 higher earnings align with its focus on advanced credentialed practitioners who are already working in specialized settings, such as abdominal or OB/GYN sonography, where salary potential tends to be higher. The school鈥檚 generous credit transfer policy and alumni reach also attract mid-career professionals positioned for rapid advancement after graduation.
By contrast, MU鈥檚 and CUW's lower reported earnings likely correspond to a higher proportion of entry-level or regionally employed graduates, including those working in community hospitals or outpatient centers, where median pay is generally lower than in tertiary or academic medical facilities. The BLS confirms this, as outpatient care centers top the pay scale for diagnostic medical sonographers at $123,610, while medical/diagnostic laboratories average $83,200.
These figures also reflect timing. OnlineU鈥檚 earnings data measure median wages four years post-graduation, meaning many graduates are still in early-career roles. Sonography professionals tend to see substantial wage growth as they accumulate certifications, cross-train in multiple modalities, or step into lead technologist positions over time.
How a Bachelor鈥檚 Degree Elevates a Sonography Career
With a very fast through 2034 and a median annual wage of $89,340, diagnostic medical sonography remains one of the strongest allied health careers in the U.S. But what makes earning a bachelor鈥檚 degree worthwhile when the field technically requires only an associate degree or postsecondary certificate?
The answer lies in specialization, leadership, and opportunity. According to the BLS, demand for sonographers is being fueled by an aging population and the expanding use of ultrasound imaging in new diagnostic areas (from oncology and cardiology to women鈥檚 health and vascular medicine). As imaging departments grow in complexity, employers need professionals who perform scans, sure, but also understand data analysis, technology integration, and clinical management.
That鈥檚 where the bachelor鈥檚 degree becomes a differentiator. Programs like those at OIT, MU, and CUW are designed for credentialed sonographers ready to advance beyond entry-level technician work. These degrees emphasize leadership, ethics, research literacy, and informatics, preparing graduates to move into lead technologist, educator, or administrative roles.
Since ultrasound is one of the few imaging fields that continues to evolve with artificial intelligence and 3D imaging, professionals with both clinical and analytical expertise will be better equipped to adapt to changing technology.
How Online Sonography Training Builds Confidence and Competence in Healthcare
Founder of Best Direct Primary Care
"In Best Direct Primary Care (Best DPC), we observed that online sonography courses have attracted numerous students and health practitioners due to their flexibility without compromising on the content to be learned.
Online studies offer particular advantages to nurses, medical assistants, and other health professionals who need to improve their skills keeping their present job because of the possibility to balance the coursework with the work or family activities.
Moreover, recent developments in the virtual laboratories and simulation technologies can enable students to acquire hands-on experiences in a real world, remotely, and then transfer them into the clinical practice.
In Best DPC, we usually promote the use of online programs such as these ones to team members seeking other forms of certification. They develop a technical competence, as well as confidence that equips healthcare professionals with the capability to provide more accurate, caring, and informed patient care."
EXPERT TIP
"The kind of students that do well in this system are those who are self driven, disciplined and curious. They are individuals who like freedom, however they also love organization and responsibility 鈥� qualities that are vital in health care as well as online learning."
FAQs About Online Sonography Programs
What Is An Online Sonography Degree?
Sonography programs helps students gain the skills and technical knowledge needed to become a professional sonographer. Sonographers use ultrasound devices to generate live images of the body's internal structures, which are used to diagnose a wide range of medical conditions.
An online bachelor's degree in sonography equips students with the technical and clinical proficiency to excel in the field of ultrasound imaging. Sonography is used in many healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic imaging centers. Sonography degrees online offer students a solid foundation in anatomy, physiology, and the technical aspects of operating ultrasound equipment.
These programs typically cover a range of topics, including abdominal sonography, obstetric and gynecologic sonography, vascular sonography, and echocardiography. Students learn to interpret ultrasound images, communicate effectively with patients, and work collaboratively with healthcare professionals.
When choosing an online sonography program, it鈥檚 crucial to select one that鈥檚 accredited by a reputable accrediting body. Accreditation guarantees that the program meets rigorous quality standards and adequately equips graduates to enter the workforce. Additionally, accreditation is often a prerequisite for certification exams and licensure in many states.
OnlineU features only accredited online schools on its website.
How Long Does It Take To Get Sonography Degrees Online?
Typically, a bachelor's degree in sonography is designed to be completed in four years for full-time students. However, the flexibility of online programs allows for variations in the timeline, and many students take longer to graduate than they expect.
Some programs may offer accelerated degree options, allowing students to earn their degree in less time. This enables students to complete the program at a pace that better suits their needs and circumstances.
What Are the Specialties in Sonography?
Sonography offers a diverse range of specializations that cater to specific medical imaging needs. Here are some examples:
- Abdominal Sonography: Students specialize in imaging abdominal organs, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, and more.
- Obstetric and Gynecologic Sonography: This specialization involves imaging the female reproductive system, including pregnancies.
- Vascular Sonography: This specialization focuses on imaging blood vessels, helping to identify conditions such as blood clots or vascular abnormalities.
- Echocardiography: Students specialize in imaging the heart, providing critical insights into cardiac anatomy and function.
- Musculoskeletal Sonography: Musculoskeletal sonographers focus on imaging muscles, tendons, and joints, aiding in the diagnosis of orthopedic conditions.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Sonography Program?
Online sonography programs offer a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience. Common courses in these programs typically include the following:
- Anatomy and Physiology: This foundational course provides a comprehensive understanding of the human body's structure and function. Students delve into the workings of the body's organs and systems, developing an in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
- Medical Terminology: This course introduces students to the language used in medical practice, allowing them to effectively communicate with other medical professionals and patients.
- Ultrasound Physics: This course covers topics such as wave mechanics, transducer technology, and the principles behind image formation, enabling students to utilize ultrasound technology.
- Healthcare Ethics: In this course, students gain an understanding of the ethical principles and dilemmas that arise in the healthcare field. They learn to navigate complex ethical issues and make informed decisions that prioritize patient well-being and respect their autonomy.
What Careers Can I Get With a Sonography Bachelor's Degree?
As diagnostic medical sonographers, professionals with a sonography bachelor's degree play a pivotal role in patient care. They collaborate with physicians to develop ultrasound images of internal layoutsand interact with patients to explain procedures and ensure their comfort during the examination. Beyond diagnostic medical sonography, graduates with a sonography bachelor's degree may also consider specialized roles within the broader realm of medical imaging.
Here are some examples of career paths:
- use ultrasound equipment to capture images of the body's internal structures, helping physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.
- run tests on pulmonary or cardiovascular systems and develop echocardiograms to assess heart conditions. They work closely with cardiologists to diagnose and treat patients with heart-related issues.
- While not exclusively focused on sonography, some graduates may pursue roles as , utilizing X-rays and other equipment to create images of the body for diagnostic purposes.
- perform administrative functions in healthcare facilities, supporting medical operations and contributing to high-quality patient care.
What Certifications Are Available and Required for Sonographers?
To become a certified sonographer, students must first complete an accredited two- to four-year program. Only four states require sonographers to be certified: New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Oregon. However, many hospitals and clinics strongly prefer to hire certified sonographers.
Graduates of a sonography program can sit for an licensure test in their specialty. Sonographers seeking certification must also pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation Examination (SPI) within five years of earning their license. Below is a list of the available ARDMS credentials and the prerequisites required to earn the certifications.
Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)
The RDMS exam is designed for graduates of a diagnostic medical sonographer program. The exam is offered in the following specialty areas: abdomen, breast, fetal echocardiography, obstetrics and gynecology, and pediatric sonography. To be eligible to sit for the RDMS exam, candidates must have completed either a 2-year degree in allied health AND one year of ultrasound/vascular experience OR graduated from an accredited program for diagnostic medical sonography, diagnostic cardiac sonography, or vascular technology.
Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS)
Sonographers pursuing a cardiac specialty can take the RDCS exam. Specialties are offered in several areas, including adult echocardiography, fetal echocardiography, and pediatric echocardiography. To be eligible to sit for the RDCS exam, candidates must have completed either a 2-year degree in allied health AND have one year of ultrasound/vascular experience OR have graduated from an accredited program for diagnostic medical sonography, diagnostic cardiac sonography, or vascular technology.
Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT)
Sonographers can be certified in the vascular ultrasound specialty by passing the RVT exam. To be eligible to sit for the RVT exam, candidates must have completed either a 2-year degree in allied health AND have one year of ultrasound/vascular experience OR have graduated from an accredited program for diagnostic medical sonography, diagnostic cardiac sonography, or vascular technology.
Registered Musculoskeletal Sonographer (RMSKS)
The RMSKS credential is intended for sonographers who want to specialize in musculoskeletal sonography. In order to take the exam, individuals must have an active medical credential or license and 150 hours of musculoskeletal sonography experience.
Midwife Sonography Certificate
The midwife sonography certificate is intended for individuals with an active Certified Midwife or Nurse-Certified Midwife certification. Candidates must complete a two-part examination that assesses their knowledge of the female reproductive system and the fetus in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
Are Sonography Degrees Worth It?
A sonography degree can be a rewarding investment, offering the knowledge and skills needed for a fulfilling career in healthcare. The field offers promising opportunities for those passionate about diagnostic medical imaging, patient care, and making a meaningful impact on the healthcare landscape. Additionally, there are multiple specializations to choose from, and graduates can expect higher-than-average job growth in this field.
The decision to pursue this path, however, should involve weighing both the advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Strong earning potential
- Growing job opportunities
- Versatility and specialization
Cons
- Intensive training requirements
- Physical demands of the job
- Emotional challenges in sensitive medical situations
- Continued training due to the field鈥檚 evolving nature
What Professional Organizations Are Available for Sonography Professionals?
Sonography students and professionals have access to various professional organizations that advocate for education, research, and collaboration in the field:
- : Founded in 1970, the SDMS is the largest association of sonographers and sonography students worldwide. The organization鈥檚 mission is to promote the science of diagnostic medical sonography through education and advocacy.
- : AIUM has over 9,000 members, including students and professionals in the healthcare field. AIUM promotes the safe and effective use of ultrasounds through education, research, and guideline development.
- : The ASE offers membership tiers for students, professional sonographers, and other medical professions. The organization emphasizes education, research, and innovation in the field of cardiovascular sonography.
Student Reviews of Online Sonography Programs
RIT is a wonderful school to attend if you know what you want to do for a career. Each program prepares you with an opportunity to co-op or have work experience in your field. The specificity of the programs/ majors make finding a job after graduation much easier. RIT is a well respected university.
Review Date: 7/22/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes