Arizona, one of the Four Corner states, is also the last contiguous state to have been admitted into the United States. Most recognized for its excruciating summers, the state is also home to the Grand Canyon. Arizona’s economy is dependent on many industries, but the largest sectors fall in the health care, government, and transportation industries. The state is home to Banner Health, which in 2010 was the second largest private employer in Arizona, ranking just after Wal-Mart. There were a total of 1,210 diagnostic medical sonographers employed in Arizona in 2013.
Ultrasound technicians in the state average a median salary much higher than the national median average. Employment for ultrasound technicians in Arizona is set to increase by 56% between 2010 and 2020; a much faster rate than the national average.
Sonography Programs in Arizona
Ultrasound tech programs in Arizona may help you prepare for a career as an ultrasound technician in either a general field of medical imaging or a more specialized field such as x-ray, radiology, musculoskeletal among others. In your selected program you may learn about human anatomy and organ function. You may also learn how to interact with patients and document medical records in addition to learning how to use ultrasound equipment and technology.
Certification Requirements in Arizona
Like most other states, licensure is not a requirement for diagnostic medical sonographers seeking employment in Arizona. For those interested in education options, there are 3 programs offered in the state that have been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). These programs are offered in schools where students have the choice to earn a 2-year Associate or 4-year Bachelor’s degree; there is also the option to receive a less than two-year certification. Many employers prefer those applicants who have received their certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
Ultrasound Technician Salary in Arizona
In 2013, ultrasound techs in Arizona averaged an annual median salary of $78,800, much higher than the national median average of $66,400. In the same year, technicians who fell in the top 10% of earners averaged a salary of $105,800, while those who landed in the bottom 10% earned an average of $44,000. In terms of hourly pay, Arizona averaged a median hourly wage of $37.87.
The Arizona Department of Economic Security reports an expected 56% growth in total employment between 2010 and 2020, resulting in 1,420 total diagnostic medical sonographers. After growth and net replacement, the total number of ultrasound job openings is predicted to be at 70 openings per year.
Arizona Diagnostic Medical Sonographers Salary by Local Area:
| Local Area | Median Hourly Wage | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona (all) | $37.87 | $78,800 |
| Phoenix – Mesa – Glendale, AZ | $38.88 | $80,900 |
| Tucson, AZ | $33.70 | $70,100 |
Source: Arizona Wage Information (2013)
Recommended Programs
More Ultrasound Technician Schools in Arizona
CAAHEP approved programs for future ultrasound technicians are available in many of the major cities in Arizona including Phoenix and Tucson. Other recommended schools include:
| School Name | School Address |
|---|---|
| Carrington College-Mesa | 1001 Southern Ave., Ste. 130, Mesa, Arizona 85210 |
| Central Arizona College | 8470 N Overfield Rd, Coolidge, Arizona 85128 |
| GateWay Community College | 108 N. 40th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85034 |