South Dakota is home to one of the most iconic American landmarks, Mount Rushmore; this is also the state’s main attraction for its tourism industry. The state itself is not densely populated, ranking 5th least populated state in the United States. Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota, and is also the city most likely to provide employment opportunities for diagnostic medical sonographers. As of 2013, there were 280 diagnostic medical sonographers employed in the state with analysts expecting as many as 340 by 2020.
The median annual salary earned by ultrasound technicians in South Dakota was $53,500. Analysts estimate a 15% increase in total employment of diagnostic medical sonographers in the state of South Dakota over the ten year period of 2010 to 2020.
Certification Requirements in South Dakota
It is only recommended, not required, that ultrasound technicians seeking in employment in South Dakota obtain certification. Certification is likely to increase employment opportunities, and can be obtained under the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). The Southeast Technical Institute in Sioux Falls is the only educational institute to offer a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Ultrasound Technician Salary in South Dakota
The median annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers working in South Dakota was $53,500 in 2013 compared to the national median of $66,400 per year. Those who earned in the top 10% of all technicians averaged $72,400 a year, while those who earned in the bottom 10% averaged $39,200 a year. The median hourly wage for ultrasound technicians working in South Dakota in 2013 was $25.74.
The outlook for ultrasound technicians in South Dakota is positive. The South Dakota Department of Labor reports an estimated 15% growth to occur between 2010 and 2020, bringing total employment to 340 by 2020. This growth along with net replacement is projected to product 10 annual job openings.
South Dakota Diagnostic Medical Sonographers Salary by Local Area:
| Local Area | Median Hourly Wage | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| South Dakota (all) | $25.74 | $53,500 |
| Rapid City, SD | $26.41 | $54,900 |
| Sioux Falls, SD | $25.85 | $53,800 |
Source: South Carolina Labor Market Information (2013)
Recommended Programs
More Ultrasound Schools in South Dakota
Other diagnostic medical sonography schools in South Dakota include:
| School Name | School Address |
|---|---|
| Southeast Technical Institute | 2320 N Career Ave, Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57107 |