Sonographer
Perform and report a wide range of diagnostic and screening ultrasound examinations
A sonographer works in hospitals and clinics, conducting diagnostic and screening ultrasound examinations. Ultrasound is the use of highly specialised scanning equipment to create echoes of high-frequency sound waves that can be bounced off body tissues. The echoes are then converted into an image called a sonogram. Ultrasound imaging allows an inside view of soft tissues and the body, to examine anatomy and identify problems. As a sonographer, you’ll learn to perform and report a wide range of clinical ultrasound examinations within a defined practice area. These could include cancer detection, women’s health and pregnancy, abdominal, and vascular and musculoskeletal examinations, although your individual scope of practice may be wide and varied. The role requires extremely good hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness and excellent interpersonal skills. You’ll typically interact with patients, their carers, members of the public and healthcare professionals and you’ll report to advanced practitioners, and may need to supervise healthcare assistants and clinical support workers.
Duration: 36 months
Relevant school subjects: Science
Entry requirements: Five GCSEs, including English and maths, and three A-levels, including one science; or equivalent qualifications
Achievement upon completion: Level 6 (Degree) – equivalent to a bachelor’s degree
Potential salary upon completion: £40,000
Find out more: www.apprenticeshipguide.co.uk
