Update January 27, 2026
Typically, students look for disciplines that are interesting and fulfilling, ones that allow for ample job opportunities and provide a positive working environment. In the world of health care, there is one growing industry that checks all those boxes: Diagnostic medical sonography.
Exploring Sonography Careers
The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography defines sonography as “a diagnostic medical procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce dynamic visual images of organs, tissues, or blood flow inside the body.” This noninvasive procedure has been part of the health care industry since the 1940s, and it continues to play an essential role in modern medicine. For this reason, sonographers are needed at a variety of health care facilities and have a wide range of job opportunities.
Sonographers use imaging equipment, such as an ultrasound machine, to obtain images of the inside a patient’s body. These images enable doctors and other medical professionals to accurately diagnose and treat patients, making sonography a crucial part of the health care process.
Sonography is an attractive field for many students because it offers a rewarding work environment where they can help others in a calm setting.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS),the majority of sonographers work in hospitals. However, sonographers may also find employment in:
- Free Standing Imaging Centers
- Outpatient care centers
- Physician’s offices
What Is Pediatric Sonography?
While there are many specialties a sonographer can pursue, pediatric sonography is well-known. The field of pediatric sonography focuses on the health of infants, children and adolescents.
Pediatric sonographers perform ultrasounds to help physicians diagnose medical conditions and injuries in young patients. This specialty requires a unique skillset, as the sonographer images smaller anatomy as they comfort children who may be scared or in pain.
Common procedures performed by a pediatric sonographer include:
- Neurosonography: Scanning the brains of premature infants in the neonatal intensive care unit to check for bleeding or developmental concerns
- Abdominal Scans: Identifying the source of pain, such as appendicitis, pyloric stenosis or intussusception
- Musculoskeletal Exams: Checking for hip dysplasia in newborns or joint issues in older children
Because pediatric sonographers are so important to children’s health and wellness, they must be expertly trained and maintain professionalism. Pediatric sonographers must be detail-oriented, excellent communicators and possess the patience required to work with children, which means they need a high-quality education.
How to Plan a Career in Pediatric Sonography
Becoming a professional pediatric sonographer requires at least two years of schooling at an institution accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Universities that offer sonography certification programs often award students with an associate degree in sonography or health sciences.
After graduation, aspiring sonographers must take a certification exam administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). After passing the test, they are officially certified sonographers. To specialize in pediatric sonography, a sonographer must take the Pediatric Sonography (PS) specialty exam offered by the ARDMS.
Pediatric Sonographer Salary
Once a student earns a sonography certification, they can look forward to a meaningful career that is both emotionally and financially rewarding. According to the BLS, the median salary for sonographers in 2024 was $89,340. In addition, the BLS anticipates a 13% growth in sonography careers by 2034. Those who pursue advanced education in the field can expect to earn higher salaries and have access to a broader range of career options.
Start or Advance Your Sonography Career Today
Whether you are just beginning your health care journey or are a practicing professional looking to advance your career, AdventHealth University offers a degree program to help you reach your goals.
For those new to the field, you can launch your career with our Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. This program provides the foundational clinical skills and knowledge required to become a certified sonographer.
If you are already a registered sonographer looking to take your career to the next level, consider our Online Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences. This flexible program allows you to work at your own pace, gaining the leadership skills and advanced education necessary to specialize in fields such as pediatrics.
Recommended Readings:
How to Become a Sonographer
Types of Sonography
Sonographer Job Outlook, Salary, and Description
Sources
ARDMS, How to Become a Sonographer
Forbes, “The 10 Least Stressful Jobs in 2017”
Radiology Business, “Healthcare Dominates 2019 Best Jobs Report, but What About Careers in Imaging?”
RadiologyInfo.org, “Children’s (Pediatric) Ultrasound — Abdomen”
SDMS, Understanding Sonography
SDMS, What Is Sonography?
UpToDate, “Ultrasound Examination in Obstetrics and Gynecology”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians, Including Vascular Technologists
