• xrays image by JASON WINTER from Fotolia.com
  
  Sonographers work with high-frequency sound waves that produce images of tissues inside the human body. These images help doctors and physicians diagnose various conditions and ailments and recommend appropriate treatment and procedure options. Career opportunities are available within hospitals, health clinics and imaging centers. Below are three of the largest schools in the country that offer sonography degree programs.
  
  

Miami Dade College

• Located in Miami, Florida, Miami Dade College has an enrollment of 57,222 students. It offers degrees at the certificate, associate's degree and bachelor's degree levels. The Associate in Science degree in diagnostic medical sonography prepares students for entry-level careers in the field. The curriculum includes courses in basic sonography, abdominal sonography, obstetrics/gynecology, neursonography, echocardiography and sonographic cross sectional anatomy. Students are also required to participate in a seminar and clinical experience. A clinical experience offers students hands-on experience under the supervision of a professional sonographer or licensed physician.
  
  Miami Dade College
  300 NE 2nd Ave.
  Miami, Florida 33132
  305-237-8888
  mdc.edu/main/
  
  

Houston Community College

• With a student population of 48,169, Houston Community College has multiple campuses throughout Houston, Texas. The Coleman College for Health Science offers an associate's degree in diagnostic medical sonography. Courses teach students about ultrasound physics, sonographic pathophysiology, abdominal sonography and obstetrics/gynecology. In addition to core sonography courses, students must also complete general education requirements in physics, biology, communications, human anatomy and algebra. Prospective students must pass a physical examination, drug test and criminal background check.
  
  Houston Community College
  3100 Main Street
  Houston, Texas 77266
  713-718-2000
  hccs.edu
  
  

Northern Virginia Community College

• The academic programs at Northern Virginia Community College in Annandale, Virginia, prepare the school's 42,663 students for careers or transfer to four-year universities. The Associate of Applied Science in diagnostic medical sonography teaches students to become a health care professional and assist radiologists with imaging equipment and interpretation. In addition to core sonography courses and general education requirements, students must also complete a coordinated internship with a local medical facility. Graduates are eligible to sit for the licensing examination offered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Students must complete 72 credits to earn their degree.
  
  Northern Virginia Community College
  4001 Wakefield Chapel Rd.
  Annandale, Virginia 22003
  703-323-3000
  nvcc.edu