Best Ultrasound Tech Schools in Little Rock

Your Fast Track to Becoming an Ultrasound Tech in Little Rock

Diagnostic medical sonography is one of the fastest growing careers in healthcare. If you are searching for the best ultrasound tech schools in Little Rock, you likely want clear answers about accreditation, tuition, clinical training, and career outcomes. This guide consolidates everything you need into one comprehensive resource so you can compare programs and choose confidently.

Key Takeaways

• Look for CAAHEP-accredited programs to qualify for ARDMS certification.
• Top options near Little Rock include UAMS, Baptist Health College Little Rock, and SAU Tech.
• Most programs award an Associate of Science and take 18 to 24 months to complete.
• Clinical training in Little Rock hospitals is essential for hands-on experience.
• Ultrasound techs in Arkansas earn competitive salaries with strong projected job growth.

What to Look for in an Ultrasound Tech School

1. CAAHEP Accreditation

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs ensures that a sonography program meets national quality standards. Graduating from a CAAHEP-accredited school is the most direct path to sitting for the ARDMS certification exams, which most Arkansas employers require.

2. Degree Type and Program Length

• Associate Degree: 18 to 24 months
• Bachelor’s Degree: 4 years
• Post-baccalaureate Certificate: 12 to 18 months

Most students in Little Rock pursue an Associate degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

3. Clinical Rotations

Hands-on clinical hours are critical. Strong programs partner with major healthcare systems in the Little Rock metro area, allowing students to train in real diagnostic settings.

4. Certification Preparation

Top schools prepare graduates for ARDMS exams in specialties such as:

• Abdomen (AB)
• Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN)
• Vascular Technology (VT)
• Cardiac Sonography (RDCS)

Best Ultrasound Tech Schools Near Little Rock

SchoolDegreeLengthCAAHEP AccreditedClinical TrainingUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)Bachelor of Science4 YearsYesUAMS Medical Center & Partner HospitalsBaptist Health College Little RockAssociate of Applied Science21-24 MonthsYesBaptist Health FacilitiesSouth Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech)Associate of Applied Science2 YearsYesRegional Hospital Partnerships

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)

Location: Little Rock, AR

UAMS offers a Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography through its College of Health Professions. As Arkansas’ academic medical center, UAMS provides access to advanced imaging technology and diverse patient populations.

Highlights:

• CAAHEP-accredited program
• Extensive clinical rotations within UAMS Medical Center
• Competitive admission process
• Strong ARDMS first-time pass rates

This program is ideal for students seeking a comprehensive four-year degree with expanded advancement opportunities.

Baptist Health College Little Rock

Location: Little Rock, AR

Baptist Health College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Its direct connection to Baptist Health hospitals gives students consistent access to clinical placements.

What Sets It Apart:

• Established healthcare network for clinicals
• Small cohort sizes
• Focused program length of roughly two years
• Strong employer reputation in central Arkansas

For students who want a faster route to employment in Little Rock hospitals, this is a highly practical option.

South Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech)

Location: Camden, AR

Although located outside Little Rock, SAU Tech serves many central Arkansas students. The Associate program is CAAHEP-accredited and emphasizes general sonography training.

Pros:

• Affordable tuition rates
• Accredited curriculum
• Strong regional partnerships

Students willing to commute may benefit from lower tuition while maintaining qualification for ARDMS certification.

Admissions Requirements

While each school varies slightly, most ultrasound tech programs near Little Rock require:

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of prerequisite coursework such as Anatomy, Physiology, Algebra, and Medical Terminology
• Minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0
• Background check and drug screening
• CPR certification
• Entrance exam or interview

Admission is competitive due to limited clinical placement spots. Applying early and maintaining strong science grades improves your chances.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Costs vary depending on residency status and program format. Below is a general estimate:

• Public in-state associate degree: $6,000 to $10,000 total tuition
• Bachelor’s degree programs: $20,000 to $35,000 total
• Additional expenses: books, lab fees, uniforms, exam fees

Students can explore federal Pell Grants, Arkansas state aid programs, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement. Completing the FAFSA is the first step.

Career Outlook for Ultrasound Techs in Little Rock

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, diagnostic medical sonographers earn a median annual salary above $75,000 nationwide. In Arkansas, average salaries typically range from $60,000 to $72,000 depending on specialization and experience.

Major employers in the Little Rock area include:

• UAMS Medical Center
• Baptist Health
• CHI St. Vincent
• Arkansas Children’s Hospital
• Outpatient imaging centers

Healthcare expansion and an aging population continue to drive demand for imaging professionals. Graduates of accredited programs often secure employment quickly after certification.

Certification Requirements in Arkansas

Arkansas does not require a separate state license for ultrasound technicians. However, nearly all employers require certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

To earn ARDMS credentials, candidates must:

• Graduate from an accredited program
• Pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation exam
• Pass at least one specialty exam

Choosing a CAAHEP-accredited school simplifies this process significantly.

How to Choose the Right Program for You

Consider Your Timeline

If you want to start working quickly, an Associate degree at Baptist Health College or SAU Tech may be the best fit. If long-term career growth and leadership roles interest you, UAMS offers a more comprehensive pathway.

Evaluate Clinical Access

Programs directly tied to major hospitals often provide stronger networking opportunities and smoother job placement.

Assess Financial Fit

In-state public options generally deliver the highest return on investment for Arkansas residents.

Ask These Questions Before Applying

• What is the ARDMS pass rate?
• What percentage of graduates find jobs within six months?
• How many clinical hours are included?
• Are specialty tracks available?

Next Steps to Get Started

1. Complete prerequisite science courses if needed.
2. Schedule campus tours or attend virtual info sessions.
3. Submit applications early due to limited seats.
4. Apply for financial aid and scholarships.
5. Prepare for interviews and entrance exams.

By selecting an accredited program with strong clinical partnerships and proven job outcomes, you position yourself for long-term success in Little Rock’s growing healthcare field.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ultrasound Tech Schools in Little Rock

How long does it take to become an ultrasound tech in Little Rock?

Most students in or near Little Rock finish in about 18 to 24 months with an Associate degree. If you choose the Bachelor’s program at UAMS, you can expect about four years of study from start to finish, including clinical training.

Which ultrasound tech schools near Little Rock are CAAHEP-accredited?

In this area, UAMS in Little Rock, Baptist Health College Little Rock, and South Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) in Camden all have CAAHEP-accredited diagnostic medical sonography programs. Graduating from one of these schools helps you qualify for ARDMS exams.

Do you need ARDMS certification to work as an ultrasound tech in Arkansas?

Arkansas does not require a state license, but most hospitals and imaging centers expect ARDMS certification. To earn it, you usually need to graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited program and pass the SPI exam plus at least one specialty exam, such as Abdomen or OB/GYN.

How much does ultrasound tech school cost in Arkansas?

Public in-state Associate programs often cost about $6,000 to $10,000 in tuition. Bachelor’s programs can range from about $20,000 to $35,000. You should also budget for books, lab fees, uniforms, and ARDMS exam fees. Many students use federal aid, Arkansas grants, and scholarships to help with costs.

What is the job outlook and salary for ultrasound techs in Little Rock?

Diagnostic medical sonography is growing faster than average in the U.S. The national median pay is above $75,000 per year, and many techs in Arkansas earn around $60,000 to $72,000, depending on experience and specialty. Major employers around Little Rock include UAMS, Baptist Health, CHI St. Vincent, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, and outpatient imaging centers.