You will need a degree in a relevant subject like:

• radiography
• midwifery
• nursing
• science
• health science

You must also complete a postgraduate certificate or a postgraduate diploma in medical or clinical ultrasound, recognised by the Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education (CASE).

The course is a mix of study and practice, so you will need to have an agreed placement in an approved setting.

Some universities offer a master's course in medical ultrasound as part of a medicine degree.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

You could do a sonographer degree apprenticeship.

There may be apprenticeship opportunities with the NHS, or with independent and private providers of healthcare services.

The apprenticeship takes a minimum of 36 months to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

If you're a health professional like a nurse, midwife, radiographer, doctor or a healthcare scientist, you may be able to take in-service training for medical ultrasound. This will add sonography to your skills.

Courses vary in length and are run by experienced healthcare professionals.

You'll need:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to work on your own
• knowledge of medicine and healthcare
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with others
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

As a sonographer you'll:

• use ultrasound equipment to carry out examinations
• deal sensitively with patients
• produce and interpret images
• train healthcare staff to use specialist equipment
• make referrals to other healthcare professionals

You could work in an NHS or private hospital or in a therapy clinic.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.

You may need to wear a uniform.