Ultrasound technicians use medical imaging equipment to develop images of patients' organs or other internal body structures. Doctors use these images to evaluate and diagnose a range of medical conditions occurring throughout the body. Ultrasonography, also known simply as sonography, is becoming a more common diagnostic method with cardiovascular conditions, according to the Australasian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM). In Australia, ultrasound technicians, or medical sonographers, maintain registration through the Australasian Sonography Accreditation Registry (ASAR) in order to practice. Registration as a medical sonographer validates your academic background and work experience in the field.

Search for an accredited allied health Bachelor of Science program at an Australian university by using the course-finder on the Australian Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations website. Look for programs in medical imaging, radiography or nuclear medical science.

Complete the Bachelor of Science degree program. Expect to participate in numerous lab exercises and clinical experiences in addition to completing the required coursework in the sciences.

Find an accredited graduate diploma or Masters degree program in ultrasound technology or medical sonography on the Australasian Sonographer Accreditation Registry website (ASAR).

Enroll in a graduate program and complete coursework in sonography principals, research methods and ultrasound procedures. Learn about sonography specializations, such as vascular technology, abdominal sonography, neurosonography and obstetrics/gynecology.

Complete the graduate program's clinical practice requirements at a health care facility. Perform ultrasound procedures on patients under the close supervision of experienced sonographers.

Fill out the ASAR-accredited medical sonographer registration application available on the registry's website. Include official transcripts documenting your completion of a graduate degree program, proof of your Australian citizenry or permanent resident status and clinical experience verification forms.

Mail the registration application, supporting materials and fees to the ASAR in New South Wales.

The Secretariat Australasian Sonography Accreditation Registry Limited ABN 94 084 400 546 PO Box 8323 Baulkham Hills BC, NSW 2153, Australia

Maintain registration by completing 40 continuing professional development (CPD) points every three years through an ASAR-approved CPD program.