Australasian Sonographers Association

Member Area Login

If this is the first time you are logging into the ASA website or you can't remember your password, please select Get a new password below to be sent a link to your registered email address.

Prospective Students

Information for Prospective Students

How to Become a Sonographer in Australia 

To practise as a sonographer in Australia, you must complete an accredited course that includes a comprehensive clinical training program of a recommended minimum of 3 days per week, over a two-year period (equivalent to approximately 2,200 hours).

Courses can be undertaken to become a general sonographer or a discipline-specific sonographer e.g. cardiac, vascular, or obstetric and gynaecology.

Most currently accredited courses are at a postgraduate level, and require the applicant to have already completed an undergraduate or degree-level qualification in health science. There is also a select number of combined bachelor / graduate diploma level courses where students can commence at an undergraduate level.

Courses are accredited by the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry (ASAR). Upon graduation, you become eligible for registration as an Accredited Medical Sonographer (AMS), which allows you to provide sonography services under Medicare.

Clinical Training Requirements 

Most universities offering accredited postgraduate courses require students to secure a clinical training placement before beginning their studies. These placements, which support the academic program, are arranged by students themselves.

Obtaining a placement can be competitive. Many students secure placements through their existing workplaces, while others explore opportunities via job boards such as Seek, CareerOne, or the ASA Jobs Board. Students may also contact hospitals or private practices directly to identify potential opportunities.

There are currently two universities offering programs that commence at an undergraduate level before progressing to a postgraduate level. These are Central Queensland University (QLD, NSW, VIC) and Edith Cowan University (WA). Entry to these programs does not require students to secure their own placements, as the university assists with this as part of the course.

Flexible Course Options 

Some sonography courses are delivered primarily online, meaning you don't necessarily need to live near the university. However, you will likely need to attend residential schools or in-person sessions as part of the program. 

Next Steps 

To begin your journey, contact the universities you’re interested in to discuss their specific entry requirements and course details. A list of all accredited courses and providers can be found here: https://www.asar.com.au/course-accreditation/asar-accredited-courses/

Pathway for internationally trained sonographers

Sonographers who gained their qualifications overseas will need to contact the Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT), who are responsible for assessing overseas qualified sonographers for immigrant purposes.

Sonographers who meet the assessment requirements will receive an ASMIRT Certificate of Recognition in Ultrasound, and can then apply to be an accredited medical sonographer via ASAR.

Becoming a Sonographer in New Zealand 

To practise as a sonographer in New Zealand, you must register with the Medical Radiation Technologists Board (MRTB) and hold a current Annual Practising Certificate (APC). 

Eligibility Requirements 

To be eligible for MRTB registration, you must: 

  • Graduate from an accredited sonography program. 

  • Complete at least 2,000 clinical training hours at an approved workplace. 

Domestic Education Pathway 

The University of Auckland is currently the only accredited provider of sonography courses in New Zealand, offering postgraduate programs in general and cardiac ultrasound. 

Key requirements for enrolment: 

  • A relevant undergraduate qualification. 

  • An approved clinical training position secured before starting the course. 

For detailed information, refer to the University of Auckland Student Handbook or contact the university directly. 

MRTB Registration for Domestic Graduates 

Details about MRTB registration requirements for New Zealand-trained sonographers can be found here. 

Pathway for Internationally Qualified Sonographers 

If you trained overseas, including in Australia, you must meet MRTB requirements for internationally qualified practitioners. This process involves: 

  • An assessment of your qualifications and experience, 

  • Completing a period of supervised practice, if required, 

  • Undertaking short courses in cultural competency. 

For more information on international registration, visit this page.