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Which Career Earns More And Is More Enjoyable? Ultrasound Tech Or Physical Therapist?

I realize the two careers are very different and I have looked at both jobs extensively, including the school needed to get there, but I am at a standstill between the two. I’d love to hear from Ultrasound Techs and Physical Therapists to hear your take. I’ve looked up average salaries for both positions, but I know that it depends on where you work, what your specialty is, and how much experience you have. It seems that Physical Therapy requires more school (for a DPT) and pays about the same as an Ultrasound Tech. Opinions?

Posted on October 14, 2009 at 12:52 pm by radiology · Permalink
In: Ultrasound Technician Jobs · Tagged with: , , , , , , , ,

4 Responses

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  1. Written by mistify
    on October 14, 2009 at 1:51 pm
    Permalink

    Right now US techs are making good money because they are in high demand. However, they are a technician, therefore they will hit their ceiling career very early. Meanwhile, PTs can go on to managment, supervisors and administration…especially if they earn an MBA. So, ultimately, the US tech is right now making good money, but this could change very rapidly. Furthermore, what happens if a technology better than US comes out…now your job is obsolete…
    I don’t doubt that it’s a very enjoyable job…especially those who perform sonograms…but I’m sure it has it’s ups and downs such as being on call…but even PT has its ups and downs.
    Physical therapy, in the meantime, is projected to continually grow. The education changes to meet the new demands…therefore, there is no danger of it becoming “obsolete…”
    PT and US may get paid similar now, but the earning and career potential with PT will go much further….

  2. Written by Snoopy jOnE
    on October 14, 2009 at 2:03 pm
    Permalink

    ultrasound tech :)

  3. Written by T Davis
    on October 14, 2009 at 2:50 pm
    Permalink

    Hmmmmm, sounds like you enjoy working with people on a personal level, and to be able to bring them pleasure within the medical field.
    Just speaking from experience, I’d have to choose PT because you’re helping people by bringing a joy and assistance to regain something they lost… or at the very least, teach them how to adapt to their life changing event.
    This is something that can give you and your patient a lifetime of memories. Also, on the financial side will come opportunities whereas people will pay you very, very well to give them private sessions in their recovery or efforts.
    This is something you can’t do as an UT. But as a PT, you can easily adapt a PT program outside the clinic, and in a patient/client’s home environment.
    Hope this has been insightful, and I wish you much joy and prosperity no matter which career path you may choose.

  4. Written by Ashley
    on October 14, 2009 at 3:33 pm
    Permalink

    ultrasound tech, its so amazing to see the little baby on the screen