Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

 

About the Program 

The program is designed to prepare the graduate to become skilled entry-level ultrasound technicians with basic principles in Abdomen, OB/GYN and Vascular Sonography. This training program includes theory, laboratory and clinical externship courses. Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for the Abdomen (AB) and/or Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN) specialty examinations through the ARDMS. Prospective students are encouraged to contact ARDMS directly to regarding certification requirements. 

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Program Length & Schedule

• 121.5 Quarter Credits / 1950 Clock Hours 

• 72 Weeks /  18 months 

• First 6 months – Classroom instruction, Monday–Thursday (20 hours a week) 

• Month 7–12 – Classroom + 1 day/week clinical patient care (up to 28 hours a week) 

• Month 12 -18  – Full-time clinical externship (32 - 40 hours a week)​

• Important: In addition to weekly class commitments, students should expect to complete homework and studying that may require an additional 2 hours per day to stay on track with the accelerated pace of the program.

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What You’ll Learn

Students receive hands-on training in both classroom and clinical settings, developing skills in:

• Abdomen and Small Parts Imaging

• Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB/GYN)

• Vascular Sonography

• Patient Care, Safety, and Ethics

• Medical Terminology and Anatomy & Physiology

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Program Highlights

• Accredited curriculum aligned with industry standards (CAAHEP/JRC-DMS).

• Experienced faculty with real-world sonography expertise.

• Simulation and lab practice prior to patient care.

• Clinical externships at local hospitals and imaging centers.

• Job readiness support including resume preparation and interview guidance.

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Career Outlook

Graduates are prepared for entry-level sonographer positions in:

• Hospitals

• Outpatient imaging centers

• Specialty practices (OB/GYN, vascular, cardiology, etc.)​

• Certification Eligibility: Graduates are eligible to sit for ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography) credentialing exams.​

• Job Growth: Employment for diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow much faster than average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

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Program Goals & Student Learning Outcomes

To prepare competent entry-level sonographers in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains for the abdominal sonography-extended and obstetrics and gynecology sonography concentrations.

 

Goal 1: Competency in entry-level diagnostic medical sonography skills  

• SLO 1: Students will demonstrate proficiency in producing sonography images and performing a wide range of ultrasound imaging procedures.

• SLO 2: Students will analyze and interpret ultrasound images, applying their knowledge to make accurate clinical assessments and assist in patient diagnoses.

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Goal 2: Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

• SLO 1: Students will critically evaluate ultrasound images, recognizing variations from normal anatomy and identifying potential abnormalities.

• SLO 2: Students will demonstrate the ability to adapt imaging techniques based on patient condition, anatomy, and clinical indications, showcasing effective problem-solving skills.

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Goal 3:  Communication and Patient Care

• SLO 1: Students will effectively communicate with patients, sonographers, physicians and other members of the healthcare team.

• SLO 2: Students will provide clear and concise written and verbal reports of their imaging findings to referring physicians, contributing to accurate patient management.

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Goal 4: Professional Development and Ethics

• SLO 1: Students will adhere to ethical standards and professional codes of conduct in their interactions with patients, colleagues, and healthcare facilities.

• SLO 2: Students will be aware of the importance of continuous professional development, staying current with the industry practices, and research.​

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Physical & Technical Standards

Below are the physical & technical expecations for students: 

• Read fine print with or without visual aid

• Assist patients on and off exam tables, stretchers, or wheelchairs

• Use both hands, wrists, and shoulders without limitation

• Manipulate dials, buttons, and switches on ultrasound equipment

• Distinguish multiple shades of gray and color on imaging displays

• Recognize audible sounds used in sonography

• Communicate effectively in English through speech, reading, and writing

• Perform physical tasks including standing, walking, sitting, kneeling, squatting, bending/stooping, and using hands/fingers for scanning and patient care

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Programmatic Accreditation

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of JRC-DMS. 

CAAHEP
9355 – 113th St. N, #7709
Seminole, FL 33775
Phone: (727)-210-2350

Website: www.caahep.org 

JRC-DMS
6021 University Blvd., Suite 500
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Phone: (443)-973-3251

Website: www.jrcdms.org 

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