Program Description
This Diagnostic Medical Sonography Associate of Applied Science Degree program prepares graduates to become an integral part of the health care team as sonographers who demonstrate competency in the use of ultrasound to create images of structures inside the human body that are utilized by physicians to make a medical diagnosis. It yields dedicated sonographers who value learning and adhere to the Code of Ethics set forth by the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
Graduates will be able to achieve, at a minimum, the following objectives:
- Be technically proficient, being able to consistently produce images of high diagnostic quality.
- Demonstrate problem solving, critical thinking skills and communication skills.
- Provide consistent, high quality patient care.
- Consistently manifest a professional attitude and adhere to the SDMS Code of Ethics.
- Perform, independently, skills required for employment in an entry-level position.
Job Outlook
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians, Including Vascular Technologists,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm
Program Details
Our sonography program gives all our students a well-rounded foundation upon which they can build in order to become a highly skilled professional in this field. Starting with the basics such as Medical Terminology, Patient Care and Medical Ethics, the next step are subjects like Anatomy & Physiology, Cross-Sectional Anatomy, Microbiology and Pathology. It is our belief that these classes are imperative for our students learn, in order to progress to the Sonography classes. Ultrasound Physics is a requirement for all sonography students. At this time, our students can choose the path they wish to follow: Cardiovascular (Echocardiography and Vascular Technology) or DMS (Abdomen & Small Parts and OB/GYN).
Length of program: 79 Semester Credits; 96 Instructional Weeks
Credential Awarded: Associate of Applied Science Degree
Mode of Delivery: Hybrid*
*ENG 101 & PSY 201 are offered online only
Our Ultrasound program utilizes both didactic and laboratory teaching methods followed by clinical experiences. All classes are taught on-site, by instructors who are highly qualified in their areas. The use of textbooks, journals and computers in the classroom, as well as ultrasound machines, EKG and stress test machines, and other medical equipment, gives students both the practical and theoretical knowledge necessary for success.
Some of the resources and equipment available for students:
- Library, including Textbooks, Reference Books, Medical Journals
- Computer & Internet
- Ultrasound machines
- Unetixs Peripheral Vascular System
- Stress Test Machine
- EKG Machines
We are now proudly offering the SonoSim program! This program gives you hands-on scanning practice using the SonoSim Probe that connects to a laptop, giving you the experience of scanning a real patient using an ultrasound probe. You will be able to use the program at home, giving you additional scanning practice on your own time.
A clinical (externship) course is included in this program to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-life situations in a healthcare setting. Students are required to complete the required 800 clinical hours and other related learning activities prior to graduation.
There are two credentialing organizations for sonographers, ARDMS and CCI. Echocardiography and Vascular Technology graduates are eligible to take the Cardiovascular Credentialing International exam. After successful completion of Ultrasound Physics or attendance at one of the many physics workshops available throughout the year, all students can take the ARDMS Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) exam. Graduates are eligible to take specialty registry exams with ARDMS after working as a sonographer for one year.
Norcross Institute offers a variety of personalized career services to current students and graduates. We work directly with employers to help provide exposure to our highly qualified students and graduates. Our goal is to align current students and graduates with employers and open positions that match their qualifications through our Employer Partnership Program.
We offer a range of job search strategies such as:
- Interview tips & techniques
- Information about career fields and employment outlook
- Resumé and cover letter assistance
- Individual career coaching targeted specifically to the student and his or her goals
- Assist graduates in job placement with various hospitals
We also offer help on how to utilize various online employment websites for students and graduates, including E-Hire, which can send students job leads within a 50-mile radius of their zip code, specific to their certification. Although NIAH is devoted to helping students in job placement, the school cannot guarantee jobs to graduates upon program completion or upon graduation.