Diagnostic Medical Sonography

This accredited program prepares students for an entry-level career as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains within the abdominalextended and ob/gyn sonography concentrations. A Sonographer is a medical professional who performs diagnostic imaging also known as Ultrasound by utilizing sound waves to obtain images. These images are then read and transcribed by a radiologist to create an official report of findings. Students will learn anatomy, physiology, pathology, sonographic examination protocols, and how to interact with medical professionals to provide high quality patient care. The program consists of academic, laboratory, and clinical components, and begins each Fall lasting 5 consecutive semesters (21 months). General Education and program courses provide a foundation in the knowledge and skills needed within the field of sonography. Content areas of the academic and on-campus laboratory components include patient care, functions and applications of ultrasound equipment, future uses of ultrasound technology, anatomy, physiology, pathology and vasculature of the abdomen, pelvis, obstetric, gynecologic, and limited vascular specialties. Hands-on experience is gained through on-campus laboratory scanning as well as off-campus clinical education. This is a competency-based program, which requires successful completion of all DMS courses as well as hands-on clinical competence. The DMS program emphasizes professionalism, communication, critical thinking, and the performance, assessment and evaluation of ultrasound examinations. Students will learn how to appropriately and effectively interact with patients and members of the healthcare team. Students who are interested in this program should plan to attend a DMS Information Session, which are held periodically throughout the year. Information Session dates, application information, and program requirements are available online at ccccccc. Minimum requirements for admission include: High school diploma or GED, achievement of a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater in all college course work, and satisfactory completion of the mandatory prerequisite courses. The application cycle begins November 1 and ends January 31 each year. Enrollment into this program is limited by the number of available clinical sites. Admitted students must: - Maintain CPR certification BLS for Health Care Providers through the American Heart Association; - Complete a satisfactory physical examination to perform required activities outlined in the DMS Handbook; - Undergo background checks, PA FBI fingerprinting, PA Child Abuse clearances, and drug screenings all of which must be clear/passing; - Maintain personal health insurance throughout the program; - Must be 18 years of age by the start of the program; - Students are responsible for transportation to/from campus and clinical sites