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.

​

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) 

• After 12 months – 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.

​

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

​

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.

​

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. 

​​​​​

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.

​

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.

​

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.

​

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.​

​

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

​

Programmatic Accreditation

The Abdomen-Extended and Obstetric/Gynecology Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (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 

​