Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to produce images of organs, tissues, or blood flow inside the body. These images are used to help diagnose and monitor various medical conditions; sonography is often the first imaging procedure performed when disease is suspected.

About the Program

Diagnostic Medical Sonography, also known as ultrasound, is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of organs, tissues, or blood flow inside the body. The program is designed to prepare certified healthcare professionals for an advanced diagnostic imaging specialization.

Emphasis/Degree Options

The program offers two 14-month tracks: CARDIAC and GENERAL. These tracks were determined by clinical partners working in the community to address local workforce shortages. Our regional clinical affiliates will assist in the training of our students, and they are eager to hire graduates from this program.

Career Options

Diagnostic medical sonographers are highly skilled professionals who work in hospitals, primary care clinics, and outpatient care centers. They utilize a non-invasive imaging modality to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of medical issues involving the female and male abdominal, urologic, gynecologic, obstetric, soft tissue, and cardiovascular systems.

Curriculum

The curriculum consists of 45 credits (11 didactic, 34 clinical) over 14 months of study (early June through the following early August, year-round). Students attend clinicals 3-4 days per week throughout the program. There is a half-day of classroom lectures weekly.

Professional Certificate

The Professional Certificate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography is designed to prepare certified healthcare professionals for an advanced diagnostic imaging specialization. The program is intended for working healthcare professionals who have an existing degree (Associate's degree in an allied health field or a Bachelor's degree) and healthcare work experience (1000 paid hours).

Academic Requirements

• The program follows the guidelines from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
• Applicants must have a GPA above 3.0 to be considered for enrollment.
• A foundation in sciences and interpersonal communication is strongly recommended for the clinical role of a diagnostic medical sonographer.

Education Requirements

• Associates degree from a two-year allied health education program that is patient care related.
• Bachelor's degree.
• Minimum GPA = 3.0.

Clinical Pre-requisites

• A minimum of 1000 PAID HOURS of hands-on direct patient care experience in a clinical setting.

Recommended Coursework

• Communication (English composition/speech/writing).
• Human anatomy and physiology.
• Mathematics.
• Physics.

Job Outlook

The 2024 Median Annual Salary for diagnostic medical sonographers is $89,340, with a 15% job outlook.

Accreditation

The program will seek accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to sit for the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) certification exam.

Program Application

• Application Deadline: March 15 (5 pm MDT).
• Complete the CMU Undergraduate Application if you are not a current student.
• Complete the DMS Program Secondary Application.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What academic degrees will make me eligible for the DMS program?
  • The program follows the guidelines from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
• Is there a minimum grade point average for admission?
  • Applicants must have a GPA above 3.0 to be considered for enrollment.
• What will I gain from completing the 14-month DMS program?
  • The ability to sit for the ARDMS SPI (Sonography Principals and Instrumentation) and AE (Adult Echocardiography) exams for the Cardiac track.
  • The ability to sit for the ARDMS SPI (Sonography Principals and Instrumentation) and AB (Abdomen) exams for the General track.
• What is a certification?
  • A professional credential awarded by a governing body after a candidate demonstrates mastery of a specific skill, knowledge, or specialty through rigorous training and passing a comprehensive exam.
• How does a certification differ from a license?
  • A state-issued license is a minimum legal requirement to practice a profession; it grants the legal authority to do so. A certification is a voluntary process that validates specialized knowledge and skills beyond the basic requirements for licensure.
• Can I work full time while I am in the DMS program?
  • No, however, the program is formatted to provide one weekday and weekends off should you want to consider part-time or PRN employment.
• What are some courses I can take to strengthen my knowledge for this program?
  • General Physics (i.e., 100-level college physics). Coursework in mathematics, human anatomy and physiology, and communication are also recommended.
• Do I have to reside locally?
  • Yes, classes on CMU campus are required and clinical sites are all located within a 65-mile radius of the university.
• Do I have to choose a track (cardiac or general) before I apply?
  • You may apply to one track or both tracks (and rank your preference). Each track will have its own application process and admitted cohort.
• How much will the program cost?
  • Please refer to CMU's estimated tuition and fees based on your residency status (use the undergraduate tables).

Colorado Mesa University

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Overview:

Colorado Mesa University (CMU) is a public university located in Grand Junction, Colorado. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as online courses and programs. CMU is known for its affordable tuition, small class sizes, and strong emphasis on hands-on learning.

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Services Offered:

CMU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Admissions & Costs:

Admissions counseling, application process, financial aid, scholarships, tuition and fee information, and resources for admitted students.

Academics:

Program search, course catalog, degree requirements, graduate studies, online courses, non-credit courses, semester calendars, and academic advising.

Study and Performance Resources:

Library access, study room reservations, textbook purchasing, tutoring services, and transcript requests.

Getting Help:

IRIS (student assistance), accessibility services, career services, IT help desk, university center information, student services, student wellness center, tutoring, faculty contact information, campus office contacts, directory search, and campus maps.

Campus Life:

Dining services, housing and residence life, student life activities, campus safety, parking services, MAVcard campus ID, and resources for current students.

Events:

Calendar of events, performing arts, commencement ceremony, welcome week, homecoming, parents' weekend, student showcase, and event space reservations.

Campus Activities:

Outdoor program, recreation center, NCAA athletics, clubs and organizations, club sports, and intramural sports.

Working Here:

Faculty and staff employment opportunities, student employment, human resources, and payroll.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

CMU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:

Outdoor Adventures:

The Outdoor Program provides opportunities for outdoor trips and equipment rentals.

Social Engagement:

Student life offers numerous on-campus activities, clubs, and yearly concerts.

Downtown Exploration:

Grand Junction's historic downtown provides dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

CMU offers a quality education at a competitive price, with one of the lowest tuition rates in Colorado.

Small Class Sizes:

Students benefit from personalized attention and close relationships with professors.

Hands-on Learning:

CMU emphasizes practical experience and prepares students for successful careers.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Students can enjoy a diverse range of activities, clubs, and events.

Beautiful Location:

Grand Junction offers a sunny climate and access to outdoor recreation.

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Academic Programs:

CMU offers over 120 academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

Art, Communication, English, History, Music, Theatre, and more.

Business and Technology:

Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Hospitality Management, and more.

Education:

Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education, and more.

Health Sciences:

Nursing, Health Sciences, and more.

Social Sciences:

Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, and more.

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Other:

CMU has additional locations, including:

CMU Tech:

A technical college offering associate degrees and certificates.

Montrose Campus:

A branch campus offering select undergraduate programs.

CMU also offers online programs through its Distance Education program.