Program Overview

Professional Certificate in Sonographic Principles and Theory

The Professional Certificate in Sonographic Principles and Theory is designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills for health professionals looking for a career change into Medical Sonography. This professional certificate will allow students to complete two introductory courses whilst they explore the industry and work to secure the training position required for application into the Graduate Diploma and Masters of Medical Sonography.

Course Overview

The Professional Certificate in Sonographic Principles and Theory is composed of two 4.5 unit courses - Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation SC and Professional Issues for Sonographers SC.

Course 1: Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation SC

• Aim: To introduce students to the physical principles and instrumentation of diagnostic medical ultrasound.
• Course content:
  • Fundamental ultrasound physics
  • Acoustic properties of tissue, transducers
  • Focusing methods
  • Resolution
  • Signal processing
  • Modes of display
  • Real-time principles and instrumentation
  • Digital signal and image processing
  • Principles of Doppler ultrasound
  • Contrast agents
  • Biological effects
  • Image recording devices
  • Quality control
  • Equipment selection
  • Image optimisation
  • Greyscale and Doppler artefacts
  • Recent advances in medical sonography
• Semester 1:
  • Enrolment closes: Friday 7 February 2025
  • Course Commencement: Monday 3rd March 2025
  • Course Ends: Saturday 5th July 2025

Course 2: Professional Issues for Sonographers SC

• Aim: To prepare students for professional practice in medical sonography.
• Course content:
  • Medicolegal issues including mandatory reporting
  • Quality assurance for clinical and administrative procedures
  • Ethics and codes of professional conduct, including informed consent
  • Practice management principles in sonography
  • Infection control as specific to ultrasound procedures
  • Occupational health and safety, ergonomics
  • Basic research principles including introduction to evidence-based practice
• Semester 2:
  • Enrolment closes: Monday 7th July 2025
  • Course Commencement: Monday 28th July 2025
  • Course Ends: Saturday 29th November 2025

Entry Requirements

Applicants must hold a Bachelor degree or higher in an approved field of education.

Fees

• Course 1: $2300 (GST inclusive)
• Course 2: $2300 (GST inclusive)
• Total fees: $4600 (GST inclusive)

Location

Online

Assessment

Course 1: Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation SC

• Essay 500 words
• Quizzes continuous assessment
• Essay 1,000 words
• Examination 2 hours Students must submit each assessment component and pass the examination to obtain a pass for this course as per accreditation requirements.

Course 2: Professional Issues for Sonographers SC

• Portfolio 1,500 words
• Problem-solving exercise 1,500 words
• Continuous assessment - portfolio

Cancellation Policy

The University of South Australia reserves the right to cancel events and issue refunds. In the event that an attendee cannot attend, a substitute is welcome to attend in their place. No refunds will be given unless 21 days notice is given in writing prior to the date of the planned event. If less than 21 days the fee can be used for the same course at a later stage, or another course of the same value.