Similar to the diploma program, this course targets individual that are already employed in the medical field.

While diagnostic medical sonographers are typically employed in hospitals medical labs and physician offices are also expected to employ them in the foreseeable future. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) ( Job growth of eighteen percent has been projected during the period from 2008 to 2018. In May 2010, diagnostic medical sonographers earned an annual salary of $64,380 (source: U.S. Salary Information and Employment Outlook Coursework includes Doppler sonography, Cardiovascular topics, Echo, Anatomy and physiology, Cross-section anatomy, Obstetrical sonography, Sonography physics, and Abdominal sonography. Cooperative education or internship opportunities can also be availed by students in helping with preparation for the certification exam. Students complete lab studies, courses, and supervised clinical training to achieve hands-on experience working with patients in a medical environment. Competence in algebra and biology is required.

Candidates may be required to have completed a certain number of hours observing in a medical sonography environment. In addition to showing proof of physical examinations, candidates must agree to a criminal background check. Preference for admission is given to those who possess an undergraduate degree and graduates of two-year health sciences programs.

From this three-semester course, students gain fundamental knowledge of ultrasound technology and sonography and become proficient at imaging, processing and evaluation of sonography examinations. Coursework in the diploma program combines instruction delivered in classrooms with rotations in clinical settings.

Sonogram tech