Diagnostic Medical Sonography

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Associate in Science

Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)/Bedford Campus - Day, Starts Fall Semester Only

Program Description:

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Associate in Science degree program provides the knowledge and techniques required for specialization in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. Students receive training in producing the ultrasound images used by physicians in diagnosis of disease and injuries, and other medical conditions. The curriculum has a general education component, with a concentration in relevant science courses. Students achieve proficiency in sonographic physics and instrumentation, obstetrical, gynecological, abdominal and neurosonography. There is an extensive clinical practicum. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers certifying examination.

Career and Transfer Outlook:

Graduates of the program have a consistently high pass rate in the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers examination and, as a result, are certified for employment in ultrasound departments throughout the country.

Helpful Hints:

Most successful applicants will have observed in a sonography department before applying to the program.

Special Requirements

In order for a student to be eligible to participate in an academic, community or clinical program that involves potential unsupervised contact with children, the disabled, or the elderly, the student may be required to undergo a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check and/or a Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) check. See Admission for details.

Program Outcomes:

Graduates of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program are prepared to:

Use critical thinking based on specialized knowledge of the profession when functioning in a variety of health care settings;
Perform a broad range of clinical skills related to pertinent diagnostic examinations safely and effectively;
Use effective oral and written communication skills in interactions with patients and health care team members;
Practice within the ethical and legal framework of the profession.

Admission to Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Required Course Prerequisites

High school or college Algebra II
High school or college biology
College Anatomy & Physiology I and II with labs

Required Grade

B or higher
B or higher
B or higher

(In some cases, students may be conditionally admitted pending successful completion of Anatomy & Physiology II with a grade of B or higher.)

Required Testing

Current scores on the college placement test of ENG 071, MAT 080 and a reading score of 74. Testing must be completed before the admission deadline and within one year of the application deadline.

Required Documents

Admission Application
DMS Requirements Certification form
Completed Supplemental Admission Application
Three Letters of Recommendation: It is recommended that at least two recommendations be requested from individuals who can evaluate the applicant’s performance in a work or classroom setting. At least one recommendation must be from a faculty member.

Admission Notes

Observation in a sonography department before applying to the program is strongly recommended.
The Admission Committee may consider other factors such as academic history and give preference to Massachusetts residents.
Applicants who qualify for admission may also be required to meet with an Admission Committee before an acceptance decision is made.
Currently enrolled MCC students applying to Diagnostic Medical Sonography are required to have at least a cumulative 2.0 GPA.

Deadline

Priority consideration is given to applications, which include all requirements, submitted by December 7. Applications received after this date will be considered on a space-available basis.

Requirements After Admission

Submit the Student Health Record form, provided by Middlesex Community College, to the Health Service Office. Required documentation of health status includes a completed physical examination, proof of immunization against measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus-diphtheria and Hepatitis B (three-dose vaccine series). Documentation of immune titer for varicella is also required.
Earn certification in CPR at the Health Care Provider level which is valid for the entire academic year.

Standard/Technical Skills Notice:To view a list of standard and/or technical skills required for performing duties in various health career fields, visit the Middlesex Community College Health Division website (www.middlesex.mass.edu) or the Student Information Centers. These skills are not conditions for admission to MCC programs, but do indicate abilities and characteristics necessary for successful completion of college Health programs, and to perform the duties of the career upon graduation.

Required Courses

Total Credits: 70

*Required for eligibility to take the national certification examination of the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.

Special Requirements for Diagnostic Medical Sonography: Students must receive a C or better in all SON courses within the area of specialization to remain in the program. Upon graduation from the college, students are required to continue in the post-graduate clinical affiliation to complete the program and become eligible to take the national certification examination of the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Additional coursework may be required based on college placement testing. Students are urged to meet with their academic advisor for proper course sequencing. Science courses being applied to this program must have been completed within five years of entering the program.

Students enrolled in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program must demonstrate a satisfactory level of performance in clinical settings in order to remain in the program. See Academic Information for additional information.