Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography (DCVS) - A.A.S. Degree/Certificate
Improve Patient Care by Becoming a Sonographer
Sonography is the use of high-frequency sound waves, also known as ultrasound, to observe the internal world of the human body. Sonographers are on the front line of early detection and evaluation of cancer, women’s health issues, heart defects, arterial blockages, and more.
If you are compassionate, flexible, detail-oriented, and like working in a fast-paced and caring environment, you might be a good fit as a Sonographer.
ACC offers three options to help you get started on your Sonography career. The two-year Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) program prepares you for a health career in either Adult Echocardiography, Pediatric Echocardiography, or Vascular Sonography which are branches of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Upon graduation, you will possess the skills necessary to perform ultrasound and related diagnostic exams of the heart or blood vessels.
Information Session
Attend an information session to learn more about the Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography program and meet our staff.
| March 26, 2024 | 1:00 pm |
On Campus in room S107 |
| April 18, 2024 | 1:00 pm |
On Campus in room S107 |
| May 3, 2024 | 6:00 pm |
Virtual Click here to join meeting |
| May 16, 2024 | 6:00 pm |
Virtual Click here to join meeting |
Career Opportunities
Sonographers typically work in hospitals, but they may also work in physician offices, diagnostic centers, ultrasound equipment vendors as sales or application specialists, mobile services, and contract agencies.
Career opportunities remain strong nationally and within the region. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that sonography is a rapidly growing field expected to grow by 14% between 2020-2030. Its data also indicates that the Houston Metro region employs over 1300 sonographers. Average starting salary for a new graduate is approximately $68,580 (full-time). Experienced, registered sonographers can expect higher, $81,350-$107,730 annually according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
For more information on career opportunities in Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography, please visit Career Coach where you can explore the local job market, take a career assessment, and build a resumé.
DMS Program Effectiveness Data
What Will I Study?
The DCVS program curriculum is composed of didactic instruction, hands-on laboratory, practice, individual outside scanning practice, and supervised external clinical experience. You will learn electrical diagnostics of the heart such as EKG (electrocardiogram), Holter Monitoring, and Stress Testing. During the freshmen year, you will be eligible to take the CCT (Certified Cardiographic Technician) and/or CRAT (Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician) exam available from CCI (Cardiovascular Credentialing International) enabling you to have a first credential. This will allow you to work your way through the remainder of the program in the healthcare setting as an EKG, Monitor/Telemetry, or Stress Testing technician. This early credential can alleviate some expenses and also help you gain valuable experience in a hospital setting making it easier to find employment since you will already have your foot in the door.
Curriculum Guide - Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography (DCVS) - A.A.S. Degree/Certificate
*How Much Will the Program Cost?
Approximate yearly costs for the Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography degree program are $4,479 for in-district students and $7,404 for those out-of-district. This includes tuition and fees for DCVS courses. Additional fees for textbooks, supplies, uniforms, testing, vaccinations, insurance, and graduation are approximately $4,379.
Yearly costs for the Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography certificate program are approximately $2,552 for in-district students and $4,217 for those out-of-district. This includes tuition and fees for DCVS courses. Additional fees for textbooks, supplies, uniforms, testing, vaccinations, insurance, and graduation are approximately $4,379.
For more information on education costs, payment options, payment plans, deadlines and more, visit our Tuition and Fees section.
Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. For more information, visit our Financial Aid section.
*Alvin Community College may change tuition rates and other fees without notice or when so directed by the Board of Regents.
COLLEGE & CAREER PATHWAYS
Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography is part of our Health Career Pathway. Click the box below to see other Health programs that may interest you.