Diagnostic Medical Sonography - Associate Degree
As a graduate of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program, you can choose to work in a variety of health care settings including clinics, hospitals, private practice physician offices, and public health facilities and laboratories. You perform routine sonographic (ultrasound) examinations of the body to include the abdomen, small parts, obstetrics, and gynecology. You work closely with physicians and may assist in the performance of invasive procedures. The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Program Costs & Financial Aid
See costs of tuition, books, and supplies.This program is fully eligible for financial aid.
Estimates based on in-state residency. Learn more about tuition and fees.
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Delivery
How do I get started in this program?
Requirements for Program Entry
- For instructions on how to get started, download the application checklist for this program.
Application Checklist
What are my courses?
Curriculum
Students following the study plan below will complete the Diagnostic Medical Sonography associate degree in the number of semesters shown.
Pre-First Semester
Summer Before First Semester
First Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Second Semester
Full Semester
Summer Before Third Semester
Third Semester
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Fourth Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
- Curriculum Note: Students must earn a "C" or higher in all 10-526-XXX courses. A student who withdraws or receives a grade lower than a "C" in a program course may apply for re-entry into the program. Consideration for re-entry will be at the discretion of the re-entry team and will be dependent on clinical availability.
- Students must earn a "B" or higher in General Anatomy & Physiology and Advanced Anatomy & Physiology. A student who withdraws or receives a grade lower than a "B" is these courses may apply for re-entry into the program. Consideration for re-entry will be at the discretion of the re-entry team and will be dependent on clinical availability.
- The credit for 10-890-101, College 101 is an Institutional Requirement for graduation. Consequently, it is not part of the program credit requirements, but must be passed with a "C" or better.
- Although not required, it is recommended all diagnostic medical sonography students take Medical Terminology, 10501101 between their first and second year in the program.
Program Outcomes
- Provide patient care and education.
- Adhere to the professional code of ethics for sonographers.
- Communicate with members of the healthcare team.
- Utilize medical technology for sonography.
- Complete diagnostic sonographic exams.
What careers are in my future?
Graduate Employment
with 50% in field
Employment Potential
A graduate of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program can choose to work in a variety of health care settings including clinics, hospitals, private practice physician offices, public health facilities and laboratories performing examinations in their areas of specialization.
- Career advancement opportunities exist in education, administration, research, and in commercial companies as education/application specialists, sales representatives, and technical advisors.
What's next after graduation?
Start here. Finish at a four-year.
NWTC transfer programs are offered through collaborative agreements with our four-year college and university partners. See where your associate degree credits will transfer.
What else do I need to know about the program?
Accreditation
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) 9355 - 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775 (727) 210-2350, upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS) 6021 University Boulevard, Suite 500 Ellicott City, MD 21043.
Industry Credentials
Graduates are qualified to take the Obstetric/Gynecology, Abdomen, and Physics Boards through the Association of Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
Clinical Experience
- Students will be required to purchase a uniform, provide their own transportation to assigned sites, and cover any other expenses related to clinical experiences. Students may be expected to travel distances for clinical experience.
- Students are required to complete an American Heart Association BLS Provider CPR course prior to clinical experiences. Students are required to maintain a current CPR certification to comply with affiliating agency requirements.
- Students will be required to submit immunization documentation. A fee is charged for this service. Additional information will be provided upon acceptance into the program.
- Students may be required to submit to a drug screen as required by specific clinical organizations.
Wisconsin Caregiver Law
NWTC is required to comply with the Wisconsin Caregiver Law (1997 WISCONSIN ACT 27). The completion of a caregiver background check includes the review of criminal records for convictions of serious crimes or a history of improper behavior. Students accepted into this program must complete a background check through www.viewpointscreening.com/nwtc AND complete a Background Information Disclosure (BID) form disclosing any acts, crimes, or convictions prior to program entry and/or clinical, practicum, field experience. The information provided in the BID form must be truthful and match any findings on the criminal record check. Information regarding this process is provided to students immediately upon acceptance into the program. Please review your entry/admission checklist. Students with a criminal history may be denied access to placement at the discretion of the clinical, practicum, or field experience site. Consequently, should a student have a history of convictions of serious crimes or a history of improper behaviors, NWTC cannot guarantee clinical/practicum/field experience placement or guarantee graduation.
Study Abroad Opportunities
The International Programs staff continually seeks opportunities for students to travel abroad for educational experiences that may be offered in association with program courses.
Learn more about upcoming study abroad opportunities.
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Program Mission and Goals - Learn more about the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program mission, goals and objectives.
Student Outcomes - Statistics on student Graduation Rate, Certification Rate, and Employment Rate
COVID-19 Vaccination FAQs (pdf)
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Technical Standards
NWTC's DMS program requires students to meet these technical standards, which are similar to those expected in the field.
- Online
-
Classes wherever you have an internet connection.
- An in-person career experience, such as an internship, practicum, or credit for prior learning, may be required.
- Some online courses may be held at specific dates/times.
- Day
- Classes between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
- Evening
- Classes between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
- Weekend
- A combination of online classes and Saturday and/or Sunday classes.
- Full-time
- 12 or more credits per term.
- Part-time
- Fewer than 12 credits per term.