Program Graduates
Get Jobs As:
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
- Ultrasound Technologist
- Vascular Sonographer
- Vascular Technologist
Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Overview
Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) is a specialized area in the healthcare field that uses ultrasonic imaging to collect data and detect medical issues in the
human body.
This program is designed for experienced health care professionals who
have earned credentials in one of the following fields and are currently
licensed or registry eligible:
- Respiratory Therapy (RRT)
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Radiologic Technology (RT)
- Nuclear Medicine Technology (CNMT) or RT N
- Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS)
- Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS)
- Registered Vascular Specialist (RVS)
- Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT)
*These are the only health care occupations the program accepts.
Using high frequency sound, sonographers create images of the body needed
to assist in diagnosis.
Job responsibilities include:
- operating sophisticated
ultrasound imaging equipment under the direction of a physician.
- using ultrasound imaging to assist doctors in diagnosing
medical problems.
Sonographers must possess patient-care skills in order to explain the
imaging procedure to patients, position them correctly and perform the
sonographic examination. Additionally, sonographers must be knowledgeable about disease processes
and the care and maintenance of ultrasound equipment.
Employment can be found in hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices and imaging
centers.
Program Certificate & Degree Options
- Associate in Applied Science Degree in
Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Certificate of Completion in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Employment Outlook
With the development of new ultrasound procedures, Diagnostic Medical
Sonographer positions are expected to increase 20% or more in the next 10
years. On average, Diagnostic Medical Sonographers earn a starting hourly wage of $25.00
an hour, with the median hourly wage of
$33.00 an hour. The average annual salary range is $52,000 to $68,640. For more
information contact an advisor at (602) 286-8600.
For information on the Bachelor of Science degree in health sciences at
Northern Arizona University call (602) 777-4621.
