Diagnostic ultrasonography refers to the use of sound waves as a medical diagnostic tool. The sound waves produce digital images of internal organs of the body. An ultrasound technician is trained in the use of diagnostic imaging equipment. Duties include: explaining the procedure to patients, selecting images the physician should view, taking measurements and providing an analysis of the results. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ultrasound technicians are trained through programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Students must take and pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation examination (SPI) to receive the title of registered diagnostic medical sonographer (RDMS). The examination is prepared and given by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science
At Charles Drew University, students can earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography or a certificate. The university is located in South Central Los Angeles and focuses on underserved communities. The program includes coursework in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sectional Anatomy, Physics and Vascular Ultrasound. Interested students must complete a list of prerequisite courses as well as provide a personal essay, resume, three letters of recommendation and a preadmissions assessment. Prerequisites must be completed within the last 10 years and include coursework in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, college algebra and physics. A felony disclosure statement must also be completed.
Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science
1731 E. 120th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90059
323-563-5891
cdrewu.edu/cosh/programs/undergraduate/diagnostic-medical-sonography
University of California San Diego
University of California San Diego offers a 12-month sonography program leading to a certificate from UCSD Medical Center. Upon the completion of the program, students are able to take the abdominal, ob-gyn and physics exams provided by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). To be admitted, students must either possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited college, or a two-year degree in radiology, nursing or respiratory therapy. Certain prerequisite courses must have been completed within five years of applying to the program, including medical terminology, pathophysiology, algebra, physics and human anatomy.
University of California San Diego
200 West Arbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92103
619-543-6617
radtech.ucsd.edu
Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences
Located in the Northern California Bay Area in the city of Richmond, Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences offers an 18-month program in medical sonography. Applicants must be graduates of a two-year health program, such as radiology, nursing, medical technology or respiratory therapy. Prior to admission, students must take anatomy and physiology with a lab, intermediate algebra, physics, English, speech and medical terminology. In addition, applicants must possess current certification or licensing in their area of health care and have a minimum 2.75 grade point average. The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRCDMS) and CAAHEP.
Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences
938 Marina Way South
Richmond, CA 94553
510-231-5055
kpsahs.kp.org
Tags: Allied Health, algebra physics, Allied Health Sciences, California Diego, Charles Drew, Charles Drew University, Diagnostic Medical
