WORKFORCE OF TODAY:
DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY PROGRAM (D.M.S.)
The courses offered within the Merced College Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Program will provide you with the knowledge and ability to succeed as a technologist in the fast growing field of Sonography. Job opportunities abound for those who successfully complete the program. The curriculum provides hands-on learning experiences through the use of instrumentation, skill development, and specific laboratory techniques commonly used in the Sonography field. These classroom experiences take place under the direction of knowledgeable instructors leading to employment success.
What are the enrollment requirements for the sonography program?
You must have completed any two-year Allied Health program that is patient care related or a baccalaureate degree in biologic sciences (with patient care experience) or an associate degree in licensed vocational nursing.
What are the program pre-requisites?
Math A — Beginning Algebra
PHYS 10 — Survey of Physics
or
RADT 40 — Radiation Physics
ANAT 25/L — General Human Anatomy with lab
PHYO 1/L — Principles of Physiology with lab
OFTC 67 — Medical Terminology
Courses listed above must have a combined G.P.A. of 2.35.
How long will it take to complete the program?
Students will complete the program in five semesters which includes two summer semesters. The first course offered in the program begins in the summer.
What do I receive upon successful completion of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Program?
Upon successful completion of the course offerings you will receive a Certificate of Completion from Merced College and will be eligible to take the national ARDMS (American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers) specialty examinations for RDMS credentials in abdominal and obstetrics/gynecology sonography.
What are the starting salaries of a DMS?
Starting salaries vary, however, it is not uncommon for individuals to start at over $40,000 per year.
• SONO 41 — Introduction to Sonography
• SONO 40 — Basic Ultrasound Physics
Fall
• SONO 42A — Abdominal Sonography
• SONO 42B — Beginning Clinical Experience I
Spring
• SONO 43A — OB/GYN Sonography/Lab
• SONO 43B — Beginning Clinical Experience II
Summer
• SONO 44A — Advanced Ultrasound Physics
• SONO 44B — Advanced Clinical Experience I
• SONO 44C — Superficial Structures/Lab
Fall
• SONO 45A — Integrative Study in Sonography
• SONO 45B — Advanced Clinical Experience II
• SONO 45C — Basics of Vascular Sonography/Lab
Sonography
Ultrasonography, commonly called sonography, is a diagnostic medical procedure that uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to produce dynamic visual images of organs, tissues, or blood flow inside the body. This type of procedure is often referred to as a sonogram or ultrasound scan. Sonography can be used to examine many parts of the body, such as the abdomen, breasts, female reproductive system, heart, and blood vessels. Sonography is increasingly being used in the detection and treatment of heart disease, heart attack, and vascular disease that can lead to stroke. It is also used to guide fine needle, tissue biopsy to assist in taking a sample of cells from an organ for lab testing (for example, a test for cancer in breast tissue). Unlike X-rays, sonography is a radiation-free imaging modality.
The non-physician professionals who perform these procedures are known as sonographers.
Joy Guthrie
209.384.6309
209.384.6167 fax
guthriej@mccd.edu
Christine van Loon
209.386.6625
209.384.6167 fax
vanloonc@mccd.edu
For additional information
about Diagnostic Medical
Sonography (DMS) programs
visit the following web sites:
UAMS College of Health Related Professions
University of Iowa Health Care
Medical College of Georgia
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Sage Publications
AND WE ARE KNOWN BY THEIR SUCCESS.
The Merced College Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) curriculum is based on Industry Standards leading to employment skills and career options in abdominal and obstetrics/gynecology sonography. Individuals having background knowledge and skills in sonography are highly sought by the medical, industry, and research fields. With a two-year background in the Allied Health areas you are eligible to participate in this exciting medical field.
See your counselor today to learn more about the DMS program requirements.
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