Diagnostic Medical Sonography, A.A.S.

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program at the University of Saint Francis engages diverse, lifelong learners in an atmosphere of academic and clinical excellence permeated by Franciscan values. A sonographer uses a transducer that produces sound waves into the body to visualize anatomy, physiology, and pathology. They are required to provide static and cine imaging along with detailed information to the interpreting physician. Diagnostic medical sonographers encompass scanning multiple areas of the body but specialize their certifications. Students will complete studies for general (abdomen/obstetrics) and/or vascular certifications. The 3-year curriculum provides a balance of online classes, on campus laboratory instruction, and clinical education experiences that will support the University’s educational values of professionalism, leadership, social responsibility, faith, and spiritual development. The first year is dedicated to General Education courses. The Professional Sequence encompasses years 2 and 3, where the student will focus on sonography instruction and application. A professional sequence will begin every Fall semester. The final year the student will gain necessary experience with a heavy clinical presence. The Diagnostic Medical Sonography degree is able to be applied towards bachelor’s degree options at USF.

Program Goals

To prepare competent entry-level sonographers in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains for abdominal extended, obstetrics and gynecology, and vascular sonography concentrations. The program will provide high quality didactic, lab, and clinical atmospheres for transformative learning. Student sonographers will be able to think critically and compassionately. Understanding the complexities of healthcare will be a focus of the program, including areas of professionalism, ethical behaviors, and skilled and quality care. Through these goals the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program compliments the mission of the University of Saint Francis; cultivating individual personal growth through applied healthcare education that results in impactful professionals.

 

Program Goal Minimum Expectations:

1. Provide high quality education in didactic, lab, and clinicals.
2. Grow individuals to think critically, compassionately, and ethically.
3. Deliver professionals with entry level, but quality skills who are impactful to healthcare and society.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Obtain, review, and integrate pertinent patient history and supporting clinical data to facilitate optimum diagnostic results.
2. Perform appropriate procedures and record anatomic, pathologic, and/or physiologic data for interpretation by a physician.
3. Exercise discretion and judgment in the performance of sonographic and/or other diagnostic services.
4. Demonstrate appropriate communication skills with patients and colleagues.
5. Act in a professional and ethical manner.
6. Provide patient education related to medical ultrasound and promote principles of good health.

Accreditation/Licensure

Graduates of the DMS program are eligible to take the national certification exams offered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) OR the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Successful completion of the examination(s) entitles the graduate to practice as a registered sonographer.

At this time state licensing is only mandated from the following: New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Oregon.

Degree Requirements

74 credit hours are required for Degree completion.