Cardiovascular Sonography - Associate of Applied Science Degree Program

Cardiovascular Sonography - Associate of Applied Science Degree Program

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Our Cardiovascular Sonography Program in Texas is designed to teach you how to use ultrasound technology on the heart.

Cardiac sonographers (also known as echocardiologists or echocardiographers) use ultrasound technology to create a specific type of sonogram, called an echocardiograph, of the heart. An echocardiograph is used to determine if the heart’s valves, chambers, and muscle contractions are all working properly and to illuminate any potential issues. The procedure may be performed when the patient is at rest or immediately following cardiovascular activity. After the two-dimensional images are created, the cardiac sonographer passes the imaging along to a doctor, who can then make an informed diagnosis. Training in echocardiology with The College of Health Care Professions includes preparing students to take the Cardiovascular Credentialing Exam, a required credential for entry-level echocardiologist positions.

 

Program Details

Program Length

On-Campus: 96 weeks

Available Locations

Fort Worth Campus
On-Campus
Semester ISemester IISemester IIISemester IVSemester VSemester VI

College Algrebra

MATH 1314

The students will identify and operate with absolute value equations and inequalities, will acquire graphing skills, inverse functions, logarithmic and exponential functions, polynomial and rational functions, piece-wise defined functions, theory of equations and matrices Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

English Composition

ENGL 101

This course provides students with instruction and practice in expository writing and emphasizes grammatical and mechanical accuracy and proper essay from. Emphasis is placed on clarity, logical organization, unity and coherence of central idea and supporting material. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Medical Terminology

HPRS 101

In this course the student will gain a general understanding of physics. Topics that will be introduced in this course are related to mechanics, thermal physics, light and optics, to conclude with a review of modern physics. Prerequisite: College Algrebra

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

General Physics*

PHYS 100

In this course, the student will gain a general understanding of physics. Topics that will be introduced in this course are related to mechanics, thermal physics, light and optics, to conclude with a review of modern physics. Prerequisite: MATH 1314

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Anatomy & Physiology

ASP 101

This course provides students with the fundamental knowledge of human anatomy and physiology. Topics include structure and function of cells, tissues, organs, and systems. Systems being studied in this class include the skeletal and muscular systems, integumentary system, nervous system, endocrine system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, reproductive system, and cardiovascular system. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory32hr.
Externship80hr.
Total Hours160hr.
Credits4 

Law and Ethics in Allied Health

LES 100

This course is a detailed study of law and ethics and how the legal system affects the medical professional. Students will discuss current issues and concepts to help prepare for many common ethical issues related to the allied health field. Prerequisite: None

Lecture30hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours30hr.
Credits2 

Patient Care and Professionalism

DBS 201

This course will introduce the students to the foundation and origins of Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound. The student will receive an orientation to sonography learning dynamics, testing, and educational curricula. The students will learn patientsonographer interaction as well as work place behaviors including: communication skills, problem solving, ethics, and professionalism. This course will also teach students goal-setting, conflict management, building resumes, and interview techniques. Prerequisite: None

Lecture30hr.
Laboratory15hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours45hr.
Credits2.5 

Cardiovascular Principles & Pathology

CVS 240

This course will cover various cardiac and vascular related principles necessary to build a comprehensive understanding of the cardiovascular systems anatomy and physiology, pathology and pathophysiology. Detailed topics to include cardiac and vascular structural anatomy and their relationships, electrical innervation, embryology and fetal cardiac development, hemodynamic disorders, atherosclerosis, rheumatic heart disease, hypertension, heart failure, aneurysms, cardiomyopathies and congenital defects seen in adults. Cardiovascular history and physical exam along with indications for cardiovascular disease and evaluation methods including alternative cardiovascular procedures, testing, and treatments will also be covered. This course covers pharmacological principles and considerations in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and emergencies as well as potential effects of medications on echocardiographic findings. Prerequisite: Semester 1

Lecture45hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours45hr.
Credits3 

Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation

DBS 290

This course provides fundamental knowledge of theory based acoustic physics, ultrasound principles, and instrumentation. The students will learn how diagnostic ultrasound works and optimize image acquisition. Students will learn to recognize and compensate for acoustical artifacts. Understand acoustic energy and bio effects while applying the ALARA principle. Students will be able to apply basic concepts of acoustic physics including sound production and propagation, interaction of sound and matter, Doppler physics and principles, various Doppler methods, operator control options, methods of recording, as well as emerging technologies. This course will also teach students about patient privacy and confidentiality, professional conduct and ethics, as well as Quality control procedures. Prerequisite: Semester I

Lecture90hr.
Laboratory15hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours105hr.
Credits6.5 

Introduction to Cardiovascular Sonography

CVS 250

This course will focus on sonography image orientation, including cross sectional anatomy, screen image orientation and transducer orientation. There will also be an emphasis on sonographer responsibilities before and after examinations, patient preparation and positioning, orientation to equipment, and directional terminology. This course covers fundamental theoretical principles and basic scan techniques of echocardiography and abdominal vasculature including two-dimensional and Doppler modalities. The normal sonographic appearance of standard two-dimensional transabdominal and transthoracic views and routine measurements related to these modalities will be covered. The student will also learn techniques to prevent musculoskeletal injury. Prerequisite: Semester I

Lecture30hr.
Laboratory30hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours60hr.
Credits3 

Electrocardiography

CVS 300

This course will focus on identification and analysis of cardiac arrhythmias, identification of abnormal ECG changes characteristic of myocardial ischemia, infarction, bundle branch blocks and hypertrophy. Will discuss other abnormalities associated with electrolyte imbalances and chamber enlargement. Course will cover treatment options for each pathology including procedural and pharmacological. Exercise and pharmacological stress testing will be covered along with commonly used provocative stress testing drugs. Students will also learn indications and applications of holter and event monitors. Prerequisite: Semester II

Lecture30hr.
Laboratory15hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours45hr.
Credits2.5 

Echocardiography I

CVS 310

This course covers the clinical presentation of various cardiac pathologies. Clinical assessment and physiological changes associated with cardiac diseases will be taught as well as treatment options including surgical and pharmacological. The application of two-dimensional echocardiography, M-mode, and Doppler modalities to identify and assess abnormal sonographic changes characteristic of cardiac diseases will be discussed. Cardiac pathology taught in this course include valvular stenosis, valvular regurgitation, endocarditis, ischemic cardiac disease, hypertensive and pulmonary heart disease, and diseases of the great vessels. Prerequisite: Semester II

Lecture45hr.
Laboratory60hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours105hr.
Credits5 

Introduction to Vascular Sonography

DBS 560

This course is an introduction to non-invasive vascular technology. Students will learn the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the extra cranial vessels as well as the peripheral arterial and veins in the upper and lower extremities. Students will learn to perform duplex exams of the extra cranial vessels and the lower extremities. Prerequisite: Semester II

Lecture45hr.
Laboratory45hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours90hr.
Credits4.5 

Ultrasound Physics Prep

DBS 390

This course prepares students for the Ultrasound Physics Registry Exam. Concepts and principles learned in Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation will be reviewed. Prerequisite: MATH1314, ENG101, HPRS101, PHYS100, APS101, DBS290

Lecture15hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours15hr.
Credits1 

Echocardiography II

CVS 420

This course is a continuation of Echocardiography I and covers the clinical presentation of various cardiac pathologies as well as treatment options including surgical and pharmacological. Clinical assessment, and physiological changes associated with cardiac diseases will be discussed. The application of two-dimensional echocardiography, M-mode, and Doppler modalities to identify and assess abnormal sonographic changes characteristic of cardiac diseases will be discussed. Cardiac diseases taught in this course include cardiomyopathies, pericardial diseases, prosthetic valves, cardiac masses and congenital heart disease in the adult. This course additionally covers Cardiac Trauma to include gunshot wounds, stabbing, myocardial contusion & cardiac tamponade. Prerequisite: Semester III

Lecture45hr.
Laboratory60hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours105hr.
Credits5 

Clinical Practicum I

CVSC 400

This course allows students to observe, participate, and train in those tasks required of a Cardiovascular Sonographer. The focus will be on the acclimation to the clinical environment and clinical site procedures in a supervised clinical setting. Hands-on clinical experience will be gained by performing basic limited studies on technically average patients per facility protocol. Students will complete competencies as directed by the clinical education plan Prerequisite: Semester III

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship240hr.
Total Hours240hr.
Credits5 

Advanced Vascular Sonography

CVS 570

This course offers a more in-depth study of vascular technology and concepts related to color Doppler, spectral Doppler, scanning techniques, image orientation of the abdominal vessels, extra cranial vessels, peripheral arteries and veins, graft surveillances, and surgical intervention. There will be an emphasis on patient history, signs and symptoms, image documentation, technical reporting and preliminary interpretation. Prerequisite: Semester III

Lecture45hr.
Laboratory45hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours90hr.
Credits4 

Echocardiography III

CVS 530

This course provides an overview of advanced echocardiographic modalities utilized in the field of echocardiography. Topics include Stress Echocardiography, Pharmacological Stress Echocardiograms, Transesophageal Echocardiography, Contrast Echocardiography, Three-Dimensional Echocardiography, and Strain Rate Imaging. This course will also cover the pharmacology principles and use of provocative stress agents as well as contrast in echocardiography. Prerequisite: Semester IV

Lecture15hr.
Laboratory30hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours45hr.
Credits2 

Clinical Practicum II

CVSC 500

This course is a continuation of Cardiovascular Clinical Practicum I. Students will continue to observe, participate and train in those tasks required of a Cardiovascular Sonographer. Students will continue to gain hands-on practical experience in a clinical setting and focus on scanning technically average patients, producing high quality images, practicing routine measurements, and learning to document relevant clinical information. Students will complete competencies as directed by the clinical education plan. Prerequisite: Semester IV

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship360hr.
Total Hours360hr.
Credits8 

Introduction to Psychology*

PSYT 101

This course covers the interrelationship between biology and human behavior. Included in the course are theories involved in sensation and perception, consciousness, learning, memory, thought language, mental abilities, motivation and emotion, effect of stress, personality traits, social psychology, and psychological disorders and their treatments. Prerequisite: Semester IV

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Clinical Practicum III

CVSC 600

This course is a continuation of Cardiovascular Clinical Practicum II. Students will observe, participate and train in those tasks required of a Cardiovascular Sonographer. Students will focus on scanning patients in a timely manner, producing high quality images, acquiring accurate measurements, and documenting relevant clinical information. Students will complete competencies as directed by the clinical education plan. Prerequisite: Semester V

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship360hr.
Total Hours360hr.
Credits8 

Cardiovascular Review and Exam Prep

CVS 650

This course prepares students for the Adult Echocardiography Registry Exam as well as the Vascular Registry Exam. Concepts and principles learned in the core echocardiography and vascular courses will be reviewed. Prerequisite: Semester V

Lecture45hr.
Laboratory30hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours75hr.
Credits4 

About the Cardiovascular Sonography Program

CHCP’s Associate of Applied Science Degree in Cardiovascular Sonography will take a minimum of 96 weeks to complete. The accredited program consists of blended learning, which utilizes a combination of in-person and online classes. This blending of classes provides you the opportunity to receive the hands-on training you need while also providing you with the flexibility of guided online learning. In-person classes are held at our Houston Northwest and Fort Worth campus locations.

Our goal is to mold you into an entry-level cardiovascular technologist trained in the cognitive (knowledge), affective (behavior), and psychomotor (skills) learning domains in the field of adult echocardiography. We do this by providing you with opportunities for clinical training in cardiac sonography as well as an academic curriculum consisting of sonographic principles and overall professionalism.

What Skills Could I Learn in the Cardiovascular Sonographer Program?

With echocardiology training, you have the opportunity to learn the following technical and professional skills needed in a cardiovascular sonographer career:

  • Cardiovascular anatomy and physiology
  • Cardiac pathology
  • Ultrasound physics
  • Electrocardiogram interpretation
  • Two-dimensional echocardiography
  • M-mode and Doppler modalities
  • The ability to recognize the sonographic appearance of adult cardiac diseases
  • Critical thinking skills
  • Professional communication with physicians for diagnostic purposes
  • Compassionate bedside manner

If you’re ready to take the first step toward the opportunity to pursue a career as a cardiovascular sonographer, fill out the form! One of our counselors will contact you with more information!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cardiovascular Sonography Program

How long does it take to become a cardiac sonographer?

Students can complete CHCP's Cardiac Sonography AAS Degree Program in as few as 96 weeks, through a combination of online and in-person classes at the Houston Northwest Campus.

What is cardiovascular sonography?

Cardiovascular sonography is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the heart and surrounding structures. The procedure is non-invasive and provides valuable information on a heart's structure, function, and blood flow. The information collected through cardiovascular sonography aids in diagnosing heart conditions, assessing cardiac functions, monitoring treatments, and guiding procedures.

What degree is required to become a cardiac sonographer?

To become a cardiac sonographer, you typically need to obtain your associate's degree along with completing specialized certifications.

At CHCP, the Cardiac Sonography AAS Degree Program aims to prepare students to sit for professional certification available through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and Cardiovascular Credentialing International. The program can be completed in as few as 96 weeks through a mix of online and in-person classes.

What does cardiac sonography involve?

Cardiac sonography involves the use of imaging technology to examine a patient's heart. With the images, they can observe the valves, chambers, and movements within the heart, which then are used by physicians to diagnose and treat patients.

What are the steps to become a cardiac sonographer?

To enter a career as a cardiac sonographer, you will first need to complete a formal degree program.

At CHCP, you can complete your Cardiac Sonography Degree Program (AAS) in as little as 96 weeks. Before starting the program, you will first need to meet the enrollment requirements and apply through this form. With a combination of online and in-person education, you will receive hands-on training and experience needed as an echocardiologist. Obtaining credentials in this field requires graduation from the program and successful completion of an examination. Due to the specialized nature of each credential, many technologists opt to attain one or more certifications.

How can one become a cardiac sonographer?

To become a cardiac sonographer, individuals typically need to complete an accredited program in diagnostic medical sonography, earning either an associate or bachelor's degree. Additionally, it is recommended to receive various certifications to enhance your skill set and attract employers in the field of sonography. Licensure requirements for cardiac sonographers varies by state, so it's important to confirm which certifications you'll need.

What is the average salary of a cardiac sonographer?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals specializing in cardiovascular sonography typically have a median annual income of $80,850.

We are here to help you get started.

Fill out the form and contact us today so you can start working toward a new career!

Start Your Application

How Do I Enroll?

To enroll in our Cardiovascular Sonography Program, you must first meet the following requirements:

  • Possess a high school diploma or GED and the ability to read and write in English
  • Complete the Scholastic Level Exam with at least a 21
  • Complete a background check. Students who have criminal backgrounds must complete the Declaratory Order of Eligibility (DOE) for licensure through the correct organizations and provide a copy of their letter of eligibility prior to enrollment.

If you’re ready to take the first step towards your new career as a cardiovascular sonographer, fill out the form! One of our counselors will contact you with more information!

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