Diagnostic Medical Sonography - Associate of Applied Science Degree Program

Diagnostic Medical Sonography - Associate of Applied Science Degree Program

Classes Start March 11th

Our Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program in Texas is designed to teach you how to perform ultrasounds on the abdomen and in gynecology.

A diagnostic medical sonographer (also known as an ultrasound technician) uses a transducer to produce sound waves across specific parts of the body. These sound waves echo and reflect back to the transducer to produce images (also known as sonograms) from inside the body. Sonograms are used to highlight internal issues that would not be seen otherwise. Sonographers must learn to properly operate the ultrasound technology, display compassionate patient care, and embody professionalism at all times. The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program at The College of Health Care Professions is designed to help prepare you with the necessary knowledge and skills to apply for an entry-level position as an ultrasound sonographer.

Program Details

Program Length

Program Length: 96 weeks

On-Campus

Each participant must possess a high school diploma or GED and be able to read and write in English. Students entering the program must first pass the Scholastic Level Exam with a minimum score of 21. Participants must have good vision, coordination, and health and be professional. Applicants must complete a criminal background check. Students who have criminal histories must have already completed the Declaratory Order of Eligibility (DOE) for licensure through the ARDMS and ARRT and must provide a copy of the eligibility letter prior to acceptance into the program. The college uses an applicant ranking system to select the most qualified candidates for program openings. Please see the DMS Admissions Selection process below.

Semester ISemester IISemester IIISemester IVSemester VSemester VI

College Algebra

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 is a course in the principles of effective writing. The course is designed to develop the student's ability to write effective sentences, paragraphs and themes; and to develop the ability to read with understanding of rhetorical forms and devices with critical awareness. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Medical Terminology

HPRS 101

This course is an introduction to medical terminology and covers terminology associated with the structure of the body, the integumentary, muscular and skeletal systems, the lymphatic, immune, and cardiovascular systems, the urinary, respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems, the eyes and ears, the reproductive and endocrine systems, diagnostic and imaging procedures, and pharmacology. Prerequisite: None

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: College Algebra

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Anatomy & Physiology

APS 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 course 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.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours80hr.
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 patient-sonographer interaction as well as work place behaviors including: communication skills, problem solving, ethics, and professionalism. This course will also teach students about goal-setting, conflict management, building resumes, and interview techniques. Prerequisite: None

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

Introduction to Sonography

DBS 202

This course will focus on sonographer responsibilities before and after examinations, including general patient care. There will be emphasis on image orientation, patient positioning, and transducer selection. The student will learn techniques to prevent musculoskeletal injury and technical interpretation skills correlating sonography terminology. This course includes orientation to equipment, cross sectional anatomy, sectional planes and directional terminology and some abdominal scanning in the lab. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101

Lecture30hr.
Laboratory30hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours60hr.
Credits3 

Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentations

DBS 209

This course provides fundamental knowledge of theory based acoustic physics, ultrasound principles, and instrumentation. Students 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: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101

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

Ultrasound Physics Prep

DBS 390

This course provides students with a review of the fundamental concepts learned in Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation to prepare students for the physics registry exam. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, DBS 290

Lecture15hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours15hr.
Credits1 

Abdominal Sonography

DMS 340

This course will provide student with knowledge of abdominal anatomy and physiology. Students will learn the normal and abnormal sonographic appearance of abdominal structures. This course will provide the students with knowledge of abdominal pathology and include disease processes while identifying common and major pathologies of the abdomen. The students will also learn to correlate patient history, lab values, along with other imaging modalities. Students will learn proper scanning techniques of the abdomen to include patient preparation, positioning, and transducer selection. At the conclusion of this course the student will be prepared to complete a full abdominal sonogram. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290

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

Gynecological Sonography

DMS 350

This course will provide student with knowledge of the anatomy and physiology female reproductive system. Students will learn the normal and abnormal sonographic appearance of the female pelvis. This course will provide the students with knowledge of pathology and include disease processes while identifying common and major pathologies of the female reproductive system. The students will also learn to correlate patient history, lab values, along with other imaging modalities. Students will learn proper scanning techniques of the pelvis to include patient preparation, positioning, and transducer selection. At the conclusion of this course the student will be prepared to complete a full trans-abdominal pelvic sonogram. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290

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

Abdominal Vascular Sonography

DMS 360

This course will focus on the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the vascular system within the abdominal cavity. The students will learn how to perform duplex exams of the aorta, inferior vena cava, iliac, hepatic, and portal veins. Students will learn to evaluate and correlate patient history, laboratory data, sonographic images, and other imaging modalities. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290

Lecture30hr.
Laboratory30hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours60hr.
Credits3 

Small Parts Sonography

DMS 470

This course is a detailed study of small parts including: Thyroid, Parathyroid, Breast, Scrotum, Prostate Gland, and other superficial structures. Students will learn the superficial anatomy and physiology, the use of interventional procedures, and optimization of technical parameter to maximize image quality in relation to the various small parts. This course will provide the students with knowledge of pathology and include disease processes while identifying common and major pathologies of the various superficial structures. At the conclusion of this course the student will be prepared to perform a thyroid sonogram. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101 LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290, DBS 390, DMS 340, DMS 350, DMS 360

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

Obstetrical Sonography

DMS 480

This course is a detailed evaluation of the gravid pelvis including normal and abnormal fetal development in the first, second, and third trimesters. This course will provide students will knowledge of fetal anomalies, genetic disorders, and other disease processes that occur during pregnancy. The students will also learn to correlate patient history, lab values, along with other imaging modalities. Students will learn proper scanning techniques of the pelvis to include patient preparation, positioning, and transducer selection. This course will introduce students to the role of ultrasound in infertility, intervention, fetal testing, and 3D/4D. At the conclusion of this course student will be prepared to recognize, identify, and appropriately document sonographic appearances of obstetric abnormalities, disease, pathology, and pathophysiology. In addition, students will be prepared to perform a sonogram determining gestation age and viability. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290, DBS 390, DMS 340, DMS 350, DMS 360

Lecture75hr.
Laboratory45hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours120hr.
Credits6.5 

Clinical Practicum I

DMSC 1

This course is a supervised off-campus experience allowing the student practice in the multidisciplinary areas of diagnostic medical sonography that occurs in hospitals, clinics, and private offices. Students will be introduced to equipment operation, multiple sonographic examinations, and related clinical correlation. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290, DBS 390, DMS 340, DMS 350, DMS 360

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship240hr.
Total Hours240hr.
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: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290, DBS 390, DMS 340, DMS 350, DMS 360, DMS 470, DMS 480, DMSC 1

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

Clinical Practicum II

DMSC 2

This course is a supervised off-campus experience allowing the student practice in the multidisciplinary areas of diagnostic medical sonography that occurs in hospitals, clinics, and private offices. Students will be introduced to equipment operation, multiple sonographic examinations, and related clinical correlation. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290, DBS 390, DMS 340, DMS 350, DMS 360, DMS 470, DMS 480, DMSC 1

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, effects of stress, personality traits, social psychology, and psychological disorders and their treatments. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Ultrasound Review and Exam Prep

DMS 600

This course provides students with a review of the ultrasound courses learned in Abdomen, Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Small Parts to prepare them for DMS registry examinations. Students will be participating in mock registry examinations including: Abdomen, Gynecology, Obstetrics, Small Parts and Ultrasound Physics. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290, DBS 390, DMS 340, DMS 350, DMS 360, DMS 470, DMS 480, DMSC 1, DBS 560, DMSC 2

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

Clinical Practicum III

DMSC 3

This course is a supervised off-campus experience allowing the student practice in the multidisciplinary areas of diagnostic medical sonography to develop the optimal skills necessary to become competent in performing sonographic examinations. All procedures covered in the curriculum will be evaluated for competency during this last clinical course. Prerequisite: MATH 1314, ENG 101, HPRS 101, PHYS 100, APS 101, LES 100, DBS 201, DBS 202, DBS 290, DBS 390, DMS 340, DMS 350, DMS 360, DMS 470, DMS 480, DMSC 1, DBS 560, DMSC 2

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship360hr.
Total Hours360hr.
Credits8 

About The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program

The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography is designed to take at least 96 weeks to complete. The program includes clinical, hands-on training in diagnostic sonography and instruction in theoretical sonography principles and engaging in professional development. CHCP’s program is delivered utilizing hybrid learning. Hybrid learning offers classes through a mixture of flexible online classes and in-person classes. We offer the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program at our Austin, Fort Worth, Houston - Northwest, McAllen, and San Antonio - North campuses.

The goal of CHCP’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography degree is to prepare competent entry-level sonographers in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains for the following concentration(s) it offers: Abdominal sonography - Extended and Obstetrics and Gynecology Sonography. The degree program includes hands-on instruction on proper scanning techniques, equipment maintenance, imaging protocols, and other professional skills. Specifically, you will have the opportunity to train in performing ultrasounds on the abdomen and superficial structures, as well as in obstetrics and gynecology. In addition to receiving instruction in performing and analyzing ultrasound images properly, you will also complete courses emphasizing general education and professionalism in clinical settings and compassionate bedside manner.

What Skills Could I Learn in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program?

As a graduate of CHCP’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program, you will have the opportunity to equip yourself with the following knowledge and skills:

  • Theoretical ultrasound understanding
  • Scanning techniques and protocols of the abdomen, superficial structures, and obstetrics/gynecology
  • Preparation and maintenance of ultrasound equipment
  • Ultrasound physics
  • Image analyzation
  • Professional written and verbal communication with other medical personnel
  • Recording patient history
  • Caring bedside manner

The sonography career field is expected to grow by 14% from 2018 to 2028, which is significantly faster than the average of other occupations. Reasoning for this may be due to the aging baby boomer population; as this population ages, the need for diagnostic sonography will likely increase to identify potential issues. To view up-to-date information regarding ultrasound technician salary and job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Once you’ve graduated, CHCP will assist you with your job search. Our Career Services department offers assistance with resumes, interviews, job placement, and more! Check out the Career Services page for more information.

What Career Options Are Available for Ultrasound Technicians?

Our program is designed to help prepare you to take your Physics, Abdomen, and OB/GYN registry board exam through the ARDMS or ARRT.

A diagnostic medical sonographer can apply for positions in many healthcare settings. Some of the most popular are the following:

  • Clinics
  • Hospitals
  • Acute or long-term care facilities
  • Imaging centers
  • Mobile companies

Frequently Asked Questions About the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program

Is Sonography a Good Career?

Sonography, or diagnostic medical sonography, could be a career option for individuals with a keen interest in healthcare and a passion for utilizing technology. This career can be rewarding for those who enjoy being at the forefront of diagnosing and treating medical conditions while working alongside patients and healthcare providers. With various specializations and work environments available, there is something for everyone in this field. If this sounds like the career path for you, then consider pursuing a career in sonography!

Is Diagnostic Medical Sonography Hard?

Like most professions, becoming a diagnostic medical sonographer requires hard work and dedication to learning the skills and knowledge required for the job. Sonographers must have strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills to maintain patient safety. But the good news is that CHCP’s associate of applied science is designed to help prepare you in three learning domains—behavioral, psychomotor, and cognitive—to equip you to begin your entry-level career as an ultrasound technician.

How Long is Ultrasound Technician School?

Our Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is designed to provide students with the education and hands-on clinical training to earn an associate degree in as few as 96 weeks. The CHCP sonography program utilizes hybrid learning, offering classes online and in person to meet your needs. The sonography program is offered in Austin, Fort Worth, Northwest Houston, McAllen, and North San Antonio.

What are the Sonographer Education Requirements?

To apply for the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Associate Degree Program at CHCP, meeting specific requirements is crucial. First, you must demonstrate proficiency in reading and writing in English, have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED), and pass the Scholastic Level Exam, which measures your cognitive abilities. Additionally, a criminal background test is mandatory for all applicants, and if there is a history of criminal activity, a Declaratory Order of Eligibility must be completed for licensure through ARRT and ARDMS.

Once all the preliminary requirements are met, applicants must participate in a panel review with the acceptance committee.

Still have questions? Our admissions counselors are happy to walk you through the process.

What is the Sonographer's Job Outlook?

The job outlook for diagnostic medical sonographers is very promising, with employment opportunities projected to grow 10% from 2021-2031, faster than the average for all occupations in the coming years.

The demand for sonographers is driven by the aging population and increased access to healthcare, which will lead to a higher need for medical imaging services. Additionally, advancements in ultrasound technology are expanding the range of medical conditions that can be diagnosed using sonography.

Overall, the job outlook for sonographers is encouraging, and the profession offers a career path with opportunities for growth and advancement.

How to Become an Ultrasound Technician

In as few as two years, you can be on your way to starting a new career as a sonographer. Below are the 5 steps to make it happen!

  1. Apply to CHCP - Meet the prerequisites, participate in the panel interview, and get selected.
  2. Start Your Classes - Get studying! For the next 96 weeks, you’ll immerse yourself in your sonography classes.
  3. Earn Your Degree - Celebrate and continue prepping for your certification.
  4. Get Certified - After finishing your degree program, you will qualify to take the certification exams for AART or ARDMS. While all CHCP graduates can take the ARRT exam, the ARDMS exam requires either a bachelor's degree or graduation from a CAAHEP accredited program. Graduates from the CHCP locations in Austin or Fort Worth are eligible to take the ARDMS exam.
  5. Apply for Jobs!

We’re here to help you on your journey to your career! Contact admissions for more program information or read more about becoming an ultrasound technician.

After meeting the requirements, applicants must complete a panel interview with the Sonography Program acceptance committee. Our competitive selection process allows every applicant the chance to apply for enrollment, while ranking applicants based on their potential for success.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a new career as a diagnostic medical sonographer, fill out the form!

Start Your Application

How Do I Enroll?

We’re glad to see you’re interested in taking the first step to a new career as a diagnostic medical sonographer! To apply for enrollment in our program, you must first meet the following requirements:

  • Possess a high school diploma or GED
  • Ability to read and write in English
  • Pass the Scholastic Level Exam with at least a score of 21
  • Complete a criminal background check. Students who have criminal histories must complete the Declaratory Order of Eligibility (DOE) for licensure through ARDMS and ARRT. Prior to enrolling, students must provide a copy of the DOE form. If you have any questions about this, speak with one of our counselors.

CAAHEP Outcomes for Diagnostic Medical Sonography - AAS Degree Program

The following Diagnostic Medical Sonography Programs at The College of Health Care Professions are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs upon recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

  • Austin Campus 
  • Fort Worth Campus 

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
9355 - 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775

Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography JRC-DMS
6021 University Boulevard, Suite 500, Ellicott City, MD 21043

CHCP-Austin Program Effectiveness Data

CHCP-Fort Worth Program Effectiveness Data

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