Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, also called ultrasound, is a diagnostic modality used for medical imaging procedures. It is a powerful tool that can offer a wealth of information about the human body. DMS is performed by using a specialized scanner called transducer which is connected with the ultrasound machine. The transducer, after attaching to the skin, produces high frequency sound waves which are transmitted into the human body. These ultrasound waves reflect from organs, body fluids & different tissues densities to the transducer. From transducer the sound waves are then transformed into images on the screen of ultrasound machine. These ultrasound images provide valuable information for diagnosing and treating variety of diseases. It also helps in observing and visualizing the condition & behavior of the fetus in utero (before birth). Therefore ultrasound has become the most widely used imaging modality in modern medicine and it will continue to expand. The DMS Program offers an in-depth explanation of how DMS works.
- Stellar Career College's Diagnostic Medical Sonographer DMS Program: A Path to Your Sonographer Career
As a prospective student considering a career in healthcare, you may be interested in becoming an ultrasound technician. Stellar College offers an exceptional diagnostic medical sonographer DMS Program that can help you achieve your goals. In this article, we’ll discuss why Stellar College is considered the best ultrasound technician school and how its DMS program can lead to various career paths in sonographer.
- Why Choose Stellar Career College for Your Ultrasound Technician Degree
Stellar Career College stands out as a top choice for students seeking an ultrasound tech school due to its comprehensive curriculum, hands-on training, and strong industry reputation. The college is accredited and recognized for producing high-quality sonographer professionals.
The DMS Program at Stellar Career College
- The Curriculum and Course Structure
The curriculum at Stellar Career College’s sonogram technician school is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in sonography. The course structure includes theoretical classes and hands-on training, ensuring that you graduate with the practical experience needed to excel in the workplace.
- Hands-on Training
One of the key aspects of studying sonography at Stellar Career College is the emphasis on hands-on training. Students participate in clinical rotations and work with real-life patients, allowing them to practice their skills and gain valuable experience. This hands-on approach sets Stellar Career College apart from other ultrasound technician degree programs.
- Accreditation and Reputation
Stellar Career College’s DMS program is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), ensuring that the education you receive meets industry standards. Graduating from an accredited program also makes you eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for Sonography.
Program Objectives
- Learn how to operate the machine
- Learn how to enter patient information
- Learn how to adjust depth measurement
- Learn how to adjust frequency
- Learn how to demonstrate indicator orientation
- Learn how to save images
- Learn how to establish objective criteria
- Learn how to position the patient for the specific test
- Learn the basic introduction to accreditation bodies
- Learn the basics on how to maintain scanner such as quality control (QC)
Program Completion:
A diploma will be awarded to those students who will successfully complete all required courses as per college’s Satisfactory Academic Requirements and fulfill their financial obligation towards the college.
To become eligible to challenge national certification exam in Sonography through ARRT, students have to complete the following requirements:
- Complete Stellar Career College’s ARRT-recognized educational program in DMS.
- Must demonstrate competency in formal classroom education (didactic coursework), and program’s clinical requirements.
- Complete an associate (or higher) degree, in any subject, from an educational institution accredited by an agency ARRT recognizes. You may earn the degree at any time—before, after, or while you complete an educational program in your discipline.
- ARRT enforces high standards of ethics and professional conduct. Students must comply with everything in the ARRT Standards of Ethics, including the Rules of Ethics. You must notify ARRT of any ethics violations within 30 calendar days of their occurrence, Applicants who don’t follow these rules might become ineligible. Several types of misconduct, charges, and convictions may violate ARRT’s Rules of Ethics. For further details on this matter, please refer to ARRT’s handbook that is available at www.arrt.org
Additional Details
When pursuing a career in diagnostic medical sonography, it is essential to understand the course modules that make up the educational program. These modules provide a comprehensive understanding of the field, preparing students for their future careers in various specialities. Some of the key course modules you can expect to encounter in a diagnostic medical sonography program include:
Introduction to Sonography:
This foundational course introduces students to the basic principles of ultrasound technology, including the physics of sound waves, image formation, and equipment operation. It also covers the role of sonographers within the healthcare system and their professional responsibilities.
Anatomy and Physiology:
This course offers a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology, emphasizing the different organs and systems’ structure and function. Students learn how to identify anatomical structures on ultrasound images and understand the relationship between anatomy and sonographic findings.
Abdominal Sonography:
In this module, students learn the techniques and protocols for performing abdominal sonographic examinations. They gain a thorough understanding of abdominal organs and structures and learn to identify and assess various pathologies using ultrasound imaging.
Obstetrics and Gynecologic Sonography:
This course module focuses on the sonographic evaluation of the female reproductive system and the developing fetus during pregnancy. Students learn to perform routine obstetric and gynecologic ultrasound examinations and interpret their findings.
Breast Sonography:
Students learn the principles and techniques of breast ultrasound imaging in this course module. They develop the skills necessary to evaluate breast tissue and identify potential abnormalities, such as masses or cysts.
Cardiac Sonography:
In this course module, students gain an understanding of the principles of echocardiography and learn to perform cardiac ultrasound examinations. They develop the skills necessary to evaluate heart function, structure, and blood flow, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of heart conditions.
Pediatric Sonography:
This module focuses on the unique considerations and techniques involved in performing ultrasound examinations on infants and children. Students learn to adapt their sonographic approach to accommodate the specific needs and challenges of working with a pediatric population.
Musculoskeletal Sonography:
In this course, students learn the principles and techniques of musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging. They develop the skills necessary to evaluate the musculoskeletal system, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, and identify potential pathologies.
Clinical Practicum:
The clinical practicum is a crucial component of the diagnostic medical sonography program, providing students with hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare setting. Under the supervision of experienced sonographers, students have the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained throughout their coursework.
Accreditation:
IBHE Approval:
Admission Requirements:
- Applicant must provide a valid ID
- Applicant must provide a proof of high school diploma, GED, college transcript or equivalent.
- Provide at least one Letter of Recommendation
- Provide an essay of 1-2 pages long, APA format, typed in a word document or PDF format on “Tell us why are you interested in this program?” .
- Provide a Resume
- Complete Online Assessments
- Digital Literacy: Must have a score of at least 70%
- Distance Education Orientation Course
- Applicants must complete and sign an Enrollment Agreement and Acceptance Letter.