Program Requirements

The associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography provides students with critical skills for entry-level work in sonography. The comprehensive curriculum begins with courses in the sciences and humanities, to establish a broad academic foundation for lifelong learning. Major courses build on one another, progressing from learning the tools and terminology of sonography to mastering competencies in sophisticated imaging techniques. Graduates are employed in hospitals and doctors’ offices throughout the region.

Academic Advising

Each student is assigned a faculty adviser in Sonography, to assist with selecting courses and creating an individual plan for academic success.

For information about courses and scheduling, visit SPA.

Minimum Grades

Sonography courses are planned as a progression of increasing complexity; they build upon one another and are taken in sequence. A minimum grade of “B-” is required in each sonography course. Students who receive a final course grade less than a "B-" in any single DMS course will receive an academic warning but may continue to progress through the curriculum. If a student receives two (2) final course grades less than a "B-" in any DMS course (within the same semester or sequential semesters), they will be placed on academic probation and be required to repeat all DMS courses taken in that semester. Any additional final course grades less than a "B-" in any DMS course will subject the student to dismissal from the program." "If a student receives a final course grade of a "D+", "D," or "F" in any single DMS course, they will be dismissed from the sonography program."

Students must successfully complete both the theory and clinical components of each sonography course in order to progress to the next sequential course. Attendance is required for class and clinical experiences.

Any student receiving a clinical failure in a sonography course will receive an “F” for the course and be terminated from the sonography program.

A minimum of C+ is required in English Composition (FYWS 125), College Algebra (MA 106), and A&P I & II (BI 206/BI 208 and BI 207/BI 209) with a minimum overall GPA of 2.75. No more than two attempts in each math and science course.

Health Clearance

In order to attend clinical experiences, continuing students must pass an annual physical assessment that includes documentation of required immunizations/titers required by the clinical education settings, a drug screen, criminal background check, annual PPD and annual proof of flu shot. Health care providers must complete the Health Clearance form. Once completed, upload to CastleBranch and the Sacred Heart Student Health Portal.

Also required is a current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification: Basic Life Support (BLS) for Heath Care Providers. The only two types of in-person CPR certifications that are acceptable are:

• American Heart Association (AHA): Health care professional CPR Basic Life Support (BLS provider)
• American Red Cross: Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers

All other types of CPR certification and certifications through other organizations will be rejected.