The UC San Diego Health Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is a focused 14-month certificate designed for those aiming to enter the field of diagnostic sonography. With a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on training, it includes comprehensive classroom education and clinical rotations at UC San Diego Health’s affiliate facilities in San Diego.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CAAHEP-accredited, which assures quality education and standards.
- In-Depth Curriculum: Covers essential areas of diagnostic sonography, including abdominal, OB/GYN, and vascular imaging, alongside core subjects like anatomy and physiology.
- Clinical Experience: Students participate in real-world clinical rotations to enhance skills in patient care and sonographic imaging under professional supervision.
Prerequisites
Applicants must meet one of the following academic requirements:
- Hold a Bachelor’s Degree in any area.
- Be a graduate of a Two-Year Radiologic Technology Program with a passing registry exam score.
Additional prerequisite coursework includes:
- General Physics
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pathophysiology
- Patient Care
- Medical Terminology
- Medical Ethics and Law
Additionally, applicants should complete 40 hours of direct patient contact, which may be fulfilled through volunteer work at a medical facility.
Curriculum
The program’s curriculum prepares students for the ARDMS certification exams in abdomen, obstetrics & gynecology, and physics. The coursework includes:
- Abdominal Sonography: Focus on imaging and diagnosis for abdominal organs.
- OB/GYN Sonography: Training in reproductive and fetal imaging techniques.
- Vascular Sonography: Techniques for assessing blood flow and identifying vascular conditions.
Clinical Rotations
A key feature of the program is its 32 hours of weekly clinical rotations, allowing students to put classroom knowledge into practice in diverse medical settings. This hands-on experience is essential for building practical expertise in patient care and diagnostic sonography.
Why UC San Diego Health?
UC San Diego Health’s program offers a well-regarded entry path for those interested in sonography, backed by the institution’s strong reputation in healthcare education. The combination of CAAHEP accreditation and comprehensive clinical training makes it an excellent choice for hands-on learners. While the program does not directly offer financial aid, students can explore external funding options to manage tuition and associated costs.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $15,000 |
| Program Duration | 14 months |
| Class Schedules | In-person classes |
| Program Type | Certificate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography |
| Admission Requirements | Bachelor’s Degree or 2-year Radiologic Technology Program with registry exam, plus specific prerequisite courses |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Financial Aid Options | No direct financial aid; external funding options recommended |
| Location | 200 W. Arbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92103 |
| Phone | (619) 471-9406 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | UCSD Sonography Program |
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