This program of study is designed to provide didactic and clinical training in the field of general diagnostic medical sonography (ultrasound). The student will receive training in the fields of acoustic principles and safety, abdominal, obstetrical, gynecologic, and small parts sonography.

   Sonography is a technologist-dependent imaging field that places great emphasis on "hands on" training. Clinical education in the DMS Program begins early in the professional phase of training with hours increasing as the year progresses. This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Graduates of the Program will be eligible to apply for the National Registry Examination by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers once registry guidelines have been met.

   The Associate in Applied Science Degree Program has a six semester, competency-based curriculum which includes practical experience in regional health institutions. A four-semester program is available to students who have successfully completed a two-year or four-year, college-based JRCERT accredited Radiologic Technology program. Additional courses may be needed in addition to the Radiology curriculum (see DMS advisor for more information).

   The professional phase of the Sonography Program is four semesters in length and is designed to begin fall semester each year. When in clinical facilities, students admitted to the program are required to carry liability and accident insurance, all of which is available through the College.

PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION

Applicants Must:

1. Meet all the general admission requirements of WSCC.
2. Meet ONE of the two following qualifications:
   A. Have completed a JRCERT accredited, two-year or four-year, college-based Radiologic Technology program and be registered or registry eligible in that field. (Additional coursework may be required)
   OR
   B. Must have completed general required courses for Presonography.
   
   By June 15th of the anticipated year of entry into the sonography program applicants must:
   
3. Submit to the Admissions Office, by the June 15th deadline, a WSCC college application declaring sonography as your major, plus current official college transcripts demonstrating completion of sonography general required courses, and a copy of official ACT scores (a score of 19 or better is required to qualify for program entry).
4. Submit to the DMS Program Director, by the June 15th deadline, a DMS Program Application along with documented evidence of a minimum of four (4) hours of observation in an ultrasound department and acknowledgement of having reviewed the WSCC drug policy (see policy at WSCC website: www.wallacestate.edu). Also provide proof of active/current AHA approved CPR certification.
5. Attain a minimum GPA of 2.5 or greater on a 4.0 scale with a grade of “C” or better on all general required pre-sonography courses. GPA calculated for program selection will be on the general required pre-sonography courses only. Math/Sciences courses must have been completed within seven years of the date of expected entry into the DMS program.
   

SELECTION AND NOTIFICATION

1. The DMS Program admits a beginning class annually in the fall semester.
2. Candidates are ranked for admission on the basis of ACT scores, GPA and completion of admission requirements. All other factors being equal, the date of application will be the deciding factor for admission.
3. Program applications will be reviewed for completion of program admission requirements. Written notification of the outcome of each application will be mailed to the student at the address provided on the application.
4. Following acceptance into the program, students must respond, in writing, confirming their intent to enroll, within 10 days after the postmarked date of their acceptance letters. A student who fails to respond will forfeit his/her place in the class. A signed consent to drug testing must accompany the acceptance confirmation.
5. Upon acceptance into the program students must submit a physical examination form (current within one year), which includes documentation of immunizations along with evidence of having begun Hepatitis vaccinations.
   

CURRICULUM

Certificate programs are offered which are designed for sonographers who are interested in acquiring specialized skills in Vascular Technology and Echcardiography.