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    Multispecialty Sonography Associate Degree Program

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    Sonography is an advanced technology that uses sound waves to generate images used for assessment and diagnosis of various medical conditions. The diagnostic medical sonography program at NMC is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education. The 21-month accredited sonography program at NMC provides students with the knowledge and hands-on clinical training to become a certified sonographer.

    The curriculum at NMC focuses on different parts of the body. The obstetrics and gynecologic portion focuses on imaging of the female reproductive system and includes one of the more well-known uses of sonography - examining the fetus of a pregnant woman to follow the baby’s growth and development.

    The abdominal portion of the curriculum involves learning the anatomy of the abdominal cavity to help diagnose and treat conditions primarily involving the aorta, gallbladder, bile ducts, kidneys, liver, pancreas and spleen. Abdominal sonography is a key component of this training. During the program you will also focus on the breast, thyroid and male reproductive system. The diagnostic medical sonography curriculum also emphasizes patient care, teaching students to provide compassionate and effective care to patients during sonographic procedures.

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the U. S. median salary in May 2022 for diagnostic medical sonographers was $78,210 per year, with a much faster than average projected job growth of 10 percent from 2022 to 2032. The diagnostic medical sonography program at NMC prepares students for a career as skilled professionals in various sonography specialties.

    Multispecialty Sonography Degree Program Perks

     

    • This Associate of Science degree in sonography is a 21-month program.

    • The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), ensuring high standards in allied health education programs.

    • Graduates of the program are eligible to pursue further education, including a Bachelor of Science degree in diagnostic medical sonography.

    • Students are able to sit for abdomen and obstetrics/gynecology examinations by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).

    • In addition to student-focused instruction and laboratory learning experiences, students gain hands-on experience through supervised clinical training at hospitals and clinics locally and throughout the United States.

    • Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations, working closely with clinical instructors to develop their skills in various areas of sonography.

    • Successful completion of the program qualifies students to apply for certification exams and transition to professional sonographers.

    CAAHEP

    Accreditation & Licensure

    The Multispecialty Sonography program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs  upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, 9355 - 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775. (727) 210-2350. www.caahep.org

    JRC-DMS
    6021 University Boulevard, Suite 500, Ellicott City, MD 21043
    jrcdms.org

    Graduates are able to sit for examinations administered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS)

    Admissions Information

    Criteria

    In order to be eligible for admission into our Multispecialty Sonography program, you must meet all of the following criteria.

    Due to the high volume of applications for the limited seats in this program, priority is given to applicants with the strongest academic performance. The best qualified applicants are reviewed for admission and invited to interview after the January 31, 2025 priority deadline.

    Requirements

    To be considered for admission, the following items must be submitted to the Admissions Office:

    • Undergraduate Application
    • Official high school transcript
    • Official GED test scores, if applicable
    • Official transcripts from all colleges attended, if applicable

    Deadlines

    Prospective students may apply anytime and are accepted from deadlines throughout the year. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, and students will be notified of their application status by postal mail, email or phone.

    Starting Term - Fall 2025

    Priority Deadline - 1/31/2025

    Standard Deadline - 7/11/2025

    Costs & Financial Aid

    NMC is committed to helping you find every avenue to finance your education. View the Tuition by Program & Degree page for a comprehensive list of all fees.

    Cost Per Credit Hour

    $623

    Cost of Attendance

    NMC Scholarships

    NMC Scholarships consist of funds generously provided by the Methodist Hospital Foundation to assist our students.

    Student Grants or Loans

    Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more about what's available and how to apply.

    Employee Education Benefits

    Employees of Methodist Health System can find details on the MHS Intranet.

    External Scholarships

    Visit our Scholarships page to learn more.

    Calculate Your Net Price

    Nebraska Methodist College Net Price Calculator.

    Curriculum

    The program requires a minimum of 76 credit hours. All students are required to complete specific coursework. This list should only be used as a curriculum guide. Course listings and required curriculum are subject to change. 

    Included within this list is the Educated Citizen Core Curriculum. All students seeking to complete an undergraduate degree at Nebraska Methodist College must complete this set of Arts and Sciences requirements. As an educated citizen, NMC graduates are competent practitioners and respond productively to the complex dynamics of the world, utilizing a diversity of disciplines and perspectives.

    Included within this list is the Educated Citizen Core Curriculum. All students seeking to complete an undergraduate degree at Nebraska Methodist College must complete this set of Arts and Sciences requirements. As an educated citizen, NMC graduates are competent practitioners and respond productively to the complex dynamics of the world, utilizing a diversity of disciplines and perspectives.

    First year - First Semester

    COR 101
    EDUCATED CITIZEN 101
    DETAILS

    DMS 140
    APPLIED SECTIONAL ANATOMY
    DETAILS
    This course provides an introduction to the basics of cross-sectional anatomy of the head, neck, chest, abdomen andpelvic anatomy with emphasis on structures visualized in diagnostic medical sonography, computerized tomography(CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and nuclear medicine. The anatomy will be evaluated in multiple planes.

    DMS 150
    Multispecialty Anatomy and Image Optimization
    DETAILS

    This lab will provide the students with hands-on experience in the use of diagnostic medical sonography equipment. Students will learn how to properly hold and manipulate the transducer, properly adjust equipment settings to create diagnostic images, identify image orientation as it relates to various scanning planes, and to properly set Doppler controls.

    Prerequisites: Program prerequisites completed

    DMS 206
    SONOGRAPHIC PHYSICS I
    DETAILS
    This course will introduce fundamental sonographic theory including terminology, equipment, basic transducer construction and function, introduction to Doppler, and adjusting system controls for image acquisition. This course will cover beginning concepts in sonographic physics including pulsed sound parameters, intensities, and interactions of sound with media, range equation, transducers, sound beams, and axial and lateral resolution.

    DMS 209
    SONOGRAPHIC SEMINAR I
    DETAILS

    This course facilitates the student’s entry into diagnostic medical sonography. Students explore personal and professional values in relation to the healthcare setting. Students acquire skills to assist them with time management, building critical thinking skills, and the ability to professionally communicate in the field of sonography.

    HPS 100
    Healthcare Fundamentals I
    DETAILS

    This course serves as an overview for all members of the health care delivery team. The focus is placed on the basic skills needed to perform quality patient care, relationships with other health care team members, patient safety and scope of practice for each profession, vital signs, HIPAA, infection control, invasive procedures and self-care. 

    SCI 206
    PATHOPHYSIOLOGY/PHARMACOLOGY
    DETAILS
    This survey course begins with a major focus on cellular function and pathology, including inflammation, infection, immune response, metabolism, and fluid disequilibria. These concepts serve as the foundation for the course as alterations in various bodily functions are examined. Alterations in body fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, fluid acid/base balance, gastrointestinal, urinary, respiratory, cardiac, endocrine, and neurological functions are emphasized. The student will be introduced to pharmacological principles and utilize critical thinking to explore the relationship between those concepts and commonly used classes of medications.

    Prerequisites: SCI 200 or BIO 226

    First year - Second Semester

    DMS 221
    ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND I
    DETAILS
    This course will study the clinical applications of abdominal sonography which will include positioning and scanning protocol. Anatomical structures to be covered will include: abdominal vasculature, liver, gallbladder and biliary system, pancreas, spleen, and urinary tract. Invasive procedures and small parts protocol will also be discussed. Interpretation and critique of normal anatomy with correlation of clinical, didactic and image information will be presented. Lecture will coincide appropriately with DMS 223 to facilitate a simultaneous understanding of didactic and laboratory application.

    Prerequisites: DMS 140, DMS 206, DMS 209

    DMS 223
    ULTRASOUND LAB I
    DETAILS
    This course will focus on applying ultrasound as a diagnostic tool for evaluating the abdomen, female pelvis and 2nd trimester fetus and all related structures. Coursework will include techniques for proper identification and representation of the normal anatomical structures as well as demonstrations and discussion on the proper scanning techniques and positioning utilized to obtain optimum diagnostic images. Lab will coincide appropriately with DMS 221, DMS 228 and DMS 281 to facilitate a simultaneous understanding of didactic and laboratory application.

    Prerequisites: DMS 140, DMS 206, DMS 209

    DMS 228
    GYNECOLOGIC ULTRASOUND I
    DETAILS
    This course is designed to explore the fundamentals of evaluating the non-gravid female pelvis as it relates to ultrasound.The primary focus of this course will be a comprehensive overview of the normal anatomy, physiology and ultrasoundevaluation of the female pelvis and reproductive system.

    Prerequisites: DMS 140, DMS 206, DMS 209, SCI 206

    DMS 281
    OBSTETRICS ULTRASOUND I
    DETAILS
    This course will provide an in depth study of the specific anatomy and sonographic anatomy of the developing embryo and fetus from first -third trimester necessary for the clinical practice of obstetric sonography.

    DMS 288
    HIGH RESOLUTION STRUCTURES
    DETAILS
    This course focuses on the anatomy, physiology, pathology and pathophysiology of the neck, thyroid, breast, scrotum, superficial aspect of the extremities, musculoskeletal. Coursework will familiarize the student with scanning techniques and protocols to evaluate normal sonographic appearance, abnormal sonographic appearances, and ability to identify specific pathological conditions as demonstrated on sonographic images. Correlation of pertinent clinical history, symptoms, clinical laboratory tests and other diagnostic procedures will be emphasized.

    Prerequisites: DMS 221, DMS 228, DMS 272, DMS 281, DMS 306

    DMS 306
    SONOGRAPHIC PHYSICS II
    DETAILS

    This course continues where DMS 206 leaves off. The following sonographic principles are covered: real-time imaging, pulse echo instrumentation, displays and image processing, dynamic range, harmonics and contrast agents, hemodynamics, Doppler principles, Doppler optimization, artifacts, quality assurance and bioeffects. 

    Prerequisites: DMS 206

    HUM 219
    MEDICAL LAW AND ETHICS
    DETAILS
    This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of medical laws, ethical principles and bioethics for the healthcare practitioner. The application of these fundamental principles will be applied using current medical-legal issues and bioethical dilemmas of today. The course is designed to improve the student’s ability to critically think and make sound decisions that are in alignment with professional ethics and values, integrity and judgment. The course will include such areas as confidentiality, privacy, consents, responsible practice, professionalism, bioethical dilemmas, and key legal aspects that influence the healthcare practitioner.

    First year - Third Semester

    COM 255 or 262
    Beginning Healthcare Spanish or American Sign Language Basic Skills
    DETAILS

    Beginning Healthcare Spanish

    This course will provide basic knowledge of the Spanish language and Latino culture, and emphasize the importance of this knowledge as it relates to healthcare in the United States. The student will demonstrate an ability to express ideas and thoughts in Spanish using both verbal and nonverbal communication skills in a culturally competent manner. In addition, the student will develop strategies to continue acquiring proficiency with the Spanish language beyond this course.

    OR

    American Sign Language Basic Skills

    This course presents practical communication skills needed for health professionals working with deaf clients. Everyday communication is the centerpiece of every lesson. Topics revolve around sharing information which is vital in the healthcare industry. Grammar is introduced in context, with an emphasis on developing question and answering skills that would occur between healthcare professional and patient. Students will learn conversational strategies to help maintain a conversation with deaf patients. Students will appreciate the diversity of deaf people and their culture. Interaction activities will allow students to rehearse what they’ve learned.

    DMS 276
    ULTRASOUND LAB II
    DETAILS
    This course will focus on applying ultrasound as a diagnostic tool for evaluating the abdomen, small parts, 2nd trimester fetus and all related structures. Coursework will include techniques for proper identification and representation of the normal anatomical structures as well as demonstrations and discussion on the proper scanning techniques and positioning utilized to obtain optimum diagnostic images. Lab will build on the principles of DMS 223.

    Prerequisites: DMS 221, DMS 223, DMS 228, DMS 281, DMS 305

    DMS 280
    CLINICAL PRACTICUM I
    DETAILS
    This course is designed to provide hands-on experience in the clinical setting and to familiarize the student with the daily activities in an Ultrasound Department.  By working closely with the clinical instructors and the staff technologists, the student will actively participate in exams, patient care, and everyday maintenance of the ultrasound department.  The clinical rotations will help the students develop skills in abdominal, OB/GYN and high resolution sonography.

    Prerequisites: DMS 221, DMS 223, DMS 228, DMS 272, DMS 281, DMS 305

    DMS 321
    ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND II
    DETAILS
    A continuation of Abdominal Ultrasound I, with emphasis on pathology seen in the abdominal system of the adult and pediatric patient. Students will become familiar with the clinical symptoms, lab values associated with specific pathologies. Abnormal case studies will be reviewed.

    Prerequisites: DMS 221, DMS 223L

    HUM 220-279
    The World of Ideas: Humanities Elective
    DETAILS

    Students may choose a World of Ideas elective course. The course must be categorized within one of the following three sections: The World of Ideas: Human Connection The World of Ideas: Historical Perspectives The World of Ideas: The Arts See All Humanities Course Descriptions for specific course information. 

    Second year - First Semester

    DMS 285
    CLINICAL PRACTICUM II
    DETAILS
    As a continuation of Clinical Practicum I, the students will receive hands-on experience in a variety of settings with exposure to a vast array of ultrasound systems.  By working closely with the clinical instructors and the staff technologists, the student will more actively participate in exams, patient care, and everyday maintenance of the ultrasound department. The clinical rotations will help the students continue to develop their skills in abdominal, OB/GYN and high resolution sonography.

    Prerequisites: DMS 276, DMS 280, DMS 288 

    DMS 328
    GYNECOLOGIC ULTRASOUND II
    DETAILS
    This course is a continuation of DMS 228, Gynecologic Ultrasound I.  The primary focus of this course will be a comprehensive overview of pathology related to the female pelvis, particularly the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

    Prerequisites: DMS 276, DMS 280, DMS 288

    DMS 360
    Clinical Reasoning
    DETAILS
    The focus of this class will be on sonographic anatomy, developing a clinical hypothesis, and establishing a differential diagnosis for commonly encountered sonographic pathology in Abdomen, Obstetrics, GYN and small parts.  Students will be called upon to integrate information from Sonographic Anatomy and Interpretation, Physics and Instrumentation, Pathophysiology, and Anatomy-Physiology.

    Prerequisites: DMS 221, DMS 228, DMS 281, DMS 288, DMS 321

    DMS 381
    OBSTETRICS ULTRASOUND II
    DETAILS
    A continuation of Obstetrics Ultrasound I, this course will place emphasis on fetal anomalies that can occur across the gestational period. Importance will be placed on identification of the pathological processes, sonographic appearances, correlation with the clinical history and diagnostic testing or procedures, and clinical management options. Topics will include, but are not limited to: maternal diseases and potential fetal consequences; multiple gestation; management of high risk pregnancies; assessment of fetal well being; role of Doppler; interventional procedures; and advanced technologies currently used in obstetrics. Abnormal case studies will be reviewed.

    WMI 345
    ADVANCED BREAST IMAGING
    DETAILS
    This course is designed to explore the multiple topics in the area of breast imaging. The primary focus of this course will be a comprehensive overview of the anatomy and physiology of the breast, multiple imaging modalities focused on breast sonography, as well as benign and malignant conditions involving the breast.

    Second year - Second Semester

    COR 201
    EDUCATED CITIZEN 201
    DETAILS

    DMS 307
    SONOGRAPHIC SEMINAR II
    DETAILS
    Students will be required to take an ARDMS specialty examination (Abdomen or OB/GYN) as part of this course prior to graduation. This course will assist students in the transition from student sonographer to professional sonographer, including ARDMS registry exam preparation. Additional topics such as resume writing, interview and negotiation skills, understanding benefits and different avenues of the sonography career ladder are also discussed.

    Prerequisites: Successful completion of all program DMS and EC Core Coursework prior to the beginning of the course.

    DMS 352
    VASCULAR IMAGING
    DETAILS

    This course is designed to present the most common vascular ultrasound examinations conducted in a radiology setting. The primary focus of the course is a comprehensive overview of the anatomy and physiology of the carotid and lower extremity venous systems. The lab component of this course allows students to become familiar with carotid and lower extremity venous scanning protocols.

    Prerequisite: DMS 285

    DMS 380
    CLINICAL PRACTICUM III
    DETAILS
    As a continuation of Clinical Practicum II, the students will receive hands-on experience in a variety of settings with exposure to a vast array of ultrasound systems. By working closely with the clinical instructors and the staff technologists, the student will more actively participate in exams, patient care, and everyday maintenance of the ultrasound department. Students are expected to take on more responsibility for imaging and patient care by performing exams with minimal assistance and supervision.

    Prerequisites: DMS 276, DMS 285, DMS 328, DMS 360 

    SSC 325
    APPLIED ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH
    DETAILS
    Evidence-based practice is an important component of effective clinical management. This course allows students to develop skills in applied statistics and research while learning to critically examine healthcare information from a variety of sources, including but not limited to professional journals, governmental reports and public media.

    Meet the Faculty

    Our multispecialty sonography faculty are highly experienced and credentialed in their own fields, giving you constant real-world insight you can use. While any instructor can recite from a textbook, ours go a step further and draw from vast personal and professional experiences. Instructors here care as deeply about their students as they do the subject matter and it shows.

    Meet the Faculty

    Additional Information

    Sonography Program Outcomes

    Graduates of the Multispecialty Sonography program will:

    1. Be competent entry-level sonographers in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains in the abdomen-extended and obstetrics and gynecology sonography concentrations.
    2. Model ethical and culturally sensitive professional attitudes, behaviors, and ethics that will encourage life-long learning, reflective practice and professional growth and development.
    3. Exhibit didactic and clinical skills that include the ability to perform age appropriate patient care by assessment of physiological and psychological status incorporating communication skills, critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, and decision making abilities.
    4. Attain the NMC Educated Citizen skills to become Reflective Individuals, Effective Communicators and Change Agents.

    Program Effectiveness Outcomes

    To view NMC's Sonography program effectiveness outcomes, click here:

    Program Effectiveness Outcomes PDF

    Professional Organizations

    To learn more about the field of sonography, please visit the websites below:

    Multispeciality Sonography Blog Posts

    Program Handbook

    Technical Standards

    The purpose of this policy is to determine the physical and emotional abilities of a student in the Department in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991.

    Policy:
    It is your responsibility to understand the duties, responsibilities, skills and abilities required of your chosen program/profession. In addition to the technical standards as described above, please review the information regarding Diagnostic Medical Sonography at the O*NET website.

    Procedure:

    1. Behavioral and Social Skills - Possess qualities of compassion, integrity, empathy and interpersonal skills. Possess emotional health necessary to effectively complete professional responsibilities.
    2. Communication - Read, write, speak, hear, and observe patients to effectively communicate the patient's condition and interact with the patient and other healthcare individuals.
    3. Integrative and Quantitative Skills - Problem solve utilizing computation, synthesis, and analysis. Visualize and analyze three dimensional relationships.
    4. Motor and Functional Abilities - Perform therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.
      *Sonography students must assist with moving and lifting patients and equipment of up to 50 lbs or more, up to 50% of the time. Visual abilities are necessary for viewing the ultrasound screen 85% of the time. This is adapted from Methodist Health System Performance Development Plan -Job Description for the sonographer
    5. Observation - Use instruments requiring sight, e.g., ultrasound and radiographic equipment, health assessment tools and devices, i.e. blood pressure cuff, stethoscope,etc. Make observations and evaluations. Observe results of treatment and reactions.