Diagnostic Medical Sonography

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

The diagnostic medical sonography (DMS) profession is a multi-specialty field comprised of DMS, diagnostic cardiac sonography, vascular technology, and other emerging fields. Sonographers practice a form of medical imaging that uses complex high frequency sound waves and Doppler computerized equipment to visualize differences between healthy tissues and pathologic areas of the body, evaluate vascular flow information, and document pathologic and other conditions.

Program Offerings at Grand Valley

Students spend two years completing the general education and prerequisite courses. Students wishing to apply for this degree should apply by February 1, prior to the fall semester entry. After admission to the secondary selective program, students complete two more years of full-time professional coursework in one of the following areas: general (abdominal and obstetrics/gynecology), adult and pediatric echocardiography, or adult echocardiography and vascular sonography.

Coursework

Students study a variety of topics that include:

• Medical ethics and law
• Pathophysiology
• Patient care and professionalism
• Ultrasound physics and instrumentation
• Work-related musculoskeletal disorders

Career Options

Sonographers are in demand and find employment in a variety of settings, including clinics and physician offices, traveling ultrasound services, research institutions, and hospitals.

Why Study Diagnostic Medical Sonography at Grand Valley?

• Commitment to quality is demonstrated by achievement of accreditation through the Joint Review Committee for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (www.jrcdms.org).
• Students are qualified to sit for and are successful in passing the national board registrations PRIOR to graduation.
• Strong curriculum and knowledgeable, clinically practicing faculty prepare students for national certification exams.
• Students enjoy small class sizes, cohort educational experiences, and clinical rotations offered at multiple physician offices and hospital affiliates.
• Rotation of clinical site placements expose students to a diversity of experiences, allowing students to not only gain future references but also to prepare them for future employment.
• Laboratory facilities utilize state-of-the-art sonographic equipment to prepare students for current and emerging techniques and protocols.

For More Information

College of Health Professions
Radiologic and Imaging Sciences
www.gvsu.edu/rad
(616) 331-5600
Admissions Office
www.gvsu.edu/admissions

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