Midwestern Career College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, aimed at preparing students for entry-level positions in this field. The program focuses on imparting general education, applied knowledge, technical skills, and professional habits. It is designed for those seeking to work as sonographers, a role that involves using high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal body structures for medical diagnosis.
Campus and Enrollment Information
- Naperville Campus: Enrollment for a hybrid study format starting in Spring 2024.
- Chicago Campus: Next enrollment in May 2024 for the Fall 2024 cohort, also offering a hybrid study format.
- Alternate Programs: AAS in Surgical Technology and Clinical Medical Assisting programs are available for those looking to start sooner.
Curriculum and Training
The curriculum covers practical skills in patient care, equipment handling, clinical procedures, and a clinical externship for real-world experience. Key coursework includes:
- Sonographic Physics and Instrumentation
- Scanning Principles and Protocols
- Specialized areas like Abdomen, Vascular Ultrasound, and OB/GYN Sonography
The program adheres to the guidelines of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), American College of Radiology (ACR), and other relevant bodies.
Certifications and Career Path
Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) sonography exam and may qualify for the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) certification through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) under certain prerequisites. This certification is critical for professional recognition in the field.
Program Length and Externship
The program spans 80 instructional weeks across 5 terms, including 380 hours of required externship.
Career Outlook
The field is experiencing significant growth, with a projected employment increase of 10% from 2021–2031. Graduates can explore opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, medical centers, and clinics.
Additional Resources
- Career OneStop video for further insights into the sonographer role.
- Consumer information and occupational outlook resources from the U.S. Department of Labor and other agencies.
Contact and Additional Information
For more details, prospective students can contact Midwestern Career College directly or visit their program webpage. The college also offers a Career Training Readiness Quiz to help individuals assess their suitability for this career path.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Type of Program | Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography |
| Location | 203 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60601 |
| Phone | (312) 236-9000 ext. 1 |
| [email protected] | |
| Online Classes? | Hybrid format (combination of online and in-person) |
| Program Duration | 80 instructional weeks/5 terms |
| Class Schedules | Not specified in provided details |