The School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography at Northwestern Medicine, located in Chicago, Illinois, offers an 18-month program designed to train students in both the clinical and theoretical aspects of sonography. Starting every July and accepting up to 10 students annually, the program culminates in a certificate of completion in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Graduates are prepared for certification exams by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography, including Sonography Principles and Instrumentation, Abdomen, and OB/GYN exams. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) based on recommendations from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS).
Curriculum and Clinical Training
The curriculum is structured around a comprehensive educational approach, integrating didactic and clinical training. Students undergo competency-based training at Northwestern Medicine’s facilities, utilizing advanced diagnostic equipment. The instructional team includes board-certified physicians, ARDMS registered sonographers, and clinical instructors. The program’s mission is to produce competent entry-level general sonographers, with an emphasis on quality patient care and lifelong professional development.
Clinical Rotations and Academic Standards
Clinical rotations are conducted within a 35-mile radius of the campus, encompassing various Northwestern Medicine departments and affiliated hospitals. The program requires students to maintain satisfactory academic progress, with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 and a minimum average score of 75% in both clinical and didactic courses.
Program Delivery and Schedule
The full-time program requires on-site attendance at the Chicago campus and clinical rotation sites, running eight hours a day, five days a week. It utilizes a blended format, incorporating online learning for some courses and assignments. The program schedule includes standard holidays and a winter break, beginning annually in July and concluding in December of the following year.
Faculty and Admission Criteria
The faculty comprises experienced professionals in the field of sonography. Admission to the program is available to students from various educational backgrounds, including those enrolled in affiliated university programs, post-baccalaureate candidates, and professionals registered in healthcare-related fields. Eligibility requirements include a minimum GPA of 2.5 and satisfactory completion of prerequisite courses.
Health and Technical Standards
Accepted candidates must meet health and medical requirements set by Northwestern Memorial Hospital, including a background check, drug screening, immunization records, and CPR certification. The program sets forth technical standards necessary for successful completion and graduation.
Technology and Application Process
The program requires students to have access to a computer with specific hardware and software capabilities to engage in hybrid courses effectively. The application process is detailed and includes the submission of various documents, recommendations, and transcripts, along with a $25 application fee.
Accreditation and Approvals
In addition to CAAHEP accreditation, the program adheres to the Illinois Board of Higher Education standards and is authorized to operate as a post-secondary educational institution in Illinois.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified in the provided details |
| Type of Program | Certificate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography |
| Location | 541 N. Fairbanks Court, Suite 950, Chicago, Illinois 60611 |
| Phone | (312) 926-6609 |
| [email protected] | |
| Online Classes? | Blended format with some online components |
| Program Duration | 18 months (72 instructional weeks) |
| Class Schedules | Full time, on-site attendance required, 8 hours/day, 5 days/week |