Cardiac Sonography – Associate in Applied Science
A cardiac sonographer (echocardiographer) is the allied health professional who, after an extensive and comprehensive educational process, is qualified to perform an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart). The primary role of the cardiac sonographer is to obtain diagnostic recordings and measurements from the ultrasound image of the heart, including hemodynamic information. This individual assumes great responsibility for the performance of this exam. The techniques for obtaining the required images and recordings require great skill. A thorough understanding of cardiac anatomy, physiology, hemodynamics and pathophysiology is required.
The cardiac sonography program is an online program accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) in the United States. It is a program leading to an Associate in Applied Science degree. The curriculum consists of integrated didactic and clinical coursework with a minimum of 1,136 supervised clinical hours with an approved clinical education affiliate. This program is designed to prepare the student for employment as a cardiac sonographer with positions located in hospitals, medical clinics, and other diagnostic imaging facilities. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to apply to the ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers) for board examinations that will award them the RDCS (Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer) credential.
There are special admission requirements to the sonography programs, and it is the student’s responsibility to understand the requirements and adhere to them. Entry into a program is competitive and based on a “point system.” Point values are based on grades earned in prerequisite coursework and the interview process.
Applications are processed according to the following:
- Applications must be received by the Allied Health Office by August 15.
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography Admission Committee conducts interviews.
- Students are notified by electronic mail of admission status.
- Accepted students begin Spring semester.
General education prerequisites and related requirement courses must be completed before admission to the program.
Minimum credits: 73
Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0
Minimum grade in all courses: 2.0
Minimum grade in HOC 130 and MOA 120: 3.0
Minimum grade in BIO 132 or BIO 253/254: 2.5
Minimum Jackson College credits: 33
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
GEO 1: Write clearly, concisely and intelligibly
Choose one of the following
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ENG 131 | Writing Experience I | 3 | ENG 085 and ENG 091 | ||
This is an intensive writing course. Narrative and descriptive modes are stressed. Basic research strategies are introduced. An end-of-the-semester portfolio is required. |
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ENG 132 | Writing Experience II | 3 | ENG 131 | ||
This is an intensive writing course. Analytical and persuasive modes are stressed. Advanced research writing strategies are used. Database and primary research methods are emphasized. An end-of-the-semester portfolio is required. |
GEO 2: Recognize the importance of equity and inclusion in a diverse society
Choose one of the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
COM 250 | Intercultural Communication | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 090* | ||
(Students cannot receive credit for both COM 250 and COM 350) This course will explore how diverse cultural orientations influence the way we perceive and interact with an increasingly culturally diverse world. We will discuss the causes of intercultural conflicts in different communication settings (interpersonal, small group, school, workplace and global) and how to manage them effectively. |
GEO 3: Demonstrate computational skills and mathematical reasoning
Take the following
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MAT 130 | Quantitative Reasoning | 4 | MAT 030 | ||
Quantitative Reasoning develops student skills in analyzing, synthesizing and communicating quantitative information. Cultivates algebraic reasoning and modeling skills through a quantitative literacy lens. Emphasizes critical thinking and the use of multiple strategies in applied contexts. Topics include proportional and statistical reasoning, probability, and evaluation of bias and validity. |
GEO 4: Demonstrate scientific reasoning
Choose one of the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BIO 132 | Human Biology | 4 | ENG 085* and MAT 020* or higher | ||
Students focus on the structure and function of the human body, the unity and diversity of life, the nature of scientific inquiry, and the principles and processes of evolution as well as contemporary issues that relate to biology. Course includes a laboratory component which focuses on human anatomy. |
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BIO 253 and 254 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II | 8 | |||
Human Anatomy and Physiology I Human Anatomy and Physiology II |
GEO 5: Understand human behavior and social systems, and the principles which govern them
Take the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
PSY 140 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | ENG 085* and ENG 090* | ||
Overview of the field of psychology, including learning, development, emotion, motivation, personality, abnormal behavior and psychotherapy. |
GEO 6: Understand aesthetic experience and artistic creativity
Choose one of the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ART 111 | Art History: Prehistoric to 1400 | 3 | ENG 085, ENG 091 | ||
This course is a survey of art history and aesthetics covering art and architecture from prehistoric times to 1400. |
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ART 112 | Art History: Renaissance to Present | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
This course is a survey of art history and aesthetics covering art from the Renaissance through the 20th century. |
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ENG 210 | Introduction to Film | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students are introduced to film as a visual art and to basic film terms and techniques, such as composition, movement, editing and sound. Readings in film history, genre, theory and criticism. Includes JC Winter Film Series. |
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ENG 242 | Sports in Film and Literature | 3 | ENG 131 | ||
This course is an inquiry into historical and changing role of sports in American culture through novels, essays, biographies, films, documentaries and sports-related poetry. |
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ENG 246 | Short Story & Novel | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students are introduced to traditional and contemporary fictional genres. This course emphasizes understanding, appreciation and the critical analysis of narrative art. Selections for study are chosen from English and American literature as well as world literature in translation. |
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ENG 247 | Poetry & Drama | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students are introduced to lyric and dramatic genres. This course emphasizes understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of poetry and theatre as language performances and literary forms. Selections for study are chosen from English and American literature as well as world literature in translation. |
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ENG 249 | African-American Literature | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Survey of the literature of African-American writers. Emphasis is on the major writers in narrative, poetry, fiction, essay and drama. |
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ENG 252 | Shakespeare | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students read representative plays and are introduced to the Elizabethan world. Course emphasizes developing understanding, appreciation and critical analysis skills. |
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ENG 254 | Childrens Literature | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students survey the various genres of childrens literature from a critical point of view. Course emphasizes developing student competency in oral reading and presentation of childrens literature. |
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ENG 255 | American Literature-19th Century | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students examine the development of a distinctive American literature and culture during the 19th century. Students read selections from many writers, with emphasis on major figures such as Hawthorne, Melville, Thoreau, Emerson, Poe, Dickinson, Whitman, Douglass and Jacobs. |
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ENG 256 | American Literature-20th Century | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students examine the literature and culture of America from 1890 to the present, with emphasis on the development of organic and post-modern writing in narrative, poetic and critical modes. |
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ENG 257 | World Literature I | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students compare major themes and writers from Africa, America, Asia and Europe. |
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HUM 131 | Cultural Connections | 3 | ENG 085 and ENG 091 | ||
This interdisciplinary course examines contemporary issues, their human and technological components, and their historical precedents through art, music, literature and philosophy. |
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MUS 131 | Understanding Music | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
Lecture and directed listening on the elements, forms and historic chronology of Western music. |
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MUS 132 | History of American Popular Music | 3 | |||
Students explore the development of popular music in America and focus on the musical, social and economic influences of commercial music in an historical context. |
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PHL 231 | Introduction to Philosophy | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 090* | ||
In this course, you will be exposed to some of the major figures in Western philosophy, and through them, some of the most important philosophical questions. You will discuss questions such as: Is ethics all a matter of opinion? What is the good life for human beings? When is the state justified in using coercive power? What is the nature of knowledge, and how do we get knowledge? What is the nature of reality? Can we prove the existence of God? |
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THR 116 | Introduction to Theatre | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
Survey of Western theatre and drama. Appreciation of theatre through understanding of historical development and societal function. Theatre architecture, production, costuming and acting styles, and the artists who create them. |
RELATED REQUIREMENTS
Take the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DMS 100 | Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging | 3 | |||
Students are introduced to the radiologic sciences. Modalities discussed include X-rays, nuclear medicine, ultrasound, computerized tomgraphy (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and photon emission tomography (PET). Students learn indications for a variety of diagnostic studies, how they are evaluated and interpreted,correlations of multiple studies, and how to prepare the patient for the study. |
|||||
DMS 104 | Introduction to Sonographic Instrumentation | 3 | ENG 085* and MAT 131* or higher, plus signed DMS fact sheet (EQV-DMSFS) | ||
In this course students will learn the history and basic principles of static and real-time ultrasound machines. The instrumentation of A-mode and its conversion into the real time B-mode scanners will be explored. Laboratory assignments reinforce learning activities. |
|||||
HOC 130 | Introduction to Health Occupations | 3 | |||
This course will provide the student with an overview of the health care field. Information that is covered serves as a solid foundation for all students in health sciences or health occupations, regardless of the particular health care profession they are interested in pursuing. Topics include: careers in health care, legal and ethical responsibilities, professionalism, interactions between and reaction of patients in normal and altered states, patient and personal safety and cultural diversity. |
|||||
MOA 120 | Medical Terminology | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
A programmed learning word building system approach is used to teach basic medical terminology word roots, prefixes, suffixes, language origins, plural formation and grammar rules are studied. Emphasis is placed on word building, definitions, spelling, usage, pronunciation and acceptable medical abbreviations. |
|||||
PHY 145 | Introduction to Basic Physics | 2 | ENG 085 and MAT 020 or higher. | ||
This course addresses the basic principles of classical physics specifically for the sonography program with a minimal amount of mathematics. The topics covered include motion, mechanics, energy, properties of matter, waves, heat, electricity and magnetism. |
CORE REQUIREMENTS
Take the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DMS 140 | Sonographic Orientation & Technique | 3 | |||
In this course students learn the principles of application of ultrasound as it pertains to echocardiographic exam. Topics of study include: windows and views, anatomy and physiology of the heart and great vessels, Doppler techniques, nomenclature of cardiac structures per ASE guidelines, LV assessment and function, as well as clinical indications for the echo. These studies are for preparation of applying correct techniques in the acquisition of sonographic cardiac images. |
|||||
DMS 141 | Adult Echo I | 4 | |||
In this course students learn fundamentals of cardiac pressures, cardiac cycle, and the cardiac conduction system. Studies include: cardiac valves normal and abnormal conditions, flow abnormalities, and physiological complications from these conditions. These studies are for preparation of applying correct techniques in the acquisition of sonographic cardiac images. |
|||||
DMS 142 | Echo Clinical I | 2 | |||
In this course students receive 168 hours of supervised clinical experience in an approved clinical education center. This course provides hands-on experience in basic cardiac imaging, patient care, and application of knowledge and skills acquired in DMS 140 and DMS 141. Successful completion of professional and technical scanning proficiencies is required to remain in the program. This course is the first in a series of three clinical courses that prepare the student for the final objective of performing and evaluating the adult echocardiogram. |
|||||
DMS 144 | Cardiovascular Principles | 3 | DMS 140 and DMS 141 | ||
This course is a study of cardiac anatomy and physiology, cardiac hemodynamics, principles of Doppler, and ECG interpretation. Problem solving, evaluation, and echo interpretation will be emphasized in this course. This course contains materials and instruction that will prepare the student in meeting the programs final objective of independent performance and evaluation of the complete adult echocardiogram. |
|||||
DMS 148 | Echo Clinical II | 7 | |||
In this course students receive 512 hours of supervised clinical experience in an approved clinical education center. This course provides hands-on experience in intermediate level cardiac imaging and use of cardiovascular equations. Successful completion of scanning proficiencies is required to remain in the program. This course is the second in a series of three clinical courses that has the final objective of independent performance and evaluation of the adult echocardiogram. |
|||||
DMS 196 | Introduction to Cardiac Clinical | 5 | |||
This course prepares cardiac sonography students for their clinical externship. Students will study and practice the technical as well as personal skills as they relate and are required for the on-site work experience. Students will demonstrate sonographic scanning of their discipline with the expected outcome of a basic level competency. Admission to the cardiac sonography program required to register for this course. |
|||||
DMS 206 | Sonographic Instrumentation | 4 | |||
Students explore the mechanics of A-mode, B-mode, M-mode, Doppler, and real time equipment. Accessory equipment such as cameras, transducers, phased, annular and linear arrays, and all types of hard copy documentation instruments are investigated. Multiple methods of preventative maintenance and quality control are presented. Laboratory reinforces learning activities. |
|||||
DMS 240 | Adult Echo II | 4 | DMS 140, DMS 141 and DMS 144 | ||
In this course students will focus on the abnormal heart. Valvular disease, coronary artery disease, diseases of the myocardium, cardiac masses and tumors, pericardial disease and diseases of the aorta are some of the topics to be covered. Students will also learn the various appearances of congenital heart disease in the adult heart. This advanced course contains materials and instruction that will assist the student in meeting the final objective of independent performance and evaluation of the complete adult echocardiogram. |
|||||
DMS 244 | Echo Clinical III | 6 | DMS 142 and DMS 148 | ||
In this course students receive 464 hours of supervised clinical experience in an echo lab at an approved medical facility. This course provides hands-on experience at an advanced level of cardiac imaging and use of cardiovascular equations. Interpretation skills will apply. Successful completion of scanning proficiencies is required to graduate from the program. This clinical course is the final course in a sequence of three, and the final objective to be met is successful, independent performance and evaluation of the complete adult echocardiogram. |
Sample Course Map
The following is a sample course map for informational purposes and will not suit every student’s situation. A detailed, individualized course map will be created when a student meets with their Student Success Navigator.
SEMESTER 1
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BIO 132 | Human Biology | 4 | ENG 085* and MAT 020* or higher | ||
Students focus on the structure and function of the human body, the unity and diversity of life, the nature of scientific inquiry, and the principles and processes of evolution as well as contemporary issues that relate to biology. Course includes a laboratory component which focuses on human anatomy. |
|||||
ENG 131 | Writing Experience I | 3 | ENG 085 and ENG 091 | ||
This is an intensive writing course. Narrative and descriptive modes are stressed. Basic research strategies are introduced. An end-of-the-semester portfolio is required. |
|||||
HOC 130 | Introduction to Health Occupations | 3 | |||
This course will provide the student with an overview of the health care field. Information that is covered serves as a solid foundation for all students in health sciences or health occupations, regardless of the particular health care profession they are interested in pursuing. Topics include: careers in health care, legal and ethical responsibilities, professionalism, interactions between and reaction of patients in normal and altered states, patient and personal safety and cultural diversity. |
|||||
PHY 145 | Introduction to Basic Physics | 2 | ENG 085 and MAT 020 or higher. | ||
This course addresses the basic principles of classical physics specifically for the sonography program with a minimal amount of mathematics. The topics covered include motion, mechanics, energy, properties of matter, waves, heat, electricity and magnetism. |
|||||
SEM 140 | Seminar in Life Pathways | 3 | |||
Seminar in Life Pathways is a gateway course to Jackson College. This course is designed to help all students develop the skills, inner qualities and external behaviors needed to take charge of their academic and career success. Students will be guided through an extensive process in making career choices and selecting an academic program of study at Jackson College and beyond. With the exception of second-admit programs, SEM 140 is required of all students. |
SEMESTER 2
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DMS 100 | Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging | 3 | |||
Students are introduced to the radiologic sciences. Modalities discussed include X-rays, nuclear medicine, ultrasound, computerized tomgraphy (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and photon emission tomography (PET). Students learn indications for a variety of diagnostic studies, how they are evaluated and interpreted,correlations of multiple studies, and how to prepare the patient for the study. |
|||||
MAT 130 | Quantitative Reasoning | 4 | MAT 030 | ||
Quantitative Reasoning develops student skills in analyzing, synthesizing and communicating quantitative information. Cultivates algebraic reasoning and modeling skills through a quantitative literacy lens. Emphasizes critical thinking and the use of multiple strategies in applied contexts. Topics include proportional and statistical reasoning, probability, and evaluation of bias and validity. |
|||||
PSY 140 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | ENG 085* and ENG 090* | ||
Overview of the field of psychology, including learning, development, emotion, motivation, personality, abnormal behavior and psychotherapy. |
SEMESTER 3
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
COM 250 | Intercultural Communication | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 090* | ||
(Students cannot receive credit for both COM 250 and COM 350) This course will explore how diverse cultural orientations influence the way we perceive and interact with an increasingly culturally diverse world. We will discuss the causes of intercultural conflicts in different communication settings (interpersonal, small group, school, workplace and global) and how to manage them effectively. |
|||||
DMS 104 | Introduction to Sonographic Instrumentation | 3 | ENG 085* and MAT 131* or higher, plus signed DMS fact sheet (EQV-DMSFS) | ||
In this course students will learn the history and basic principles of static and real-time ultrasound machines. The instrumentation of A-mode and its conversion into the real time B-mode scanners will be explored. Laboratory assignments reinforce learning activities. |
|||||
GEO 6 | Select course from GEO 6 list | 3 | |||
MOA 120 | Medical Terminology | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
A programmed learning word building system approach is used to teach basic medical terminology word roots, prefixes, suffixes, language origins, plural formation and grammar rules are studied. Emphasis is placed on word building, definitions, spelling, usage, pronunciation and acceptable medical abbreviations. |
SEMESTER 4
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DMS 140 | Sonographic Orientation & Technique | 3 | |||
In this course students learn the principles of application of ultrasound as it pertains to echocardiographic exam. Topics of study include: windows and views, anatomy and physiology of the heart and great vessels, Doppler techniques, nomenclature of cardiac structures per ASE guidelines, LV assessment and function, as well as clinical indications for the echo. These studies are for preparation of applying correct techniques in the acquisition of sonographic cardiac images. |
|||||
DMS 141 | Adult Echo I | 4 | |||
In this course students learn fundamentals of cardiac pressures, cardiac cycle, and the cardiac conduction system. Studies include: cardiac valves normal and abnormal conditions, flow abnormalities, and physiological complications from these conditions. These studies are for preparation of applying correct techniques in the acquisition of sonographic cardiac images. |
|||||
DMS 142 | Echo Clinical I | 2 | |||
In this course students receive 168 hours of supervised clinical experience in an approved clinical education center. This course provides hands-on experience in basic cardiac imaging, patient care, and application of knowledge and skills acquired in DMS 140 and DMS 141. Successful completion of professional and technical scanning proficiencies is required to remain in the program. This course is the first in a series of three clinical courses that prepare the student for the final objective of performing and evaluating the adult echocardiogram. |
|||||
DMS 196 | Introduction to Cardiac Clinical | 5 | |||
This course prepares cardiac sonography students for their clinical externship. Students will study and practice the technical as well as personal skills as they relate and are required for the on-site work experience. Students will demonstrate sonographic scanning of their discipline with the expected outcome of a basic level competency. Admission to the cardiac sonography program required to register for this course. |
SEMESTER 5
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DMS 144 | Cardiovascular Principles | 3 | DMS 140 and DMS 141 | ||
This course is a study of cardiac anatomy and physiology, cardiac hemodynamics, principles of Doppler, and ECG interpretation. Problem solving, evaluation, and echo interpretation will be emphasized in this course. This course contains materials and instruction that will prepare the student in meeting the programs final objective of independent performance and evaluation of the complete adult echocardiogram. |
|||||
DMS 148 | Echo Clinical II | 7 | |||
In this course students receive 512 hours of supervised clinical experience in an approved clinical education center. This course provides hands-on experience in intermediate level cardiac imaging and use of cardiovascular equations. Successful completion of scanning proficiencies is required to remain in the program. This course is the second in a series of three clinical courses that has the final objective of independent performance and evaluation of the adult echocardiogram. |
|||||
DMS 206 | Sonographic Instrumentation | 4 | |||
Students explore the mechanics of A-mode, B-mode, M-mode, Doppler, and real time equipment. Accessory equipment such as cameras, transducers, phased, annular and linear arrays, and all types of hard copy documentation instruments are investigated. Multiple methods of preventative maintenance and quality control are presented. Laboratory reinforces learning activities. |
SEMESTER 6
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DMS 240 | Adult Echo II | 4 | DMS 140, DMS 141 and DMS 144 | ||
In this course students will focus on the abnormal heart. Valvular disease, coronary artery disease, diseases of the myocardium, cardiac masses and tumors, pericardial disease and diseases of the aorta are some of the topics to be covered. Students will also learn the various appearances of congenital heart disease in the adult heart. This advanced course contains materials and instruction that will assist the student in meeting the final objective of independent performance and evaluation of the complete adult echocardiogram. |
|||||
DMS 244 | Echo Clinical III | 6 | DMS 142 and DMS 148 | ||
In this course students receive 464 hours of supervised clinical experience in an echo lab at an approved medical facility. This course provides hands-on experience at an advanced level of cardiac imaging and use of cardiovascular equations. Interpretation skills will apply. Successful completion of scanning proficiencies is required to graduate from the program. This clinical course is the final course in a sequence of three, and the final objective to be met is successful, independent performance and evaluation of the complete adult echocardiogram. |