Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Associate in Science (A.S.)
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program at Valencia College prepares you to go directly into a specialized career in sonography.
If you’re fascinated by the inner workings of the human body, then you may want to consider becoming a sonographer. Sonographers play a dynamic role in the treatment and care of patients. When a doctor needs to study any of the soft tissue organs of a patient–like the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, thyroid or breast–it is the sonographer who provides the images using high frequency sound waves via ultrasound. You may also get to share in an experience most people remember for a lifetime–providing expectant mothers with their first glimpse of an unborn child.
Limited-Access Program
This is a limited-access program. For admission requirements and updates, program application and deadlines, visit the Health Sciences Division website.
Have questions, or want more information?
Program Details
Program Overview and Degree Requirements
Review course descriptions, important dates and deadlines and other programs details in the official college catalog.
Alternative Ways To Earn Credit
Did you know that you may already be eligible to receive college credit toward this program? Check out these opportunities:
- Industry Certifications – Receive college credit for approved Industry Certifications
You want to step up. We have a path to a bachelor's
Build on your skills and increase your opportunities for career advancement after earning your A.S. in Diagnostic and Medical Sonography degree by continuing your education at Valencia College, and completing a bachelor's degree or an Advanced Technical Certificate. We encourage you to consult with a program advisor to determine the best education plan for your career goals.
PROGRAM LENGTH
77 credits
(after all of the pre-admission course requirements have been met)
Program begins each fall.
Health Care Specialist
CERTIFICATE
When you choose the Healthcare Specialist technical certificate as your secondary degree pathway, you will earn a workforce credential while completing prerequisite course credits, many of which are requirements for the selective admissions health career programs at Valencia College. Earning this certificate is an important first step in your career—your classes can help you become more valuable to our local health care employers.
Career Outlook
Learn How To
- Analyze and present diagnostic data for interpretation and diagnosis by the physician
- Position the patient's body so that the correct areas can be seen on an ultrasound screen
- Perform sonograms and record normal anatomy and pathologic data for interpretation
Job Outlook
A variety of exciting career opportunities are available for sonographers. They may work in clinics, physicians’ offices, diagnostic imaging centers, ambulatory care facilities, and hospitals in trauma/emergency and intensive/critical care settings. With rapidly developing new technologies and increased use of diagnostic ultrasound procedures, the sonography profession is projected to continue to grow in the future.
Potential Careers
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
- Ultrasound Technologist
AVERAGE SALARY RANGE
$40,000 - $45,000
Placement Rate
The average placement rate for Valencia College A.S. degree and certificate programs ranges between 90 – 95%, according to the latest FETPIP data.
Steps for Admission to Program
- Attend a Health Sciences Information Session. Please bring a copy of the program guide for your desired track with you. If you are not local and cannot attend the information session, review the program guide and read the frequently asked questions for the Health Sciences programs and degrees.
- Apply to Valencia College.
- Complete required general education courses before applying to the program.
- Once your transcripts have been received and evaluated, and if you meet eligibility requirements, you can apply to the program.
Information Sessions
To learn more about this program, including application requirements, attend one of our information sessions. Please bring a copy of the program guide with you. If you are unable to attend, refer to the program guide and the resources available at Health Sciences.