Medical sonographers have crucial responsibilities in diagnosing and providing physicians with vital information about their patients’ well-being. As part of their daily routine, they operate ultrasound equipment and other imaging machines, providing physicians with a comprehensive overview of their overall health status.
Medical sonographers work with other healthcare professionals before, during, and after surgical procedures. They specialize in various tissues and organs of the body, such as the heart and abdomen. They are an essential part of the diagnostics division of medical and healthcare services.
Speaking of employment stability, medical sonographers have a projected growth rate of 17% and 12% for job outlook rate from 2019 to 2029. Hence, both growth and job outlook rates are faster than average compared to other occupations. That said, individuals who plan to pursue a career as a medical sonographer are guaranteed stable employment!
Completing an online Medical Sonography degree program is the first step towards becoming a skilled medical sonographer! To help you find the best education for this career, we have picked the 14 Best Online Schools for Medical Sonography Degree Programs In 2021. Our listing includes the country’s online colleges and universities that stand out in the programs they offer based on these factors:
- Flexible and convenient scheduling of virtual classes through 100% online or hybrid learning arrangement
- Fully accredited on the state and/or national levels, as applicable
- Delivery of curricula emphasizing up-to-date theories, policies, and practices in the Medical Sonography discipline
- Competent faculty composed of industry professionals recognized for their contribution to the field of study
- Engaging and comprehensive curricula and coursework to produce properly trained and educated Medical Sonography practitioners
- Credit transfers, if any
- Positive online Medical Sonography degree program reviews from academic organizations and authorities in the discipline
- Availability of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options
Need more information on our selection process? Please visit our Methodology page.
Clarion University
Online BS in Medical Imaging Sciences
Program Standouts: Clarion University’s Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences program has two concentrations: Ultrasound (Sonography) and Radiologic Technology. The online option is only offered to individuals with credentials or work experience as medical dosimetrists, radiation therapists, nuclear medicine technologists, sonographers, or radiologic technologists.
A 60-credit hour general education and science coursework and another two-year clinical study program at the Great Lakes Institute of Technology must be completed by students pursuing the Ultrasound concentration.
Complete 120 credit hours to graduate from Clarion University’s online Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences with a concentration in the Ultrasound program.
Campus Location: Clarion, Pennsylvania
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 94.1%
- Graduation: 49.4%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- High school transcripts
- GED/SAT/ACT scores
- $35 application fee
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Medical Terminology
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II
- Health Education
- AH Leadership Capstone
- 60-Semester Hour Clinical Study
Degree Outcomes: Graduates from the baccalaureate degree in sonography program earn the knowledge and credentials required to become medical imaging sciences professionals. Aside from that, they can become members of a diverse healthcare team, providing value and continuity of patient care and service.
Learn more about Clarion University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging Sciences Program.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Online BS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Program Standouts: A popular degree completion program at The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) program. Through the online DMS program, students can continue their professional obligations while earning their degree. No clinical requirements are needed to graduate from the program.
The DMS curriculum covers vascular sonography, cardiac sonography, advanced hemodynamics, healthcare systems in America, and cardiovascular pathophysiology. Distance learners access online classes through Blackboard, UAMS’ online learning management platform. The courses are offered in asynchronous format; however, some instructors may conduct synchronous sessions throughout the program.
The DMS program at UAMS takes two academic years to complete and require a four-semester attendance. Each semester is 15-week long, with one 8-week summer classes.
Campus Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: N/A
- Graduation: 79%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- $40 application fee
- Official transcripts
- Professional Observation Form
- Academic counseling
- Proof of ARDMS certification
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- 47 Credits of Prerequisite Courses
- Abdominal Sonography
- Clinical Practicum I – V
- Cardiovascular Pathophysiology
- Sonographic Conference
Degree Outcomes: Upon completing the UAMS’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program, students become eligible for certification by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Aside from that, they can enjoy numerous career progression and qualify to enroll in higher education, such as getting a master’s or Ph.D. degree.
Learn about the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences’ ONLINE Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program.
Washburn University
Online Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Program Standouts: Washburn University’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is offered in a 100% distance learning format. The DMS program offers three specialized certifications,: cardiac, general, and vascular program. All programs can be completed within one year. To graduate from the program, students must accomplish 43 credit hours for the general program, 37 credit hours for the cardiac program, or 34 credit hours for the vascular program. All of these have mandatory 1,104 clinic hours as part of the graduation requirements. Coursework completion is done entirely online, while the clinical requirements can be arranged in a clinical facility near the student’s home.
Campus Location: Topeka, Kansas
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 93%
- Graduation: 39.2%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Associate’s degree/higher in a healthcare-related program
- Pre-requisite courses
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- Observation Evaluation
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Narrative questions
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Medical Terminology
- Communication Skills
- Statistics/Intermediate Algebra/Higher Math Courses
- Pathophysiology
- Completion of 1,104 Clinical Hours
Degree Outcomes: Washburn University’s graduates of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program can become eligible to take and pass the certification examinations facilitated by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography or the Cardiovascular Credentialing International. With Washburn’s large affiliation of healthcare facilities, graduates can easily pursue employment opportunities. Graduates are trained and provided with a diverse range of clinical experiences.
Learn more about Washburn University’s ONLINE Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program.
Kettering College
Online BS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Program Standouts: The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program offered by Kettering College has four concentrations to choose from: echocardiography, obstetrics/gynecology, vascular, and abdominal. It is suitable for adult and professional students, as they are offered in a flexible learning format. All SONO-related courses should be taken synchronously, while non-SONO courses can be completed ahead of schedule.
Students pursuing a cohort program accomplish fewer courses at a time in an accelerated learning format. Each course may be completed in a 7-week or 8-week duration. Aside from regular semesters, the online diagnostic medical sonography program includes two 7-week summer classes. Full-time students will need to attend four semesters, while part-timers can graduate upon completing eight semesters. No clinical practice or experience is needed for graduation.
Campus Location: Kettering, Ohio
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 27%
- Graduation: 67%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Prerequisite courses
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Computer proficiency
- Background check
- Physical and health requirements
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Spirituality in Healing and Health Care
- Introduction to Human Communication
- Seminar/Capstone
- Clinical Externship
- Registry Review
Degree Outcomes: Kettering College’s graduates of the online B.S. in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program have earned the knowledge and qualifications they need to become eligible for professional licensure and certifications. That said, they can sit for certification exams administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Graduates will also demonstrate adherence to the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography’s Code of Ethics and Scope of Practice. Aside from sonography-related expertise, graduates will develop effective written and non-written communication skills.
Learn more about Kettering College’s ONLINE Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program.
Misericordia University
Online Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Program Standouts: Misericordia University offers three program options under the Diagnostic Medical Sonography, namely a B.S. Full-Time Diagnostic Medical Sonography, a B.S. Part-Time Post Certification Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARCH Accelerated), and a Diagnostic Medical Sonography Certificate. For non-traditional learners, they can pursue the part-time online Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Post-Certification) program. The program is suitable for adult and working sonographers who plan to pursue a degree without compromising their personal and professional obligations. Hence, all courses in the program are offered entirely online. Professional sonographers can transfer earned credentials/credits towards their program. Two-track options are offered through the B.S. in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, namely a B.S. in DMS with specialization and a B.S. in DMS with a social sciences specialization. Both tracks require 125 credit hours for degree completion.
Campus Location: Dallas, Pennsylvania
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 82.6%
- Graduation: 73%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- SAT/ACT (Optional)
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Prerequisite courses
- Official transcripts
- Background check
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- 32 hours of clinical attendance
- 9-credit hour Electives
- Evolution, Genetics, and Ecology
- Clinical Sonography I – IV
- Two writing-intensive courses (Written Communication Requirement)
Degree Outcomes: With Misericordia University’s numerous affiliations with clinical sites and other healthcare facilities, students have obtained the expertise and skills needed to become proficient in scanning and developing quality images. Completing the online DMS program at Misericordia University will help graduates succeed for the 1st take in the ARRT Sonography examination or three ARDMS certification examinations. Graduates gain the knowledge to understand global issues and trends in the healthcare industry that concern sonography practices.
Learn more about Misericordia University’s online Diagnostic Medical Sonography Programs.
AdventHealth University
Online BS in Imaging Sciences in Sonography
Program Standouts: As one of the frontrunners to offer an online baccalaureate degree for imaging technologists, AdventHealth University has an online Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences with a Sonography track. The program is offered only to students who already have credentials or experience as a diagnostic medical sonographer. Students can complete their degrees 100% online with an online degree program, letting them accomplish courses while pursuing their career obligations. The curriculum is offered in a flexible learning format, allowing students to complete their degrees according to their preferences. As a result, some students can graduate within 18 months of study, while others pursue a slow and steady pace. Distance learners receive a system of support from the university. AHU Online offers a holistic approach to non-traditional learners, providing them with the same support as their on-campus counterparts. Some of the student support services they can enjoy include counseling, tutoring, and library access. Each student also works with a Retention Specialist for guidance throughout the program.
Campus Location: Orlando, Florida
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 86.9%
- Graduation: 52%
Admission Requirements:
- $20 application fee
- Completed online application
- Associate’s degree
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Official transcripts
- Copy of ARDMS/CCI/NMTCB/ARRT credentials
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Case Studies in Healthcare
- Digital Imaging and Informatics
- Issues and Trends in Healthcare Arena: I and II
- Management Principles for Imaging Professionals
- Certificate in Sonography
Degree Outcomes: Professional medical sonographers strengthen their skills and knowledge of sonographic imaging specialties and procedures. With only 17% of sonographers completing a baccalaureate program, AUH Online’s BSIS – Sonography track provides you with the credentials for career progression. Aside from SONO-related fundamentals, they learn other essential components, such as management principles, business skills, finance principles, and organizational behavior.
Learn more about AdventHealth University’s online Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences in Sonography Program.
Marian University
Online BS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Completion Program
Program Standouts: Marian University’s online Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is suitable for professional medical sonographers who prefer a more convenient and flexible way of earning the degree. Applicants must already have the clinical experience and job credentials as sonographers or ultrasound technicians.
ARDMS-certified or CCI-certified applicants automatically transfer 60 credit hours into the undergraduate DMS program at the university. The online DMS program is designed as a 7-week accelerated learning format. Students can choose their start dates, allowing them to start every seven weeks from the program. They can accomplish one course per term to foster work-life balance while still completing their degrees.
Campus Location: Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 61.4%
- Graduation: 55%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- ARDMS credential
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
- Official transcripts
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- The Examined Life
- Introduction to Christian Theology
- Bioethics Recommended
- Music Elective
- Physical Science/Chemistry/Physics Elective
Degree Outcomes: Since the program is designed for students who already earned a DMS program or a certification from CCI or ARDMS, graduates will gain more advanced knowledge or strengthen their medical sonography skills. Aside from healthcare-related knowledge, the program equips them with a strong foundation in liberal arts, adding their work experiences or credentials to enhance problem-solving and critical thinking skills. They also gained the opportunity to choose a minor subject, ranging from psychology, healthcare administration, management, history, and business administration.
Learn about Marian University’s online Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Completion Program.
Oregon Institute of Technology
Online BS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Program Standouts: Oregon Institute of Technology offers one of the best online Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs in the country. The program is meant for professional diagnostic medical sonographers who want to pursue continuing education and career advancement. The curriculum combines basic medical science with a general education core and ultrasound courses. Although OIT has a higher acceptance rate, the university has rigorous admission requirements. The first requirement is holding a credential as a Registered Diagnostic Sonographer through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography in OB/GYN and Abdomen.
If applicants don’t fulfill this requirement, additional prerequisites must be completed. The next requirement is employment or access to a properly-equipped laboratory for a clinical externship program. Lastly, students must adhere to the admissions requirement set by the university. Students must complete a minimum of 45 credit hours from Oregon Tech to graduate from the program.
Campus Location: Klamath Falls, Oregon
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 95.8%
- Graduation: 43%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- $50 application fee
- Official transcripts
- ARDMS credentials
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- ACT/SAT/SAT II/AP/IB scores
- Prerequisite courses
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Technical Report Writing
- DMS Externship
- Special DMS Externships
- Pelvic Sonography
- Sonographic Principles and Instrumentation I and II
Degree Outcomes: Most students graduating with an online Diagnostic Medical Sonography program at Oregon Tech pursue advanced degrees in healthcare, education, and business. They will strengthen their skills and expertise in handling imaging equipment and writing technical reports or summaries proficiently.
Learn more about Oregon Institute of Technology’s online Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program.
Jackson College
Online Associate in Applied Science – General Sonography
Recommended Schools
Program Standouts: Jackson College’s online Associate in Applied Science – General Sonography program requires a minimum of 80 credit hours for degree completion. The CAAHEP-accredited online program comprises an integrated educational set of coursework. A minimum of 1,350 clinical hours in a supervised healthcare facility is also required for graduation.
Students must find an authorized clinical facility for performing their clinical hours. Although the program is a general sonography program, it prepares graduates for career opportunities in two specializations: obstetrics/gynecology and abdomen/superficial structures.
Students must first complete general education prerequisites and other related courses before enrolling in the online sonography program. Admission to the online program is rigorous and adapts a “point system.” The points are coming from the interview process and prerequisite courses. The program doesn’t accept part-time learners, requiring students to attend a minimum of 40 hours per week of learning arrangements.
Campus Location: Jackson, Michigan
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 100%
- Graduation: 18.6%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Prerequisite courses
- Submission of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Advising Fact Sheet acknowledgment receipt
- Technical standards for admission requirements
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Clinical Experience I to III (6-credit hour each)
- Cultural Connections OR African-American Literature
- Comprehensive Sonography
- Abdomen and Small Parts Sonography
- Sonographic Orientation
Degree Outcomes: Graduates can sit for the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography certification exams in Obstetrics/Gynecology, Abdomen, and Physics and Instrumentation.
Learn more about Jackson College’s online Associate in Applied Science – General Sonography Program.
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Online BS in Medical Imaging & Therapeutic Sciences
Program Standouts: The Department of Clinical, Diagnostic & Therapeutic Sciences at the University of Nebraska Medical Center offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Science online program. The program offers working medical sonographers the opportunity to pursue advanced degrees without compromising their current professions. Eligible students work with a faculty advisor, assisting them in creating an Individual Plan of Study to complete the program.
To graduate, students must have had at least 20 semester hours of university courses. Students need to complete 120 semester hours to earn the BSMITS degree. They have a maximum of five years to complete it; however, some can do so in three semesters.
Students take and pass exams and short quizzes during the program, conduct case presentations, work independently or with a group in completing projects, perform research work, write technical papers, and collaborate with faculty and colleagues.
Campus Location: Omaha, Nebraska
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 8%
- Graduation: 96.1%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- $60 application fee
- ARRT certification
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Radiography program GPA of 3.0
- Accredited Radiography degree
- Questions
- Transcripts
- Prerequisite courses
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- 30-hour Clinical Study per week
- Ultrasound Physics I and II
- Obstetrical Conference I and II
- Gynecological Ultrasound
- Professional Projects I
Degree Outcomes: Graduates with BSMITS degrees at UNMC gain the required credentials, skills, and expertise to be American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography-certified. They acquire clinical competencies and comprehensive understanding through practical experience.
Learn more about the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Online Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging & Therapeutic Sciences Program.
Northern Arizona University
Online BS in Health Sciences – Allied Health – Diagnostic Medical Imaging and Therapy
Program Standouts: Northern Arizona University is the only premier university in Arizona that offers a completely online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Health Sciences-Allied Health with a concentration in Diagnostic Medical Imaging and Therapy.
To be accepted to the online DMIT program, students must have earned an associate degree in Allied Health from an accredited school. The school allows for a maximum of 90 credit-hour transfers.
To graduate from the program, students must already have a state or national licensure that matches their associate program. The online Allied Health program is an “upside-down” 3+1-degree program. It means that all training and clinical concepts of the Allied Health program are obtained at the associate level.
More generalized health concepts are offered through distance learning at NAU to prepare students for a baccalaureate degree in Allied Health. The university doesn’t offer any of these. Instead, NAU collaborates with students who already earned an associate degree or students who are still in progress with completing an associate program in an Allied Health-related program. A capstone requirement is part of the culminating experience under this DMIT program at NAU.
Campus Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 82.6%
- Graduation: 53%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Associate’s degree in Diagnostic Medical Imaging/Therapy
- State or national licensure or certification
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Fieldwork Experience (Capstone)
- Special Topics in Health Promotion
- Applied Ethics in Health Care (Writing Requirement)
- Human Diseases
- Principles of Epidemiology
Degree Outcomes: After completing the online DMIT program, graduates at Northern Arizona University will gain the essential knowledge to understand the significance of stress management, the interconnectedness of societal and individual health, disease prevention, and healthcare environment diversities. Aside from that, students enhance their inter-professional teamwork and leadership capabilities to prepare them for career advancement.
Learn more about Northern Arizona University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences – Allied Health – Diagnostic Medical Imaging and Therapy Program
Valencia College
Online AS – Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Program Standouts: Valencia College’s Associate in Science – Diagnostic Medical Sonography program requires 77 credit hours for degree completion. It is one of the rigorous programs that specialize in diagnostic medical sonography within Florida. First-time enrollees at Valencia College will accomplish a limited range of coursework. Hence, they must first complete a set of prerequisite courses to be enrolled in the program.
Students who already have the credentials and experiences as a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer can receive transfer credit toward the associate degree. Distance learners at Valencia College utilize Canvas to access online courses. They also receive a wide range of student support services similar to their on-campus counterparts to succeed in online learning. Bookstore, library, and help desk are some of the support they can access online.
Campus Location: Orlando, Florida
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 100%
- Graduation: 48.7%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Prerequisite courses
- Official transcripts
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Entrance exam for the Health Sciences program
- Completed Valencia Diagnostic Medical Sonography program application
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Medical Sonography Clinical Practicum
- Seminar in Sonography
- Clinical Sonography I – IV
- Abdominal Sonography I and II
- Sonography Instructional Lab I – III
Degree Outcomes: Graduates at Valencia College emerge with practical and up-to-date knowledge of safe and ethical clinical decision-making in medical imaging. They improve their proficient sonographers with advanced know-how in learning, psychomotor, and cognitive aptitude. They advocate professional behavior, a safe clinical environment, and effective communication within the healthcare setting.
After completing the associate program, graduates can pursue more advanced studies such as a B.S. in Radiologic and Imaging Sciences or Advanced Technical Certificate in MRI, Leadership in Healthcare, Vascular Sonography, and Echocardiography.
Learn more about Valencia College’s online Associate in Science – Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
State Fair Community College
Online AAS – Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Program Standouts: State Fair Community College has an 80.5-credit hour Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography hybrid program. It is offered in the Cardiac and General tracks, each requiring 22 months of study, on-campus scanning laboratory sessions, online courses, and internship programs. Students pursuing the general track will become proficient in conducting vascular, obstetrics/gynecology, small parts, and abdominal examinations. On the contrary, cardiac track students are trained to conduct comprehensive vascular and cardiac examinations. Admission to the program is competitive. It also requires a separate enrollment application.
Campus Location: Sedalia, Missouri
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 100%
- Graduation: 12.1%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- ACT/SAT/ACCUPLACER scores
- Official transcripts
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Vascular Sonography I – III
- Sonography Principles and Instrumentation I and II
- Allied Health Career Development
- Seminar in Sonography
- Patient Care and Health Care Communication
Degree Outcomes: Similar to other schools, graduates at SFCCMO obtain the necessary capabilities and knowledge to pursue specialized examinations. In terms of soft skills development, they have a strong technical, observation, critical-thinking skills, efficiency in written and non-written communication and comprehension, and strong social perception and active listening skills.
Learn more about State Fair Community College’s ONLINE Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Online BS in Biomedical Sciences: Diagnostic Imaging Completion Program
Program Standouts: The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers a 120-credit hour online Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences – Diagnostic Imaging program. Imaging professionals designed the program, ensuring students access to the most current industry practices and trends. The program is developed primarily for working students. If you have an active imaging registry, you already obtained 50% of the required credits. That said, you’ll only have to take 60 credit hours from the courses offered at UWM. All courses can be completed through distance learning. No clinical hours are needed from the program.
Classes held for the Diagnostic Imaging program at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee vary widely and could have ten students or many as 400 students per class. Aside from synchronous learning, the program is also delivered in a self-paced or competency-based learning format.
Campus Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (Under Review)
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 74%
- Graduation: 40%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- CCI/ARRT/ARDMS Registry Card
- Prerequisite courses
- ACT or SAT scores (Optional)
- $25 application fee
- Application essay
- High school transcripts
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Human Pathophysiology – Organ Systems I – IV
- Information Management and Healthcare Technology
- Seminar in Advanced Diagnostic Imaging
- Seminar in Education and Management in Medical Imaging
- Ethics and Values in Health & Fitness Professions
Degree Outcomes: Diagnostic Imaging degree holders from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee gain critical skills for the medical sonography profession. Besides acquiring basic knowledge in traditional sonography-related subjects, graduates also become qualified for related careers in healthcare technology. They may also pursue career advancement in Diagnostic Imaging.
Learn more about the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee’s Online Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences: Diagnostic Imaging Degree Completion Program.
What is included in the Medical Sonography degree program curriculum?
Although not all online medical sonography degree programs share the same curricula, students can expect a similar set of coursework regardless of the online school they are attending. Some of the common subjects included in an online medical sonography program include:
- Abdominal Ultrasound & Ultrasound Scanning
- Essentials of Sonography & Ethics
- Gynecology
- Human Anatomy
- Medical Terminology
- Obstetrics
- Pathophysiology
- Sectional Anatomy
- Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation
Students must comply with coursework and clinical experience requirements, depending on your college and program. Associate or baccalaureate students will be asked to complete at least 1,000 clinical hours. Professionals pursuing certification will no longer have to comply with the number of clinical hours required; their practical experience will suffice.
In some cases, aspiring graduates may have to complete additional specializations under the Diagnostic Medical Sonography field. Some of these concentrations include Vascular Sonography, Cardiac Sonography, Echocardiography, and Gynecology and Obstetrics.
What careers can I pursue with an online Medical Sonography degree?
Professional medical sonographers work in healthcare facilities and operate digital imaging equipment such as ultrasound or sonogram to generate images of the body’s internal organs and tissues. Medical sonographers also perform vital tasks such as verifying the quality of images, maintaining and cleaning imaging equipment, writing reports, interpreting the results for physicians, and recording patients’ medical histories.
Associate in Medical Sonography degree holders can pursue entry-level professions at hospitals and other healthcare facilities. As they gain experience, they can be eligible for additional roles, advanced positions, and higher wages. An online medical sonography program can help you qualify for one or more certification exams. You can be certified by the ARDMS or American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.
Although medical sonography as a profession does not require licensure for practice, professionals must specialize in a sonography subfield through certification programs. The subfields include breast sonography, musculoskeletal sonography, abdominal sonography, pediatric sonography, and obstetrics and gynecology sonography.
What is the expected salary for medical sonographers?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says the 2019 median annual salary for medical sonographers was $74,320. Depending on the industry you’ll be working in, you can either earn at least $52,770 or as much as $102,060.
Medical sonography requires your full-time commitment. Many professionals take on evening and weekend shifts in facilities offering medical and healthcare services 24/7.
