UC San Diego Health Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program (2024)

Embark on a rewarding career with our Accredited Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program

Program Information Apply Now

Shaping the Future of Diagnostic Sonography

UC San Diego Healthis the host site for the Diagnostic Sonography Program. The program was established in 1975 and offers a 14-month certificate in General Sonography, including Abdomen, OB/GYN and limited Vascular in a format that includes classroom teaching and practical experience at the clinical affiliates in San Diego. UC San Diego Healthis well known for its outstanding sonographers and quality of student performance.The educational philosophy of the health system focuses on providing a high-quality education with an emphasis on didactic, clinical experience, patient care, and research.

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program at UC San Diego Health is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRCDMS). Students who complete the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program receive a certificate from UC San Diego Health. Upon completion of the program, the student will be qualified to take the abdomen, obstetrics & gynecology and physics examinations given by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). The Program Effectiveness Data outlines detailed information on success rates of the program.

Program Effectiveness Data

Stephanie Perkins, BS, RDMS, RVT

Program Director
UC San Diego Health Sonography Program
200 W. Arbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92103-8759
Phone: (619) 471-9406

DMSprogram@health.ucsd.edu

Ultrasound Imaging in Comprehensive Care

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Doppler imaging is a sophisticated ultrasound technology that visualizes blood flow in the body. It uses the Doppler effect to measure the speed and direction of blood moving through vessels. This technique enhances diagnostic accuracy for vascular conditions, organ perfusion, and more by providing color enhanced images of blood flow. Essential in abdominal, vascular and obstetrics, Doppler imaging offers critical insights into patients' circulatory health without invasive procedures.

UC San Diego Health Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program (1)UC San Diego Health Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program (2)

Dive into the wonders of development with a captivating ultrasound video that showcases the four-chamber view of a fetal heart. Watch as the vibrant hues outline the delicate workings of the mitral and tricuspid valves, providing an intimate look at life's early beats.

Program Highlights

Accreditation

  • Nationally Recognized Standards -Our Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), the largest programmatic accreditor in the health sciences field. This accreditation is granted based on the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS), indicating our adherence to the highest standards of education in sonography.
  • Assurance of Quality -Accreditation by CAAHEP assures students and employers alike that the program meets nationally established guidelines for sonography education. It is a testament to the quality of our curriculum, faculty, resources, and clinical training experience.
  • Pathway to Certification -Graduates from a CAAHEP-accredited programs are eligible to sit for the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) certification exams upon graduation.

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
9355 – 113th St. North, #7709
Seminole, FL 33775727.210.2350
www.caahep.org

Comprehensive Curriculum

  • Broad and In-Depth Learning -The curriculum spans key areas of general diagnostic medical sonography, including courses in abdominal, obstetrics/gynecology, small parts and intro to vascular sonography. Designed to evolve with advancements in the field, our program ensures graduates are well-prepared for the complexities of modern patient care.
  • Course sequence -The curriculum is designed so that the didactic courses will be given in a specified sequence to prepare the student prior to attending their clinical rotations. The student will then utilize the instruction they received in the didactic setting and apply it in the clinical rotation as they learn each concentration of study. Each student will be assigned to an affiliate hospital for their clinical training. The student will add to their expertise throughout the program.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

  • Innovative Laboratory Environment - Students have access to cutting-edge ultrasound technology and simulation labs, and ultrasound phantoms, mirroring the equipment and scenarios they will encounter in real clinical settings. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the technical proficiency and problem-solving skills needed in sonography prior to attending clinical rotations.
  • Student Enrichment -Our program emphasizes the importance of building the community, offering students opportunities to participate in ultrasound societies and UC San Diego Health hosted educational conferences. These experiences compliment the student's learning journey and facilitate collaboration with other sonographers and radiologists within the health system.

High Success Rates

  • Proven Track Record -The program boasts high success rates in ARDMS certification exams and job placement, reflecting our comprehensive preparation and strong industry connections. Graduates leave the program as competent, confident professionals ready to contribute to patient care.

Clinical Rotations

  • Diverse Clinical Exposure - Through partnerships with leading healthcare facilities, students experience a variety of clinical settings and patient populations. These rotations are designed to reinforce classroom learning, develop clinical skills, and foster professional demeanor.

Small Class Sizes

  • Focused Learning Environment - We prioritize small class sizes to ensure each student receives individualized attention and guidance. This approach fosters a supportive learning community where students can thrive academically and personally.

Career Support

  • Comprehensive Career Focus - From resume building to interview preparation, our career workshops are tailored to the unique needs of sonography students. We are committed to helping our graduates launch successful careers in this rewarding field.

Program Information Apply Now

Disclaimer

The information and policies contained may be changed without notice.No part of this website should be construed as a contract or an offer to contract.This is intended only as an informational guide to the UC San Diego Health Sonography Program. The UC San Diego Health Sonography Program does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, color, sex, national origin, disability, or status as a special disabled orVietnamera veteran.Any applicant that meets the physical requirements of the program shall have an equal opportunity to apply for the program.

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UC San Diego Health Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program (2024)

FAQs

How competitive is diagnostic medical sonography? ›

Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs can be extremely competitive as only a small group of students is excepted each year.

How much do diagnostic medical sonographers make in San Diego? ›

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary in San Diego, CA. $74,300 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $95,600 is the 75th percentile.

Is diagnostic medical sonography harder than nursing? ›

Sonography programs require more clinical hours and final exams than a nursing degree.

Does UC San Diego have a sonography program? ›

The program at UC San Diego Health is well known for outstanding sonographers and excellence in student performance. For more information about the program and how to apply please visit the program website.

Is sonography a hard major? ›

Due to the technical nature of these courses, the ultrasound program can be challenging at times. But, you're provided with hands-on training on the equipment you'll use daily, study materials and more to help you succeed.

Why is sonography school so competitive? ›

Sonography Programs are extremely competitive because there are only a limited amount of spots available. Hence, making a great first impression is crucial to be accepted into the program. One of my last blogs was about How to Choose The Sonography Program That's RIGHT FOR YOU.

Is there a lot of math in medical sonography? ›

Basic arithmetic skills are essential for tasks such as measuring blood flow velocities and calculating cardiac output. Understanding algebraic principles helps the sonography tech in interpreting data and making adjustments during imaging procedures.

Why do sonographers make so much? ›

In urban centers, hospitals and health systems serve large populations of patients and may be willing to pay more to employ enough sonographers. All of the top 10 highest paying metropolitan areas are in California, according to the BLS.

What kind of sonography makes the most money? ›

The Highest-paying Specialties for an Ultrasound Technician:
  • Neuro (brain) sonography: $112,000.
  • Pediatric cardiac sonography: $80,000.
  • Cardiac sonography: $79,000.
  • Vascular sonography: $68,000.
  • Ob/gyn sonography: $68,000.
Dec 15, 2021

What is UC San Diego best for? ›

UCSD's Graduate School Rankings
  • in Aerospace / Aeronautical / Astronautical Engineering.
  • #5. in Biomedical Engineering / Bioengineering (tie)
  • in Chemical Engineering.
  • in Civil Engineering.
  • #10. ...
  • in Electrical / Electronic / Communications Engineering.
  • in Materials Engineering.
  • in Mechanical Engineering.

Is UC San Diego worth it? ›

UC San Diego was named 13th best research university in the nation and 40th best college in the world by the Centre for Science and Technology Studies of Leiden University in their 2020 report that measured scientific impact of universities worldwide.

How much do ultrasound techs make at UCSD? ›

What is the average salary for an Ultrasound Technologist at Uc San Diego Health System in the United States? Based on our data, it appears that the optimal compensation range for an Ultrasound Technologist at Uc San Diego Health System is between $98,971 and $116,987, with an average salary of $108,356.

Is there a demand for diagnostic medical sonographers? ›

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 14.3% employment growth for diagnostic medical sonographers between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 12,000 jobs should open up.

Is diagnostic radiography competitive? ›

Entry to the course is highly competitive with approximately one place per ten applicants.

Is being a diagnostic medical sonography worth it? ›

Is sonography a good career? The sonography profession is challenging, rewarding, and empowers you to make a difference in the lives of patients. If you are a person who is looking for these facets in your career, then sonography may be the right career for you.

What's the hardest part of being a sonographer? ›

The Challenges of Being an Ultrasound Technician

Long and varying work hours: Sonographers often work in hospitals and clinics that stay open long hours. You could work nights and/or weekends to best serve your patients. Difficult patients: Some patients will be struggling with difficult emotional situations.

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