General Ultrasound Sonography
The course is designed for those who wish to pursue a career in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound. Ultrasonography, (commonly called sonography) is a diagnostic medical procedure that uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to produce dynamic visual images of organs, tissues, or blood flow inside the body. Sonography can be used to examine many parts of the body, such as the abdomen, breasts, female reproductive system, prostate, heart, and blood vessels. Unlike X-rays, sonography is a radiation-free imaging modality.
The non-physician professionals who perform these procedures are known as sonographers. Ultrasound is very operator-dependent, so proper training is required. The course that we offer is taught by instructors who are highly skilled and who have practiced ultrasound for many years.
Upon completion of this intensive program, students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in Medical Terminology, Physiology, Anatomy, Physics, Instrumentation and practical Ultrasound Diagnostic skills that pertain to the study of various protocols of the human body part. In essence students are able to identify and perform scans on body parts per doctor’s order. The clinical practices occur at Northbrook Imaging Center, Hermosa clinic in Chicago, AllPort Medical Clinic in Chicago.
Occupational Outlook
Faster than average growth in the employment of sonographers is expected nationwide. The growing and aging population will increase the need for more safe, non-radioactive detection of diseases. Sonography will become increasingly important in the areas of obstetrics/gynecology and cardiology. Demand for skilled sonographers exceeds supply in most areas of the state, but particularly in smaller communities and rural areas. As the need for qualified individuals spurs more training programs, the need for educators, researchers, and administrators will increase as well. Areas of specialized sonography in which skilled individuals will be in high demand include magnetic resonance imaging and computerized tomography.
Salaries
The US Department of Labor predicts there will be a shortage of Sonographers throughout the country for at least the next decade. Salaries depend on the supply and demand ratio, experience, job description, and geographic location. Salaries ranged between $42,950 for entry-level sonographers to $78,600 for more experienced sonographers in 2004.
This program is approved by: IL Board of Education.
This program prepares you for: Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS)
Ultrasound Technician Program
Total Duration: 2734 clock hours
Prerequisites: Proof of 2 years Allied Health educational background or work in medical field for one year to receive a waver of the basic medical skills module and $1,000 discount. Solid English language skills.
Course Fee: $15,000
General Ultrasound Sonography Program
Total Duration: 1593 clock hours
Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree received in United States or in any other country. For a one year program (no case studies, no externship for six months) For the 2 year program; high School graduated (or GED) who wishes to work in an Allied Health career. Proof of 2 years Allied Health educational background or work in medical field for one year to receive a waver of the basic medical skills module and $1,000 discount. Solid English language skills.
Course Fee: $9,500
Echocardiography and Vascular Ultrasound Course
Total Duration: 1274 clock hours
Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree received in United States or in any other country. For a one year program (no case studies, no externship for six months) For the 2 year program; high School graduated (or GED) who wishes to work in an Allied Health career. Proof of 2 years Allied Health educational background or work in medical field for one year to receive a waver of the basic medical skills module and $1,000 discount. Solid English language skills.
Course Fee: $9,500
