Sonography, Associate in Applied Science Degree

New State of Iowa program can pay your tuition, click here to find out more about the Last Dollar Scholarship.

You might recognize sonography by its most recognized procedure, ultrasounds for expecting mothers. But it is far more than that.

Sonography uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to produce dynamic visual images of organs, tissues, or blood flow inside the body. It is used to examine many parts of the body, such as the abdomen, breasts, prostate, heart and blood vessels.



It is increasingly being used in the treatment of heart disease, heart attack and vascular disease that can lead to stroke. Unlike X-rays, sonography is  radiation-free.

Diagnostic Medical Sonography is a program that prepares individuals who under the supervision of physicians utilize medical ultrasound techniques to gather sonographic data used to diagnose a variety of conditions and diseases. The program includes instruction in obtaining, reviewing, and integrating patient histories and data; patient instruction and care; anatomic, physiologic and pathologic data recording; sonographic data processing; sonography equipment operation; and professional standards and ethics.

Attributes/skills needed include:

  • Compassionate and emotionally mature
  • Good eye/hand coordination
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Interest in math and physical science
  • Ability to work with all types of people and be part of a team
  • Ability to calm nervous patients
  • Ability to stand/walk for long periods of time
  • Work with precise limits or standards
  • Make decisions using personal judgment
  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to picture forms in space
  • Understand the meanings of words and present information clearly
  • Ability to work under pressure and handle emergencies


The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Associate Degree program at Scott Community College is a two-year, full-time program admitting a limited number of students every year. Classroom instruction is coupled with supervised clinical experiences at local hospitals and clinics.

Admission Requirements


There are unique requirements for admission to the Sonography program.

Students are required to have previously earned an Associates in Applied Science (AAS) degree in a health-related field involving direct patient care and a 12 month clinical component, or bachelor’s degree or higher in any field.

Eastern Iowa Community Colleges' Radiologic Technology, Respiratory Care and Nursing programs are all examples of degree programs that fit these requirements.

Award Options for Sonography

 

 

Sonography Fact Sheet (PDF) new window,  Cardiac Sonography Fact Sheet new window

Locations: Scott Community College

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