Who is eligible to apply to the certificate programs?
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program at Cincinnati State offers a certificate plan of study as an option for those individuals who have completed an allied health associate or bachelor degree with direct patient care including, but not limited to, Nursing, Radiologic Technology, and Respiratory Care.
How many students are accepted into the program?
A maximum of 2 certificate students for each area of emphasis will be accepted per year.
How do I apply to the program?
1.Submit an application to the admissions office and specify either:
DMS - CC (cardiovascular program) or
DMS - GC (general imaging program)
2. Submit a waiver for the COMPASS Test
3. Have official transcripts sent to Cincinnati State College
4. Interview with the appropriate Program Chair
Who is my advisor?
You can make an appointment with an advisor by calling the Health & Public safety Division at 513-569-1670 Monday – Friday during normal business hours.
Jackie Turner is the Cardiovascular Program Chair/Advisor. Her email is jackie.turner@cincinnatistate.edu Her phone number is 513-569-1421.
Susan Gomien is the General Imaging Program Chair/Advisor. Her email is susan.gomien@cincinnatistate.edu Her phone number is 513-569-1665.
What if I am unsure which program I am interested in pursuing?
Students may choose between two areas of emphasis: Cardiovascular Sonography or General Imaging Sonography. Cardiovascular sonography involves the demonstration and evaluation of structures within the heart and vascular systems. General Imaging sonography involves demonstration and evaluation of abdominal structures, superficial structures, pelvic structures and fetal structures.
We recommend researching both programs to determine which area of emphasis is suitable to your personality. Information on the various imaging concentrations within ultrasound may be found at www.ultrasoundcareers.org
How does the program work?
Certificate students are accepted on a first come, first serve basis. You must contact the appropriate DMS program chair to obtain a start date into the program. The program reserves 2 clinical spots per year for certificate students. The curriculum includes a balance of didactic, technical and clinical courses. Clinical experience takes place at various health care facilities in the Greater Cincinnati area. Clinical courses are offered during the daytime hours.
What are the prerequisites for the program?
An associate degree in an allied health profession with direct patient care (nursing, respiratory therapy, radiology, etc)
· Current license in the allied health profession
· College level Physics (PHY2245)
· Current Certification in health care provider level cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This certification must remain current throughout the time you are in the DMS program.
· A physical exam and immunizations. All students must show proof of immunity to, rubella, measles, mumps, varicella, and hepatitis B. A two-step PPD tuberculosis test must also be completed and then updated yearly while in the program.
What classes are included in the curriculum?
Curriculum 2005-2006
Continuation in the Clinical Level requirements:
· Students must meet all requirements of the program and receive a minimum grade of “C” or “Satisfactory” in all curriculum courses.
· Attain satisfactory clinical evaluations and maintain a minimum overall GPA of 2.0 to remain in, progress through, and complete the program.
· Background and Drug Testing may be required by some clinical sites.
Will I be able to work while in the Clinical Level Courses?
The program is intensive. Most students find it difficult to work more than 16 hours/week while in the clinical DMS courses.
Who should I call if I have additional questions concerning the program or the admissions process?
The DMS program chairs will be more than happy to speak with you either over the phone, via email or you may call the Health Technologies Department at 513-569-1670 to make an appointment.
What exactly is Sonography?
Diagnostic Medical Sonography is an allied health profession including general sonography (abdomen, obstetrics and gynecology) cardiac sonography, vascular sonography and various subspecialties. Sonographers are highly skilled professionals who use specialized ultrasonic equipment to create diagnostic images. Sonographers provide patient services using diagnostic techniques under the supervision of a licensed doctor of medicine or osteopathy.
What does a Sonographer do?
Sonographers are well versed in human anatomy and pathology and work closely with physicians and other health care providers. Sonographers are routinely involved in direct patient contact and deal with individuals ranging from healthy to critically ill. A successful sonographer is a knowledgeable, resourceful and caring individual who serves in the best interest of the patient. A sonographer must be committed to life-long learning to maintain competency, knowledge and expertise in a rapidly growing health care profession.
What is the salary range of an entry-level sonographer?
New graduates may earn approximately $15.00 - $20.00 per hour. This will vary dependent upon the geographic area.
Clinical Standards
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