[ Center for the Health Professions ]

Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Diagnostic Medical Sonograpy (DMS) uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to create images of internal organs, tissue, and blood flow. Sonographers assist physicians with making a medical diagnosis by providing technical images and findings. Elmhurst offers a four-year course of study in DMS in conjunction with Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where students spend their fourth year gaining valuable hands-on experience in this exciting medical field.

What does a diagnostic medical sonographer do?
Will I need a graduate degree?
What should I major in?
What are the academic requirements?
What about advising?
How do I become certified?
Where can I find additional information?

What does a diagnostic medical sonographer do?
Diagnostic medical sonographers work with physicians and patients to create high-quality diagnostic images. Here are just some of the things you’ll do as an DMS:

• Obtain and record an accurate patient history
• Perform diagnostic procedures and obtain appropriate sonographic images
• Analyze technical information
• Use independent judgment in recognizing the need to extend the scope of the procedure according to the diagnostic findings
• Provide oral or written summary of technical findings to the physician for medical diagnosis
• Collaborate with physicians and other members of the health care team   
  

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Will I need a graduate degree?
No; you can enter the field of sonography without a master’s degree. However, you will need certification.

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What should I major in?
Students preparing for careers in sonograpy major in biology.

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What are the academic requirements?
You’ll complete three years of college credit at Elmhurst College, then spend your fourth year in clinical/academic education at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Alternatively, you may complete your B.S. degree in biology at Elmhurst and then complete a fifth year of clinical work at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

A minimum of 24 courses, with grades of C or higher and a grade-point average (cumulative and prerequisite science courses) of 2.5 must be completed before starting the clinical work at the hospital. Upon completion of the program, you will receive a certificate of qualification as a diagnostic medical sonographer and be eligible to take certifying examinations.

Required courses
BIO 250, 251, 303, 418, 428 and other biology major electives
CHM 211, 212, 311
PHY 111 or 121
MTH 132 and 345 or 346

Recommended courses
CHM 312, 315
MTH 151

What about advising?
Expert advising is an important part of the Center for the Health Professions. We’ll pair you with one of our expert advisors to match your specific academic and professional interests. Your advisor will work with you throughout your Elmhurst career, clearing obstacles and giving expert guidance. Want to know more? See Advisors.

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How do I get certified?
When you complete your academic and clinical program, you’ll be eligible to take certifying examinations administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

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Where can I find additional information?
You can start by checking the web site of Northwestern’s School of Diagnostic Medical Sonograpy. In addition to information about the Elmhurst/Northwestern program, you will find links to useful resources. For more help, contact Elmhurst’s Center for the Health Professions.

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