About Us

About Us

Sonography is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses the echoes of high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to construct an image (sonogram) of internal organs or body structures.

In sonography, a transmitting device (the transducer) sends out high-frequency ultrasound waves. Harmless sound waves, which contain no radiation, bounce off the surfaces of the object they hit. The reflected sound forms an echo that is visualized on the screen.

A diagnostic medical sonographer is a highly-skilled professional who uses specialized equipment to create images (sonograms) of structures inside the human body. Physicians interpret the images to make a medical diagnosis.

The professional responsibilities of a diagnostic medical sonographer include, but are not limited, to:

  • Obtaining and recording an accurate patient history.
  • Performing diagnostic procedures and obtaining diagnostic images.
  • Analyzing technical information.
  • Using independent judgment in recognizing the need to extend the scope of the procedure according to the diagnostic findings.
  • Providing an oral or written summary of the technical findings to the physician for medical diagnosis.
  • Providing quality patient care.
  • Collaborating with physicians and other members of the healthcare team.

Because they are often dealing with people in physical and/or emotional pain, diagnostic medical sonographers must be sensitive to the needs of their patients. In addition, they must be detail-oriented team players and able to follow doctors’ directions explicitly. Documentation and maintenance of patients' records is also a requirement of the diagnostic medical sonography profession. Operating complicated equipment requires mechanical ability and manual dexterity, while long periods of standing and lifting patients requires physical stamina.

The field of sonography offers several areas of specialization, including:

  • Abdomen (AB) – evaluation of all the soft tissues, blood vessels and organs of the abdominal cavities (for example, liver, spleen, urinary tract and pancreas).
  • Breast (BR) – evaluation of breast abnormalities that are found with screening or diagnostic mammography.
  • Cardiac (adult echocardiography (AE), pediatric echocardiography (PE) and fetal echocardiography (FE)) – evaluation of the anatomy and hemodynamics (blood flow) of the heart, its valves and related blood vessels.
  • Musculoskeletal (MSK) – assess bones, muscles, tendons, ligament tears and nerve and soft tissue pathology. Assist with ultrasound-guided procedures.
  • Pediatric Sonography (PS) – evaluation of the head, spine, chest, hips/joints, and the male and female genitourinary system of the pediatric patient.
  • Obstetrics (OB)/Gynecology – evaluation of the female reproductive system.
  • Vascular Technology (VT) – evaluation and analysis of the hemodynamics (blood flow) of peripheral and abdominal blood vessels.

Professional certification disclosure

Upon completion of an accredited program, a diagnostic medical sonographer takes one or more certification examinations and, if successful, becomes certified in a specialty area (e.g., abdomen, vascular). The certification organization (i.e., "registry") awards a credential to recognize the individual who has met all of the certification organization's qualifications/requirements.

Employers, insurers, accreditation organizations and professional organizations in the sonography community are increasingly seeking demonstration of competence through sonographer certification/credentialing in each specialty area in which the sonographer practices.

Taking the Sonographic Principles and Instrumentation examination after successful completion of the Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation course is strongly recommended, but not required. Cleveland Clinic requires a minimum of one certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) (Abdominal (AB), Obstetrics (OB)/gynecology or Vascular (VT)) prior to hire, with all three specialties being required within the first year of hire.  

Accreditation

Accreditation

State approval  

The Cleveland Clinic Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is approved by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3332 (School Registration No. 2165). For questions related to the State Board approval, please contact:

  • Using this link here, scroll to the “Center for Health Professions Education (Cleveland)” to find our registered programs.

Cleveland Clinic Center for Health Profession Education
9500 Euclid Ave./JJ21
Cleveland OH 44195
216.445.8802

Liability insurance and background check

Cleveland Clinic provides liability insurance and background checks free of charge to all students accepted in the School of Diagnostic Imaging.

Admissions

Admissions

Individuals applying to the School of Diagnostic Imaging:

  • Shall possess a high school diploma or have earned a certificate of equivalent education recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Shall have a cumulative GPA of 2.75.
  • Must provide a current e-mail address with their application. This is needed to contact you for clinical observation and for access to the program learning management system. No application will be processed without a valid and current email address.
  • Must participate in a behavior-based interview with program officials.
  • Must complete the college credit course prerequisites. The program is not able to offer placement tests for the prerequisite courses. 
  • Have good eyesight either naturally or through correction. Applicants must be able to see the printed words in a sonography textbook and be able to read and accurately interpret numbers on a chart.

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program does not accept advanced placement, transfer students or transfer credits from any college or sonography program.

Admissions process

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program uses a selective process to determine which students will be accepted into the program. Acceptance into the program is based on a point system that includes scores from a behavior-based interview, high school and college GPAs, and the number of additional science and math classes with a grade of "C" or better. The higher the grade on the science and math courses, the more points awarded.

The program accepts between five and 10 students each year based upon clinical site availability. Acceptance letters will be emailed out approximately one month after the interview process has been completed. The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program starts each year in August.

To be considered for acceptance, please complete and remain aware of the following steps:

  • Complete the Diagnostic Medical Sonography application.
  • Send the application form to the school with the non-refundable $20 application fee. Please do not send cash. We accept checks and credit card payments. Checks should be made payable to the School of Diagnostic Imaging, Cleveland Clinic. For credit card payments, call Gloria at 216.448.3110.
  • Send your official high school and college transcripts to the school.
  • Behavior-based interviews will be scheduled in February/March for applicants who have met the previous qualifications. The purpose of the behavior-based interview is to assess communication and critical thinking skills.

Technical standards

  • Candidates must have good eyesight either naturally or through correction. They must be able to see the printed words in a sonography textbook and be able to read and accurately interpret the numbers on charts and diagrams.
  • Candidates must have the ability to hear instructions and be able to respond to verbal requests by patients.
  • Candidates must be able to life a minimum of 30 pounds and possess the ability to support up to 175 pounds. Sonographers must assist, support and move patients from wheelchairs and carts onto examination tables, which requires the use of their back and muscles.
  • Sonographers work while standing, sometimes for hours. Candidates must be able to move around and stand for long periods of time.
  • Sonographers must verbally instruct patients and be able to express concern and empathy for them. Candidates must possess good verbal and nonverbal communication skills as evidenced from the application and interview process. Sonographers must perform data entry with dexterity and accuracy.
  • Candidates must be physically and mentally capable of fulfilling the objectives of the sonography program. The school will make reasonable accommodations to assist a student with a disability to advance through the program. Candidates must have sensory function adequate for patient assessment and care. They must possess the physical status needed to provide all aspects of care in a safe manner. (Please see Special Accommodations for Students with Disabilities Policy.)

Pre-requisites

Candidates are encouraged to submit the pre-requisites by Feb. 1 or until the program has sufficient applications that meet the requirements. All courses must have a traditional letter grade. Candidates who meet most of the requirements may be considered if there is evidence that they will meet the requirements prior to the beginning of the program.

The School of Diagnostic Imaging does not accept the pass/no pass grading option. Credit(s) earned at other institutions or programs will be evaluated by the Admissions Committee using transfer.org to determine if they meet the program requirements.  

Applicants must have completed the following college credit prerequisites with a grade of "C" or better:

  • Medical Terminology.
  • Anatomy & Physiology I, completed within the last 10 years.
  • Anatomy and Physiology II, completed within the last 10 years.
  • Math (approved by program manager).
  • Physics (approved by program manager).
  • Communications (approved by program manager).

Please note: If you have completed Anatomy & Physiology I and are registered for Anatomy & Physiology II for the current semester for which you are applying, you may still apply to the program to be interviewed, but you must then complete the Anatomy & Physiology II successfully in that semester to be eligible for acceptance into the program.

Application

The deadline for applications for the August class is Feb. 1. Application forms can be downloaded from the website or by requesting from the contacts below. Submit your completed form to the Program Director with a non-refundable $20 application fee. Please do not send cash. We accept checks and credit card payments. Checks should be made payable to the School of Diagnostic Imaging, Cleveland Clinic. For credit/debit card payments, please call Gloria at 216.448.3110. Students must have their official high school and college transcripts mailed directly to the school.

Questions? Contact Angela Perry at 216.769.2452 or perrya@ccf.org, or Gloria Albrecht at 216.448.3110 or galbrech@ccf.org.  

Non-discrimination policy

Cleveland Clinic does not discriminate in admission, employment, or administration of its programs or activities, on the basis of age, gender, race, national origin, religion, creed, color, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, ethnicity, ancestry, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, Cleveland Clinic administers all programs and services without regard to disability and provides reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified disabled individuals.  

Criminal background check

All students accepted into the School of Diagnostic Imaging must complete a criminal background check. Students with a criminal record may not be eligible to participate in a clinical rotation, receive a professional licensure/registration or obtain employment in the health field. Cleveland Clinic covers the cost of the background check.  

Basic life support for healthcare providers

Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers must be completed prior to starting the program. Training through only two providers are accepted: Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers from the American Heart Association and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer from the American Red Cross.

Health Requirements including vaccinations are located on the Program Health Requirements page.

Curriculum

Curriculum

Course Sequence

1st Semester – Fall 16 weeks
PCS 101 Patient Care for Sonography
CSA 101 Cross Sectional Anatomy
DMS 101 Intro to Diagnostic Medical Sonography
LAB 101 Sonography Scanning Lab I
CLE 101 Introductory Clinical Experience I
2nd Semester – Spring 16 weeks
DMS 102 Diagnostic Medical Sonography – ABD I
PHY 101 Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation I
LAB 102 Sonography Scanning Lab II
CLE 102 Introductory Clinical Experience II
3rd Semester – Summer 12 weeks
DMS 103 Diagnostic Medical Sonography – OB/GYN I
DMS 112 Diagnostic Medical Sonography – ABD II
LAB 103 Sonography Scanning Lab III
CLE 103 Intermediate Clinical Experience I
4th Semester – Fall 16 weeks
DMS 204 Diagnostic Medical Sonography – OB/GYN II
PHY 210 Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation II
DMS 223 Advanced Studies in Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Vascular
LAB 204 Sonography Scanning Lab IV
CLE 201 Intermediate Clinical Experience II
5th Semester – Spring 16 weeks
DMS 224 Advanced Studies in Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Pediatrics
DMS 225 Diagnostic Medical Sonography as a Profession
DMS 226 Registry Review
LAB 205 Sonography Scanning Lab IV
CLE 202 Advanced Clinical Experience

2024-2026 Course Descriptions

DMS101 – Patient Care in Ultrasound

This course introduces the student to the world of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and patient care. Topics will include the history and development of ultrasound, professional ethics specific to ultrasound, industry standards and OSHA guidelines, HIPPA, methods of infection control, proper scanning techniques, ergonomics including sonographer best practices to reduce injury, image orientation and acquisition, scanning protocols, and basic concepts of ultrasound physics and instrumentation, patient assessment, including age-related care and cultural competency, proper transport and transfer of patients with and without support equipment, taking vital signs, patient comfort and modesty, professional roles both in and out of the sonography department, and how to appropriately communicate with department staff. Discussion of proper sterile techniques, personal protective equipment (PPE, including and donning and doffing), and reporting and documentation of incidents and/or adverse medication reactions, as well as discussion on hospital and departmental organization, and hospital and program affiliation. This course also provides introduction to the fundamental anatomical and physiological aspects associated with the anatomical planes of the body. Introduction to sonographic terminology and ultrasound unit knobology, reporting incidents and/or adverse medication reactions, as well as discussion on hospital and departmental organization, and hospital and program affiliation.

Lecture: 4 hours

Prerequisite: Admission into the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.

DMS111 - Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Abdominal Imaging I
DMSL111- Introduction to Sonography Scanning Lab I

This course will introduce sonography to the student. Topics such as anatomy, physiology, embryology, pathology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and anatomical variants of the upper abdomen, to include the lymphatic system, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, urinary bladder, adrenal glands, spleen, aorta, inferior vena cava, thyroid, and neck. The importance of sonographic image acquisition of normal and abnormal findings as well as the necessity of correlation between other modalities to confirm findings will also be discussed. Introduction to terminology used in diagnostic medical sonography, knobology, scanning planes, and basic knowledge of the ultrasound unit will also be introduced. Corresponding sonography scan lab.

Lecture: 4 hours

Scan Lab: 4 hours

Prerequisite: Admission into the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program

DPHY100 - Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation

This course is related to the physical and mathematical principles of diagnostic medical sonography. A basic knowledge of the principles of acoustic sound transmission is important to understand and needed in the field. Topics will include understanding the physical attributes of ultrasound waves and how images are generated, attenuation, transducer construction and function, ultrasound instrumentation, frequency and multi-hertz frequency capabilities, dynamic range, signal processing, bioeffects, ALARA, Display modes, resolution, artifacts, hemodynamics, quality assurance, doppler principles and related instrumentation will be discussed as part of this course.

Lecture: 4 hours

Prerequisite: Admission into the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program

DMS112 - Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Abdomen II
DMSL112- Sonography Scanning Lab II

This course details the anatomy, physiology, embryology, pathology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and anatomical variants of the male reproductive system, head and neck, peritoneal/retroperitoneal and pleural spaces, breast, musculoskeletal, and neonatal sonography to include the hips, spine, and head. Discussion of the sonographer’s role in procedures, including documentation and sterile setup, contrast imaging, elastography (ARFI), shear wave imaging, emerging technologies, and the importance of correlation between modalities will be included. Corresponding sonography scanning lab.

Lecture:4 hours

Scanning Lab: 2 hours

Prerequisite: DMS101, DMS/DMSL111, DPHY100

DMS102– Diagnostic Medical Sonography - Gynecology & First Trimester Pregnancy
DMSL102 – Sonography Scanning Lab III

The course details the anatomy, physiology, embryology, pathophysiology, and anatomical variants of normal and common pathologic conditions during all stages of the female reproductive system, including gynecological disease processes, infertility monitoring, and the developing fetus throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. Identification of general anatomy, pathophysiology, pathology, and clinical signs and symptoms will be discussed. Medical and surgical interventions and procedures, pharmacology, and the importance of comparative imaging with other modalities will all so be considered. Describe the technique of transabdominal versus transvaginal imaging and discuss the ethical standards of practice of when to perform on internal ultrasound. Corresponding sonography scanning lab.

Lecture: 4 hours 

Scanning Lab: 2 hours

Prerequisite: DMS101, DMS/DMSL111, DPHY100

DCL101 – Clinical Experience I

Direct, supervised sessions in the clinical setting that will emphasize development of the practical application of direct and indirect patient care, department workflow and sonographic scanning, as taught in the scanning lab. These applications will have emphasis on knobology, equipment orientation, proper scanning positions and planes, transducer orientation, and general patient care.  Emphasis on the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, urinary bladder, and spleen. Students will need to successfully complete all the assigned clinical competency examinations, while supervised by a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer at the assigned clinical site.

Clinical hours:  16 weeks, 3 days/week. (8 hours/daily)

ETH101 – Healthcare Ethics and Law

This course is designed to provide the student with a fundamental background in healthcare ethics and law. The historical and philosophical basis of ethics as well as the elements of ethical behavior are also discussed. The student will examine a variety of ethical issues and dilemmas that may occur in clinical practice. An introduction to legal terminology, concepts and principles of law will also be presented. Topics include misconduct, malpractice, unintentional and intentional torts, HIPPA standards and compliance, legal and professional standards, the ASRT/ARDMS scope of practice. The importance of proper documentation and informed consent will be emphasized.

Lecture: 2 hours

Prerequisite: DMS101, DMS/DMSL111, DPHY100, DMS/DMSL112, DMS/DMSL 102

DMS103 – Diagnostic Medical Sonography- Second & Third Trimester
DMSL103 – Sonography Scanning Lab IV

This course details the anatomy, physiology, embryology, and anatomical variants of normal and common pathologic conditions of the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Identification of general anatomy and pathophysiology as seen by diagnostic medical sonography, including fetal development and biometry, fetal weight and age assessment, fetal abnormalities, multiple gestations, and maternal disease processes and how they can affect pregnancy. Correlation with ultrasound guided perinatal procedures, genetic testing, medical and surgical interventions, and pharmacology is also included. Corresponding sonography scan lab.

Lecture: 4 hours

Scanning Lab:2 hours

Prerequisite: DMS101, DMS/DMSL111, DPHY100, DMS/DMSL112, DMS/DMSL102

DCL102 – Clinical Experience II

Direct, supervised sessions of sonographic scanning with emphasis on the development of the practical application and scanning techniques of obtaining sonographic images of the organs of the female reproductive system, aorta, inferior vena cava, non-cardiac chest, gastrointestinal tract, male reproductive, thyroid, and continued proficiency on organs of the upper abdomen, to include the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, and the urinary system, as taught in the scanning lab. Students will need to successfully complete all the assigned clinical competency examinations, while supervised by a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer.

Clinical hours:  12 weeks, 3 days/week. (8 hours/daily)

Prerequisite: DCL101- Clinical Experience I

DMS200- Sonographic Principles & Instrumentation Review

This course will prepare the students for their registry examination for the Sonographic Principles & Instrumentation (SPI). The course material will follow the current ARDMS Exam Content Outline. The course will review the physical and mathematical principles of diagnostic medical sonography. Knowledge of the principles of acoustic sound transmission, the physical attributes of ultrasound waves, attenuation, transducer construction and function, ultrasound instrumentation, frequency and multi-hertz frequency capabilities, dynamic range, signal processing, bioeffects, ALARA, display modes, resolution, artifacts, hemodynamics, quality assurance, doppler principles, and emerging technologies will be tested.

Lecture: 2 hours

DMS223 - Diagnostic Medical Sonography- Introduction to Vascular
DMSL223- Sonography Scanning Lab V

This course is the specialized study of the anatomy, physiology, hemodynamics, pathophysiology, and pathologies of the cerebrovascular, peripheral arterial, and deep venous systems as imaged by diagnostic medical sonography. Identification of general anatomy, common pathologies, clinical signs and symptoms, and pathophysiology as seen by diagnostic medical sonography, as well as correlation with other modalities, medical and surgical procedures, and pharmacology. Topics will also include direct/indirect testing methods, gold-standards regarding testing and statistics, medical and surgical interventions, and pharmacology. Corresponding Sonography Scan Lab (First 8 weeks of semester)

Lecture: 2 hours

Scanning Lab: 2 hours

Prerequisite: DMS101, DMS/DMSL111, DPHY100, DMS/DMSL112, DMS/DMSL102, DMS/DMSL103

DMS230 – Capstone

This course will be utilized for the student to demonstrate the skills and knowledge that were mastered during the diagnostic medical sonography program, both in lecture and on clinicals. Preparation for the employment interview and presentation of qualifications through resume and cover letter writing. Importance of credentialing, profession involvement and continuing education stressed. Students will present 6 interesting cases that they performed in the clinical setting to a community of their peers in a formal presentation. Topics of administrative planning, resume writing, job interviewing skills, continuing education, national sonographic educational societies, and career advancement will also be discussed. (First 8 weeks of semester)

Lecture: 2 hours 

Prerequisite: DMS101, DMS/DMSL111, DPHY100, DMS/DMSL112, DMS/DMSL102, DMS/DMSL103

DCL201-Clinical Experience III

Indirect, supervised clinical time that continues to emphasize the development of critical thinking skills and exam knowledge on a more independent level. Development of imaging skills in obstetrics and gynecology, male reproductive system, and continued proficiency in sonographic scanning techniques of the aorta, inferior vena cava, peritoneal/retroperitoneal and pleural spaces, gastrointestinal tract, thyroid, and the organs of the upper abdomen, to include the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, and the urinary system, as taught in the scanning lab. Students need to complete all the assigned clinical competency examinations, while supervised by a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer.

Clinical hours: 16 weeks, 4 days/week (8 hours daily)

Prerequisite: DCL102- Clinical Experience

DMS226 - Registry Review-Abdomen

This course will prepare the students for their final externship and the registry examination for the Abdomen specialties. The course material will follow the current ARDMS Exam Content Outline. The review will include the abdomen with emphasis on sonographic abnormalities of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidney, spleen, and aorta. The course will also review sonographic abnormalities of the abdominal wall, breast, pleural space, structures of the neck, peritoneum, retroperitoneum, prostate, scrotum, and superficial structures. Image identification, mock exams, and procedural scenarios will be covered to evaluate basic knowledge from previous courses.

Lecture: 2 hours 

Prerequisite:  DMS101, DMS/DMSL111, DPHY100, DMS/DMSL112, DMS/DMSL102, DMS/DMSL103

DCL202- Clinical Experience IV

Indirect, supervised clinical time that continues to emphasize the development of critical thinking skills and exam knowledge on a more independent level. Continued proficiency in sonographic scanning techniques of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, urinary tract, aorta, inferior vena cava, peritoneal/retroperitoneal and pleural spaces, gastrointestinal tract, male reproductive, thyroid, gynecology, and obstetrics. Students need to complete all the assigned clinical competency examinations, while supervised by a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer.

Clinical hours: 16 weeks, 4 days/week (8 hours daily)

Prerequisite: DCL201- Clinical Experience III

DMS227-Registry Review – Obstetrics & Gynecology

This course will prepare the students for their final externship and the registry examination for the Abdomen and Obstetrics/Gynecology specialties. The course material will follow the current ARDMS Exam Content Outline. The course will review the female reproductive system with emphasis on the sonographic appearance of normal anatomy and abnormalities of the uterus and ovaries, and obstetrics with emphasis on growth and developmental abnormalities, genetic testing and biometric measurements and maternal-fetal abnormalities. This course will also review basic ultrasound physics principles for optimizing images.

Lecture: 2 hours

Prerequisite:  DMS101, DMS/DMSL111, DPHY100, DMS/DMSL112, DMS/DMSL102, DMS/DMSL103

Textbook Information

All Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program students must purchase the required textbooks listed on the program textbook list, which is available by contacting the Program Manager, Angela Perry, at 216.769.2452.

Please note: Students must purchase the current edition of each textbook.

Grading Scale

The following grading scale is used:

93 -100 A 4.0
84 - 92 B 3.0
75 - 83 C 2.0
Below 75 F 0.0

Academic Grading Policy

Students must maintain a 75% or better grade point average in each course of the program. Students not satisfying the minimal academic requirements will be counseled and may be subject to academic probation and/or dismissal from the program.

Attendance

Semester breaks, personal time off, holidays

Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes. During clinical rotation, students are required to report on time for their assignment and complete their eight-hour clinical day. Students are allowed 42 hours of personal time off the first year and 28 hours in the second year. The program consists of five semesters, with a two-week break between each semester. Students have two additional break weeks each year, one in the spring semester and one in the fall semester. Students do not have class or clinicals on all Cleveland Clinic-recognized holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving (and the day after Thanksgiving), and Christmas Day.

Clinical Obligation/Experience

All clinical assignments and all academic courses and labs are held Monday through Friday, clinical hours are 8-4:30 and class hours are 8-3:30.

Students will rotate to two Cleveland Clinic hospitals and at least one Cleveland Clinic family health center (FHC) throughout their clinical experience. All hospital assignments are chosen using a lottery system. 

The following is the list of hospitals at which a student may be assigned:

The following is the list of outpatient centers at which a student may be assigned:

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the program? 

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is 21 months in length (five semesters).

When does the program begin?

The program begins in late August each year.

What are the program prerequisites?

The prerequisites are college credit: Medical Terminology, Anatomy & Physiology I & II (taken within the last 10 years), Math (program manager discretion), Physics (program manager discretion) and Communications.

How do you select the clinical sites a student will be attending?

Each student attends two hospital clinical sites, which are chosen by a lottery.  

Do students attend Family Health Centers for clinical rotations?

Students also rotate through Family Health Center outpatient imaging departments.

What is the deadline for application?

The program application, application fee and all college transcripts must be submitted by Feb. 1 of each year for the program beginning the following August.

What is the acceptance process?

Prospective students participate in a behavior-based interview used to assess communication and critical thinking skills. This interview is evaluated by a point system. Total points assigned to a student include points from the interview, high school and college GPA, and science and math courses taken with a grade of C or better. The students with the highest scores are accepted into the program.

Do I need a college degree to get accepted into the program?

No, you do not.

Do your classes transfer to other colleges for my degree?

No, they do not.

What is the time commitment for successful completion of the program?

Students should expect a full schedule, attending either class or clinical experience Monday through Friday, 7.5 hours (day shift), plus drive time. Clinical hours are 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m and class hours are 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Do you have a weekend or evening program?

No, we do not.

Graduation Requirements

Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the following criteria for graduation. Students graduate from the School of Diagnostic Imaging with a certificate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography after completing 5 semesters of education.

  • Satisfactory completion of all program courses.
  • All competencies must be completed as outlined in the Competency Examination Policy.
  • All required JRC-DMS mandatory & elective competencies must be completed.
  • All required JRC-DMS general patient care procedures must be completed.
  • All required developmental examinations and corrections must be completed.
  • All regular and make-up hours must be completed.
  • Tuition payment and fees must be paid in full.
  • All reference books or other material must be returned, including any resources from the CC Library.
  • ID badge must be returned. A fee will be charged for missing ID badge. All fees must be paid prior to graduation.
  • Graduation survey must be completed.
  • Employer release form must be signed.
  • Satisfactorily write a short paper on professionalism.
Mission & Goals

Mission & Goals

Mission

To develop exceptional imaging professionals whose expertise will meet the needs of the community they serve, and whose academic education and clinical experience will provide a foundation for lifelong learning.

Program goal statement

To prepare competent entry-level sonographers in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains for the abdominal-extended and obstetrics and gynecology sonography concentrations.

Program goals & outcomes

Goal #1: The student/graduate will be clinically competent.

Outcomes:

  • Student will provide appropriate patient care.
  • Student will demonstrate clinical competency appropriate to their level of experience.
  • Student will perform exams safely.
  • Student will produce quality diagnostic images.

Goal #2: The student/graduate will demonstrate professionalism.

Outcomes:

  • Student will demonstrate an understanding of the importance of professionalism.
  • Student will demonstrate professional behavior.
  • Student will demonstrate an understanding of patient confidentiality (HIPAA).

Goal #3: The student/graduate will demonstrate effective critical thinking.

Outcomes:

  • Student will be able to modify routine procedures for non-routine patients.
  • Student will effectively critique images to determine if corrective action is required.
  • Student will acquire critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities that enhance their clinical experience.

Goal #4: The student/graduate will demonstrate effective communication.

Outcomes:

  • Student will demonstrate effective written communication.
  • Student will develop professional verbal communication in the healthcare environment.

Diversity statement

The Center for Health Professions Education and Cleveland Clinic are committed to valuing all people throughout our organization, regardless of background or culture. A diverse and inclusive environment for students and staff and culturally appropriate care for our patients are essential to fulfilling our vision to be the best place for care anywhere and the best place to work in healthcare. We welcome students from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Program Effectiveness Data

Program Effectiveness Data

The performance of the School of Diagnostic Imaging’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is reflected through program effectiveness data as defined by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRCDMS).

This data includes the program's completion rate, credentialing examination pass rate and job placement rate. The explanation of these measures and program data that corresponds with the annual report will be posted on the website after completion of the first cohort.

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography’s annual report to the JRCDMS will reflect the following:

Program completion rate

This is an annual measurement of the number of students that began the program divided by the number of students that completed the program.

Credentialing examination first time pass rate

This is the number of students that pass the American Registry for Diagnostic Medial Sonography (ARDMS) certification examination on the first attempt within six months of graduation from the program. The figure reflects an average over five years.

Job placement rate

This is the number of students who become employed in diagnostic medical sonography within 12 months of graduation versus the number that graduate and are actively seeking employment. The figure reflects an average over five years.

All of the above information and more can be found in our Student Consumer Handbook, and Program Policy & Procedure Manual, which is made available to all prospective and current students, and on the program website. This information is also available in hard copy upon request. To obtain a copy, please contact our financial aid office at 216.448.3110.

Program Health Requirements

Program Health Requirements

The Cleveland Clinic School of Diagnostic Imaging recognizes that personal health maintenance is important, and it is the responsibility of the individual students to follow the required process to ensure that they are medically cleared to participate in the clinical experience. The School of Diagnostic Imaging follows the CDC Guidelines for Adult Immunization. Students are responsible for submitting required paperwork to the program officials by the specified deadlines. They will not be permitted to attend clinical experience until the requirements are met. Students are further responsible for any cost incurred to become medically cleared for clinical experience.  

Listed below are the medical clearance requirements:

  • Physical exam form signed by a physician (MD), certified nurse practitioner (CNP) or physician’s assistant (PA) performed within the last six months.
  • Documented immunity status for the following childhood diseases:
    • Rubella.
    • Rubeola.
    • Varicella.
  • Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine.
  • Tuberculosis testing within three months of program start date, then annually thereafter.
  • Annual influenza vaccine.
  • A completed MRI screening form (this is done at the school).

Please note: Hepatitis B vaccine is not required, but highly suggested due to the possible exposure to blood and body fluids. Tetanus Diphtheria booster is recommended if it has been more than seven years since the student was vaccinated. For more information please see the Health Requirements Policy in the DMS Program Policy & Procedure Manual. 

Resources

Resources

Policy manuals

Forms

Academic calendars

Library access

Tuition & Financial Aid

Tuition & Financial Aid

Program Tuition & Fees $15,000
Semester Payment $3,000

There is a $300 non-refundable acceptance tuition deposit which is applicable toward first semester tuition. The tuition and fees are subject to change upon due notice to the student.

Please note: If you pay with a check your payment is presented electronically and the transaction will present as an ACH transaction – not a check.

Estimated additional expenses:
Textbooks $1,000
Uniforms (shoes, lab jacket, scrubs) $200
ARDMS SPI Examination fee $250
The following are post-graduation fees:
ARDMS Examination Fee *per specialty exam $250

*There is no charge for parking, liability/malpractice insurance, or background screening.

Refund policy

If a student withdraws from the program, he/she will be entitled to the following scheduled semester tuition refunds:

  • During the first week of the semester: 90% refund.
  • During the second week of the semester: 70% refund.
  • During the third week of the semester: 50% refund.
  • During the fourth week of the semester: 25% refund.
  • During the fifth week of the semester: No refund.

Financial assistance

The tuition and fee schedule is subject to change by the action of the Administration and Director of the School of Diagnostic Imaging, Cleveland Clinic.

Net price calculator

In accordance with the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008, the Cleveland Clinic School of Diagnostic Imaging has posted a net price calculator to provide estimated net price information to prospective students based on a student's individual circumstances. Click on the link below to access the net price calculator.