ACDS - Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography (AAS)

Ultrasound of the heart chambers, valves, and vessels are conducted by technologists called Cardiovascular sonographers or Echocardiogram technologists. They use diagnostic sonography equipment to provide patients with competent medical services and physicians with cardiac sonograms, echocardiograms and vascular exams. These exams can be done while the patient is resting or after physical activity. The technologists work under a licensed physician and help assist them in an overall diagnosis of the patient.

Parker University’s Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography Program consists of 8 general education courses, 11 technical courses, and 7 months of clinical experience courses for a total of 7 trimesters (26 months). Parker University conducts courses on a year-round basis with scheduled breaks each year. Students accepted into the Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography Program are required to successfully complete all general education courses required for the DCS program with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) prior to applying to the major curriculum.

The major curriculum is designed in a sequential manner. Each program course is a prerequisite for the subsequent program course offered; therefore, successful completion of each course is a requirement for progression throughout the program. Successful completion of each course is defined as obtainment of a minimum grade of (75%). If a student fails a course, they must wait until the course re-sequences contingent upon not exceeding the program’s maximum capacity. The student is permitted to repeat a professional course one time with two maximum course attempts. Students in the Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography program are held to the standards of the university’s Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.

Due to the evolving nature of the Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography field, the DCS curriculum is frequently reviewed and revised as needed. Students who withdraw or are dismissed due to academic failure and are permitted to return to complete the program with another class, are required to test their didactic and/or laboratory skills. The student must pass with a 78% to re-enter the program. They will be required to audit the class before and pass with a weighted total of 75%. Additionally, students are required to meet the graduation requirements of the class to which they return.

Graduates of this program may seek voluntary national certification exams which are available through Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). These organizations have been recognized as credentialing agencies for Echocardiogram Technologist certification. The CCI exam is taken post-graduation. Certification may be a condition for employment. Refer to www.ARDMS.org or ccionline.org/ for more information.

Enrollment in and graduation from Parker University’s Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography program does not guarantee future licensure or employment. Once registered in the United States as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, employment is possible in all US territories.