School of Health Sciences

Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Build a Career That Sees Beneath the Surface

Harness the power of imaging to transform healthcare—are you ready to make a difference? The Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Associate Degree program at Stautzenberger College gives you the specialized training and hands-on clinical experience to begin a career in ultrasound.

This 19-month program blends classroom instruction with supervised clinical rotations, helping you develop the technical knowledge and patient-care skills required for entry-level sonographers. You’ll learn to operate ultrasound machines, capture and interpret images, and support physicians in diagnosing and monitoring medical conditions.

Quick Program Facts

Diagnostic Medical Sonography Associate Degree

A great fit for detail-oriented individuals who want a career in healthcare technology.

  • Length: 19 months
  • Credential: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
  • Format: On-Campus with clinical practicum
  • Credits: 112 quarter credit hours

With hands-on labs, real clinical experience, and focused exam prep, you’ll graduate Stautz Strong and ready to pursue ARDMS certification.

Hands-On Training for Real-World Imaging Careers

Our Diagnostic Medical Sonography curriculum blends classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical experience to help you build the technical and patient care skills needed for success in healthcare settings.

What You’ll Learn

  • Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation: Understand how ultrasound waves create diagnostic images.

  • Abdominal Sonography: Learn to capture images of organs like the liver, kidneys, and pancreas.

  • Obstetric & Gynecologic Sonography: Gain experience in monitoring fetal development and women’s reproductive health.

  • Vascular Sonography: Examine veins and arteries to assess blood flow and detect blockages.

  • Patient Care & Ethics: Build skills in patient communication, safety, and confidentiality.

  • Clinical Practicum: Apply your knowledge in real healthcare settings through supervised externships.

You’ll graduate with the confidence, clinical experience, and technical knowledge to pursue entry-level roles in sonography—and be well-prepared to sit for ARDMS certification exams.

Explore the Expanding Field of Medical Imaging

Skilled diagnostic medical sonographers play a vital role in patient care by capturing detailed internal images that help physicians diagnose and monitor medical conditions. With advancements in imaging technology and a growing demand for non-invasive procedures, trained sonographers are needed in a wide range of clinical settings.

Graduates of this program can pursue roles such as:

  • Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
  • OB/GYN Ultrasound Technician
  • Abdominal Sonographer
  • Vascular Technologist

Echocardiography Assistant

  • Meet the admissions requirements
  • Attend all classes, in-person and online
  • Be an active participant in the requirements of the classwork, homework and community
  • Complete all courses to a satisfactory degree
  • Demonstrate proficiency of skills

Flexible. Focused. Built for real life.

Most programs are blended, combining scheduled on-campus classes with online coursework. This gives you the hands-on training you need — plus the flexibility to complete assignments at home.

You’ll typically take two classes every five weeks and should plan for 12–15 hours per week of homework and studying. Instructors also offer live virtual office hours for extra support.

Whether you’re working, parenting, or have other commitments — we’ll help make school work for you.

You’re ready to do something different — let’s take the next step together.

At Stautzenberger College, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to build a better future. That’s why our admissions process is designed to be clear, supportive, and all about helping you succeed — from your very first conversation with us.

To be eligible for enrollment, students must:

  • Be at least 17 years old. (If under 18, a parent or legal guardian must also sign the enrollment agreement.)
  • Possess a high school diploma, recognized equivalency (GED, HiSET, TASC), or qualifying college degree.
  • Demonstrate digital readiness to ensure you’re prepared to thrive in a modern learning environment.

 

Every applicant will meet with an admissions advisor to: help answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you determine if this is the right path for your goals and lifestyle.

We’re looking for students who are:

  • Motivated to change their lives
  • Committed to their personal and professional growth
  • Ready to work hard and make a real impact in their community

 

Click here to apply online

Q: Do I need a background check or health screening?

Yes. Applicants must pass a criminal background check, drug screening, and provide immunization and health records as part of the clinical site requirements. These steps help ensure student readiness for externship placement and compliance with healthcare facility standards.

Q: What clinical experience will I get?

You’ll participate in a supervised clinical practicum at an affiliated healthcare site to gain real-world experience in sonography. This hands-on training allows you to work with patients and refine your scanning techniques under the guidance of certified professionals.

Q: Can I apply with a previous healthcare degree or coursework?

Yes. Applicants with prior allied health education may receive additional consideration in the admissions rubric. Previous academic experience can strengthen your application and potentially improve your chances for selection into the program.

Q: What certifications can I pursue after graduation?

Graduates are prepared to sit for ARDMS certification exams in specialties such as abdominal and obstetrics. Earning certification can enhance your employment prospects and qualify you for advanced sonography roles.

Q: What support services are available?

Students have access to tutoring, academic coaching, tech support, and career services throughout the program. From your first class to job placement assistance, we’re here to help you stay Stautz Strong every step of the way.

Next Session Starts: TBD

Location: Maumee, OH

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Associate Degree

Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program Highlights

Why Choose Stautzenberger for Your DMS Education?

  • Hands-On Clinical Training: Practice scanning techniques in campus labs and during supervised clinical rotations.
  • Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced sonographers who bring real-world insights to every lesson.
  • Student-Centered Support: Get help when you need it—from tutoring and tech support to academic advising and job placement assistance.
  • Accredited & Trusted: Our CAAHEP-accredited program meets national standards for quality and prepares you to enter the field with confidence.

Location: Maumee, OH

Questions about our Brecksville campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
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Schedule a Tour

See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
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The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program – Abdomen Extended and – Obstetrics Gynecology is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS). Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, 9355 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL  33775  727-210-2350.

Industry Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in the US for Medical Assistants is expected to increase by 15% between 2020 and 2030.1

 

1https://www.onetonline.org/
link/localtrends/29-2032.00?st=OH&g=Go
, retrieved 1/5/2022.

Financial Aid

Affording Diagnostic Sonography Training

Worried about how to afford your Sonography training? Let us help!
Our friendly financial aid team is here to help you explore funding, scholarships, and grants to help fit your budget.

Ready To Change Your Life?