Cardiac Sonography Programs in Dallas

The College of Health Care Professions (CHCP) offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Cardiovascular Sonography. This 96-week hybrid program combines hands-on training with online learning, focusing on preparing students for entry-level careers as cardiovascular sonographers. Classes take place at CHCP’s Fort Worth and Houston Northwest campuses.

Program Highlights

• Blended Learning Format: Students benefit from a mix of in-person, practical training and online coursework, offering both flexibility and direct experience.
• Comprehensive Skill Training: Students learn cardiovascular anatomy, echocardiography techniques, and electrocardiogram interpretation, along with essential critical thinking skills.
• Preparation for Certification: Graduates are qualified to sit for the Cardiovascular Credentialing Exam, a key certification for entry-level sonography roles.

Curriculum Structure

The program spans six semesters, covering subjects from anatomy and medical terminology to advanced echocardiography. Coursework includes both classroom theory and lab experience, where students practice essential sonography skills like two-dimensional echocardiography, Doppler techniques, and electrocardiogram interpretation.

Prerequisites

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum score of 21 on the Scholastic Level Exam.
• Background check with documentation for criminal background if applicable.

Admission Process

Admission is competitive, and applicants undergo a detailed selection process. After meeting basic requirements, candidates submit an application, interview with faculty, and provide a letter of recommendation. Selection considers prior education, GPA, and interview scores, ensuring the best-prepared students are admitted.

Why Choose CHCP?

CHCP’s program offers a balanced approach with in-depth clinical practice and online convenience, suited for those needing flexibility while gaining critical hands-on experience. However, the program’s cost of $42,900 is a consideration, and the competitive admission process may require multiple steps. Overall, CHCP is ideal for committed individuals looking to enter the cardiovascular sonography field with robust preparation.

The Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography program at Parker University provides students with both academic and practical training, aiming to prepare graduates for a career in cardiac sonography. Through a 26-month curriculum, the program combines classroom learning with clinical practice to ensure students gain hands-on experience with professional equipment and techniques.

Program Highlights

• Focused Curriculum: The program allows students to concentrate on one course at a time, offering an organized learning structure.
• Personalized Instruction: Enrollment is limited, enabling instructors to give students more focused, individualized attention.
• Accreditation and Career Preparation: The program is SACS and CAAHEP accredited, and prepares students for the ARDMS and CCI certification exams.

Course Structure

This 26-month program includes seven trimesters of coursework and clinical rotations. Courses cover essential areas like cardiovascular anatomy, pathology, echocardiography, and vascular technology. Parker University offers flexibility by providing both on-campus and some online classes for general education requirements.

Clinical Training

Students complete extensive clinical training, with assignments at local or regional healthcare facilities. Clinical experience allows students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios, interacting with patients and working under healthcare professionals’ supervision. This practical exposure is essential for building both technical skills and professional confidence.

Prerequisites

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of 25 credits in pre-sonography coursework, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Required immunizations, background check, and drug screening
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Personal essay and academic interview

Why Parker University?

Parker University’s Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography program stands out for its hands-on clinical training and individualized instruction. Accredited and designed with high academic standards, it prepares students for industry-recognized credentials, which can be critical for employment. However, the intensive nature of the program, along with the need for clinical placements, may require significant time and travel, which could be challenging for some students.

The Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography (DCVS) program at Alvin Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree with a focus on adult, pediatric, or vascular sonography. This two-year program combines classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and clinical experience, preparing students to perform diagnostic heart and vascular imaging.

Program Highlights

• Flexible Options: Choose from three specializations—adult echocardiography, pediatric echocardiography, or vascular sonography.
• Clinical Training: Students gain real-world experience through clinical placements around Houston and Galveston.
• Early Certification Opportunities: Eligible to take initial certification exams in cardiographic technology, helping students gain credentials before graduation.

What You Will Learn

Students are trained in core sonographic skills, including:

• Basics of EKG and stress testing
• Sonographic physics for accurate imaging
• Techniques for diagnostic heart and vascular imaging

The curriculum ensures that graduates are prepared for roles in hospitals, diagnostic centers, and physician offices, with specialized knowledge in both echocardiography and vascular technology.

Prerequisites

To apply, you’ll need:

• Completed courses in Anatomy and Physiology I & II, a math course, and physics
• Observational hours in each selected sonography modality
• Attendance at an information session

Why Alvin Community College?

Alvin Community College’s DCVS program stands out for its affordable tuition and focused curriculum in a high-demand field. With a blend of technical training and clinical experience, it equips students for entry-level roles in sonography. However, the program’s rigorous prerequisites and competitive admission process mean applicants need to plan and prepare well in advance to meet all requirements.