- Comprehensive Learning: The DMS program spans 65 credit hours and covers abdominal, obstetric, gynecologic, and vascular sonography. This combination gives students a broad foundation in sonographic techniques.
- In-Demand Skills: Graduates are equipped to handle patient history, perform diagnostic ultrasound procedures, and collaborate with healthcare professionals, making them competitive in a field with a high job placement rate.
- Accreditation: Accredited by CAAHEP, the program ensures a recognized, quality education that meets industry standards.
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Program at Weatherford College offers a 22-month curriculum aimed at preparing students for entry-level sonographer roles. The program combines classroom learning, hands-on labs, and clinical experiences to build skills in ultrasound imaging.
Curriculum Overview
The program’s coursework spans multiple facets of sonography, including ultrasound physics, anatomy, and specialized scanning techniques. Labs offer real-time practice, while clinical placements ensure students apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Clinicals may require students to travel up to 70 miles, with weekday hours and occasional evenings or weekends, making the program best suited for those able to commit to this schedule.
Prerequisites
To apply, students must complete the following courses with a minimum “C” grade:
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- College Algebra
- English Composition I
- Introduction to Psychology
- College-Level Physics
- Creative Arts or Language/Philosophy elective
Application and Admission
Admission to the DMS program is competitive. Applicants are ranked based on academic achievements, previous healthcare experience, HESI-A2 test scores, and interview performance. A minimum of 75% in math and reading on the HESI-A2 is required, with additional points available for degrees, patient care experience, and completion of Medical Terminology coursework.
Cost and Financial Aid
In-district tuition costs approximately $12,969, while out-of-district tuition is $16,864. Additional costs include books, lab fees, uniforms, and health-related expenses, bringing total estimated program expenses to about $4,000. Financial aid options and scholarships are available for eligible students to help offset these costs.
Accreditation and Credentials
Weatherford College’s DMS program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS). This accreditation ensures the program meets rigorous standards, allowing graduates to pursue ARDMS certification exams, which are essential for many sonography roles.
Career Prospects
The DMS program provides a pathway to sonography positions in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, imaging centers, and physician offices. The Dallas-Fort Worth area offers a competitive median salary for sonographers, with strong demand projected in the coming decade. Weatherford College graduates have a proven track record in job placement, making this program a solid choice for students focused on employability.
Why Choose Weatherford College?
Weatherford College offers a structured, in-depth sonography program with a strong focus on clinical preparedness and high registry pass rates. The program’s accreditation, comprehensive clinical training, and job placement rates make it appealing. However, the requirement for extensive clinical hours and travel may not suit all schedules. This program is ideal for committed students ready to invest in a rigorous educational experience leading to a rewarding healthcare career.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | In-District: $12,969, Out-of-District: $16,864 |
| Program Duration | 22 months |
| Class Schedules | Full-time, in-person, with some clinical hours on evenings or weekends |
| Classes Offered | Abdominal, Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Vascular Sonography |
| Admission Requirements | Completion of prerequisites, HESI-A2 exam, background check, immunizations, and interview |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | High placement rates, based on recent program data |
| Financial Aid Options | Scholarships and financial aid available |
| Location | 225 College Park Drive, Weatherford, TX 76086 |
| Phone | 817-598-8847 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | Weatherford College DMS Program |
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