Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS

What makes MCC's Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS program better than or distinct from similar programs at other institutions?

This two-year program offers a cost-effective way to train as a Sonographer, providing the same high-quality education and hands-on experience typically found at a four-year university.

How will MCC's Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS program prepare me for my career or connect me to opportunities?

By the time you graduate, you'll be prepared to take the national certification exam from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), which opens the door to entry-level jobs in diagnostic sonography across various healthcare settings. MCC’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS program focuses on both classroom instruction and practical application, setting you up for success in this vital field.

Outside of the Classroom

Over five semesters, you'll get valuable real-world experience in some of the best hospitals in the Chicago area, applying what you've learned in a professional setting.

• Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program Staff

  Program Chair

  Rhonda Knaack, M.S.R.S., MHA, R.T. (R)(CT), ARRT, ARDMS, AB, OB/GYN, RVT(VT) | E212F | (815) 455-8938

• Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program Learning Outcomes

  Graduates of the McHenry County College Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program will possess the knowledge, skills, and professional attributes necessary to function as competent, ethical, and compassionate entry-level sonographers. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  1. Clinical Competence

     Demonstrate clinical competence in performing general diagnostic ultrasound examinations safely, effectively, and efficiently while applying appropriate patient care techniques and sonographic protocols.

     • Perform diagnostic sonographic procedures that produce images of optimal quality for accurate interpretation.
     • Apply appropriate patient positioning, equipment selection, and image optimization techniques.
     • Demonstrate adherence to safety standards and principles in all imaging environments.
  2. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

     Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in both clinical and laboratory settings to ensure accurate and effective diagnostic outcomes.

     • Evaluate sonographic images for diagnostic quality and adjust scanning parameters as needed.
     • Analyze clinical findings to adapt protocols appropriately for patient condition and presentation.
     • Integrate knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathology into real-time scanning decisions.
  3. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

     Demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills that promote collaboration and patient-centered care.

     • Communicate professionally and compassionately with patients of diverse backgrounds, ensuring comprehension and comfort.
     • Accurately obtain and document complete and relevant patient histories.
     • Collaborate effectively with physicians, peers, and interdisciplinary healthcare team members to support optimal patient outcomes.
  4. Professionalism and Ethical Behavior

     Exhibit professional and ethical behavior consistent with the standards and scope of practice established by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS).

     • Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and respect for confidentiality in all professional interactions.
     • Adhere to institutional, legal, and professional policies, procedures, and ethical guidelines.
     • Model professionalism through appropriate dress, demeanor, and adherence to clinical and academic codes of conduct.
  5. Lifelong Learning and Professional Development

     Recognize the importance of continued education and professional growth to maintain competency and advance within the profession.

     • Pursue continuing education opportunities to enhance knowledge and technical proficiency.
     • Demonstrate awareness of emerging technologies, research, and evolving best practices in diagnostic medical sonography.
     • Engage in professional organizations and activities that promote the advancement of medical imaging and patient care.
• Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program Effectiveness

  The McHenry County College Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program is dedicated to meeting the needs of its students, clinical affiliates, and the healthcare community it serves.

  Program effectiveness is measured through ongoing evaluation of student achievement, graduate success, and employer satisfaction. The program continuously assesses its mission, goals, and outcomes to ensure alignment with the standards established by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS).

  Program Effectiveness Goals

  The Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program will effectively meet the needs of its students and the community by achieving the following outcomes:

  1. Certification Success

     Students will successfully pass the national certification examinations administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and earn the credential of Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS).

  2. Program Completion

     Students will complete all didactic, laboratory, and clinical components of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program within the prescribed timeframe.

  3. Graduate Employment

     Graduates will obtain gainful employment in the field of Diagnostic Medical Sonography within twelve months of graduation.

  4. Graduate Satisfaction

     Graduates will report a high level of satisfaction with the quality of education and preparation they received in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program at McHenry County College.

  5. Employer Satisfaction

     Employers of program graduates will express satisfaction with the graduates’ performance, professionalism, and readiness to function as competent entry-level sonographers.

  Program Evaluation and Continuous Improvement

  The mission of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program is confirmed through the ongoing evaluation and successful achievement of its stated goals.

  Program effectiveness is reviewed annually by members of the McHenry County College Diagnostic Medical Sonography Advisory Committee, which includes representation from faculty, students, clinical affiliates, employers, and community stakeholders.

  The Advisory Committee actively participates in reviewing outcome data, including certification exam pass rates, program completion rates, employment rates, and graduate and employer satisfaction surveys

  Findings from this review process are used to guide continuous improvement and ensure that the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program continues to meet the healthcare needs of McHenry County and the surrounding communities.

• Program Mission Statement

  The mission of the McHenry County College Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS Program is to educate, mentor, and graduate competent, compassionate, and ethical entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers who are prepared to provide high-quality patient care and contribute effectively to the dynamic healthcare environment.

  Through a balanced curriculum integrating didactic instruction, hands-on laboratory training, and diverse clinical experiences, the program fosters the development of clinical proficiency, critical thinking, effective communication, and professional integrity.

  In alignment with the mission of McHenry County College, the program is committed to meeting the needs of the community by preparing graduates who:

  • Deliver excellence in imaging and patient-centered care to a diverse population,
  • Uphold the ethical and professional standards of the sonography profession, and
  • Demonstrate a lifelong commitment to learning, professional growth, and continuous improvement within the allied health field.