Diagnostic Medical Sonography

It’s a girl! The gender and developmental progress of unborn babies is just one kind of information that diagnostic medical sonography provides for doctors and their patients. Sonographers use sophisticated sound technology to create images that help physicians monitor pregnancies and other conditions and diseases within the human body. If you enjoy working with both people and technology, have good physical stamina and an analytical eye, and aim for a career in health care, then a career as an ultrasound technician may be for you. Diagnostic medical sonographers in California are well-paid, earning a median annual income of $78,780. If you imagine yourself in a career working hands-on in a clinical setting providing care and vital information for patients and doctors, read on to learn more about our program.

A sampling of courses for these careers

Human Diseases
Sectional Anatomy for Medical Imaging
OB/GYN Sonography

Introduction to Vascular Ultrasound
Sonographic Physics and Instrumentation
Patient Care

see course catalog

Diagnostic medical sonographer views ultrasound on a monitor while working with patient

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Did you know?

Overall employment of diagnostic medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians is projected to grow 17 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Program Details

Complete our associate-degree program, and you’ll be well-prepared to enter a career in diagnostic medical sonography.

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In less than 2 years
you can earn:
Certificate of Achievement

Build on your certificate
of achievement with a:
Certificate of Specialization

Or earn your
associate degree
in under 4 years

Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Prepare for a career in the medical imaging field through this associate-degree program. Gain a thorough knowledge of anatomy, cross-sectional anatomy and pathology, as well as the skills to manipulate a wide variety of sophisticated instruments. This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Educational Programs. View program detail in course catalog.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I enroll and register for classes?

To enroll in a Career Advantage program, you must first apply for admission to Orange Coast College. To apply, go to the Admissions Application Information webpage and review the information and requirements for admission. A link at the bottom of that page will take you to the CCCApply website, where you will be prompted to create an account so you can begin the application process.

How much does it cost?

Classes cost $46 per unit for residents of California. Classes vary in their unit value, but an average 3-unit class costs $138. There are additional fees required to register and additional costs associated with each program. Click here to view the estimated total costs of the program in this career cluster.

How long does it take?

View this chart for the length of the core program.

Are classes offered online, evenings and weekends?

This program offers evening courses. For details about offerings in this program, speak to a counselor or consult the class schedule. The class schedule tool searches through all Orange Coast College course offerings and includes a filter for online classes.

How can I talk with a counselor?

You can make an appointment in person, online or by phone. Click here for more information about Counseling Services and how to make an appointment.

I have more questions. Where can I get more information?

For general questions about enrollment, availability of classes and other services for prospective and current OCC students, call The Answer Center at 714-432-5772. For answers to specific questions you can speak to a counselor or to the faculty member listed on this program page.

Close up view of ultrasound on pregnant patient

Diagnostic medical sonographer looks at ultrasound with pregnant woman and family

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Other Programs That Might Interest You

Cardiovascular Technology

Earn a certificate of achievement or an associate degree to enter this high-paying field.

Radiologic Technology

Explore our associate-degree program to prepare for a career in diagnostic imaging

Neurodiagnostic Technology

Earn an associate degree to enter this field or choose our specialization certificate to upgrade an existing credential

Did you know?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who have a certificate as
their highest level of education earned, on average, 20 percent more than
those whose highest education level is a high school diploma.