Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Ultrasound), BS | Diagnostic Medical Sonography (2024)

About the Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program at LLU

The Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography at Loma Linda University is a 27-month program. Eighty percent is face-to-face coursework, with about 20% online. The program is comprised of both classroom and clinical education. Students will spend 32-35 hours per week in a clinical setting, Monday through Friday, with classes held once a week for 2-5 hours. Class and clinical education is from approximately 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or a possible swing shift in the later afternoon to early evening. The program includes rotations to multiple affiliate hospitals for additional clinical training. The program begins each Summer quarter in June, with 12-14 students.

The Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is rigorous. Students should expect to give full-time attention to this demanding program. Students in the past have needed to adjust their personal schedules to make this program a priority. Students should also plan to drive to their clinical affiliates (could be as far as 60 minutes away), which are assigned to each student after the program begins. Students are expected to be responsible, accountable, and dependable as well as behave and communicate with high professional standards. Attendance in all classes and clinical rotations is expected. Students are also expected to be able to perform the essential job functions throughout the program and on into the profession.

Our Mission

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program at Loma Linda University, School of Allied Health Professions, provides a quality educational experience focused on the whole person. The program prepares students to take the national board exam and become entry-level sonographers. It also equips themwith the knowledge, skills, values, attitudes and behaviors appropriate for providing excellent patient care and working on a health care team.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be known by our students, alumni, clinical instructors, faculty, professional community, and staff as the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program of choice. Additionally, we want the program experience to be known as "a close family" that is exciting, challenging, and transforming.

Our Values

We accomplish our mission and vision by achieving high standards of excellence. These include standards for professional behavior, academics,clinical education, customer service and collaborative success. We do this while living by the Loma Linda University values of excellence, integrity, compassion, self-control, humility, freedom, and justice.

Goals and Student Learning Outcomes

While in the Program, students will demonstrate clinical competence by performing ultrasound exams of diagnostic quality, and applying patient care and appropriate practices for all procedures. Students will communicate effectively and clearly explain ultrasound procedures to patients and often family members. They will effectively communicate and work with the healthcare team while demonstratingappropriate communication to diverse populations. Students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills so that they can appropriately adjust procedures, and critique images to determine diagnostic acceptability. Students will demonstrate the values and professional development, model professional behavior, and examine the core values and reflect on personal application. Students will also apply knowledge in interdisciplinary situations.

LINKS TO MORE INFORMATION

• Attend a free online careerguidance session to learn about all of the programs in the LLU Department of Radiation Technology
• Attend the Loma Linda University Open House
• Program Brochure
• Program FAQ
• Sonography Observation Form and Process
• Sonography Prerequisites
• Program Curriculum for Medical Sonography

Important Dates

• Application Window: June 1 to January 10
• Priority Deadline: October 15
• Final Deadline: January 10

Program Resources

Program Accreditation

Loma Linda University’s Sonography programs have been fully accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography(JRCDMS)and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs(CAAHEP)in general sonography and vascular and echocardiography since October 7,1985. Loma Linda University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
9355 - 113th St. N, #7709
Seminole, FL33775
Phone: 727-210-2350
Fax: 727-210-2354

Program Outcomes

• Program Accreditation Info

Academic Calendar

The program, in general, follows the Loma Linda University Quarterly academic terms. The program begins each June.Please refer to the Academic Calendar since the actual dates change yearly.

Why Choose LLU?

• No waiting list. Every applicant is reviewed each year on an individual basis.
• Comprehensive and compassionate instruction in the classroom and clinical setting.
• Students gain valuable diversity in their experiences through multiple clinical rotations.
• Students receive more hands on clinical experience than other comparable programs.
• Graduates are competent in a broader range of exams than comparable programs.
• Diligent students often obtain the ARDMS credentials prior to program completion.
• Alumni are employed at the majority of our clinical sites, providing care and guidance.
• Graduates are more prepared and requested for employment in all levels of health care.

Essential Job Functions

The essential job functions of a sonographer require certain physical, mental, & emotional attributes. Physical demands include lifting; carrying; bending; manipulation of equipment; patient assistance; walking and prolonged standing; the ability to read; and the ability to communicate effectively. Mental, emotional and affective demands include:

• Critical decision making
• Interaction with patients of different ages and health conditions
• Maintaining patient confidentiality
• Ability to work under pressure
• Ability to repeat previously learned information
• Interacting appropriately

Students must maintainessential job functions throughout the program. A complete list of essential job functions will be made available during the interview process.

Eligibility for ARDMS Credential

Eligibility for the ARDMS credentialing exam may be affected if the applicant has a prior felony or misdemeanor conviction. Prior to applying to this program the applicant should contact the ARDMS at 800-862-7367 to determine if eligibility will be granted.

Other Requirements

Applicants need a minimum 2.5GPA to enter the program; however, a 3.0 GPA and above is preferred. Applicants are required to complete a background check and possess a current Health Care Provider CPR card offered by the American Heart Association. To remain in the program students must maintain a 2.5 GPA, pass a mock board exam, and adhere to the Program’s professional code of conduct. Students at some clinical sites may need a drug test.

Contact Us

REQUEST INFORMATION

Erin Marshall
Program Director, Echocardiography
Program Director, B.S. in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Department of Radiation Technology
studyradsci@llu.edu
llu.edu/sonography
909-558-4931 Department Office
909-558-7965 Fax