Bachelor of Science DMS Program Overview

Introduction

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Bachelor Degree, is designed as a continuation of education for practicing sonographers whose personal and professional goal is to attain a degree and/or advance in their career. Given the complexity of the profession with credentialing in multiple specialties, this degree offers the opportunity to become knowledgeable in additional specialties.

In addition, through our liberal arts curriculum, students will develop the global perspective for the graduate to be effective as a professional in an ever-changing healthcare system working with an increasingly diverse population.

Who is this degree for:

• Sonographers who desire to further their education regardless of previous educational background.
• Sonographers who seek to broaden their employment opportunities.
• Sonographers who may have a goal of attaining a master’s degree in the future.

As healthcare professions move towards minimum degrees as entry level into the profession, it is important for sonographers to be prepared for any changes in the future. As healthcare systems strive for magnet status, appropriate education is critical to provide the best patient services.

 

WHY MISERICORDIA UNIVERSITY?

Misericordia University's reputation is built upon the charisms of being student-centered. Faculty and staff are dedicated for student success and accomplishment of their individual goals. The student is encouraged to communicate with the faculty, staff, and/or Chair of Sonography to foster a pleasant and rewarding experience.

 

Credit transfer: Misericordia recognizes the various pathways sonographers (ultrasound technologists) can achieve their education. Therefore, credentialed sonographers have a great start in credits that can be applied towards the degree.

Relevant: Advanced sonography (ultrasound) course work is focused on expansion of knowledge for career advancement, employment opportunities, as well as preparation for specialty certification exams (fetal echocardiography, neurosonography, breast) or an additional credential (RVT). Please visit www.ardms.org for certification information.

Innovative: The program is designed to have flexibility to meet the needs of the sonographer. Many courses are offered at our Expressway locations, online, or in the weekend format. For distance learners, required courses are available in the online format.

Excellent Faculty: Courses are taught by faculty members who not only bring in their educational background, but also their career experiences. Having lectures blended with life-learning experiences enhances the coursework and understanding of subject content.

Great Value: Courses offered in the Expressway format and all DMS coded courses are significantly discounted from the normal undergraduate per credit rate.

Philosophy

Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ultrasound) is a specialized healthcare field requiring well-educated individuals who must engage themselves with compassion for others, strive for excellence in examination acquisition, and exhibit confidence as a member of the healthcare team. This program supports the University’s mission reflecting the values and attitudes of mercy, service, justice, and hospitality. Completion of the Bachelor’s degree provides a complimentary balance between professional education and liberal arts to enhance ones intellect, spirituality, creativity, and a global perspective on world culture supporting the Trinity of Learning. More specifically, the Diagnostic Medical Sonography faculty and staff believe and promote that each individual inherently possesses uniqueness and has a quest to stay abreast of current practices within the healthcare environment and their specialized practices to benefit themselves and the communities they serve.

Goals

The goals are in concert with the core values of the University, the Trinity of Learning, and emphasis on development of a global perspective on healthcare and culture.

Goal 1: Value and respect the contemporary advancements in the field of sonography both in the clinical and educational environments.

Goal 2: Accept the responsibility for education of self, the community, the profession, clients, and colleagues in the health care and educational systems.

Goal 3: Understand global trends and issues in healthcare that may have impact on sonography practices.

Goal 4: Interact and communicate with the community, medical staff, and fellow colleagues, in a professional and humanistic manner.

Goal 5: Enhance the sonographer’s knowledge of decision making processes, communication, and culture through a liberal arts education.