Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography (DCVS) - A.A.S. Degree/Certificate

Improve Patient Care by Becoming a Sonographer

Sonography is the use of high-frequency sound waves, also known as ultrasound, to observe the internal world of the human body. Sonographers are on the front line of early detection and evaluation of cancer, women’s health issues, heart defects, arterial blockages, and more.

If you are compassionate, flexible, detail-oriented, and like working in a fast-paced and caring environment, you might be a good fit as a Sonographer.

ACC offers two options to help you get started on your Sonography career. The two-year Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) program prepares you for a health career in either Adult Echocardiography, Pediatric Echocardiography, or Vascular Sonography which are branches of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Upon graduation, you will possess the skills necessary to perform ultrasound and related diagnostic exams of the heart or blood vessels. The Advanced Technical Certificate program is a condensed version of the A.A.S. option available to students already possessing a related allied healthcare degree. 

Information Session

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Career Opportunities

Sonographers typically work in hospitals, but they may also work in physician offices, diagnostic centers, ultrasound equipment vendors as sales or application specialists, mobile services, and contract agencies.

Career opportunities remain strong nationally and within the region. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that sonography is a rapidly growing field expected to add over 21,100 jobs between 2016-2026. Its data also indicates that the Houston Metro region employs over 1700 sonographers with an annual wage mean of $85,080. Starting salary for a new graduate is generally around $55,000. Recruiters contact ACC regularly about qualified graduates to fill job openings.

For more information on career opportunities in Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography, please visit Career Coach where you can explore the local job market, take a career assessment, and build a resumé. 

What Will I Study?

The DCVS program curriculum is composed of didactic instruction, hands-on laboratory, practice, individual outside scanning practice, and supervised external clinical experience. You will learn electrical diagnostics of the heart such as EKG (electrocardiogram), Holter Monitoring, and Stress Testing. During the freshmen year, you will be eligible to take the CCT (Certified Cardiographic Technician) and/or CRAT (Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician) exam available from CCI (Cardiovascular Credentialing International) enabling you to have a first credential. This will allow you to work your way through the remainder of the program in the healthcare setting as an EKG, Monitor/Telemetry, or Stress Testing technician. This early credential can alleviate some expenses and also help you gain valuable experience in a hospital setting making it easier to find employment since you will already have your foot in the door.

Curriculum Effective Fall 2021